Steyr Local Customs

Maybe it sounds a bit weird, but as an experience traveler I know that you every now and then need this kind of information in advance: electricity in Austria is 230 Volts, alternating at 50 cycles per second. If you travel to Austria with a device that does not accept 230 Volts at 50 Hertz, you will need a voltage converter.

There are three main types of voltage converter. Resistor-network converters will usually be advertised as supporting something like 50-1600 Watts. They are light-weight and support high-wattage electrical appliances like hair dryers and irons. However, they can only be used for short periods of time and are not ideal for digital devices. Some companies sell combination converters that include both a resistor network and a transformer in the same package. This kind of converter will usually come with a switch that switches between the two modes. If you absolutely need both types of converter, then this is the type to buy.

Outlets in Austria generally accept 1 type of plug: Two round pins (see the picture). If your appliances plug has a different shape, you may need a plug adapter. Depending on how much you plan to travel in the future, it may be worthwhile to get a combination voltage converter and plug adapter.

Here's just another example of the great architectural feats that await the visitor. The artwork, the carvings, and even the building designs make each of the structures so unique and worth admiring. Steyr is fortunate to have retained so many of its historical buildings despite WWII bombings (which I hear missed the Stadtplatz).

As you make your way through the Stadtplatz pay close attention to the numerous ornate façades. Many of the buildings on the Stadtplatz, and several on side streets, have very unique artwork painted or special carvings on the building's façades. For those of you who are artistically inclined, I'd suggest taking the time to admire these. You may find several of them to your liking.

Already in the early 17th century "goldsmiths and clockmakers" were well known words as skilful and elaborate iron clocks were produced in Steyr and among the most famous clockmakers of this time is "Johann Mayr of Steyr".

But my skilled guide told me that also "serrated knifes" were invented in Steyr.

There is a traditional Austrian drink that is non-alcholoic called Almdudler.
The meaning of the name comes from
Alm = Alpine meadow
Dudler = There is an Austrian musical instrument similiar to the bagpipe, the person who plays this is called a "dudler".
We tried this drink when Michael took us to a small outdoor bar/pub/cafe in Steyr. We almost did not get our drinks..... I asked Michael how to pronounce the name of this famous drink and then I proceeded to order one for myself. After several tries the waiter finally realized what I wanted and then broke into a fit of laughter. I ask you, is my Austrian accent really THAT BAD ^O^. But we did get our drinks and we also learned that the waitress working there had visited Israel so everyone said "Shalom" (hello in Hebrew)...