Page 25 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Austria

A POR TR AIT OF A USTRIA  23

The traditional parade of Tyrolean hunters in Götzens
Austria was the last country in Europe to originally attached to vineyards whose
allow private radio and television owners had a licence to sell beverages
broadcasting. Now, in addition to the but not food. Secretly, though, they also
state ORF network, there are independent offered home-produced meats, especially
stations, as well as online services when a pig had been slaughtered.
such as Netflix and Amazon. Today, they serve grilled pork
knuckles – delicious, but very filling –
Traditions as well as roast hams, grilled ribs
Austria is one of the most and other specialities. In keeping
modern and efficiently run with tradition, the wine is brought
countries in Europe, but its to the tables by waiters who also
people are still fiercely take payment; the food is available
protective of their traditions. from self-service buffet counters.
Local and regional festivals The Heurigen are characterized by a
abound (see pp20–21), and uniquely sociable ambience, with
traditional folk costume, the Child in folk all the guests joining in the
Tracht, is still worn as formal costume merriment. Many a dedicated beer-
wear. The costumes, made of high- drinker has become a devotee of young
quality wool and natural linen, can wine at a Heuriger evening.
be worn anywhere, even to an
elegant ball at the Viennese
Opera. An entire branch of the
textile industry is devoted to their
design and manufacture. Men
wear green loden jackets and
Lederhosen (leather breeches),
while women wear a Dirndl, a
dress comprising a bodice, puffed
sleeves, a full skirt and apron.
Another Austrian speciality are
the Heurigen. These are wine
taverns serving the year’s new-
vintage wines. Mostly found in and
around Vienna, these taverns were One of the many wine taverns (Heurigen) around Vienna

018-023_EW_Austria.indd 23 12/09/17 3:02 pm