Monday, September 16

 We're getting very adept at navigating by subway. Today we went first to

St. Stephen's and the area around it. These very old churches are marvels of construction engineering and artistry. The streets are very narrow and twisty -- and cobbled, with many interesting buildings and fountains in many parks and squares. We walked to St. Peter's by way of the high-end shopping area of Kartnerstrasse and Grabon, stopping at Movenpik for cappuccinos -- with sugar in cute little tubes of many colours. The walk of fame here includes names such as Mozart.

For a break from churches and other serious sites, we headed to the Prater and a ride on

the Riesenrad -- a huge ferris wheel with enclosed cars. Great views over the city! We lunched in the Casino and Larry lost .50 euros in a slot machine.

We then did a recce of our route to Prague. Took the suburban train to Sudbahnhof and bought reservations and tickets for the train, and figured out where we catch the train. Later on we also tracked down a bus that leaves from near our hotel and goes directly to the station.

After that excursion we dashed to the Opera House in time for the last tour of the day. WOW! The parts that were undamaged in WWII are gorgeous, baroque style. The restored sections are modern and very plain. They still have standing room, with good view, but only we think for the young and healthy! From  the Opera we walked to Karlskirche. It too is beautiful! However it is largely covered inside with scaffolding. The parks around it are very lovely and peaceful. After this busy day, back to the hotel and feet up! The plan for the evening is take-out food and relaxation.

So much for good intentions -- we walked out looking for take-out and instead found a restaurant nearby called Hoofbrau -- where we had roast pork with kraut and dumplings and beer. Once more a delicious meal.