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Vaduz
A tiny sovereign independent state sandwiched between Switzerland and Austria famous for its postage stamps and
dentures. Liechtenstein measures only 25km at its longest north to south point and an average of only 6km west to east.
Although considered independent of Switzerland, Liechtenstein uses the Swiss franc as currency and has no border
regulations or points between itself and its next door neighbour -- I only had to show my passport at the border with
Austria. I came by train from Innsbruck, on an unbelievable trip through the Alps. Unfortunately, the only way to get into
this country is by 'post-bus'. These post-buses transfer travellers from the small town of Feldkirch (in Austria) or Buchs
(in Switzerland) across the "border" into Liechtenstein and to the capital city, Vaduz. Small Swiss-style homes dotted the
green mountains and hills, flocks of sheep and the occasional tavern were all I saw on the road in.
dentures. Liechtenstein measures only 25km at its longest north to south point and an average of only 6km west to east.
Although considered independent of Switzerland, Liechtenstein uses the Swiss franc as currency and has no border
regulations or points between itself and its next door neighbour -- I only had to show my passport at the border with
Austria. I came by train from Innsbruck, on an unbelievable trip through the Alps. Unfortunately, the only way to get into
this country is by 'post-bus'. These post-buses transfer travellers from the small town of Feldkirch (in Austria) or Buchs
(in Switzerland) across the "border" into Liechtenstein and to the capital city, Vaduz. Small Swiss-style homes dotted the
green mountains and hills, flocks of sheep and the occasional tavern were all I saw on the road in.
This digital sign welcomes visitors in German, French, Italian and English to Vaduz,
the tiny capital of Liechtenstein, with a population of only 4930.
the tiny capital of Liechtenstein, with a population of only 4930.
Vaduz Castle sits high on a promontory overlooking Vaduz. It is home to the current
ruler of Liechtenstein, Prince Hans-Adam II, who is loved as dearly here as Princess
Diana was in England. Oh yeah, and he's one of the fifty richest people on earth. The
castle isn't open to the public.
ruler of Liechtenstein, Prince Hans-Adam II, who is loved as dearly here as Princess
Diana was in England. Oh yeah, and he's one of the fifty richest people on earth. The
castle isn't open to the public.
(Left) Sculptures surround the downtown centre.
(Above) The main pedestrian thoroughfare, Stadtle.
(Above) The main pedestrian thoroughfare, Stadtle.
Since postage stamps are a speciality in Liechtenstein, I
thought I'd get a picture of this postal delivery truck.
thought I'd get a picture of this postal delivery truck.
And this is why I came, for the VISA stamp in my passport...cost me 10 Swiss Francs...that's like $10!!!
An hour in Vaduz was just enough for me, I couldn't afford
any food or drinks or any museum entrance fees or
activities or accommodation...too damn expensive...hmmm
foreshadowing for Switzerland, I think so!
any food or drinks or any museum entrance fees or
activities or accommodation...too damn expensive...hmmm
foreshadowing for Switzerland, I think so!
...