My name is Sarah, and I have traveled from the heart of Europe to the vibrant streets of Seoul. Currently, as an exchange student at Yonsei University, I find myself constantly impressed by South Korea’s incredible infrastructure, the nature and the genuine hospitality of its people. However, being so far from home has given me the chance to reflect on my own roots.
Myths vs. Reality
The most common request I have for my new friends is a simple please: do not confuse Austria with Australia. Despite the similar names, we have zero kangaroos!
Furthermore, while Austria is famous for its snowy mountains, not everyone is a professional athlete. Though it might shock some, I’m actually not a very good skier myself! And while the world knows us through the lens of The Sound of Music, daily life in Austria is less about singing in meadows and more about enjoying a high quality of life in a modern, alpine setting.
A Land of Mountains and Lakes
Austria may be small, but its geography is diverse. About 60% of the country[1] is covered by the Alps, which explains our love for hiking, bouldering, and horseback riding. We experience four distinct seasons. Our summers are lush and green, perfect for swimming in crystal-clear alpine lakes, while our winters are cold and snowy.
With a population of roughly 9.1 million[2], we are a small but influential nation. Interestingly, over 25% of our population[3] lives in the capital city, Vienna, which has been ranked the "Most Livable City in the World" multiple times[4]. Furthermore, over 75% of electricity comes from renewable sources (mostly hydro)[5].
Tradition in the Modern Age: The "Tracht"
Our traditional clothing, known as “Tracht”, is a source of great national pride. Men wear “Lederhosen” (leather trousers), and women wear the “Dirndl” (a traditional dress with an apron). While these aren't everyday outfits for the office, we wear them with pride during local festivities. It is a way of staying connected to our history in a fast-changing world.
The Austrian Table
Austrian cuisine is world-famous for its hearty nature. You have likely heard of “Schnitzel” or the shredded pancake dessert known as “Kaiserschmarn”. We are also known for our incredible variety of bread, which many consider the best in the world! In Austria, there is a very high awareness of organic and healthy food. In fact, Austria has one of the highest percentages of organic farmland in the EU (about 27%)[6], reflecting our deep respect for nature and quality ingredients. To be honest, I find myself missing the food of Austria, especially as vegetarian.
Evolution of the Home and Social Life
The traditional family dynamic, where the husband works and the wife stays home, is largely a thing of the past. Driven by both economic necessity and the progress of emancipation, a lot of Austrian women pursue ambitious careers, while men are increasingly involved in housework and childcare. When we aren't working, Austrians are social butterflies. We value our "Feierabend" (the time after work) and spend it in restaurants, theaters, or being active outdoors. Much like the café culture here in Seoul, Austria has a legendary Coffee House Culture, where you can sit for hours.
Invitation
Austria is a bridge between Western and Eastern Europe, offering a unique blend of imperial history and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you are a fan of classical music, mountain sports, or just world-class bread, I invite you to visit the "Heart of Europe" someday!
[Sarah Wimmer(Austria), Exchange Student at Yonsei University]
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