Social Life in Austria
Behavior
The Austrians are very well aware of the world around them as well as the differences in opinions and behaviors. Because of this they are quite understanding of various cultures and foreigners so odd behaviors are generally accepted (but not encouraged).
Your behavior should begin with modesty as being loud, rude, showing off wealth, or dressing provocatively will get you stares. Likewise, placing yourself above others or boasting is viewed negatively, whether that be in your attitude, talking about finances, making others wait for you at a meeting, polluting their environment, or even in personal relationships. Putting others down gets the same reaction; Austrians view men, women, minorities, and people of all sexual orientations as equals and not doing the same can be very offensive.
As a visitor to Sweden, try to follow the lead of the locals by being modest, dressing in like manner (see below for details), dining in the local etiquette (see our Austria Dining & Food Page), and avoiding sensitive conversation topics such as politics, finances, and business unless initiated by your local counterpart.
Dress
The traditional dress of Austria is what many foreigners think of as stereotypical German dress, which is very similar to the clothing found historically in Bavaria, Germany. However, Austria is fairly large and there are variations on the traditional dress from region to region and from Austria as a whole to Bavaria and Germany.