Viennese Waltz

3^rd January

Today we spend walking through the beautiful streets of Vienna soaking up the ambience as we dart in and out of the amazing array of shops scared of missing a single sight – or bargain.  We visit the Art Gallery where we succumb to the extraordinary works of Egon Schiele – a truly troubled (twisted?) young man and prolific artist who died at the very young age of 28.

I have found a ‘nail salon’ – being away does not excuse bad nails! – so while I have my nails revamped Gordy and the girls go to Café Europe where they strike up a conversation with a woman from South Africa who, not only translates the menu, but fills them in on all the local gossip for the next hour or so.

In the evening Gordy and I walk to a local chateau, or maybe it should be referred to as a castle, for our night of culture.  Sitting in what once would have been the grand ballroom we are treated to an evening of Strauss waltzes by a wonderful group of musicians.  Although I was a little hesitant as to how Gordy would embrace this experience, it turns out to be a fantastic experience which Gordy raves about.  

The girls claim this would fit one of their teachers perfectly!