Simmering: Vienna's Hidden Gem of Tradition and Modernity

• HelloServus
  [ser-voos]
• GoodbyeAuf Wiedersehen
  [owf vee-der-zayn]
• YesJa
  [yah]
• NoNein
  [nine]
• Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [bit-teh]
• Thank youDanke
  [dahn-keh]
• Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [ent-shool-dee-goong]
• How are you?Wie geht's?
  [vee gayts]
• Fine. And you?Gut. Und dir?
  [goot oont deer]
• Do you speak English?Sprichst du Englisch?
  [shprikhst doo eng-lish]
• I don't understandIch verstehe nicht
  [ikh fer-shteh-eh nikht]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch möchte bitte die Speisekarte sehen
  [ikh merkh-tuh bit-teh dee shpigh-zuh-kahr-teh zay-en]
• I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [ikh ess-eh kine fly-sh]
• Cheers!Prost!
  [prohst]
• I would like to pay, pleaseIch möchte bitte zahlen
  [ikh merkh-tuh bit-teh tsah-len]

• Help!Hilfe!
  [hil-feh]
• Go away!Geh weg!
  [geh vehk]
• Call the Police!Ruf die Polizei!
  [roof dee poh-lee-tsai]
• Call a doctor!Ruf einen Arzt!
  [roof i-nen ahrts]
• I'm lostIch habe mich verirrt
  [ikh hah-beh mikh feh-rihrt]
• I'm illIch bin krank
  [ikh bin krahngk]

• I'd like to buy...Ich möchte kaufen...
  [ikh merkh-tuh kou-fen]
• I'm just lookingIch schaue nur
  [ikh shou-eh noor]
• How much is it?Wie viel kostet das?
  [vee feel kohs-tet dahs]
• That's too expensiveDas ist zu teuer
  [dahs ist tsoo toy-er]
• Can you lower the price?Kannst du den Preis senken?
  [kahnst doo den prees zehn-ken]

• What time is it?Wie spät ist es?
  [vee shpeht ist es]
• It's one o'clockEs ist ein Uhr
  [es ist iyn oor]
• Half past (10)Halb (10) Uhr
  [halb oor]
• MorningMorgen
  [mohr-gen]
• AfternoonNachmittag
  [nahkh-mit-tahk]
• EveningAbend
  [ah-bent]
• YesterdayGestern
  [gehs-tern]
• TodayHeute
  [hoy-teh]
• TomorrowMorgen
  [mohr-gen]
• 1Eins
  [ynes]
• 2Zwei
  [tsvay]
• 3Drei
  [dry]
• 4Vier
  [feer]
• 5Fünf
  [fuhnf]
• 6Sechs
  [zeks]
• 7Sieben
  [zee-ben]
• 8Acht
  [ahkht]
• 9Neun
  [noyn]
• 10Zehn
  [tsayn]

• Where's a/the...?Wo ist ein/der...?
  [voh ist iyn/dehr]
• What's the address?Was ist die Adresse?
  [vahs ist dee ah-dreh-suh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kannst du mir zeigen (auf der Karte)?
  [kahnst doo meer tsay-gen (ouf dehr kahr-teh)]
• When's the next (bus)?Wann kommt der nächste (Bus)?
  [vahn kohmt dehr nikh-steh (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Eine Fahrkarte (nach ....)
  [i-nuh fahr-kahr-teh (nahkh)]

Simmering's history dates back to the early settlements in the area, with evidence of habitation from the Roman period. Originally an agricultural community, it was primarily known for its fertile lands and vineyards. The strategic location near the Danube River facilitated trade and interaction with neighboring regions, laying the groundwork for its development.

Simmering was incorporated into the city of Vienna in 1892, marking a significant turning point in its history. This integration brought urban development, transforming the once rural area into a vibrant suburb of Vienna. The establishment of the Vienna U-Bahn (subway) in the early 20th century further integrated Simmering into the urban fabric, enhancing accessibility and attracting a diverse population.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed substantial industrial growth in Simmering, particularly with the establishment of various factories and workshops. Notably, the Simmering-Graz-Pauker company, founded in 1850, became a key player in the manufacturing of railway vehicles and contributed to the region's economic development. This industrial boom attracted workers from various parts of Austria and beyond, diversifying the cultural landscape.

During World War II, Simmering faced significant challenges, including air raids and destruction of infrastructure. The industrial sector was heavily impacted, but the post-war reconstruction efforts initiated by the Austrian government revitalized the neighborhood. The reconstruction period saw the emergence of new residential complexes, schools, and public facilities, reshaping the community.

In recent decades, Simmering has evolved into a cultural melting pot, with a diverse population that includes immigrants from various countries. This diversity is reflected in the local cuisine, cultural festivals, and community events. The influence of different cultures has enriched the social fabric of Simmering, making it a dynamic part of Vienna that celebrates its multicultural identity.

Simmering is easily accessible from various parts of Vienna. The U3 subway line connects Simmering to the city center, with frequent trains running from Stephansplatz. Alternatively, tram lines 6 and 71 and bus lines 15A and 68A serve the area. For those arriving by train, the Wien Hauptbahnhof (main train station) is just a short subway ride away.

Simmering is well-served by public transport, including the U3 subway, trams, and buses. The area is bike-friendly, with designated bike lanes and rental services available. Walking is also an option, especially in the residential areas, where many sights are within a comfortable distance.

Simmering is generally a safe neighborhood, but, like any urban area, it's wise to remain alert. While violent crime is rare, petty theft can occur, particularly in crowded public transport areas. Avoid venturing into poorly lit streets alone at night, especially around the outskirts.

In emergencies, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. For non-urgent issues, the closest hospital is the Klinikum Donaustadt. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widely available in Simmering for over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes for walking and dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Don't wear overly revealing clothing in public areas. Religion: Do respect local customs; cover your shoulders when entering churches. Public Transport: Do give up your seat to elderly passengers and don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a firm handshake and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes at traditional restaurants, but don’t waste food or leave uneaten food on your plate as it may be considered wasteful.

To experience Simmering like a local, visit the local markets, such as the Simmeringer Markt, to sample fresh produce and regional delicacies. Engage with local cafés and try the traditional Wiener Schnitzel or a slice of Sachertorte. Participate in neighborhood festivals if your visit coincides with one, as they showcase local culture and community spirit.