With its majestic spires, stunning architecture, and gilded opera houses, Vienna stands as a breathtaking European capital offering immense cultural riches to discerning travellers. It might therefore seem surprising that this Austrian metropolis has turned to residents of the little-known Scottish village of Dull, in Perthshire, to bolster its tourism credentials during the quiet winter period.
An Unprecedented Invitation from Vienna
In a remarkable publicity move, the entire population of Dull—small enough to fit into a single train carriage—received wax-sealed invitations for an all-expenses-paid trip to the UNESCO-listed city. Vienna's tourist board orchestrated this stunt specifically during what they acknowledge is the dullest month of the calendar, aiming to demonstrate that the city is anything but dull regardless of season.
Contrasting Worlds: Imperial Capital vs Rural Village
While Vienna once served as the seat of power for the vast Habsburg empire, Dull's principal attractions consist of four ancient stone crosses, one of which lost an arm in a runaway horse and cart mishap during the 1800s. The village forms part of the self-deprecating Trinity of Tedium alongside Boring in Oregon and Bland in Australia, embracing its humorous name while insisting the reality doesn't match the description.
Villagers Embrace the Unexpected Opportunity
Approximately half of Dull's residents—33 people—accepted Vienna's extraordinary invitation, embarking on a weekend experiencing the city's finest offerings. Retired doctor Ricky Caplan, who moved to Dull 17 years ago, explained his affection for the village: We didn't choose the place because of its name, but it's a great name and we've had a lot of fun with it. It's not dull at all.
Veterinary nurse Holly Mackenzie, who moved to Dull at age seven, noted unexpected similarities: Weirdly when I arrived in Vienna I felt a similar thing. It's very calm, very peaceful. It's not like when you go to Glasgow and it's hectic and busy.
A Lavish Cultural Experience
The visiting Dullers enjoyed an exceptional itinerary including:
- A VIP tour of the Kunsthistoriches Museum before public opening, viewing exclusive works by Vermeer, Rubens, and Rembrandt
- Private dance lessons to prepare for the Ball of Sciences, one of 400 balls occurring in Vienna during January and February
- Visits to the city's Ice Dream complex featuring seven ice rinks and terrace views
- Accommodation at the five-star Imperial Hotel, which has hosted numerous famous guests including Queen Elizabeth II, Charlie Chaplin, Frank Sinatra, and Madonna
Building Community Through Extraordinary Experience
Facilities maintenance manager Marc MacBey noted the trip strengthened village bonds: It's been nice as we've gotten to know our neighbours better, rather than just a quick 'hello' as people come to and from work. His 10-year-old son Lewis declared the visit amazing, joking that although Vienna was cold, nowhere is colder than Scotland.
Eighty-four-year-old Hilary Wheater emphatically stated: There's nothing dull about Vienna. There's nothing dull about Dull either really. If anybody thinks Vienna is dull in January, it's because all they may see the grey sky but they haven't looked underneath at the buildings, museums, concerts, all the activities.
Future Possibilities and Lasting Impressions
Primary school head teacher Richard Brocklehurst, who visited with his family, suggested the villagers could offer their expertise to other European destinations: I think we could volunteer to test out other places and verify that they're not dull. We'd love to do more of this!
His wife Anna, a marketing executive, remarked on their children's awe at the luxurious experience: We keep telling them to make the most of it because they'll never come somewhere this fancy again. There is so much gold and marble everywhere. It's incredible.
Cinema worker Lilla Valter, originally from Hungary, reflected on the initial skepticism: At first everyone thought it was a scam. They really believed we were being conned because it sounded too good to be true. Eventually we were convinced it was legitimate, and now I'm here it's such an amazing place.
This unprecedented cultural exchange between an Austrian capital and Scottish village has not only provided unforgettable experiences for Dull residents but has successfully highlighted Vienna's year-round appeal through the most unexpected of ambassadors.
