Vienna to Graz

Hello from the Austrian Alps.
This morning we were still in Vienna and again what a day.
The Star Inn Hotel on Linke Wienzeile is recommended for us Kiwis, great staff, really helpful and a traditional breakfast that even the most fussy would be happy with. Liver pate, Bircher Muesli, Pastry and shaved Sereno Ham off the most amazing slicer, cut fresh as the guests come in....fantastic. So that was a nice start to the day.

Next another must do in Vienna, Schönbrunn Palace which was the summer residence of the Habsburg monarchs. We wondered round the grounds and through the tour of 20 odd rooms...again beautiful, inspiring and packed with history (and tour groups that packed every hallway) They had a cooking demo we could have seen but it was a bit expensive for making Apple Strudel, been there, got the T-Shirt.

 

After the tour of the Palace we took a train into the centre off the city to Ringstrasse, a famous boulevard around the historic city center. I'll put up some photos through youtube tomorrow and throw a link up here, well worth a look. These two hour tours are awesome, commentary comes with the ride, really well put together. I'm not usually a big fan of the cheesy tour thing but this is really professional and keeps your attention all the way round. This was topped off with a Bratwhurst Hot Dog with mustard and tomato, brilliant.

So...on the 5.00pm Train to Graz. Through the mountains in the First Class carriage, Food, Bar (we didn't use either) even internet. Very picturesque vistas with every turn.
We get to the train station and there must have been a soccer game on, or just finished. Pissed fans all over. We then took a taxi to the hotel and the driver tried to rip us off, he didn't get far.

But we are checked into Roomz Hotel, and it is very nice as well. Reception sorted us out, had a great bite in the restaurant, probably the best Vegetarian meal i've ever had, Fresh Cheese Curd in Picatta with ratatouille and fresh parsley oil...very nice.

We are off to the conference tomorrow at the Castle, that should be interesting.