Austria flights and travel guide

Language

The official language is German.

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Money

The unit of currency is the Euro (EUR), which is divided into 100 cents. Currency can be exchanged at banks and bureaux de change available in all towns, but it may be easier to use the ATMs. Banks are closed on Saturdays and Sundays, but exchange offices at airports and major city rail terminals are open seven days a week. Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted though some small hotels and restaurants may only accept cash. Travellers checks are also accepted.

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Communications

The international access code for Austria is +43. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). The area code for Vienna is (0)1. Public telephone boxes can be used for direct dial calls within the country and overseas. Austria's mobile network operates on the 900 and 1800bands for GSM. Internet cafes are widely available.

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Tipping

A 10-15 per cent service charge is automatically added to hotel and restaurant bills, but it is usual to leave another 5 per cent if satisfied with the service. It is customary to give the money to the waiter rather than leave it on the table. It is usual to leave small change for most service personnel. Taxis expect a 10 per cent tip.

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Safety

Travel to Austria is generally trouble-free, however, visitors are advised to take sensible safety precautions particularly in larger cities.

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Health

No vaccinations are necessary for business visits or general tourism. There is, however, a risk of tick-borne encephalitis for long-term visitors who expect to be visiting rural or forested areas in spring or summer. These travellers should consider vaccination and ensure they take precautions against tick infestation. Water and food are safe. Medical facilities are excellent. Medical insurance is advised unless from the UK - citizens of EU countries can get free emergency medical treatment at public hospitals in Austria on production of a European HealthInsurance Card (EHIC). Bird flu was found in dead swans in the southern province of Styria in February 2006 and stringent measures are being taken to contain the outbreak. The risk is very low for travellers, but all close contact with wild, domestic and caged birds should be avoided, and all poultry and egg dishes well cooked as a precaution.

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Electricity

Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. The European round 2-pin plugs are standard.

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