However, many people, Austrians included, know just how true this saying is. Indeed, the whole rich heritage of Austria hangs on strategic people placing and good marriages.



Way back in 1273, the German government decided that, to ensure they lost as little power as possible, they would elect a little known Swiss Count, Rudolf von der Habichtsburg (Habsburg) as German Emporer. This plan backfired somewhat and within five years Habsburg had defeated the mighty Emporer of Bohemia making himself unchallenged Emporer of Germany and also won him the land of Austria.

The way of Habsburg politics was to win lands on marriage not warfare and this proved very successful. By the mid 1500's the Habsburgs were not just German Emporers but also Dukes of Burgundy, Kings of Bohemia, Hungary, half of America, Spain and the Phillipines. This was all achieved through cleverly arranged marriages.

The Austrian empire expanded and became a centre of business to be reckoned with. There are many jewels to the crown of Austria. From it's Schwartz diamond and jewellery industry to car hire. With its beautiful scenery and mountainous terrain, car hire in Austria is one business that has really taken off as a holiday solution for tourists to get around and see the sights.

The hills are certainly alive with the sound of music - the music of bird song and wild life. With the mountains being a bolt hole for many tourists with chest and lung complaints, Austria is a place to relax, recharge batteries and reap some health benefits of the mountainous fresh air. Given this terrain, car hire is a perfect option for anyone wishing to see this beautiful country.

Austria's buildings are of the baroque style and worth a trip round in a hire car just to see these. Many of them sport the inscription 'AEIOU' on the front. These letters have meaning to Austrians far surpassing the vowels of the English language. It stands for Alles Erdreich Ist Osterreich Untertan - the whole world is subject to Austria. Given it's successful history it's more truth than boast.

A famous Latin quote states 'Let others wage war, you - happy Austrians - marry!'

This is a saying that another world famous Austrian chose to follow.

Arnold Schwarzenegger is one of the most famous men to hail from Austria. During his youth he made his name in bodybuilding competitions. In 1968, after winning the International Powerlifting Championship he decided to move to America.

American accepted him with open arms and he became a huge hit in Hollywood as an actor. Schwarzenneger has also recently made it into American politics by winning the elections which made him Mayor of California.

One of his finest moves was to marry Marie Shriver, thus bringing him into the Kennedy family - one of the most influential families in America for many years. By following the Austrian tradition of marrying well, this can do him no harm at all.