Let's talk Austria

How has Vienna transformed over the past 30 years? What was life like before Austria joined the European Union? Once seen as a quiet capital on the edge of Western Europe, Vienna has evolved into a vibrant international metropolis. In this episode, Eugene and Michael explore the city's remarkable journey, the impact of EU membership, immigration, and globalization, and how Vienna became one of the...

This year, Austria will host the 70th Eurovision Song Contest, as it won last year's contest. The winner then hosts the contest the following year. Eugene and Michael will dive into the vibrant world of the Eurovision Songcontest  and explore the spectacle, culture and politic around the biggest music competion. Visit: recom-relocation.at Follow us:  instagram.com/recomrelocation https://www.insta...

If you are planning to move to Austria, have just arrived, or have been living here for a while, this episode is especially for you. Because today, we are talking about something every expat experiences - whether you expect it or not: CULTURE SHOCK. Not the big, dramatic things like visas, contracts, or bureaucracy. But the small, everyday moments. Visit: recom-relocation.at Follow us:  instagram....

You think that a small country like Austria has no famous people? Oh,  far from it!!!!! In today's episode, we want to introduce you to the most famous Austrians. You may have heard of some of them, but I'm sure there are others you've never heard of. Okay, maybe they're not world-famous, but they're at least well-known throughout Austria. Or they've at least achieved something very valuable in th...

 In this episode, we explore why Vienna has slipped from first to second place in the EIU 2025 Global Liveability Index We take a closer look at the essentials that make Vienna so livable: its exceptional drinking water supply, sourced from the Alps and delivered to the city through impressive engineering; the measures Vienna has implemented to protect residents from flooding during extreme rainfa...

In this episode, we take a relaxed and inspiring walk through Vienna’s vibrant 6th district — Mariahilf. Together with Eugene, we explore the neighborhood’s unique charm, hidden corners, and lively streets. Along the way, we share plenty of insider tips, personal recommendations, and must-visit spots for anyone wanting to experience Mariahilf like a local. Join us for this immersive stroll and let...

In this episode, my two guests Michael and Eugene engage in a thoughtful political discussion about Vienna´s unique left-wing orientation with an increasingly right-leaning global environment. Enjoy their debate. Visit: recom-relocation.at Follow us:  instagram.com/recomrelocation https://www.instagram.com/clubmelange/ facebook.com/recomrelocationgmbh https://at.linkedin.com/company/recom-relocati...

Eugene returns as our popular guest, bringing his curiosity and candour to Vienna’s 5th district - or as he prefers, Margareten. From the pride of MA48’s working-class heroes to the vision behind Vienna’s social housing, he shows how thoughtful planning creates diverse, connected neighbourhoods. He also reflects on religion, recognising both its conservatism and its enduring role in shaping values...

In this episode, we explore Vienna’s 7th district, Neubau , together with Maggie Childs. Neubau is known as Vienna’s hip and creative quarter – often described as a “bobo district” (bourgeois bohemian) full of energy, diversity, and cultural flair.   The area is home to Mariahilferstraße, Austria’s longest shopping street, offering endless retail opportunities. But shopping in Neubau goes far beyo...

In this special episode, Angelika is joined by her colleague Andrea to explore the fascinating history of Austria’s Second Republic, which turned 80 this year. From the fall of the monarchy in 1918 and the challenges of the First Republic, to the horrors of World War II and Austria’s liberation in 1945, this episode traces the nation’s journey to becoming a modern democracy. The conversation cover...

Ever wondered how much tax you actually pay in Austria – whether you're employed or self-employed? In this episode, we break down the Austrian tax system in a clear and simple way. You'll learn where your taxes go, how the tax assessment process works, what the "Severance New System" is all about, and which deductions you might be missing out on. Tune in and get smarter about your money in Austria...

Get to know the 4th district in this episode with Eugene. After our Neighbourhood Tour through the 4th district, where Eugene took us to the roof terrace of the Technical University and we had a fantastic view over Vienna, I sit with him in our recording studio, and we reviewed the tour.  He doesn't just talk about Karlsplatz, the Freihaus neighborhood or the Naschmarkt, no, he also tells us how V...

Vienna’s Jewish community is woven into the city’s soul. In this episode, we trace its rich, complex journey – from early beginnings and cultural flourishing to the darkest chapters of the 20th century, and the resilience of Jewish life today. Joining us is Eugene, our beloved Neighbourhood Guide from the 2nd district, the heart of Jewish Vienna. Our "Jewish city tour" will take place Sunday, July...

In this episode, we follow Eugene – our legendary "Club Melange Neighbourhood Tour guide" – through Vienna’s vibrant 2nd District: Leopoldstadt. From the rich Jewish history to the charm of the Prater, Eugene shares stories, insights, and personal moments that bring this neighborhood to life. Join us for a walk through time, memory, and the hidden gems of one of Vienna’s most fascinating districts...

Jenny tells Sabine about her experiences in the 3rd district today (as I unfortunately haven't recorded the 2nd district yet. SORRY! However, I promise to do so very soon). Jenny lives in the 3rd district with her husband and two children. It seems that the family are Vienna fans, as this is the second time they have been transferred to Vienna by her husband's employer. The first time they lived i...

Today, we are starting a new series of episodes: We want to introduce the 23 districts of Vienna to you. We will tell you about some of the highlights of the districts, describe their characteristics and - most importantly - we will talk about what it´s like to live in these individual districts. We will start with the first district "Innere Stadt" and Michael is my guest as he is a true expert wh...

Not all that glitters is gold. In our last episide, we talked about "VIENNA, the most liveable city in the world" and praised Vienna very much.  But we, who live in Vienna, also have a few things to criticize. And so, we asked some Viennese and people who live here, what they don´t like so much in Vienna or about Vienna or about Austria. The results are presented in this episode. Have fun with "wh...

Katrin is the CEO of the Christmas Market Palace Schönbrunn and tells me what is new on the Christmas Market this year. "Imperial Market" is the organizer of the Christmas Market and offers this year many new attractions. We also tell our listeners a few typical Austrian Christmas Traditions. Katrin´s hotspot in Vienna: The small but very unique theatre “Bronski & Grünberg” in the 9th district...

Vienna: The Most Liveable City in the World" – an episode that reveals the charm, elegance, and unique essence behind Vienna’s top global liveability rankings. But what truly sets Vienna apart? Why does it consistently lead the charts? Whether you're a long-time admirer or new to Vienna’s allure, tune in for a fresh look at what makes this city so exceptional.  Visit: recom-relocation.at Follow us...

When you move to a foreign country, the beginning can be a bit frustrating and exhausting. Deborah is an Expat coach and Intercultural Psychologist and is back again as my guest - and she gives us some tips and tricks to settle in smoothly in a new country.  www.deborahdahab.com www.expatjourneyprogram.com coupon code: 10% discount for our audience: RECOM10 Visit: recom-relocation.at Follow us: in...

Austria is experiencing a servere shortage of skilled workers. There is currently a shortage of 272.000 skilled workers across Austria. The ABA - "Austrian Business Agency" connects international specialists with Austrian companies. Also, they are marketing Austria as a business location and advising foreign companies and investors interested in setting up a business in Austria. And when Tom Cruis...

In 2024 we have a so-called "SUPER-ELECTION" year, not only globally, but also here in Austria. As usual, if we talk about politics, Michael has joined me again and gives us an insight into the 2024 elections in Austria. As a doctor, he has practiced explaining complex issues in simple terms, and he manages to do this here too by giving us an understanding of Austrian politics. So, enjoy the episo...

How difficult is it to learn German? Or is it actually easy? Mitar Pitzek is the owner of the Innes language school and in this episode I discuss everything about the German language with him. I also asked Mitar about the difference between the "German German language" and the "Austrian German language". And Mitar tells me about the "Viennese Grumpiness" and his favorite word in the German languag...

Deborah Dabab shares the common mistakes people make when moving abroad and how to avoid them. As an expat coach and intercultural psychologist, Deborah brings a wealth of personal experience, having lived on three different continents. Today, she works with clients online, helping them thrive in their international relocations. If you are considering moving to another country, then this episode m...

In this episode, we explore Vienna International School (VIS), with Tina Lackner, Admission Coordinator. VIS is Vienna's largest international school, currently accommodating 1,401 students from 116 countries. Tina guides us through the application process, grading system, fees, and other key aspects of this accredited international baccalaureate school. She also highlights VIS' strengths, includi...