> > by Margaret McGuire
Vienna has all the charm you would expect of one of Europe’s oldest capitals - gracious buildings, wide streets and an excellent transport system, so getting around is simple, quick and cheap.
The inner city area is closed to traffic so there is nothing to stop you gazing to your heart’s content at the divine confectionery shops with their fabulous displays of mouth watering cakes and chocolates - there are museums galore to cater to every interest, and the architecture is diverse and always interesting. But Vienna has more on offer than just the old and the quaint ... the Sofitel Vienna Stephansdom is an icon of modernity and luxurious comfort, with just a soupçon of fun, and style enough for several hotels.THE ROOMS
Love choice? Then you’ll love the Stephansdom ... you can luxuriate in an all-white room, achieve calmness and serenity with mellow shades of grey or if you are really looking for an experience, try the all-black rooms, which one experienced traveller described as fantastic for sleeping. In this hotel there is no art on the walls, no cushions or throws, no rugs on the floor and yet the experience is of comfort, with style ladled on. The windows, some of which open, feature moveable screens which allow you to adjust the amount of light you let in, and frame your view to your own satisfaction. And the bed? It cuddled us up, supported us like a rich relative, and was like sleeping on a soft fluffy cloud ...
TASTE TEMPTATIONS
Do not miss Loft, the in-house restaurant on the top floor of the hotel - not only does the ceiling shimmer with colour and movement, the effect is reflected outside - it’s a magical effect . The view is awesome, and so is the food - it’s not to be missed.
VENTURING OUT
You’ll read all about Vienna’s attractions long before you get there, and choose what you want to see ... but may I suggest the MAK Museum? Step off the tram (which runs a circular route around the city) for a walk through one of the most productive periods of Austrian design - an explosion of creativity which encompassed art and architecture, furniture, household goods and jewellery. And even if you are not a classical music fan, take in a concert - it’s a total experience, from the crowds making their way up the broad staircase to the OTT decor of the concert hall, to the thrill of big, big, live music.
COUPLES WILL LOVE
Walking through layers of history; having a coffee in one of the many coffee houses, taking a carriage ride round the city, strolling along the Danube Canal through the markets, bars, cafes and restaurants.
GETTING THERE
Austrian Airlines code share with Thai Airways, so you can fly to Bangkok and pick up an Austrian Airlines flight from there.