Speaking German in Austria

Rather like Switzerland, High German (hoch Deutsch) is the official language of Austria, although colloquialisms and a distinctly softer tone mean that (in certain instances) even decent German speakers have to think twice about what’s being said to them! Flattening vowels and being less precise with your enunciation will endear you to locals, as will swotting up on Wienerisch - German with more than just a few Czech, Hungarian and Yiddish words mixed in for good measure. A cheery Grüss Gott is required (rather than Guten tag) in the morning, while partings come in the form of servus - much like the Hungarian Szervusz - and Baba!