Austria – Where Small is Beautiful
Friederike Randall, UCLA

The main reason for my move to Austria was that I am still and Austrian citizen and still have family here. It was meant to be a permanent move.

Once a week I go to Tai Chi, twice a month for volunteer work at the zoo, and, of course as often as possible, to concerts.  For 4 Euro, I can hear chamber music played by members of the Vienna philharmonic orchestra.
 
A Nobel Prize winner once said, “small is beautiful.”  Vienna is a town of less than two million inhabitants, and one can walk across the city. Within 30 minutes with public transportation, are the Vienna Woods. There are an uncountable number of cultural activities, and I love the four seasons. You should have seen the burst of colors this unusual spring, from small flowers to blooming trees and bushes. There is no need for a car here – public transportation takes you everywhere in this small country.

My experience at UCLA did not influence my decision to live in Austria. I enjoyed very much the work at UCLA and am very grateful for the chance you gave me. People were very kind, but I could not visualize living there after retirement.  What fascinated me about the part of the US I lived in were the enormous dimension, beautiful countryside, scenery and, of course, the friendly people. I also learned that one has to work hard to make one’s way.  What surprised me was the pre-occupation with material things and the strong competition.

My advice to people coming to visit this or another country would be to learn the language a little and take advantage of the cultural offerings and the scenery. Enjoy the difference and the new experience.

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