Day on the Town

We woke up this morning ready to go up and out.
At 11:00, we left the Mirabell side of the river and set off for the "historic" district. We crossed the Salzach and had a lovely walk along the river--looking at the buildings built into the mountain, the bikers riding along, and the local dogs.

We crossed about a dozen squares filled with tourists and locals alike. We came across Mozart's birthplace (with an ice-cream shop on the lower level...). We haven't gone yet, but I'm sure we will. The whole time I was equipped with a camera, although I only took 8 pictures. I was just amazed at the sights.

This was just the first run-through of old-Salzburg. Passed through the squares, a few local shops, a gorgeous Catholic church, and the marketplace. After walking around for a while, Hollis, Kristin, and I decided to go for an all-European lunch: Hot Dogs and Coca-Colas. I tried to communicate the entire transaction in German...and almost did! When she asked me about condiments, I had to go English. I did learn later that ketchup in German is pronounced "ketchup". Future reference...

Walked along the river for a while more, apprehensive about going back to our apartment. Finally saw the Salzburg Museum and decided to take a walk around it. It cost 4 euros...about $5.50. Not bad. I don't exactly know what I was expecting to find--but it was interesting to compare the romantic view of Salzburg before the 1900's to now. Interesting to note that the city of Salzburg's main source of income is tourism.

Today was also the day that all the other exchange students from NYU were arriving. We had planned to pick up our friends at the train station, which was about a 10 minute walk from our residence. Before getting to the train station, we all decided on some ice-cream to wash down our hot dogs. Single scoop chocolate for .80 cents?? That's a deal! I'll probably be going back there for sure.

We met Maggie and Ben at the train station, but we weren't sure about Amelia. Her flight at JFK was delayed and we were concerned that she didn't make her connection. Kristin and I waited at the train station for a couple of hours before we decided that it was probably okay that we headed back home. This "no cell-phone" thing is difficult. I don't like it.

Ah--funny story. While we were waiting for Ben, this old man came up to us and said:
"My professor once told me this. When you return back to the States, remember that theives and businessmen all pray to the same god." Crazies exist here too. I guess Salzburg isn't as different as New York...

Anywho, Kristin and I came back and I made myself a delicious grilled cheese sandwich. Mmmm.

It's midnight here, 6:00 PM in New York and 3:00 PM in California. Calling it a night.

hazelnut: hasselnuss