Good to know: public holidays in Austria in 2025

In 2025, most public holidays fall on a weekday. Here’s an overview with a calendar: Which ones are there, and which days you should ideally take off?There will be a total of 13 public holidays in 2025. A list of these days with the day of the week: Wednesday, January 1: New Year’s DayMonday, January 6: Three Wise MenMonday, April 21: Easter MondayThursday, May 1: National holidayThursday, May 29: Ascension DayMonday, June 9: Pentecost MondayThursday, June 19: Corpus ChristiFriday, August 15: Assumption DaySunday, October 26: National holidaySaturday, November 1: All…

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Cold front again causes sub-zero temperatures and black ice

Clouds, precipitation, and black ice are what we can expect across Austria in the coming days. From Thursday, the cold front will bring sub-zero temperatures in places and could bring fresh snow. Monday will still be mild, with maximum temperatures of up to 16 degrees in the east of the country. The mix of clouds and rain will be particularly noticeable in the south. The snow line will be between 1300 and 1800 meters above sea level. Brisk to strong foehn winds are expected on the northern side of the…

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Phishing attempt: Fake e-mails circulating in the name of ORF

The ORF, state-owned television network, warns that fake emails are currently circulating, promising an alleged refund of the ORF contribution from the fee subsidiary ORF Beitrags Service GmbH (OBS). This is a phishing attempt to steal account data.The contact information in the phishing emails is correct, which is why the emails look deceptively genuine.The emails look deceptively genuine. It reads: “Following a review of your recent payments, we have determined that you are entitled to a refund of 34.40 euros. To avoid any delays, please complete the form using the…

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Happiness Income Calculated: Do You Earn Enough to Be Happy?

Can money buy happiness? While it’s a centuries-old debate, research suggests a threshold—a “happiness income”—beyond which additional earnings have diminishing returns on emotional well-being. But what exactly is this magic number, and are you earning enough to live a happy life? Studies by Nobel laureates Daniel Kahneman and Angus Deaton found that in the U.S., a yearly income of $75,000 marked the point where emotional well-being plateaued. More recent studies, including one from Purdue University, refined this figure, suggesting that happiness peaks globally at around $60,000 to $90,000 annually for…

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The Feast of the Three Kings: A Heartwarming Tradition in Austria

Every year on January 6, Austria joins the Christian world in celebrating the Feast of the Three Kings, also known as Epiphany. This significant day marks the visit of the Magi—Melchior, Caspar, and Balthazar—to the infant Jesus, bearing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. In Austria, the celebration is imbued with a unique charm that brings communities together in the spirit of generosity and goodwill. One of the most cherished traditions is the Sternsingen, or “Star Singing,” where children dressed as the three kings visit homes and apartments across the…

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Massive inflation – prices will rise sharply in 2025

Good news for 2025? In short supply, at least when it comes to money. Because fuel, electricity, gas, vignettes, and rents will sometimes become considerably more expensive. Increasing taxes and reducing expenditures—the direction of travel with the next federal government is already clear. However, it is also clear that 2025 will be a tough year for private household budgets. Here is an overview of what we are already facing. Parking in Vienna: On 1 January, the city of Vienna raised short-term parking fees. Half an hour now costs 1.30 euros…

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5 signs that you’re more selfish than you think

Selfish behavior is usually not well received. Sometimes, we may not even realize that we are acting selfishly in a situation, and sometimes, we may do it deliberately. Ask yourself, “Hmm, what’s it like for me? Am I really selfish?” You can review our checklist and determine whether or how many selfish traits you have—and possibly work on them. What is selfish behavior?Egoism comes from the Latin “ego,” which means “I.” Egoism can, therefore, be translated as selfishness or self-centeredness. The Duden dictionary describes egoism as the “striving to gain…

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Smile More, Use Your Cell Phone Less: The Simple Formula for Happiness

In a world dominated by screens, pursuing happiness can feel elusive. Yet, the solution might be simpler than we think: smile more and use your cell phone less. This straightforward approach enhances mental well-being and fosters meaningful connections and a more fulfilling life. Smiling, even when you don’t feel like it, profoundly impacts your brain. It triggers the release of endorphins—your body’s natural feel-good chemicals. Studies show that smiling can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and instantly boost your mood. A genuine smile also creates a ripple effect, spreading positivity…

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Austrians focus on waste avoidance for the climate

Many people in Austria focus primarily on avoiding waste when it comes to their personal contribution to climate protection. This was the result of a survey presented on Friday on behalf of the Association of Austrian Waste Management Companies (VOEB). According to the survey, almost 64 percent ensure they only buy as much food as they need for their household. Almost half of those surveyed actively try to avoid waste as much as possible. 1,000 people aged 14 to 75 were surveyed. According to the survey, more than a third…

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