Geography of Austria is diverse in nature, comprising all major types of topographical features. Austria is mainly a mountainous country with a central location on the map of Europe. With a total land area of 83,859 kilometer square, it is double the size of Switzerland, and surrounded by countries on all sides.
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.