This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with John Lovell, 60, who has traveled to 89 countries and hundreds of cities in his lifetime. Lovell is the president of Travel Leaders Network, a company that sells luxury travel, cruises, and tours.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Over the years, I’ve visited 89 countries and lived in many cities. There isn’t a single country I’ve visited that I did not like — but some I just happen to like more than others.
I’ve been to isolated places like Tahiti, home to some of the most beautiful beaches and incredible overwater bungalows. I’ve also been to smaller countries like the Vatican and traveled to South Africa, which has some of the world’s best vineyards and game preserves.
I’ve also visited more popular and famous European cities like Paris and London, where I once lived. I love both cities, and if I had to choose my top five, they’d both be on there. However, if I could live anywhere full-time, it would be in Salzburg, Austria.
Salzburg is at the top of my list because it’s smaller and more intimate. There are fewer tourists than in London or Paris, so it’s easier to experience the city and its culture — plus, the people are incredibly welcoming.
Salzburg’s natural beauty is breathtaking
Salzburg is located in Central Europe, right at the foothills of the Alps. The landscape is green and lush, and the scenery is truly stunning. The city is surrounded by lakes, with rivers flowing through its heart.
While the winters can be a bit cold for me, the overall climate is quite pleasant, similar to upstate New York, so fairly temperate for the most part.
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Salzburg is rich in history, has wonderful museums, and is the birthplace of composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. It’s also known for its Gothic and baroque architecture and beautiful catholic churches.
Salzburg is also famous because parts of “The Sound of Music” were filmed there. In the 1965 film, the von Trapp family — based on a real Austrian musical family — escapes Nazi-occupied Austria. A popular scene in the film, where governess Maria and the children sing “Do-Re-Me,” was shot at Mirabell Gardens and the Pegasus Fountain.
There’s something for everyone
The city isn’t overly expensive, partly because it’s a bit off the beaten path. Most hotels range from mid- to high-end, with prices typically between $100 and $400 per night. Visiting won’t necessarily break the bank for many travelers.
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Salzburg is also a well-known getaway spot if you’re into skiing and similar winter activities. While there’s no skiing right in the city, it’s just a short trip into the mountains.
For the younger crowd, you’ll find options if you’re into nightclubs and dancing. There are also plenty of great restaurants. So, even though Salzburg isn’t a massive metropolis, it still has plenty to offer.
The locals make you feel welcome
Salzburg has many cultures. Many people speak English, German, and sometimes French.
I think it’s a great place to get a true sense of European culture in a midsize town.
Of all European cities, I’d compare Salzburg to Prague or Edinburgh — but those cities don’t have the sheer natural beauty of the mountains and rivers surrounding them.
The people of Salzburg truly embrace travelers. You can walk into a local pub, have some schnapps with them, and by the time you finish your drink, it feels like you’ve known them forever.
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The first time I visited Salzburg, I met some people from Florida. One was an older, retired gentleman who owned a home in Austria. He invited me to visit him and his wife and stay at their house.
They introduced me to people in the local community, showed me around, took me to restaurants, and hosted me on a boat ride. I fell in love with the area and have returned to that city four times.
I’ve never had a bad interaction with anyone there. It’s always been very positive — everyone is helpful and genuinely interested in you: where you’re from, why you’re visiting. It’s such a nice feeling to be so welcomed, and that’s why I keep returning.
