two stops from the oldest zoo in the world.

Thats right! I, Shannon Audrey Harbers, live exactly two underground stops from The Worlds Oldest Zoo. Located at the former summer residence of the Habsburgs, Schloss Schönbrunn, the  Schönbrunn Zoo was founded as early as 1752 by Emperor Franz I. 

Intrigued, I find myself with a year-pass and over 750 wild and domestic animals to visit. 

So Tuesday after class, Michelle and I set out to explore the wonders at the Schönbrunn Zoo, after having a picnic lunch in the gardens at the palace of course. Sitting in the courtyard, we caught a glimpse of the first signs of spring here in Vienna. With the sun shining and the birds singing, landscapers filled the detailed flower beds with annuals and tourists filled the walks. 


Once in the zoo, Michelle and I had crazy good luck with the animals -mountain goats fighting, tigers chasing each other, and even leopards ripping apart beautiful white bunnies. 

So happy to see the sunshine in Vienna. The last few days have been quite uneventful, consisting of long afternoons at the park with a good book, some excellent coffee shops, and even a delicious (and cheap!) thai dinner. 


This past weekend a trip was also made to the Haus der Musik- where we learned about a good handful of Austria's great composers, and even made some music of our own. Conducting symphony's and experiencing the elements of sound was a full days work, washed down with a massive schnitzel and a traditional Austrian brew. 

I have to admit, I am enjoying all the free time, and deep fried specialties. Wouldn't you?


shannon xx