Americans In Austria: Open For Travel?

Austria is a popular destination for American expats, with InterNations reporting a considerable number of Americans living in the country. The Journal of Austrian-American History also highlights the historic relationship between the two countries, with Austrian-American relations dating back to the period of the American revolution.

Today, Austria is open to Americans, with the U.S. Embassy in Austria reporting a Level 1: Exercise Normal Caution travel advisory. The American Austrian Foundation also facilitates bilateral exchanges between the two countries, providing fellowships for postgraduate education in medicine, media, and the arts.

However, it's important to note that travel restrictions and recommendations can change, so it's always a good idea to check the latest official guidance before planning any international travel.

Austrians stand closer to each other than Americans

Austrians stand about half a foot closer to each other than Americans. If you try to back away, they will simply move closer again. This is because Austrians have a different concept of personal space than Americans.

Personal space refers to the physical and psychological space surrounding a person. It is defined by their comfort levels, cultural and social norms, and the people around them. Research suggests that personal space standards are changing, and people across the globe are generally becoming less comfortable with strangers, acquaintances, close friends, and even family members. This shift is likely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Before 2020, Austria had the smallest personal space distance at 71-72 cm (2 feet, 4 inches). In comparison, Americans preferred a distance of 99 cm (3 feet, 3 inches) when interacting with strangers. Since the pandemic, Austrians' personal bubbles have increased by 89%, indicating that social distancing affected their comfort levels when conversing.

In general, Austrians value their physical and personal privacy when among strangers. They will ask permission before photographing or taking a video of someone and will knock on doors before entering. However, once you have a well-established relationship with an Austrian, it is more acceptable to be more open in body language and to discuss personal matters.

While Austrians may stand closer to each other than Americans, it is important to respect their personal space and privacy boundaries. Ask permission before photographing or filming them, and be mindful of their comfort levels when interacting in close quarters.

Austrians open windows in winter

Austrians have a cultural obsession with opening their windows, even in winter. This practice is known as "lüften", derived from the German word for air, and involves airing out a room by opening the windows for a few minutes to let in fresh, dry air and release old, stale, moist air.

Austrian homes are generally very airtight, with little ventilation, so lüften is seen as necessary to ensure adequate airflow. The practice is especially important before bedtime for families, with the method of "stoßlüften" (air shock) being employed. This involves opening windows on opposite ends of the room to create a strong cross-breeze, filling the room with cold, fresh air, which Austrians believe helps everyone sleep better.

The obsession with lüften can be observed in leasing agreements, where it is written as a legal requirement, and in the construction of Austrian windows, which open vertically and horizontally. This allows for a constant circulation of cold air throughout the night, even with the windows only slightly ajar.

While some may view this practice as inefficient, Austrians prioritise fresh air and good respiratory hygiene. The cold, dry air from outside also helps to reduce moisture in the home, preventing mould buildup. Lüften is therefore considered a vital part of maintaining a healthy living environment and is an integral aspect of Austrian culture.

Austrians don't ask about each other's lives

Austrians value politeness and civility in the workplace and in general. However, they do not ask about each other's lives, especially when it comes to personal questions. Austrians tend to be direct and honest, and they do not expect people to be friendly just for the sake of it. They are known for their neutrality and for minding their own business. This does not mean they are unfriendly; they just prefer to keep to themselves and not pry into the lives of others.

Austrians are also known for their strong work ethic and punctuality. They value their time and expect others to do the same. Being on time for meetings, appointments, and deadlines is crucial to building trust and respect with colleagues. They also tend to dress more formally for work, especially in traditional industries such as finance and law.

In terms of communication, Austrians use titles when addressing business partners or colleagues, especially in written communication or official documents. Hierarchy is important in Austrian workplaces, and it is crucial to show respect for those in positions of authority. Austrians also value small talk and will often ask about each other's weekends or discuss current events before jumping into the agenda during meetings.

Overall, Austrians have a unique culture that may differ from what Americans are used to. They value their privacy and prefer not to ask personal questions or inquire about others' lives. This doesn't mean they are unfriendly; they just have a different approach to social interactions and prefer to keep things professional and respectful.

Austrians greet strangers

Austrians tend to be polite, formal, and reserved. They follow a level of formality in social situations, and this extends to how they greet strangers.

The most common and courteous greeting is the handshake. This is normal regardless of age and gender. A handshake is usually brief and accompanied by direct eye contact. If there is a noticeable difference in authority between two people, the higher-ranking or older person typically extends their hand first. Handshakes are also performed when someone is leaving. In business or social settings, one is expected to greet everyone by shaking hands.

Among strangers, people will use titles such as 'Herr' ('Mr.') and 'Frau' ('Mrs.' or 'Ms.') with last names. The use of first names is reserved for close friends, family, and the youth.

Verbal greetings that accompany handshakes include formal greetings such as 'Guten Morgen' ('good morning'), 'Guten Tag' ('good day'), and 'Guten Abend' ('good evening'). People may greet one another in passing on the street by saying "Grüss Gott" (God bless you). This is an informal and polite way of acknowledging someone.

Austrians also allow a certain amount of physical contact with people they know, such as hugging and light touches. However, you generally wouldn't touch during a conversation, as this would be more of an invasion of privacy. Similarly, you should respect personal space, so keep at least an arm's length between someone you are talking to.

Austrians are happy to pay for a friend's birthday dinner

As of September 2021, Austria has been closed to unvaccinated Americans, along with other countries in Europe, following the European Union's decision to remove the United States from its "safe travel list". However, Austria is open to fully vaccinated Americans, who are able to enter the country without restriction. Proof of vaccination is required upon entry, and the validity of the vaccine has been extended to 360 days after the second or only dose.

Now, onto Austrians and birthday dinners. If you're an American in Austria, you might be surprised to learn that Austrians are happy to pay for a friend's birthday dinner. In fact, it is customary for the birthday boy or girl to treat their guests to food and drinks, rather than the other way around. This is just one of the many cultural differences that Americans may encounter when living in or visiting Austria.

While this tradition may seem unusual to Americans, who are used to the birthday honoree being treated by their friends and family, it is an integral part of Austrian culture. So, if you're celebrating a birthday in Austria, be prepared to foot the bill for your guests!

Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule. Some Austrians may choose to only pay for a drink or two for their guests, especially if they are students or don't have a lot of money. Communication is key, and it's always a good idea to be clear about expectations in advance so that everyone is on the same page.

In addition to birthday dinners, there are a few other things to keep in mind when it comes to Austrian culture and traditions. For example, Austrians value personal space, and stand about half a foot closer to each other than Americans. They also love fresh air, and will often have their windows open even in the depths of winter. And, if you're attending a wedding in the Austrian countryside, be prepared to waltz—it's a basic skill that most Austrians learn from a young age!

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