August 25, 2007
To my astonishment, I one morning find myself in an empty square in Wien, Österreich.
Knowing that I like Schwarzwald cake, Christine wanted to take me on a surprise day trip to its origin.
It's an ancient city, filled with history.
the city hall at a distance
The square in Hofburger Palace.
people have gathered here for centuries
the marching band plays every Saturday at 11am
Their instruments are all tuned a half step higher than normal, so that the music will carry further.
the silverware museum
Can you see what time it is?
Old meets New at Stephansdom
It seems blackened...by fire?
Festive lunch at Do & Co's 7th floor patio
the original Wienerschnitzel
Tafelspitz
overlooking the crowds below
break dance performers
spectator
It's a gorgeous day, and we carry on to Donauinsel, the manmade island in Donau serving as a weekend retreat for the Wieners.
On to Prater, a large amusement park featuring numerous wild rides.
a trip up the Star Flyer (965 kB movie file)
29°C (85°F) in the shade...need a drink.
There's at least 5 scary ghost rides
The "Blue Planet" features roaring dinosaurs
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The famous Riesenrad (giant bicycle) ferris wheel offers views of the whole city.
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Close to the Schweden brücke, I wonder what the story is behind this?
Topping off a great day at Sacher Café, who claims to be the origin of Sacher cake.
(which, as it turns out, is not Schwarzwald cake :-) ...but also darn good!)
That's my birthday cake. That's what we came here for.