Let's talk Austria

In this episode, my two guests Michael and Eugene engage in a thoughtful political discussion about Vienna´s unique left-wing orientation with an increasingly right-leaning global environment. Enjoy their debate.Visit: recom-relocation.atFollow us: instagram.com/recomrelocationhttps://www.instagram.com/clubmelange/facebook.com/recomrelocationgmbhhttps://at.linkedin.com/company/recom-relocation

Eugene returns as our popular guest, bringing his curiosity and candour to Vienna’s 5th district - or as he prefers, Margareten. From the pride of MA48’s working-class heroes to the vision behind Vienna’s social housing, he shows how thoughtful planning creates diverse, connected neighbourhoods. He also reflects on religion, recognising both its conservatism and its enduring role in shaping values, charity and community. This virtual walk through Margareten uncovers the values and human stories that make Vienna remarkable.

In this episode, we explore Vienna’s 7th district, Neubau, together with Maggie Childs. Neubau is known as Vienna’s hip and creative quarter – often described as a “bobo district” (bourgeois bohemian) full of energy, diversity, and cultural flair. The area is home to Mariahilferstraße, Austria’s longest shopping street, offering endless retail opportunities. But shopping in Neubau goes far beyond the mainstream: you’ll find vintage shops, tailors, designers, concept stores, pop-ups, craftmanship shops, and stylish cafés, alongside countless galleries and gallery openings. With its vibrant mix of artists, professionals, and international residents, the district has the vibe of a 20–25-year-old at heart – young, dynamic, and forward-looking. Maggies hotspots in the 7th: Glacis Beisl (entrance via Breite Gasse 4), her go-to restaurant. https://glacisbeisl.at/Less is More (Kirchengasse 22), her favorite hair salon.Kirchengasse, Siebensterngasse, and Siebensternplatz, all lively and unique spots worth exploring.Rinkhy (Zieglergasse 29), her regular hangout – diverse, funky, and full of character. https://www.rinkhy.com/ For Maggie, Neubau is truly the heart of Vienna’s concrete jungle – a cool, creative district that millennials especially love to call home.Visit: recom-relocation.atFollow us: instagram.com/recomrelocationhttps://www.instagram.com/clubmelange/facebook.com/recomrelocationgmbhhttps://at.linkedin.com/company/recom-relocation

In this special episode, Angelika is joined by her colleague Andrea to explore the fascinating history of Austria’s Second Republic, which turned 80 this year. From the fall of the monarchy in 1918 and the challenges of the First Republic, to the horrors of World War II and Austria’s liberation in 1945, this episode traces the nation’s journey to becoming a modern democracy. The conversation covers key moments such as the signing of the Austrian State Treaty in 1955, the evolution of Austria’s political and social systems, major reforms of the 1970s, and Austria’s accession to the EU in 1995. Personal insights, historical reflections, and proud moments make this a powerful and informative listen for anyone interested in Austrian history and identity.Mauthausen Memorial:  https://www.mauthausen-memorial.org/deMap of Occupation Zones, Vienna + Austria:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allied-occupied_Austria#/media/File:Karte_Alliierte_Besatzungszonen_in_%C3%96sterreich_von_1945_bis_1955.pngAndrea´s Hotspot: Schlosspark Laxenburg:https://www.schloss-laxenburg.at/Visit: recom-relocation.at and www.clubmelange.atFollow us:instagram.com/recomrelocationhttps://www.instagram.com/clubmelange/facebook.com/recomrelocationgmbhhttps://at.linkedin.com/company/recom-relocation

Ever wondered how much tax you actually pay in Austria – whether you're employed or self-employed? In this episode, we break down the Austrian tax system in a clear and simple way. You'll learn where your taxes go, how the tax assessment process works, what the "Severance New System" is all about, and which deductions you might be missing out on. Tune in and get smarter about your money in Austria! Commuter link:  https://pendlerrechner.bmf.gv.at/The TaxBook 2025 in english language: https://www.bmf.gv.at/services/publikationen/das-steuerbuch.htmlBy the way: our "Jewish in Vienna" walking tour takes place Sunday, 6th of July 2025, at 3.00 p.m. Tickets availalbe at:www.recom-relocation.at or www.clubmelange.atVisit: recom-relocation.at and www.clubmelange.atFollow us:instagram.com/recomrelocationhttps://www.instagram.com/clubmelange/facebook.com/recomrelocationgmbhhttps://at.linkedin.com/company/recom-relocation

Get to know the 4th district in this episode with Eugene. After our Neighbourhood Tour through the 4th district, where Eugene took us to the roof terrace of the Technical University and we had a fantastic view over Vienna, I sit with him in our recording studio, and we reviewed the tour. He doesn't just talk about Karlsplatz, the Freihaus neighborhood or the Naschmarkt, no, he also tells us how Vienna SMELLS and we also go in search of the drug scene in Vienna - okay, without success :(He also introduces us to the VOLLPENSION, a coffee house with a ‘lazy & easy atmosphere’, where pensioners bake cakes and tarts according to grandmother's recipe. He recommends trying the very famous SACHER TORTE at Demel and not at Sacher, he recommends the Falter as a weekly newspaper and event calendar and is an enthusiastic FM4 and OE1 listener. He also recommends a visit to Schwindgasse in the 4th district. Enjoy this episode! By the way: our "Jewish in Vienna" walking tour takes place Sunday, 6th of July 2025, at 3.00 p.m. Tickets availalbe at: www.recom-relocation.at or www.clubmelange.atVisit: recom-relocation.at and www.clubmelange.atFollow us:instagram.com/recomrelocationhttps://www.instagram.com/clubmelange/facebook.com/recomrelocationgmbhhttps://at.linkedin.com/company/recom-relocationEugene´s website: https://whoosh.wien/ www.vollpension.wienwww.falter.atwww.demel.comfm4.orf.atoe1.orf.atwww.gasthaus-bucheckerundsohn.atwww.cafegoldegg.at

Vienna’s Jewish community is woven into the city’s soul. In this episode, we trace its rich, complex journey – from early beginnings and cultural flourishing to the darkest chapters of the 20th century, and the resilience of Jewish life today. Joining us is Eugene, our beloved Neighbourhood Guide from the 2nd district, the heart of Jewish Vienna. Our "Jewish city tour" will take place Sunday, July 6th at 3.00 p.m. Check out our events on our website recom-relocation.at Visit: recom-relocation.atFollow us:Eugene´s website: https://whoosh.wien/instagram.com/recomrelocationhttps://www.instagram.com/clubmelange/facebook.com/recomrelocationgmbhhttps://at.linkedin.com/company/recom-relocation

In this episode, we follow Eugene – our legendary "Club Melange Neighbourhood Tour guide" – through Vienna’s vibrant 2nd District: Leopoldstadt. From the rich Jewish history to the charm of the Prater, Eugene shares stories, insights, and personal moments that bring this neighborhood to life.Join us for a walk through time, memory, and the hidden gems of one of Vienna’s most fascinating districts.Eugene´s website: https://whoosh.wien/Eugene mentioned the hotel: https://magdas-hotel.at/de/vienna-cityHe recommended a restaurant in Stuwerviertel: https://www.broesl.at/His hot spot in Praterstrasse 15: https://cafeansari.at/Visit: recom-relocation.atFollow us:instagram.com/recomrelocationhttps://www.instagram.com/clubmelange/facebook.com/recomrelocationgmbhhttps://at.linkedin.com/company/recom-relocation

Jenny tells Sabine about her experiences in the 3rd district today (as I unfortunately haven't recorded the 2nd district yet. SORRY! However, I promise to do so very soon). Jenny lives in the 3rd district with her husband and two children. It seems that the family are Vienna fans, as this is the second time they have been transferred to Vienna by her husband's employer. The first time they lived in the 21st district. Both times they were assisted by recom relocation. Their relocation consultant was Nicole, who is still in contact with the family and so we were able to invite Jenny for this interview. Jenny's hotspot in the 3rd district is Rochusmarkt and Stadtpark. https://www.ganz-wien.at/wien/maerkte/rochusmarkt.htmlhttps://www.city-walks.info/Wien/Stadtpark.htmlVisit: recom-relocation.atFollow us:instagram.com/recomrelocationhttps://www.instagram.com/clubmelange/facebook.com/recomrelocationgmbhlinkedin.com/recomrelocatio

Today, we are starting a new series of episodes: We want to introduce the 23 districts of Vienna to you. We will tell you about some of the highlights of the districts, describe their characteristics and - most importantly - we will talk about what it´s like to live in these individual districts. We will start with the first district "Innere Stadt" and Michael is my guest as he is a true expert when it comes to the first district in Vienna as he lived there for more than 15 years.Michael´s hotspot: Das kleine Cafe, Franziskanerplatz 3, 1st district, it seems like they don´t have a websiteVisit: recom-relocation.atFollow us:instagram.com/recomrelocationhttps://www.instagram.com/clubmelange/facebook.com/recomrelocationgmbhlinkedin.com/recomrelocation

Not all that glitters is gold. In our last episide, we talked about "VIENNA, the most liveable city in the world" and praised Vienna very much.  But we, who live in Vienna, also have a few things to criticize. And so, we asked some Viennese and people who live here, what they don´t like so much in Vienna or about Vienna or about Austria. The results are presented in this episode. Have fun with "whining and nagging about Vienna". Sabine´s hotspot: The central cemetery https://www.friedhoefewien.at/wiener-zentralfriedhofVisit: recom-relocation.atFollow us:instagram.com/recomrelocationhttps://www.instagram.com/clubmelange/facebook.com/recomrelocationgmbhlinkedin.com/recomrelocation

Katrin is the CEO of the Christmas Market Palace Schönbrunn and tells me what is new on the Christmas Market this year. "Imperial Market" is the organizer of the Christmas Market and offers this year many new attractions. We also tell our listeners a few typical Austrian Christmas Traditions. Katrin´s hotspot in Vienna: The small but very unique theatre “Bronski & Grünberg” in the 9th district, Müllnergasse 2. https://www.bronski-gruenberg.at/Katrin loves to see every year "The Big Bronski Christmas Show”. 

Vienna: The Most Liveable City in the World" – an episode that reveals the charm, elegance, and unique essence behind Vienna’s top global liveability rankings. But what truly sets Vienna apart? Why does it consistently lead the charts? Whether you're a long-time admirer or new to Vienna’s allure, tune in for a fresh look at what makes this city so exceptional.  Visit: recom-relocation.atFollow us:instagram.com/recomrelocationfacebook.com/recomrelocationgmbhlinkedin.com/recomrelocation

When you move to a foreign country, the beginning can be a bit frustrating and exhausting. Deborah is an Expat coach and Intercultural Psychologist and is back again as my guest - and she gives us some tips and tricks to settle in smoothly in a new country.  www.deborahdahab.comwww.expatjourneyprogram.comcoupon code: 10% discount for our audience: RECOM10Visit: recom-relocation.atFollow us:instagram.com/recomrelocationfacebook.com/recomrelocationgmbhlinkedin.com/recomrelocation

Austria is experiencing a servere shortage of skilled workers. There is currently a shortage of 272.000 skilled workers across Austria. The ABA - "Austrian Business Agency" connects international specialists with Austrian companies. Also, they are marketing Austria as a business location and advising foreign companies and investors interested in setting up a business in Austria. And when Tom Cruise wants to jump down from the Opera house in Vienna again, or if James Bond would like to hunt the bad guys in Vienna again, the ABA assists here too. Listen to our new episode "WORK, INVEST AND FILM IN AUSTRIA"Talent hub from ABA: www.workinaustria.comMrs Kreuzhuber´s hot spot in Vienna: The "Nussberg". One of Vienna's most beautiful wine-growing areas with a great view of the city, many wine taverns and numerous hiking trails.  https://www.wien.info/de/nussberg-124292Visit recom-relocation.atinstagram.com/recomrelocationfacebook.com/recomrelocationgmbhlinkedin.com/recomrelocation

In 2024 we have a so-called "SUPER-ELECTION" year, not only globally, but also here in Austria. As usual, if we talk about politics, Michael has joined me again and gives us an insight into the 2024 elections in Austria. As a doctor, he has practiced explaining complex issues in simple terms, and he manages to do this here too by giving us an understanding of Austrian politics. So, enjoy the episode and get to know Austria in details.Michael´s Hotspot in Vienna:  The public outdoor pool "Krapfenwaldbad" The Krapfenwaldlbad is located high up in the 19th district and the area is called "Cobenzel". This pool is considered as one of the most beautiful summer outdoor pools in Vienna. The Krapfenwaldbad is a protected monument ("hiritage protection"). Address: Krapfenwaldgasse 65-73, in 1190 Wien, 19th district. Visit recom-relocation.atinstagram.com/recomrelocationfacebook.com/recomrelocationgmbhlinkedin.com/recomrelocation

How difficult is it to learn German? Or is it actually easy? Mitar Pitzek is the owner of the Innes language school and in this episode I discuss everything about the German language with him. I also asked Mitar about the difference between the "German German language" and the "Austrian German language". And Mitar tells me about the "Viennese Grumpiness" and his favorite word in the German language - "der Trottel" :) Mitar´s hotspot in Vienna: The Naschmarkt https://www.naschmarkt-vienna.com/The flea market on Saturday is already a cult. From dawn to dusk, a diverse crowd buys fruit, vegetables and various delicacies from all over the world at the Naschmarkt. More and more trendy bars and restaurants are also finding their place in the more than 120 market stalls.Visit recom-relocation.at instagram.com/recomrelocationfacebook.com/recomrelocationgmbhlinkedin.com/recomrelocation

Deborah Dabab shares the common mistakes people make when moving abroad and how to avoid them. As an expat coach and intercultural psychologist, Deborah brings a wealth of personal experience, having lived on three different continents. Today, she works with clients online, helping them thrive in their international relocations. If you are considering moving to another country, then this episode may be for you.Deborah Dahab https://deborahdahab.com/www.expatjourneyprogram.comcoupon code: 10% discount for our audience: RECOM10Visit: recom-relocation.atFollow us:instagram.com/recomrelocationfacebook.com/recomrelocationgmbhlinkedin.com/recomrelocation

In this episode, we explore Vienna International School (VIS), with Tina Lackner, Admission Coordinator. VIS is Vienna's largest international school, currently accommodating 1,401 students from 116 countries. Tina guides us through the application process, grading system, fees, and other key aspects of this accredited international baccalaureate school. She also highlights VIS' strengths, including its inclusivity, academic achievements, and extensive extra-curricular activities. An essential listen for parents considering international schools in Vienna for their children.ViennaInternational School: https://www.vis.ac.at/Visit: recom-relocation.atFollow us:instagram.com/recomrelocationfacebook.com/recomrelocationgmbhlinkedin.com/recomrelocation

Aged eleven, Maggie found herself embarking on a life-changing journey, when she moved from New York to Vienna with her mother and brother. Twenty-five years later, Maggie shares her childhood experiences of relocating to a new country and adjusting to life in Vienna. She fondly reminisces about the newfound independence she discovered in Vienna, encounters with the 'killer grandmas' and how her experiences have shaped her outlook on life.Despite not speaking the language initially, her first school in Vienna was a German-speaking state school. In total, Maggie attended four schools: two state schools and two international schools in Vienna. She recounts her school life and navigating the nuances of different educational systems.This episode is packed with valuable insights and advice for families considering a move to Vienna.Maggie Childs: https://www.maggiechilds.com/ Visit us: recom-relocation.atFollow us:instagram.com/recomrelocationfacebook.com/recomrelocationgmbhlinkedin.com/recomrelocation