One of the most interesting surprises on this summer's trip is that probably 2/3's of the tourists in Zell am See are from the Arabian peninsula. Did a little research, and apparently 20 years ago Zell am See's tourist board started advertising in GCC countries that the town looked like paradise as described in the Quran. Now upwards of 100,000 Arab people per year visit, mostly in the summer to avoid the heat at home. Interesting to see a typical Austrian lakeside Alpine resort where the boardwalk along the water in the evening is nearly 100 percent Arab tourists, nearly all of the women in traditional garb.
I'm surprised there isn't much of any middle eastern food in town yet. As soon as I saw crowda of Arab people I started looking for good middle eastern food, but no dice. A few Arab grocers, and maybe a little more ice cream and pizza than usual. Still plenty of schnitzel beer and wine spots, though primarily alcohol-focused venues (like wine bars with food menus) have entirely western locals and tourists for clientele.
I'm usually tuned in to the places I visit ahead of time, but had no idea about Zell am See's unusual demographics -- thought it would be just another typical Alpine tourist town. It's been a fun experience.