Curious Parents Places to Go

Brought to you by CuriousParents.com

sponsored by

A Heartbeat From Mozart

By Bernice S. Kopelman



Although Austria may lack the cache to be number one on a Traveler’s hit parade of countries to visit, I did have occasion to visit the lovely city of Salzburg and spend splendid days sightseeing while staying at The Goldener Hirsch, a centuries old inn both fashionable and rich in tradition. Its location just beyond the ramparts in the Baroque center of town is conveniently near Wolfgang Amadeus’s birthplace.

This city of Mozart has his name inscribed on every conceivable item from chocolate shops to opera houses and yes, his operas are performed at festivals, musical events and numerous opera houses around town.

A walking tour of the city is a 2000-year step-back into history when the church chimes tolled every half-hour on Market Square and as they still do today. The quaint passages and pedestrian walkways lined with smart unique Euro- boutiques make for a heady mix of fun and shopping.

Stylish upscale tourists (especially from Europe) know Salzburg as “Home of Geiger” (of boiled wool jacket fame), Tyrolean outerwear, caps, hats and accessories all beautifully coordinated and sized from 3-33 and everything in-between. Remember to pick up some Wolford hosiery and lingerie--a great buy since Austria is home base for this luxury line of intimate apparel, also wonderful sportswear boutiques (especially if you’re less svelte than average) that offer splendid designer fashions can be found in and around The Goldener Hirsch Hotel.

A pleasant breakaway from Salzburg is a train trip to majestic Vienna (less than a three-hour ride through the lush countryside), it allows for five or six hours of visiting multiple historic sites before your return. A stroll down the formidable, immaculate boulevards and plazas that traverse the central district makes it a breeze to pop in and out of the impressive castle-like museums and landmark coffee houses all serving delicious world-famous Viennese pastries.

Back in Salzburg, a hearty welcome awaits you with the impeccable modern comforts of The Goldener Hirsch. Comprised of two under-stated buildings, more like a modernized elegant private residence with many winding staircases leading to 70 rooms, each furnished and situated differently. The original owner’s passion for collecting antiques is evident throughout the hotel and remains an integral part of its charm. An above-par dining room offers traditional cuisine, excellent service and serves as a gathering place for locals and celebrities.

Salzburg, one of Europe’s loveliest cities, is a delight to visit any season of the year, still, many think of and associate it with its famed Summer Festival. Well think again, since musical events of one kind or another are performed on almost a daily basis, for the opera-loving tourist, it’s easier than ever to obtain tickets to hear the music of Mozart whenever you go!

Other points of interest on a walking tour are:

• Floiriani-Fountain
• St. Peter’s Abbey-catacombs
• Vegetable/Flower Market
• Toy Museum
• Mirabell Castle & Gardens
• Archbishop’s Residence-Fountain (world's largest baroque fountain)

TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
Salzburg Information: www.salzburginfo.at
Hotel Goldener Hirsch/Starwood Hotels: 800-325-3535; www.goldenerhirsh.com
Austrian Tourist Board: 212-944-6880; www.austria-tourism.at

TRAVEL TRENDS
(Updated Tidbits to Bet On)

RE: Charleston Place, Charleston, S.C. Grades 1-9 summer “Sea Camp” starting June 2002. Seven exciting “Learning for Kids Camps” in conjunction with the exceptional South Carolina Aquarium. This unique “hands wet” educational program offers parents free time to enjoy the luxury and sophistication CP offers in its Spa, dining and shopping venue plus the European charm of surrounding Charleston. 800-860-4095.

RE: La Samanna, St. Martin, FWI The serene, relaxing Elysees Spa at La Samanna is more restorative than ever. While increasing its treatment rooms, the Spa has also added a multi-level rock garden to be enjoyed from the outdoor pavilion where au-naturel massages and treatments are available. This lush overview enhances both the “salt glow” or “body polish” massage (two treatments that encourage a sleek, smooth Caribbean tan). The men’s facial is also a huge success--watch out or what was once a women’s passion only, will now be addictive to that special guy! 011-59-0590-87-64-00.

RE: Cap Juluca, Anguilla, BWI A new aqua golf driving range (for golfers who can’t leave it home) is set in front of the lagoon and is marked for yardage. Golf balls and clubs are provided at the resort. Additional golf facilities such as putting and practice areas are on the way. Kemia--their waterside “Tapas Bar” offers a wide array of International delicacies for the ultimate “grazing” experience at sunset. 866-458-5822.

Bernice S. Kopelman is a travel correspondent residing in Newtown, PA. 215-504-2136, or, E-mail: bbskbsk@aol.com.