Vienna Austria

Oddly enough, I feel like I know the least about Vienna from my past knowledge of European history. We discussed it briefly in my German class years ago, so what I know off the top my head is rather limited, but will likely be the most informative for me upon our arrival. Vienna is filled with a rich history of architecture, art, and music, producing some of histories most famous composers and artists of its time. Some of these composers and musicians include Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, and Johann Strauss. Of the artists, Klimt, Schiele and Hundertwasser were produced, and is home to one of the world's largest Fine Art museums. It's hard to say what I look forward to seeing the most in Vienna because there are so many buildings to see.

One thing I know we are hoping to do is see an Opera during our time here. As a proud band student and a person who enjoys musicals, plays, and other visual art performances, I am excited to see some of the first opera buildings and to have the honor to see an actual opera performed in them. I would love to visit Mozart's Opera house and to see the elaborate architecture of the building. Of the city as a whole, I feel like I will be overwhelmed, but excited, to be emerged in such a rich, art founding place.

I find it interesting that we will be in Europe during the rainy season. I never really thought of Europe as cold, nor hot, which it really isn't for the most part, but rain never really stuck out to me. Perhaps it is because of the time of season in comparison to the Americas. I am used to having more rain in mid-summer and fall rather than in May, both in Indiana and in Florida. For FL, it can rain any day it wants really and be sunny ten minutes later haha. But I am certain that our trip will be enjoyable, rain or not. I'm a bit nervous as to what to pack, since we want to travel light, but rolling suitcases are ideally thought against. That and taking the trains. I've taken trains a few times to Chicago, but never across country boarders or for long periods of times. I have already discussed with another classmate on bring sketchbooks with us to draw what we see and to pass the time without the need for our cellphones.

From food to drinks, to speaking to the locals and learning new words, to buildings and art, I am so excited to have this opportunity to go abroad and visit these amazing countries. I am certain to gain a lot of new knowledge and joy from this experience and to create memories that will be timeless.