Lovely Vienna Christmas Markets

Vienna has always held a special place in my heart. I blame it on the music and ballet. I mean, who hasn't seen Nutcracker when they were children? As beautiful as the story was I couldn't get the intricacies of it. But the beauty and the atmosphere of joy has always reminded me of the Austrian capital. So, I've decided that a December trip is one of the things that my bucket list should be free this year.

As quiet as it is outside - the inside of the restaurants are always busy and bustling with energy. But we are off to the Christmas Market. The one outside the Town Hall.

It really is one Magestic building. Built in mid 19th century in a pseudo gothic style it overlooks the square where you can find a present for every wallet.

And for every sweet tooth!!!

The next day we went palace-hunting to Schönbrunn Palace, a former residence of the Emperor. But what I liked most of all were the ruins in the gardens. You would think they are almost real. But like a lot of things - they were meant to reflect on the tiresome business of being a mere human, whilst being an Emperor and a father of a nation.

But what is a Viennese trip with out coffee, you say?? The famous coffee shop.

But having your coffee there is incomplete if you haven't tried the Sacher cake. Which you have to go to the special Sacher cafe when you are there.

And now that you've been fed and rested for a while its time for food for the soul.

Some hellenistic ladies...

And some Roman dudes.

And oh, the "marble of it all" in the Ephesos Museum.

These guys are as tired as I am...

Aaand it's kissing the statue time!

Thank you, Vienna! Until next time!! (There is a whole lot of glintwine (mulled wine) in that cup!)