Language, Capitol and Currency in Austria

Language

German is spoken in Austria. The Austrian dialect is melodious and pleasant to the ear. The Austrian German strongly resembles the German used in Southern Germany.

Standard German did not spread from a regional dialect; rather it was consciously created by scholars such as Martin Luther who remove as many regional variations so that the greatest number of Germans could read the Bible in German. The 18th century poets, Goethe and Schiller,  further standardized German.

Today there are more than 120 million people speaking German in 8 countries around the world, so you would expect some variation. Austrian German is very similar to Southern German. Northern German is influenced by Dutch and English. It is said by some that the purest original form is found in Austria and Southern Germany (Austrians I am sure)


Capitol 

Vienna, the Capitol of Austria, was driven to its splendor by the Habsburgs. Vienna's love of music and the arts comes from its passionate people. Mercer’s international 2011 survey, ranked Vienna top in quality of life.

A big attraction in Vienna is Le Meridien, which is set near the edge of the Ringstrasse, one of the most exciting and hottest shopping and entertainment areas in the city.  The world famous Vienna State Opera is one of the most celebrated opera houses in the whole of Europe.  Tickets to the  Vienna Philharmonic's New Years Day concert sell out six months in advance, so book early.   Other must see destinations include"

• Imperial Hofburg Palace,
• Albertina, Secession
• Museumsquartier.

My favorite is a night time stroll along the Inner Ring (Begins with Schubertring) where you can hear the music of string quartets playing a Viennese Waltz. Stop in and have a Café Mit Schlag or a glass of Austrian wine. You will create wonderful memories. Vienna is home to some of the world’s greatest composers.  Visitors will find ample evidence as they take in the sublime music of Vienna from its myriad of concert halls, opera houses,  theaters and dozens of little bars, wine houses and lounges.

If you want to explore the city, rent a bike. Vienna has over 800 kilometers of bicycling paths. On a lighter side, shopping the outdoor markets is a fun day. Austria was once the cross roads between East and West; so, you will find exquisite items in the outdoor markets. My favorite spot is the Christmas Market.  It is a sight to behold!

If you are thinking of making your way to Europe and are near Vienna, Austria, give yourself a big memorable treat and spend a night or two with wonderful people in a city full of music.

Currency 

• The first Austrian Schilling was introduced in the year 1924.
•  1 schilling = 10,000 Austro Kronen. During World War II (in 1938), the Schilling was replaced by the German Reichmark.
•  In 1945, the Austrian Schilling was reinstated as the official currency for Austria. Schilling notes were issued that year, and coins were issued in 1946.
•  During the 1950s the Austrian Schilling started stabilizing. Then in 1976, the Schilling was pegged to the German Mark. Finally in 1999, the Euro replaced the Schilling, but the Schilling continued to circulate until 2002.