Why I Moved Out of Vienna, Austria: A Personal Journey

Vienna, Austria, with its fresh good air, quiet ambiance, and friendly neighbors, is a city that offers a unique blend of tranquility and cultural richness. However, my decision to leave this bustling city was not an easy one. Admittedly, I miss some of what Vienna has to offer, such as my cozy bookshop, theaters, concerts, and a variety of restaurants. Nevertheless, the desire for a new beginning and a more adventurous life in Berlin have led me away from the familiar.

Two Departures from Vienna

Vienna is a city I've left twice: first in 2002 after a year-long internship, and again several years ago when I started to explore different cities. However, for this discussion, the second departure holds more significance. During that period, I moved out of the city, placed my belongings in storage, and spent a substantial amount of time outside Vienna. The end goal was to move to Berlin, but like many plans, it didn't work out as initially intended.

Reasons for Leaving Vienna

The decision to leave was multifaceted and deeply personal. My mental health had significantly declined, and Vienna, while remaining a beautiful and welcoming city, was deeply associated with that challenging time. Seeking a fresh start was a priority, but it was independent of Vienna's inherent qualities.

During my time in Berlin, I found myself spending several hours with two friends multiple times a week. Although I have more friends in Vienna, our schedules are less compatible, making consistent social interactions more challenging. This aspect of Berlin offered a more robust social life.

Vienna is undoubtedly a comfortable city, but a part of me yearned for a more edgy and vibrant urban experience. Berlin provided this not just in terms of nightlife and culture, but even the city's underground counter-cultures have a unique charm. While Vienna has its own vibrant and diverse subcultures, the city's overall vibe is more reserved.

Another factor was the size of Vienna. As a medium-sized city, it offers an ideal environment for cycling around the central areas and accessing various parts of the city within half an hour. However, after spending years there, the city began to feel familiar and somewhat stale. The need for a change and a new perspective was significant.

Returning to Vienna

After a year spent outside Vienna, I returned with a newfound appreciation for the city. The freshness of the move was palpable, and the initial excitement of living in Vienna again was rekindled. Despite this, my commitment to Vienna for another year was driven by the desire to experience my hometown in a fresh and exciting way.

Currently, there is no compelling reason for me to remain in Vienna. I continue to pursue a move to Berlin, driven by a mix of personal growth and a thirst for new experiences.

Conclusion

Reflecting on the reasons for leaving Vienna, I realize that sometimes a change of location is necessary for personal growth and new perspectives. While Vienna has its unique charm, Berlin offered a stimulating and vibrant lifestyle that was invigorating for me.