AUSTRIA: TIROL, INNSBRUCK & HOPFGARTEN
- srabang
- Sep 21, 2016
- 2 min read
Slept-in and went downstairs to grab some crackers and fruit before departure. We were disappointed that we missed the full-on hotel breakfast because it probably would have been the best of the whole trip. I really loved our hotel.
Headed over to Austria. Best known for Swarovski crystals, Pez, Schnapps and Red Bull. It was a scenic drive through a series of windy roads along the frosty-blue colored glacier-fed river. Passed through quaint mountain towns nestled in the Pine trees. Weather was crisp and cool.
Reached the drop-off point for White Water Rafting. About half of the group opted for this activity while the rest of us rode along in the coach to the area where we would meet them once they were done. It was a cool little hangout spot with picnic tables outside and a café on the inside. Had the unforgettable Austrian Goulash Soup, which was meaty and delicious.
Went and did some exploring after lunch while we waited for the group to finish White Water Rafting.
Went to Innsbruck to do some shopping. Got some Swarovski!!!
Checked into our hotel (Pension Luka) in the town of Hopfgarten. Didn't seem like much going on here (most businesses close at 6PM) but it was adorable and I heard it's the home of a pretty serious Cow Festival.
Our hotel was alright - it had a funky smell and the shower had a really bad leak. Hair dryers were available at reception for a 20 Euro deposit. There was free WiFi in the common areas only. The outdoor area for smokers was right outside of our room window and the curtains didn't close all the way. It was weird setup but literally doors down from the bank, a bakery and grocery store. Went and got some snacks to tie us over till dinner.
Europeans love their fizzy water. We soon learned how to tell the difference between the two. There's nothing more disappointing than buying a bottle of water to quench your thirst and finding out the hard way that it's carbonated.
Had an included dinner at the hotel which was prepared and served to us by Contiki staff. It was okay. Came with a free shot of Schnapps. Caught up with all of my emails and posted some pics before going straight to bed.
Comments