I woke up early after a great night’s sleep so I walked to the Hundertwasser. It was identified as “great and unique architecture” and so it was! I grabbed a delicious ham and cheese croissant (with the assistance of the clerk imitating a pig so I’d know what was in the filling!) and enjoyed watching families using scooters to work and school. What a great idea–do we do this in cities in the states?

I had a 9:00 appointment at Schonbrunn Palace. It’s enormity took my breath away!  It was built as a summer residence by Maria Theresa who was the only female ruler of the Habsburgs. She had sixteen children and eleven lived to adulthood–which is remarkable. All were married for political alliances except her favorite daughter who got to choose her husband. After the tour I hiked to the Neptune Fountain and Gloriette behind the palace and enjoyed the splendid view.

I then embarked on my journey to Salzburg via train. I have learned a lesson: double check information even when rendered from authoritative sources such as the information clerk and conductor!  I nearly missed both trains because I was waiting at the wrong tracks. I purchased a first class ticket because second class was sold out. I made myself cozy in the luxurious cabin. The conductor finally appeared when we had nearly arrived and told me I was in business class which is apparently above first class and I owed him €15. Another lesson learned.

When the shuttle to my hotel arrived we started climbing immediately. We wound our way through chalets with abundant window boxes and enchanted forest until the hotel appeared. As I approach 60 it is lovely to arrive at a well-appointed hotel!  We all have to wade through years of budget motels but thank heaven for booking.com where I can occasionally score a 4-star hotel at bargain prices. I am cozily settled.

Salzburg tomorrow!