UK in Austria

It is the summer of 1914 and a political assassination has shocked Europe.  Not the one you are thinking of – but one which will lead to a change of name for the street in Vienna on which the British Embassy sits – the Jaurèsgasse. French politician Jean Jaurès, sometimes described as “one of the […]

Austria has been awarded a fantastic early Christmas present on 10 December. At 1755 local time on Tuesday night Liverpool will visit to play Red Bull Salzburg in the final game of the Champions’ League group stage.  Both teams need a result: if Liverpool lose they are likely to go out of the competition.  If […]

I commend a recent British Council blog, written by Education Director Maddalaine Ansell. Ms Ansell writes about the major reform to post-work study visas for international students which the UK Government has announced will enter into force from 2020.  “From next year,” she writes, “students graduating from British higher education institutions with at least an […]

Have you ever wondered why the trees are painted white in Vienna? To stop cars running into them, protect them from dogs? The special paint protects new bark from the summer sun! Woodland trees don’t require sun cream but the intense environments of our cities means it’s not only humans who need protection from harmful […]

“Are you getting out?” “Yes”, I replied. “I’m getting out of the cable car.  And the Prime Minister has made clear we will leave the EU on 31 October.“ I never thought I would have to explain British Government policy whilst trying to jump out of a moving cable car.  But perhaps it helps. Part […]

What climate-induced catastrophes might a child born today experience?  Such a child might see the disappearance of insects and pollinators.  During the child’s lifetime, plant and animal species will be wiped out and crops could fail.  This child may watch the coral reefs bleach and die.  She or he will wonder why the adults of […]

The headgear is a subtle grey with a bright blue bobble.  It sits aslant the head, keeping you warm and dry. I was delighted recently to attend the HQ of the London Scottish Regiment in Westminster to be awarded with a “Hodden Grey Tam O’Shanter”.  How did this happen? The story begins with my decision […]

‘You should try this English sparkling wine.’ ‘Really?  Is it any good?’ ‘Try some.  Make your own mind up.’ ‘OK.’  (Long pause.)  ‘Wow.  Can I have a couple more glasses?’ Our annual Queen’s Birthday Party at the residence in Vienna is not only one of the city’s hottest tickets (apologies, again, to all those we […]