what makes Austria Austria?

To me what makes Austria Austria is its Geographical location, and its history.

It is where Eastern Europe meets West, it is the phenomenal (if misguided) attempt at unifying Central Europe, it is the cultural mix that has resulted. It includes traumatising moments such as the siege of Vienna by the Turks, or the crumbling of the Empire all the way up to 1918, or the guilt almost all people there have felt after their shameful actions before and during World War 2. It is today's neutrality, and it is the pride they feel today at the high standard of living and being one of the HQs of the United Nations.

It is having a society where the drill sergeant will say the names Cermak, Boskovic, Müller and Ali during military rollcall and not bat an eyelid. It is also unfortunately still the centre of Neonazism.

It's being able to ski from the age of three and being pathetic at every other sport apart from table tennis. It's waiting at the red light as a pedestrian even if there's no car on the horizon, and even getting shouted at if you try (and possibly paying a hefty fine). It's unfortunate folk music and bad haircuts.

I dunno, it's just... the Austrians themselves, I guess!

I'm from rural Austria, although I've spent some time living in Vienna, and I would say that the unique thing about Austria is that it is still very locally centered, with interesting local traditions. There are large parts of Austria where you will not find any place that looks like something you might find anywhere else in the world. People are very proud of their local traditions, dress, festivals, and language. Each valley has its own folk songs. This used to be true in most parts of the world, but it has largely disappeared, certainly in most parts of the United States. Rural Austria is still old-fashioned in the best sense of that word.

The final is in Vienna, Austria. The opening ceremony was held in Basle, Switzerland so it seems right that the Austrians get the final! However, if the Swiss and Austrians do reach the final...it will be the biggest shocker since Greece won it 4 years ago! Neil

the sum of its history, its citizens and their environment.

it is unique for any place on earth.