Vienna: why should you study there?
Friday, 4th June 2010
Cactus intern Miia Matinolli tells us what she loves about Austria's capital city
Vienna is a city where I have only spent one quarter of my life, but could easily spend months or even years more. This vibrant capital of Austria is a place where you won’t run out of things to do. It’s a fascinating mix of past and present, historical and modern. Vienna is comprised of 23 districts that all have something to offer. Hence, it is difficult to encapsulate the top sights in Vienna as there is a myriad of exciting things to see and experience in this dazzling city. But, if you ask me, one thing is sure: Vienna is a second-to-none destination to study German.
To begin with, studies speak for the city. According to the Mercer Quality of Living Survey, Vienna has the best quality of living in a worldwide comparison. In Vienna you can really get the best of the both worlds: despite its status as a metropolitan city accommodating nearly 1.7 million people, there are plenty of places where you can momentarily forget being in urban surroundings. You can wander around large forest areas (Wienerwald, the Vienna Woods), watch the Danube flowing through the city, go for a picnic at one of several parks spread over the city and in an instant be back in the middle of the bustle. Thanks to Vienna’s extensive and well-functioning network of public transport, it is extremely easy to get around.
The historical importance of Vienna as a capital of Austro-Hungarian Empire cannot be ignored. Reminders can be seen around the city – Hofburg, the imperial palace in the city centre, and Schönbrunn, the former summer residence of the royal family. The palace itself is not the only reason to visit – climb the hill in the backyard and you will get a great view of the city. If you happen to be in the city in June, don’t miss the traditional summer night concert by the world-famous Vienna Philharmonic, taking place in Schönbrunn gardens.
Indeed, Vienna is a city of culture. There are plenty of venues to enjoy opera and theater - the most famous names include Staatsoper, Volksoper, Burgtheater and Volkstheater. For some modern art head to Museumsquartier, one of the ten largest cultural complexes in the world.
Most of the sights in the city centre are within walking distance. Follow Ringstraße to have a look and snap pictures of the most important buildings and architectural masterpieces, including the main building of the University of Vienna (oldest university in the German-speaking countries), Parliament, Rathaus (City Hall) and museums of natural history and fine art. While doing the round-walk make sure you swing by the National Library, an 18th century baroque style building which is one of the most renowned libraries in the world.
By doing a language course in Vienna you will kill two birds with one stone: learn German and have a great time while exploring the magnificent capital of Austria!
Cactus runs a variety of German courses in Vienna for all levels and ages. In addition to group and private German courses, we offer music courses, teacher refresher courses, academic year courses, and summer activity courses for under 18s.
If you want to learn German before you go, why not consider an evening language course at home? Available in the UK and the US & Canada, these short-term courses are the ideal way to brush up your language skills before an overseas trip.
Posted by Sarah Gooding 2010-06 under Experience Cultures, Destinations for you,
Permalink
