The hills are indeed alive.

Austria is like Switzerland but less expensive, fewer trains, and not as good chocolate.

Interestingly enough, I saw white bell pepper for the first time her as well.

Housing – Right on the German border of Austria, an extremely charming cottage with vague check-in instructions, run by a woman who was shocked to find American tourists but spoke enough English to get by. The smell of cow manure is strong, but hey, it’s next to a farm! No laundry, which, for a backpacker, is tragic.

Eats

• Bäckerei und mehr – Fantastic vanilla gelato, rivals Rome, and it was also less than $2. So does it beat Rome?
• Braurestaurant IMLAUER – Schnitzel was just schnitzel. Their pork belly roast was so good, and the apple cobbler was delightful.

Activities

• Silent Night Chapel – Although this is not the original chapel where “Silent Night” was written (unfortunately, that chapel burned down), this chapel was built in its honor. It still has a special feel, though it is quite small.
• Andräkirche Salzburg – Beautiful Catholic church with a white interior and Gothic arches.
• Fraulein Maria’s Bicycle Tours – This tour will take you to various destinations from the movie, including Mirabell Palace.
• Gasthof Gosausee – INSANE view of the mountains and lakes, truly unbelievable. The start of a lot of hiking trails, including the Stairway to Heaven via ferrata. Also, a cute restaurant that serves ice cream.
• Fortress Hohensalzburg – Known as the Salt Fortress. It has a really interesting look and a pretty good informational display about the city’s history.