Articles by this author
Meldezettel: Everything you need to know about Austria’s compulsory address registration
Need to get a Meldezettel or somehow have one but don’t know what it is? Here’s what you need to know.
EXPLAINED: What are Krampustag and Nikolaustag in Austria?
Each December 6th, children in Austria celebrate 'St. Nikolaus Day'. But why does the Santa look-alike come so early and why do all the children place their shoes outside their front doors on the evening before? And why are children so afraid of Nikolaus' devilish companion Krampus?
EXPLAINED: How to apply for Austrian citizenship
Are you looking to become an Austrian citizen? Here’s what you need to know about one of the more difficult naturalisation processes in Europe.
Nine inventions you might be surprised are actually Austrian
OK so we know about Arnie, but there are plenty of Austrian discoveries that you might not know are actually Austrian. Here are a few surprises.
11 maps that help you understand Austria today
Despite its relatively small size, Austria is rich with history and culture - which is highlighted by the following maps.
Why is cash so important to Austrians?
Austria’s love for cash payments can be seen through the saying “Nur Bares ist Wahres” (only cash is true), which captures a prevalent sentiment across the country. The government even wants to constitutionally guarantee the right of people in Austria to pay in cash. But why, in a digital age, is Austria so keen on cash payments?
The hidden costs of buying a home in Austria
Are you currently buying a home in Austria or thinking about it? Here are some of the hidden costs you may face.
EXPLAINED: How to get Austrian citizenship or stay permanently in Austria
Austrian citizenship is known to be among the most difficult in the world to get, while residency involves lots of paperwork. Here’s what you need to know.
Ten weird Austrian laws foreigners need to know about
From being allowed to blow up dead cows to a ban on cleaning the floor with bread, welcome to the weird, wonderful and wacky world of the Austrian law book.
EXPLAINED: Five common apartment scams in Austria
Moving to Austria or thinking of changing apartments? Here are some common rental scams to watch out for.
Six beautiful Swiss villages located near the Austrian border
For anyone wanting to travel closer to home this year, a few kilometers from the Austrian border there are small gems to discover in every season.
Why is German-speaking Europe lagging on Covid vaccines?
From the legacy of Nazi policies to a widespread belief in alternative medicine, German-speaking Europe has made itself vulnerable to the emotion-laden appeals of the anti-vaccine movement.
EXPLAINED: Can I leave Austria to go on holiday during the lockdown?
Austria went into nationwide lockdown on Monday, with people largely confined to their homes. Under what circumstances can I leave the country?
Eight signs you’ve settled into life in Austria
Whether it has been five weeks or five years, Austria can sometimes feel a little strange as a foreigner. But if you recognise any of these eight signs, you might be a little more integrated than you think.
Ten tips for finding an apartment in Austria
From where to search to what to watch out for, here are ten tips to be aware of when looking for a flat in Austria.
UPDATE: Everything that changes in Austria in September 2021
From masks in schools to PCR tests and a rise in electricity prices, there are some changes taking place in Austria in September 2021.
'3G Rule': How to prove you have been vaccinated, tested or recovered from Covid in Austria
Austria is open for vaccinated, tested or recovered people. Here’s what you need to know about how to prove you are in one of these categories.
How is Austria using Covid health passes compared to elsewhere in Europe?
Countries across Europe are extending the use of so called vaccine passports or health passes to allow for entry into bars, cultural sites or sporting events, but some countries are employing them more than others. Here's how Austria compares to other countries.
Eight weird and wonderful Austrian place names
From the famous Fucking to the lesser known Windpassing - and of course Lower Stinky Well - Austria’s countryside is full of weird and wonderful place names.
Vaccination bus to go on tour in Upper Austria from Monday
A mobile vaccination station will be on patrol in the state of Upper Austria from Monday, July 19th, with the journey starting off in Linz.
No more ‘Schwarzfahren’: Austrian and German cities to phase out term due to racism concerns
Transport authorities in Austria and Germany have said they are phasing out the term ‘Schwarzfahren’ - which literally translates to ‘riding black’ - to describe fare dodging, over racism concerns.
How foreign residents in Austria are struggling to get a Covid-19 immunity pass
The Local Austria reached out to readers to ask about getting the green pass, with several telling us of "burdensome" difficulties and hurdles they encountered when trying to receive it.
Entry, masks and nightclubs: What are the rules in some of Austria's favourite holiday destinations?
Thinking of a holiday? Here are the rules in some of your favourite holiday destinations.