Alana A.
Yelp
The most incredible experience of my life. Seriously a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is absolutely unforgettable.
I was incredibly blessed enough to be able to spend 8 or 9 days here, all expenses paid courtesy of my college. I was sent here along with a few other classmates for the Global Citizenship Program. I learned so much and experienced so much beauty - sometimes I still think it was a dream. But it was real, and boy, do I wish I could go back.
Let's start with the palace. What an extraordinary, captivating, and historical palace. I was here in February and arrived the day after a big snowstorm, so everything was covered in glistening, clean, white snow! The palace is covered in beautiful, gold details. The lake in the back (what a beautiful lake) was frozen and the swans paddled around in the small parts that weren't frozen. The grounds are beautifully landscaped and there are gorgeous statues all around. The first two days I was there, the days were very cloudy. But on day three, the sun came out, and - WOW - there's a huge, beautiful mountain, Untersberg, right behind the palace! I had never felt this sensation but... it literally took my breath away. The beauty was overwhelming - I even shed a tear. It made for the most perfect view out of my room, out of the lecture rooms, dining rooms, any room! The palace got even more gorgeous and it couldn't have been any more perfect.
The food was fantastic. I'm a very picky eater and I was very, very afraid of my first experience eating in Europe. But to my surprise, the food was extraordinary. There were so many meals and all of them had an incredible variety of food, so that everyone could find something they liked (loved). Between meals, snacks, fruits, tea, and coffee came out. It was so lovely.
As for the lectures - it was an honor to be learning from some of the most esteemed educators from around the world. Their level of intelligence and insight was beyond belief. They were all so approachable and truly made an effort to get to know us all. Absolutely incredible.
The staff was just awesome! Such nice and fun people. The hotel staff were also great - very attentive and helpful.
Best experience ever. I'm so glad that I took a leap of faith and went on this journey. It was one I'll never forget - and if you go, I guarantee you won't either.
(I've posted lots of pics - keep in mind, the photos don't even do any justice. It's even more beautiful than any photo can capture.)