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Travelling to Halstatt in Austria as an afro caribbean woman

Hi I would like to travel to Halstatt in Austria next year (summer) and would like to know what would be considered acceptable, comfortable wear. Also I would like to know something about the customs and behaviour of the locals - I don't want to come off as being impolite or disrespectful. Thanks in advance.

Posted by
11507 posts

Wear whatever you consider comfortable, but do take comfortable walking shoes or sandals, not just flip flops, you will walk alot more then at home, and pavements can be uneven etc, so while flips are comfy summer wear at home, you generally don't walk for hours every day in them non stop.
I won't comment too much on local customs and manners, I have only been twice , and both were short visits, but in general they are a bit more formal and a bit quieter then most North Americans, it can seem a bit "cold" to me, but its just the way they are and don't take it personally.

Posted by
8094 posts

I suggest looking at Rick Steves' packing list. Just about anything goes. Summer is generally warm, and it often rains late in the afternoons. Just make sure you have a light jacket that repels water. Don't worry about local customs. Tiroleans are a very warm and nice group of people.

Posted by
32171 posts

marsha, You shouldn't have any problems wearing "normal" travel clothes when visiting Hallstatt, although something a bit more "conservative" would probably be better if you'll be having a look inside the Churches there. If you're concerned about appropriate clothing or whatever, I'm sure the Hotel staff will be able to provide some advice. Hallstatt is a smaller town, but some walking will be required so comfortable footwear will be a good idea. If you're planning to visit the Salt Mine, you'll have a short hike from the top of the Funicular to the mine entrance, so again footwear will be important. Although you'll be wearing coveralls during the Mine tour, it can be a bit "chilly" underground so a sweater or other "layered" clothing would be prudent. On the return to the Funicular from the mine tour, you may want to stop at Rudolfsturm for a cool drink or lunch on the patio. It's the Castle where the soldiers guarding the mine used to live. The views from there are incredible! Happy travels!

Posted by
32519 posts

If going down the slide at the Salt Mine you will find that putting on the overalls over your clothing will be easier if you are wearing trousers (or shorts) rather than a skirt or dress.

Posted by
2 posts

Thank you all for your quick responses and valuable information! I will take them all into consideration when I make my trip. Marsha

Posted by
252 posts

Marsha, you have been given some valuable information about Hallstatt. We have visited about a half dozen times. One thing we have found traveling in Germany and Austria is that most people respond to a smile and a genial attitutde just like they do everywhere else. Just keep in mind that summer is a very busy time in Hallstatt, so some of the townspeople could be a little stresed out. It is a beautiful place and I'm sure you will have a wonderful time.