Where is Liechtenstein?

Thursday, August 14, 2014
Triesen, Tyrol, Liechtenstein
One of those small countries in Europe, like Luxembourg and Andorra, that no-one really knows exists let alone where? Sandwiched between Switzerland and Austria, using Swiss francs for currency and speaking a German dialect called Alemannic.

The country is one of only two doubly landlocked countries in the world (the other is Uzbekistan) and is small - 161 square km, about 25 x 6 km . The richest country in Europe (per capita GDP) with only 1.5% unemployment.

We woke to rain in Innsbruck again, but set off anyway. Mountains of the valley shrouded in mist. Drove along the minor roads of the Inn valley westwards, as the day got better. Passed magnificent Stams Abbey, that I had visited in 2010. Drove into Imst to look for the hotel I had stayed in, with Theresa and David before going to Oberammergau in 2010. Hotel looked the same as then.

We climbed to 1800 metres, spectacular scenery. Lots of painted houses and wooden houses with cascades of flowers from their window boxes, red geraniums and other purple and white flowers. We had seen these throughout Switzerland and Austria - folk must get so busy as soon as the snow has melted.

Through St Anton Am Arlberg and the Alberg scenic road, to the Liechtenstein border then headed south. Drove through Hilti. Where, you ask? This is where Hilti electrical and mechanical tools are made, Liechenstein's biggest employer and employing 20,000 worldwide.

Drove through the capital, Vaduz, getting ready for the National Day tomorrow. Drove into a beautiful camp site a few km. south, surrounded by mountains, hot and sunny, beautiful sunset. Tomorrow we will go to the castle - buses are free on National Day, and the prince hands out food and drink at noon!
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