Today was a bit of an unusual tour. I had a young Spanish woman, a family with people from the US, Myanmar, and Bangkok that had met up to travel Europe, and a young American man from Kansas who had a wheel chair.
I've never had a tour with a person in a wheel chair, however my feeling was if he was confident enough to travel to Europe - (on his own!) then who am I to tell him he may face challenges or wouldn't be able to come on my tour? It wasn't a question for me, even though I knew I would possibly have to help him with getting onto the train and around the city. If there's a will - there's a way!
Suddenly I became aware of every slight step, hill, and struggle that he had to face. I am so inspired by all that he has done and that he never lets his disability set him back. Coming to Europe, which isn't always the most politically correct place, has to be difficult, but he obviously doesn't let anything get in the way of living. 
On our free time he wanted a view over the city. We went up to the Mönchsberg Museum of Modern Art, which in my opinion has one of the best views of Salzburg. We were both slightly surprised that we didn't have to pay the typical elevator admission as a courtesy for him. The photo above was taken today.
The view was beautiful as always. I now have another restaurant to visit - the M32, sister restaurant of Spoon - with the circle windows I adore. M32 is located above the art museum. I cannot wait to have friends visit because I know quite a few beautiful little surprises that I am excited to share.
It still amazes me that I get paid to do my job. I meet wonderful and inspirational people... even the less than inspirational people give me more appreciation for great groups!
I am going to try to compile a visitor's guide to Salzburg similar to the one for Munich. It's really a terrific city. In the meantime check out Creative Austria.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Views over Salzburg
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4 comments:
I didn't know you were a tour guide- how cool! How long have you been doing it for? I imagine you get to see a lot of great places.
Your entry about the disabled tourist reminds me of a time when I was in Hanoi and met this blind American girl who was travelling Vietnam by herself. I don't even know how she managed to cross the streets with the hundreds of motorbikes buzzing along or how she found her way- especially with a language barrier. Eventually she asked me for help at one point but then she just went on her way. I was really amazed she was going it alone in a developing nation- truly inspiring!
I love the view!
It seems like you are really enjoying being back to giving tours. That sounds great that you were able to have this experience with the man in the wheelchair. There is so much in our lives that we barely notice that can present a challenge for so many people. When is your next tour?
Holly - I've been a tour guide for about a year and a half. It's really a great job, although I must say every day is unique. Your story about the American girl is so inspiring. People really face challenges and accomplish such amazing things.
Bluefish - you'll have to make a trip at some point. It's a great city with so much character.
Allison - it definitely makes me feel purposeful and it's nice to have something to do, especially when I encounter such kind people. I'm not exactly sure when my next tour is - probably late next week or so. You'll have to join me some time.
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