Mozart, Snow, and the Von Trapps

Our next stop on the European expedition was five days in Vienna and Salzburg - two of Austria's most famed cities located on opposite sides of the country.  Also, Mel's parents were able to join us for this part of the trip!

One highlight was attending a performance of Verdi's Rigoletto in the Vienna Opera House.  We enjoyed the incredible venue and stellar performances from our box seats (which you see behind Melissa) and tried not to think about the rather bleak Rigoletto story and its deplorable depiction of women.  Classical music and opera are held in much higher regard in this part of the world.  There were so many options to hear a different type of performance each evening in the "City of Mozart" (we saw four such concerts on this trip!)

Some of the best times for us were simply wandering around both cities while it was snowing out.  The blend of ancient and modern elements mixed with snowy elements was unforgettable.  Although we went to plenty of museums, tours, and performances, our favorite part, was probably just walking around the city.

Between Mel and I we have watched The Sound of Music over 30 times.  Since I (Warren) am responsible for 95% of those viewings, I was sure that I needed to go on the Original Sound of Music Tour -- which included visits to all of the famous sites depicted in the film -- the gazebo ("I am 16 going on 17") the fountains ("do-re-mi") the trees the children climb, and the lake where the Von Trapp family fall out of the boat.  It was definitely a way to relive my childhood memories of that cinematic masterpiece.