Day four started with a great surprise…snow(!) and freezing weather.  As we braved the elements, we boarded the bus at a reasonable hour and meet our guide.  We had a half day tour scheduled with her, and she didn’t disappoint as she showed us the main sights of Vienna, starting with the Ring Road.  This is the most prestigious of addresses in Vienna and has beautiful architecture throughout.  This road is too long to walk, so we all peered out the windows of the bus, straining our necks to see what was on offer to the left and right.  Halfway around the ring was a detour to a more modern building, done in abstract by the artist Hunterwasser.  He is renowned for creating buildings that have elements of nature incorporated in them.  Everything makes sense, but certainly looks unconventional!  We continued around the Ring Road until we had the circle completed and then headed inwards to see the city center by foot.  

On our journey we went to St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Hofburg Palace and the State Opera.  We even stopped in front of Demel’s, the quintessential Viennese cafe, for a discussion about the art and etiquette of cafes in Vienna.  Lunch today was in a former monastery cellar.  Filled up, we went on a 5D exploration of Austrian history that was both exciting and educational.  Students were then able to explore the city center area on their own (in groups).  Some enjoyed the world famous desserts and coffees as they observed the local culture; others went shopping; others went under the city to explore the bones buried under the city in the catacombs.  

We all met up for dinner that included the world famous Austrian chocolate cake – sachertorte.  Finally, we headed to the historic Kursalon Wien that has hosted Johann Strauss for a Mozart & Strauss Concert.  Some students enjoyed this beautiful music, and others had a learning experience in a foreign culture.  A perfect end for a busy day.