Vienna

a big day. left the house early for the train into the city, visiting the Leopold Gallery. one of the best art spots I’ve come across this trip. enjoyed seeing Klimt’s ‘death and life’ up close, though the highlight of the museum was seeing such a vast collection of work by Egon Schiele. his paintings will be on my mind for a while. admiring his visions and curious depictions of the human form makes me want to make art again. a wonderful way to spend the morning.

Pia met me outside the gallery, and we wandered the city for a while, stopping for snacks on a bench by the votive church in the city centre. we spent our afternoon in the Belvedere Palace - more art, including additional pieces from Schiele and Klimt. ‘the kiss’ was a pleasant surprise - surpassing expectations in opposition to the way the Mona Lisa sort of lets you down.

as the sun went down we made our way to Prater, where Pia convinced me to join her on one of those terrifying thrill rides that sends you eighty metres high for a view of the city before dropping you so fast you feel as though your heart might leap out of your body. we enjoyed a hearty schnitzel and salad for dinner before heading home, where we laughed and chatted over chocolate and Austrian beer until late.

I’ve been lucky to have found such a caring friend in Pia, and I really hope we stay in touch. so little time to spend with such a precious person and what seems to be a beautiful city. I’ve promised myself I’ll return someday. <<