„I finally made it to Klagenfurt …“

I truly believe that this blog will be a bridge between me and those who read it but still wondering if Klagenfurt is the right place to choose.

Frankly speaking, this city that I am happy to call my city now was not even among my top five selection list. Growing up and living in a big city, to me this factor was major in choosing where to live and where to pursue an academic path. However, Klagenfurt attracted my full attention regardless its space. Personally, I believe that every change is self-awaken and an opportunity to improve.

My absolute first favorite thing about this city is its people. The way they treat everyone is PRECIOUS. I can remember the constant feeling I had the first time I came across a lady who said “hallo” to me with a lovely smile, I couldn’t believe that greeting and smiling were part of making this community more lovable. At the start, it was unfamiliar and unusual (coming from a country where it is uncommon to encounter that). However, for the past couple of weeks I have become habituated to and actually started noticing how pleasantly I began saluting pedestrians and smiling more often.

Another thing that caught my attention is that people here do not need anyone to enforce their rules, they just respect & follow them because they are raised to know that is what they are supposed to do. It is incredible!

Additionally, the respect they have for all religions, races, sexuality and ethic cultures is of the highest significance in the society, not to forget the social cohesion and the non-conditional readiness to help.

This historic and attractive small town is located besides the Lake Wörthersee; one of Europe’s largest and warmest Alpine lakes. The large lake is a prime tourist destination in the region of Carinthia. It has a wide range of activities and attracts a high amount of visitors who want to bathe in the warm waters or relax on the shores.

Klagenfurt is surrounded by beautiful lakes and woodland, surprisingly the Rauschelesee lake has both. Encircled by stunning rural countryside, it is a wonderful place to visit offering also swimming and fishing in its waters.

Minimundus is another ideal and fun place to explore where each one can experience 159 miniature models of architecture from over 40 countries. The fascinating thing is that everything in there is handmade by professional model-makers from all over the world with great attention to detail.

Who wouldn’t like to see a city from the very top? Great news, anyone can have this chance in Klagenfurt and in top of that it would be from the tallest wooden viewing tower in the world. Pyramidenkogel provides an extraordinary way to to see the jaw-dropping scenery of the Austrian Alps and Lake Wörthersee. As a side bonus you can even slide back down the tower when you are finished admiring the stunning scenery using the 120m long slide that lets you reach speeds of up to 25km/hour!

For historical monuments’ enthusiasts , it is inevitable to stop by Hochosterwitz Castle which is one of Austria’s most impressive castles. In addition to the possibility of climbing through the historically interesting 14 castle gates, you can enter parts of the actual building and see displays of armor, weapons and paintings. The Castle Restaurant is also worth a visit and offers a superb dining experience in an unforgettable setting.

However, for outdoor activities lovers there is Europapark which is very close to the Wörthersee. It is a great place for walks, has wonderful flower arrangements, fresh air and tranquility for those looking for relaxation and large meadows that are ideal for ball games.

Last but not least, the central feature of the newer part of Klagenfurt is the spacious Neuer Platz, home to the city’s most famous landmark where there are a range of different shops, restaurants, cafes and a tree-lined seating area.

Above all, there is everything for every one here!

I admit I have taken wrong turns during my life but I feel so fortunate now because I am in the right place.

Overall, I made it to Klagenfurt… The place I felt most home!

With love, Aicha Drissi.