With summer works on the tram lines we had a small panic getting into the city, but it all worked out smoothly and we climbed onto our coach with plenty of time to spare.
I'd bought the tickets far enough in advance to get cheap first class seats, so we were happy to settle into spacious chairs with power outlets. And European outlets, oh joy! Did I mention that Switzerland has different outlets? I understand why they'd prefer to keep their own currency, but what's the harm in conforming to electrical standards?
Anyway, the train pulled out precisely on time, naturally, and we were soon slipping past lakes, rivers, mountains, and fields. We saw a massive traffic jam on the highway (always gratifying when one is on a moving train), and a few whitewater rafting groups on the rivers. We watched a movie on the iPad, and tried to spend our last ten Swiss francs on two cups of tea. Except, alas, we'd crossed the border by then and the train waitress only took euros at that time. Grumble grumble.
It was just before five when we pulled into Vienna and tumbled off of the train. We bought three day passes for the metro and followed our pre-planned route to the hotel. On the way we passed St. Stephan's church, with a uniquely colored tiled roof. Had we not been dragging luggage, I would have insisted on a quick visit. We can do that later.
We located the hotel and checked into our room, which is taller than it is wide. At least it has its own bathroom, which is a luxury on this trip.
On the recommendation of the front desk we walked a few blocks to a typical Austrian restaurant and took a table on the terrace. We both had hearty meals, which left us completely stuffed with the plates left unfinished. We took a roundabout path back to the hotel to help our stomachs settle, and went to bed full and exhausted.
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