Current Time in WalsSiezenheim
Austrian culture regarding time
Austrian culture regarding time
Public transport is relatively accurate
In urban areas such as Vienna, trains and buses are punctual, and passengers are sensitive to delays of even a few minutes. The lifestyle of following a timetable is deeply rooted in the country.
Strict adherence to appointments is the basis
Being punctual is considered polite not only in business situations but also in private life. It is common etiquette to arrive five minutes before an appointment.
Tendency to prefer long-term plans
The "plan culture" unique to German-speaking countries is deeply rooted, and it is preferred to make long-term schedules and proceed with things in a planned manner, both at work and in private life.
Austrian values regarding time
Punctuality = proof of trust
Especially in business, being punctual is proof of trust and responsibility. There is an atmosphere in which even a slight delay requires communication and apology.
Emphasis on carefulness over efficiency
Rather than forcing speed, a style of taking time to do things carefully is valued. The quality of work tends to be prioritized.
Value work-life balance
There is a culture of keeping overtime to a minimum, and it is common to leave work on time. Since working outside of working hours is not considered a virtue, time for family and hobbies is also valued.
Things about time that foreigners should know when traveling or moving to Austria
Appointments and reservations must be kept to the time
Many hospitals, restaurants, and museums require reservations, and if you are late, you may be canceled, so you are required to be on time.
Be aware of closing times and regular holidays
Most supermarkets and stores are closed on Sundays and holidays, so you need to do your shopping early. In addition, many stores have shorter opening hours even on weekdays.
There is a "lunch break culture"
Depending on the company or store, they take a proper lunch break between 12:00 and 14:00, so services may be temporarily suspended during that time.
Interesting trivia about time in Austria
Opera times are also precise in Vienna
At the Vienna State Opera, the curtains rise exactly at the start time. There are restrictions on admission immediately after the start of the show, so tourists must arrive early.
Church bells as a guide to local time
In rural areas, the sound of church bells remains as part of the rhythm of life to inform the current time, and still supports the residents' sense of time.
"Being five minutes early" is a little reserved
Although "arriving too early" like in Japan is reserved, it is natural to be punctual. Time consciousness as a public etiquette is high in this country.