Austrian history can be traced back to the Hallstatt culture of the Central European Bronze Age and the La Tene culture of the European Iron Age. The lands of Austria were also a part of the Roman Empire with the Privilegium Minus of 1156, which gave Austria the status of a Duchy.
One of travel's greatest joys is experiencing different cultures through food. But, paradoxically, the ease of global travel is putting local cuisines at risk. As businesses begin to cater to travellers who expect familiar tastes, less mainstream flavours may drop right off the menu.
Picture the glow of medieval squares illuminated by thousands of sparkling lights. Imagine gingerbread-style stalls where artisans offer traditional crafts that threaten to banish gifts of boring neckties and fruitcakes for eternity. Marvel at iPod-toting children falling under the spell of low-tech charms like wooden toys, ice rinks and vintage merry-go-rounds.