Vienna Faces Its Gloomiest Winter in Three Decades

Vienna is currently enduring its darkest winter in 30 years, a season marked by persistent fog and a striking lack of sunlight. The city, usually brightened by crisp winter days, has been shrouded in gray skies that weigh heavily on the mood of its residents. A City Under a Blanket of Fog The Austrian capital has seen unusually low sunshine hours this season. December brought only 38 hours of sunlight compared to the long-term average of 52. January was closer to normal with 55 hours, but February has so far…

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According to a New Ranking: These Are the 12 Most Beautiful Islands in the World – and Palawan in the Philippines Makes the List

Condé Nast Traveller has unveiled its latest ranking of the world’s most beautiful islands, offering welcome guidance for anyone dreaming of an island getaway but feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices. After all, when it comes to pristine beaches, dramatic landscapes and true relaxation, few travellers are willing to compromise—especially if the journey requires long-haul travel. The magazine’s new list highlights destinations across the globe, including several European islands that promise wanderlust without the need for intercontinental flights. From volcanic peaks in the Pacific to Mediterranean charm and…

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Airlines Race to Offer Full Economy Rows for Sleeping Comfort

Long‑haul economy travel may soon feel a little less cramped. Several international airlines are expanding or re‑promoting options that allow passengers to book an entire row of seats to themselves—turning standard economy seating into makeshift beds at a fraction of business‑class prices. Lufthansa Revives Its “Sleeper’s Row” Lufthansa is once again advertising its Sleeper’s Row, a product that gives travelers exclusive use of a full row of three or four economy seats. The offer has existed since summer 2021 on flights longer than eleven hours, but demand immediately after the…

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Reduced VAT on Food Items in Austria Now Finalized

Austria’s Council of Ministers is expected to finalize today the list of food products that will soon benefit from a reduced value-added tax (VAT) rate. According to information reported by APA, only minor adjustments have been made to the product selection originally drafted by Vice Chancellor Andreas Babler and Finance Minister Markus Marterbauer, both of whom represent the SPÖ. Under the updated plan, a wide range of staple foods will see their VAT rate drop from the current ten percent to 4.9 percent. The reduced rate will apply to bread,…

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Aggressive Virus Surge in Austria – Virologist Recommends Three Key Measures

Austria is facing a rapidly intensifying flu wave, with hospitals reporting an unusually high number of severe cases. Health experts warn that the situation shows no signs of easing, and the coming weeks may bring even more infections. Rising Hospitalizations Across the Country Influenza cases have been climbing steadily, mirroring the severe flu situation already gripping Italy. According to Austria’s SARI dashboard—which tracks hospital admissions for Severe Acute Respiratory Infections—more people were hospitalized with influenza shortly before the end of the year than at the peak of the 2024/25 flu…

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Extreme cold followed by increased risk of black ice

Following the extreme cold, there is an increased risk of black ice in Austria. Geosphere Austria issued a yellow black ice warning for large parts of the country until Tuesday. The slippery conditions increase the risk of accidents and may cause local traffic disruptions. Road users should check that their vehicles are suitable for winter conditions and adjust their speed to the current conditions. After the cold front, a warm front reached Austria from the west. Initially, it is snowing at low altitudes, but as the temperature rises at higher…

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The Secret Psychology of Snow Lovers: What Winter Reveals About Who We Are

Across Austria and much of Europe, the past days have unfolded in white. Streets softened, rooftops muted, and landscapes transformed into quiet, shimmering worlds. For many, this first real snowfall of the season is more than a weather event. It’s an emotional shift — a moment when the world slows down just enough for us to notice ourselves again. Recent reflections in psychology and sociology suggest that people who adore snow often share a cluster of personality traits. Far from trivial, these traits reveal how deeply our environment shapes our…

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New in 2026: Nurses can retire early, but must take action

On January 1, 2026, nursing professions were included in the Heavy Labor Regulation. Specifically, this means that if you meet the requirements, you can retire as early as age 60. However, you must take action yourself. Since January 1, 2026, nursing professions in Austria have been classified as heavy labor. The Ministry of Social Affairs expects this regulation to result in around 1,000 women retiring early each year, as explained to 5 Minuten. Meanwhile, Austria’s major hospital associations are not really concerned that there could suddenly be a shortage of…

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Coffee Meets Canvas: Artist Lisa Pangan Leads New Year Workshop in Eisenstadt

Eisenstadt, Austria — The new year at the Pädagogische Hochschule Burgenland will begin with a burst of creativity and aroma as artist Lisa Pangan hosts a coffeepainting workshop on January 10, 2026. The event will take place in Seminarraum 7, located at Thomas-Alva-Edison-Straße 1, 7000 Eisenstadt, and will run from 10:00 to 13:00. The workshop is organized in cooperation with Welt Laden Eisenstadt, highlighting a shared commitment to cultural exchange, sustainability, and artistic exploration. Pangan, known for her warm, introspective visual language, has developed a distinctive artistic style that blends…

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