Day 18 - Linz

I had the choice to go to Salzberg today or to tour Linz, the city. Because of Vienna and the guilt I felt for the overwhelming generosity of my hosts, I chose what I hoped was easier on everyone, Linz. I wasn't disappointed!

We started near the museum of modern art, which was made so that you can see through it but also reflective (the premise being that it would add to the beauty of old Linz whilst still be modern). We walked along the Danube and back up again. Uncle Rene pointed out two buildings that Hitler had erected (they somehow look like Hitler) and a bridge as well. Hitler was from Linz (thanks for that one Linz!) and wanted to make the city strong. To do so, he built a lot of factories and connected the freeways to the area. It was interesting to see Nazi construction being used for everyday life. It's something I hadn't realized before but it seems like a "duh" area.

now appearing on your local public access station, late night tv, me

We then walked around the old city and came upon an area that had been roped off. Uncle Rene inquired and was told we couldn't pass because they were filming a movie. He really wanted to show me the old center, so he inquired again and we were let through. I'm pretty sure I was filmed, at this point because we walked right through the "set" which was the street and the director was shouting things in German while actors did their thing (now appearing on your local public access station, late night tv,  me as a hauntingly, beautiful tourist. Ahem). I really wasn't paying attention to the filming area because I was mesmerized by the history of the old town. Rene knows so much about the area and local history (he is Doctor Uncle Rene - as well as Professor/Law Maker Person.

We walked through the city for 2 hours (I had no idea!) and went back to the house where Aunt Heli had lunch waiting for us (yum). After a lovely nap, we left for a monastery, a church and some sort of dwarf fairy kids land. I would type more about this but I'm afraid I'm running out of time at the internet cafe.

When we got back to the house, I set upon packing while Aunt Heli finished dinner. I heard my name and went to the table and was surprised by Aunt Heli and Uncle Rene standing behind a Martha-Stewart-esq birthday dinner table set up. It was even decorated with lovely pink roses from Rene's garden. They sang happy birthday. Directly after the phone rang and Aunt Heli had to run to take care of a family emergency. Uncle Rene and I sat down to enjoy all her hard work (chicken kiev, plus custard with raspberry sauce!). We enjoyed a quiet dinner and after I opened my very wonderful birthday present from them, I finished my packing.

I said goodbye to Aunt Heli over the phone and was quite overcome with emotion. Choking back tears, I thanked her for everything and promised to stay in touch. Uncle Rene took me to the train station and put me on my train. It was hard to say goodbye to the people, whom I had just met but who are now most definitely family.