Heuriger

One of the things that I have fallen in love with this summer in Vienna has been the Heuriger. The best translation of Heuriger is Wine Hall, but for me it could be loosely defined as the 'Austrian Summer Pub/Beer Garden'.

Traditionally the Heuriger (today's wine) was owned by the local winemaker and served the most recent vintage's wine over the summer months. Today they run throughout the year, but still serve wine direct from the vineyard in 1/2 litre bottles. Mixed with mineral water it makes a delicious and refreshing evening drink.

To add to the unique experience many Heuriger still employ musicians to play traditional Viennese and Austrian folk songs. The first time I visited the Heuriger someone whispered in their ears that I was Australian and one of the first songs that they played our table was 'Waltzing Matlida'. It was a really touching experience to be so far from home, in an Austrian Heuriger and hear a song from home played on the Accordion and Guitar. Very special.

This will probably be my last post from Vienna. On Thursday I leave for Botswana and the adventure will continue there.

A New Beginning

The blog has been quiet of late. I've been resting and reflecting on what has been an incredibly busy year. My life has taken some unexpected turns. Twelve months ago I would never have imagined that I would be contemplating a move to Bostwana. But in three short weeks I will pack my suitcase again, this time bound for Gaborone.

I'm still a little unsure about what my job entails, but I'll be working for this group as a physician on their Clinial Trials Unit, managing the paediatric HIV/AIDs trials.

So the blog is changing a little, but the adventure continues. For now I am relaxing in Vienna.

One of the great things about Vienna, is it's close proximity to almost everything in Europe. A six day tour around the Alpes included a short stay in Turino, which was unexpectedly beautiful. And a trip through Mont Blanc to Geneva and back to Vienna. It's the wettest summer in 200 years in europe - so not fantastic photo material, but the food, wine and company have been wonderful.