Moving to a new country like Austria often brings exciting prospects. However, it also introduces a maze of unwritten rules and cultural norms. Beyond practicalities like registration, newcomers must grasp local customs, from greetings like Grüß Gott to understanding why most shops close on Sundays.
A rising group of social media creators now specializes in explaining these unique cultural elements. They transform common misunderstandings into practical advice, engaging debates, and comedic relief for international residents, facilitating with decoding Austrian life.
Jonny Balchin, a New Zealander behind the popular account Austrian Kiwi, started his content creation journey almost by accident. While cycling home one day, he noticed a common behavior: people shouting at pedestrians in bike lanes. He then created a comedy video which quickly went viral, showing him the significant audience for such content.
Another key figure is Anastasia Postoeva, creator of Oida Austria. Upon her arrival, Postoeva realized a gap existed for modern, English-speaking social media communities focusing on Austrian life. She aimed to discuss topics beyond basic information, covering traditions like Krampus and everyday peculiarities.
These creators often find their audiences extend beyond current residents. For example, Postoeva discovered followers who had visited Austria years ago or wished to maintain a connection. She believes Austria is a “hidden gem” and her account helps reveal its lesser-known aspects to a wider international audience.
Discussions around Sunday shop closures exemplify the cultural divide. Foreigners often criticize this tradition, questioning daily life without it. Locals, by contrast, frequently defend it, viewing it as an accepted norm. A similar pattern emerges with Austria’s reliance on cash, with international followers often advocating for modernization while locals prefer traditional methods.
Balchin observes that international followers often express relief, thinking they are alone in their observations. Austrians, however, tend to debate specific details, such as regional dialect variations or food traditions. He notes that while foreigners see ‘Austria’, locals often perceive nine distinct Bundesländer, each with unique customs.
Moreover, these accounts clarify social behaviors newcomers might misinterpret. Balchin highlights Austrian directness, which many mistake for unfriendliness. However, he explains that Austrians, though slow to open up, are incredibly loyal and welcoming once connections are formed.
Postoeva, likewise, receives comments challenging Austria’s unfriendly reputation, particularly from those experiencing warmth in smaller towns. Practical lessons are also shared; for instance, Balchin stresses the importance of formal greetings in shared public spaces, a stark contrast to his New Zealand experience.
Key advice for newcomers includes always standing on the right side of escalators and completing Sunday shopping beforehand. Nevertheless, the most crucial recommendation is learning German. Speaking with locals, Postoeva emphasizes, helps residents integrate beyond their international bubble and truly feel at home.
Balchin agrees, urging immediate German language practice without waiting for perfection. He encourages newcomers to embrace `durchwurschteln`, an Austrian term for working things out as you go. Therefore, accounts like Austrian Kiwi and Oida Austria are indispensable resources for navigating the journey of decoding Austrian life.
