Oh the Pictures You'll Take!

Happy Monday, everyone!

I'm Lindsay and for this first post I'd like to think back to sunshine and summer (instead of the winter and snow that claims our college campus today) to share with you one of my favorite place I've ever been... the Austrian Alps.

This past June I traveled with my family to Austria.  Instead of spending our time in the "tourist traps," we explored the rural countryside and spent a lot of time hiking through the breathtaking mountains.  

One of the most memorable parts of the trip was the night that we stayed at a hut at the top of the mountain where we were the only Americans.  It was an amazing experience to really get a genuine flavor of the people and the culture.  Although the cities like Vienna have a lot to offer, there is so much to do in the small towns and the countryside so I'd recommend taking advantage of the natural beauty!

Travel tips:

• Pack in layers.  Even in the summer there was snow at the tops of the mountains.  You may be warm at the bottom but as you climb up the temperature will drop, so you don’t want to be caught off guard!
• Bring lots of snacks and water on hikes...there aren't Starbucks in the mountains and you want to make sure you have plenty of energy in the high altitude.
• Try a few German phrases!  Even if you don't pronounce them right, the locals will appreciate the effort.
• Always have a camera with you...every way you turn is a photo op waiting to happen.

If you're anything like me and love the outdoors, experiencing a new culture, and have always dreamed of dancing through the mountains like Maria in The Sound of Music, this is the perfect destination for you!

   A picture I took from a small village we were hiking through.