Vienna -- the other capital of the Empire

Franz Joseph still dominates Vienna skyline

We didn't stay in so showy a hotel in Vienna. We were in the Balkans section of town, four Underground stops away from the fancy palaces-cafe-and museums center. We also had a major mishap. Karen was the victim -- along with six other American groups we learned -- of a pick-pocketing ring. As we waited in line for tickets at the Albertina Museum they got her wallet with cash, credit cards and a slew of documents like her license. This is the kind of thing you must take in stride when you travel -- but it puts a damper on things when it does.

Still, I want to revisit Vienna. We didn't scratch the surface of those palaces, cafes and museums. Though we gave it a good shot.