Doing it Live in Vienna

The group of 19 congregated at the Keleti train station to begin our adventure to Vienna, Austria. Little did we know that three hour ride would consist of some of the greatest magic the world has ever seen. After a number of absolutely brilliant card tricks, we were all convinced the one and only Michael Schroeder should have his own Las Vegas show. With all the magic keeping us busy, it didn't seem long before we had arrived in Vienna. Once we reached Vienna we all bought public transportation passes and were off in search of a restaurant and our hostel. Since we just bought public transportation passes, we decided to walk the forty miles to our hostel. Considering we just took a big test that day it was good to bring our physical stress in equilibrium with our mental anguish. Eventually we got settled in our hostel and then explored Viennese nightlife a little before going to sleep.

On Saturday morning, the group split up to experience Vienna how they chose to. Micheal and I joined the group that eventually made it to the Art History Museum. Along the way we stopped to have breakfast at a cafe adjacent to St. Stephen's Cathedral. Since it was free to go in, we took a detour through the massive interior of the church. Despite the frigid temperature inside, we were still able to admire the enormous support pillars and intricately decorated walls and windows.

At the Art History Museum, we traversed the ages by beginning with the Ancient Egyptian exhibit and continuing on the the Ancient Greeks. The static sculptures of the Egyptians pharaohs and sphinxes  were interestingly juxtaposed with the more action filled depictions of Greek mythology. I believe most of us were impressed at the fine detail these artists were able to accomplish when working with stone, ivory, or wood. There were also extensive exhibits with paintings; huge rooms that were completely covered with enormous pieces of art. I believe one person was surprised the walls could support that much weight. Some favorites were The Tower of Babel and The Hunters in the Snow by Pieter Bruegel the Elder and Winter and Summer by Giuseppe Arcimboldo.

After the museum, we had lunch and made out way to Mozart's House. I found it quite exciting to be in the room where one of the greatest composers lived and worked in. Interestingly, I learned that Mozart had a gambling problem and died at a very young age. The audio guide explained that he may have been poisoned by one of his rivals! This fascinating subject could not keep Michael awake, unfortunately, and we had to carry him back to the hostel. Once there, we tossed Michael on the floor and all took a quick nap before dinner at Kuckuck. Most of us tried the Wiener Schnitzel, one of the dishes Austria is well known for. After a great meal, we navigated the subway system back to the hostel, getting off at Keplerplatz. Nick Rekuski and Jordan were pretty excited about that name.

Szia,
Michael and Jordan