Vienna, Austria

It was another hot day and we chose to do a quick walk through the center of Vienna.

We started in a beautiful park on the outskirts of the parliment district. Everything in this country is so beautiful and picturesque. As the british say “It was just lovely".

Empress Elisabeth of Austria, more known as Sisi, was a beautiful young woman who became the Habsburg Empress at 16 years old. She was young and very independent, even a bit of a rebel. She grew up in the Bavarian countryside and was unprepared for the formality of the systems in her new position. Against her mother-in-laws wishes, she fought against the rigidness of the Habsburg court and developed a passion for riding, gymnastics, literatur. She also became known for her beauty rituals and elabofate hairstyles. The people loved her and she is still honored in Austria today.

Our visit was on a Sunday and were able to observe Mass at one of the local cathedrals. Guests were allowed to quietly observe behind a gate. Music was playing during this picture and it was so peaceful.

It was a short trip as we wanted to get back to the boat and enjoy the pool or the air conditioning. Did I say it was very hot!

The last event of the day was the Vienna Residence Orchestra. Today, this orchestra is one of the finest chamber orhcestras in the world. There were only seven musicans. The venue was small and the acoustics were amazing. Music selections were from Vivaldi, Mozart, Haydn, Strauss and other composers. There was also a male and female soloist and a male and female ballet dancer. We went with Kevin and Tracy and it was the most special night we had. I would venture to say, we didn't want to leave.