Tortes

Tuesday, 13th September

Our last day in Vienna - and the first official day of our Insight tour.

We had our welcome meeting last night, which turned out to be more of a lecture/information sessions and we didn't really talk to any of the other travellers. We will be equal number Australian and American, with four Canadians and two New Zealanders. Most of the Americans are travelling in groups with friends. It will be interesting to see how they mix as the tour progresses.

This morning we were taken to the Schonbrunn Palace for a guided tour of the state rooms, then allowed to roam by ourselves for a short time in the gardens. This palace really highlighted the difference between the aristrocracy and peasants in Europe! Although very ornate, the palace is a museum compared to Buckingham Palace, which is a working palace. We walked through Napoleon's office and bedroom and gazed in wonder at the ornate, and HUGE, bed that was used by the Emperor and Empress. The gardens were lovely still, at this time of the year.

The day has been very clear and very warm, which did make photographs a little harsh. Cat has been shedding as well, the last couple of days.

After another drive around the city of Vienna, we were dropped at the Opera House for some free time. Of course, we had to walk past our favourite department store from yesterday and managed to make another economic contribution. The suitcases are starting to fill up! We decided to walk back to the hotel, rather than wait for the bus to return after lunch.

As it is our last day in Vienna, we thought it would be rather rude to the Viennese not to sample afternoon tea in one of their traditional coffee houses. Big decisions were required - the cakes all looked so delicious, with not a calorie in sight!! If only. Cheesecake has nothing on these cakes, it is rather fortunate that we don't live here and have the constant temptation. A walk afterwards in the Stradtpark probably wasn't long enough. We did see a replica of the Johann Strauss statue - the original is having a bit of a face lift.

Tonight it is dinner in a country mansion before attending a concert. An opportunity to dress up.