Heathrow – getting ready for departure

As part of our exciting journey to the Austrian Grand Prix, we explored several Oneworld lounges at Heathrow Terminal 3. Each lounge offered unique features and amenities, adding different flavours to our pre-flight experience. Here’s a glimpse into our lounge-hopping adventure:

• British Airways Lounge: While initially promising, the British Airways lounge fell short of expectations due to a noticeable shortage of chairs and clean tables. Despite this minor setback, our spirits remained high. After a quick stroll around the lounge, we decided to move on to the next one!
• Qantas Lounge: Next, we made our way to the Qantas lounge, which was a striking contrast to the previous one. This lounge boasted a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The stunning views of the runway and ramp area were a definite highlight. The well-equipped facilities ensured a comfortable and enjoyable experience as we relaxed and prepared for our flight.
• American Airlines Lounge: Our journey through the lounges continued with a visit to the American Airlines lounge. We appreciated the delightful pick’n’mix selection, perfect for a quick snack. The views of the T3 cul-de-sac were a bonus, offering a glimpse of the bustling activity outside. The environment here struck a balance between relaxation and preparation, catering to a variety of needs.
• Cathay Pacific Lounge: The highlight of our lounge exploration was the Cathay Pacific Lounge. We indulged in expertly crafted cocktails. We also savoured the delicious Dan Dan Mein noodles. They were a culinary delight that stood out among the offerings. The lounge also featured a refreshing shower facility, a much-welcomed amenity before the short flight to Vienna. This experience set a high standard for the rest of our journey.

In-flight

Our flight experienced a slight delay due to air traffic issues in South-East Germany. This led to a slightly different routing. Despite this, the 2-hour journey was smooth and picturesque. As the sun set behind us, we cruised over the Alps, arriving in Vienna just 45 minutes behind schedule. Upon landing, we were parked on a remote stand. We had a brief wait for the buses to transport us to the terminal. Passport control was a breeze, with no queues since it was only our flight being processed. Our bags arrived promptly on the carousel. It was just a short walk to our hotel. This made for a convenient and efficient end to our travel day.

Overnight at the airport

Upon arrival in Vienna, the transition from the airport to the NH Vienna Airport Hotel was remarkably seamless. It required just a brief walk. The convenience of the hotel’s proximity to the terminal was a welcome relief after our journey. As we stepped into the hotel lobby, we were greeted by a warm and efficient check-in process. The inviting sight of our comfortable room, complete with a plush bed, promised the perfect opportunity to rest and recharge.

The modern amenities and serene ambience of the room set the stage for a restful night. This allowed us to unwind and recover from our travels. The next morning, we felt refreshed and ready for the day. We enjoyed a delightful brunch at Wolfgang Puck in the airport. The delicious meal provided the perfect start to our day. Afterwards, we made our way to the train station. We were eager for the adventures that lay ahead as we embarked on our journey to Graz.

Austrian Railway

We eagerly boarded the train from Vienna Airport to Graz, choosing rail travel for its scenic route. Austrian Railways offers three classes of service: Standard, First, and Business. Interestingly, Business class is the highest tier. This is even above First class. It caused some confusion among passengers on our return trip. In the Business section, you have the option of an individual seat. You can also choose a trio or a quad. These options provide a variety of seating arrangements to suit different needs.

Despite a stormy start with lightning flickering in the distance, the journey was smooth. It provided us with uninterrupted views of Austria’s lush landscapes. As we sped along, we marvelled at the green fields. We saw dense forests and quaint villages. These painted a picturesque scene outside our window. Upon reaching Graz, the storm had cleared, revealing the city’s historical charm bathed in sunlight. That was until the decision was made to walk to the hotel, and then the heavens re-opened! 

Graz, our base for the GP

We checked into the compact yet impeccably clean Ibis Budget hotel, which provided a comfortable base for our exploration. The hotel’s central location made it easy for us to wander through Graz’s picturesque streets. As we strolled through the city, we discovered a myriad of local delights, from charming cafes to historic landmarks. The blend of old-world architecture and vibrant street life captivated us, making each corner a new adventure.

We savoured local cuisine, explored hidden alleys, and soaked in the unique atmosphere of Graz. As the day drew to a close, we settled in for the night. We were filled with anticipation for the exciting days ahead. Our time in Graz was off to a wonderful start. We looked forward to uncovering more of the city’s treasures.

Red Bull Ring; machine and nature

The next morning, we took a short walk to our transfer point for the Red Bull Ring. It is nestled in the stunning Styrian mountains. For three days, we enjoyed the General Admission experience, soaking up the lively atmosphere and breathtaking views. On race day, we upgraded to the grandstand, where the excitement was palpable. The roar of the engines, the skilful manoeuvres, and the sheer speed of the cars created an unforgettable spectacle.

The venue had everything we needed—food stalls, merchandise shops, and interactive exhibits—all enhancing our visit. The camaraderie among fans and the scenic backdrop made each moment special. After a day of thrills and beauty, we returned to Graz, feeling refreshed and ready for our next adventure.

Oh, Vienna…

Monday started with a relaxed exploration of Graz, a city where historic charm meets modern vibrancy. We wandered through its picturesque streets, admiring the mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. The lively markets, cosy cafes, and friendly locals made the experience memorable. After doing some laundry and packing up, we headed to the train station for our trip to Vienna.

The improved weather made the journey even more enjoyable, with scenic views of rolling hills, lush fields, and quaint villages. Upon arrival in Vienna, we were thrilled by an unexpected upgrade to a one-bedroom suite. The So/ Vienna Hotel offered luxurious amenities and stunning city views. We spent our time exploring Vienna’s rich history and culture. We visited the majestic Hofburg Palace and the impressive Kunsthistorisches Museum. The city’s treasures left us in awe.

Our adventure to the Austrian Grand Prix was unforgettable, featuring scenic train rides, luxurious lounges, and thrilling races. The atmosphere of Heathrow Terminal 3 was bustling. Graz showcased its picturesque landscapes. The Red Bull Ring was full of high-octane excitement. Every moment was a highlight. Exploring the charming cities of Graz and Vienna added a rich cultural dimension to our trip, making it truly memorable. Have you ever visited Austria or attended an F1 race? We’d love to hear your stories! Share your experiences in the comments below and join the conversation. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @LovingLife_Loving for more travel adventures and behind-the-scenes glimpses. Let’s connect and inspire each other to explore new destinations!

Disclaimer:

The travel suggestions provided in this article are based on extensive industry expertise, personal experience, and feedback. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, readers are advised to conduct their research and consider their individual travel preferences before making arrangements. Use these recommendations as a guide, and seek additional information to plan a journey that suits your needs and desires.