Today we woke up bright and early and did something a little different; we had a free day. 12 out of 18 of us went to Salzburg Austria. This required us to buy train tickets and navigate not only a new city but also a new country on our own. We were very lucky to have two of the Augsburg students come with us so there was a total of 14 of us. Although there were a few minor bumps when it came to the right tickets and trains, we made it safe and sound to Salzburg. One thing I noticed during the train ride to Austria was how beautiful the view was. We could see the Alps for a majority of the time and all the pretty farmlands and flowers. I still cannot get over how green everything is here. It makes me wish the United States was.
Around 10:30am we arrived in Salzburg. Immediately we realized there was no tour guide, adult, or plan. This was kind of scary at first but also exciting; we could explore a new area and do what we wanted to. Our first stop was gelato (shocker I know). We were able to eat it in a pretty park and then walk around after. During the first two ish hours we just spent walking and going in and out of old buildings and museums. We went to a few churches, the oldest dwarf garden, the Mirabell palace/ gardens, and then got kebabs. My favorite part of this was the Mirabell gardens. There was even a live band playing and it made the vibes so good. I also noticed there is a university there. Can you imagine going to college and living here with this type of vibe and view? I am definitely envious. The kebabs were also really good and cheap. After this adventure food was much needed.
After a nice lunch break, we made our way to the fortress of Salzburg. After some negotiations we only had to pay €5.70 to get up here. We took a trolley up to this massive fortress castle. We were all stunned at the beauty of not only the fortress but the view. I still cannot get over how pretty it was. Then the group spent probably 3 hours exploring this ginormous castle. They had everything like history panels on the 1000+ year old fortress, an interactive museum, old altars, and rooms of important people. This was nice as we were able to safely explore what we were interested in while all staying together. The group and I agreed this was our favorite activity we did on the whole trip. After we went back down, we walked around a little more and then found an Italian restaurant on the way back to the train. They were so nice and even pulled tables together so we could all sit next to one another. Finally, we headed back and got on the train.
I fell asleep for most of it but also played a card game (too complicated to explain). Other than that, we took the train home and arrived around 10:30pm. It was really sad to say goodbye to Brian and Tim (our German friends). Especially Brian as we won’t see him for a while. Tim, however, is studying at Pitt this upcoming fall so we know we will see him soon. After coming back, I finished packing and went to bed. We have to be up at 5am to leave. Although I am sad, I am definitely ready to get back in a routine. I know I will come back here eventually. Overall, this was such a great 2 weeks.
See you in Pittsburgh 🙁
Kat Listwak