I visited hundreds of cities but Salzburg, Austria is the best

This also told test is based on a conversation with John Lovell, 60, who has traveled in 89 countries and hundreds of cities during his lifetime. Lovell is the president of Network of travel leadersA company that sells luxury trips, cruises and visits.

This interview has been modified for duration and clarity.

Over the years, I have visited 89 countries and lived in many cities. There is not a single country that I visited that I did not like – but some just I like more than others.

I went to isolated places like Tahiti, which houses some of the most beautiful beaches and bungalows on incredible water. I also went to smaller countries like the Vatican and went to South Africa, which has some of the best vineyards and preserves of game in the world.

I also visited more popular and famous European cities like Paris and London, where I lived once. I love the two cities, and if I had to choose my best five, they would both be there. However, if I could live anywhere at full time, it would be in Salzburg, Austria.

Salzburg is at the top of my list because it is smaller and more intimate. There are fewer tourists than in London or Paris, so it is easier to live the city and its culture – in addition, people are incredibly welcoming.

Salzburg’s natural beauty is breathtaking

Salzburg is located in central Europe, just at the foothills of the Alps. The landscape is green and lush, and the landscape is really magnificent. The city is surrounded by lakes, with rivers flowing in its heart.

Although winters can be a little cold for me, the general climate is quite pleasant, similar to New York State, so mostly tempered for the most part.

Salzburg is rich in history, has wonderful museums and is the birthplace of composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. It is also known for its Gothic and baroque architecture and its beautiful Catholic churches.

Salzburg is also famous because certain parts of “The sound of music” have been filmed there. In the 1965 film, the Von Trapp family – based on a real Austrian musical family – escapes Austria occupied by Nazie. A popular scene from the film, where governess Maria and the children sing “Do-Re-Me”, was filmed towards Mirabell Gardens and the Pegasus fountain.

There is something for everyone

The city is not too expensive, in part because it is a bit off the beaten track. Most hotels go from middle to high -end, with prices generally between $ 100 and $ 400 per night. The visit will not necessarily break the bank for many travelers.

Salzburg is also a well -known place if you are in skiing and similar winter activities. Although there is no skiing in the city, it’s just a short trip in the mountains.

For the younger crowd, you will find options if you are in the night boxes and dancing. There are also a lot of good restaurants. So, even if Salzburg is not a massive metropolis, it still has a lot to offer.

Residents make you feel welcome

Salzburg has many cultures. Many people speak English, German and sometimes French.

I think it is an ideal place to have a real sense of European culture in a medium -sized city.

From all European cities, I would compare Salzburg in Prague or Edinburgh – but these cities do not have the natural beauty of the mountains and rivers that surround them.

The inhabitants of Salzburg really kiss travelers. You can enter a local ad, have schnapps with them, and when you finish your drink, I feel like you know them forever.

The first time I visited Salzburg, I met people from Florida. One was an older and retired gentleman who had a house in Austria. He invited me to visit him and his wife and stay at home.

They introduced me to people from the local community, showed me, took me to restaurants and organized me by boat. I fell in love with the region and returned to this city four times.

I never had a bad interaction with no one there. It has always been very positive – everyone is useful and really interested in you: where you come from, why you visit. It is such a pleasant feeling of being so well received, and that is why I continue to come back.