[First Lt. Veronica Wyatt is a Schweinfurt community member assigned to 7th TTSB. Wyatt contributed reporting through TeamSchweinfurt.com's travel submission section. If you would like to submit a travel article, visit Schweinfurt's Travel Section.]
SCHWEINFURT, Germany (Feb. 14, 2014) -- Seated at the foot of the Tyrolean Alps, Innsbruck is a magical city with something to offer everyone. Steeped in Roman, German, French and Austrian history, Innsbruck has a way of capturing the hearts of all who visit.
Whether there to enjoy fresh powder at the many ski resorts or to indulge in one of Europe's best shopping experiences, Innsbruck has enough to keep everyone in the family busy and happy.
For anyone travelling to Innsbruck in search of a different ski area outside the well-known American joint at Garmisch, the Stubai Glacier has a variety of slopes for all experience levels. Be forewarned, though, that the "beginner" runs at this glacier are more advanced than the bunny hills at Edelweiss.
While Austria is typically known for its wonderful ski lodges and restaurants on the mountain, the glacier has limited options for hungry skiers in the middle of the day, so pack a snack to bring with you on one of the many gondola rides.
In the heart of Innsbruck lies a shopping area similar to many ski towns throughout Europe. There are stores of every make and type in Innsbruck, and if you have a chance, check out the four-story mall in the heart of the old city -- it makes for a warm refuge from the wind on blustery days.
Within the old town of Innsbruck, which is more than 800 years old, you can find a multitude of historical sites to enthrall the history buffs among your group. The Imperial Palace has centuries of history to bestow upon its visitors. A free audio guide is included with your ticket price, so take advantage of the tour through the Royal Apartments.
The large cathedral in the middle of town (Dom zu St. Jakob) has stood in Innsbruck for more than 300 years. Another beautiful example of the Baroque style, the Dom is beautiful inside and out.
For a great hotel near the heart of the city, check out the Hotel Neues Hof, only a 10-minute walk from the city center and the Innsbruck Galerie. The hotel offers ski services for those of the sporting nature and is surrounded by restaurants that serve delicious food.
Whatever your reason for visiting Innsbruck, you will not regret taking advantage of the opportunity to visit this wonderful Austrian town!
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