EXPLORING

The Austrian states of Tirol and Vorarlberg are connected by the Silvretta Pass. The peaks of the Silvretta are more than 3000m in elevation, and these are flanked by glaciers. Cyberprof drove through the Silvretta while returning from a shopping trip to Bregenz.

The LSAMP group has also explored by "strassenbahn" and on foot the city of Innsbruck. On Sunday afternoon we visited Bergisel. In 1809 Bergisel was the sight of four famous battles under the command of the Austrian freedom fighter, Andreas Hofer. There is a monument erected here in his honor.

Bergisel is also the site of the famous ski jumping arena for the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympic Games. We took an electric tram up the mountain to the top of the tower, where there can be found spectacular views of Innsbruck and the surrounding regions. We then hiked down the steep steps and paths to the end of the jump ramp, where there are plaques at the base of the Olympic torches inscribed with the names of all those athletes who medaled in 1964 and 1976 in all events.

We ended the day with an evening walk through the Innsbruck University Botanic Garden. The 5 acre garden, across the Inn River from the International Student House, contains more than 5000 species, including some fabulous cacti, and it is open to the public free of charge every day.

"Seien Sie sehr sehr ruhig. Wir suchen nach Eierschwammerl."