We're on a first-name basis here…
We've always been on a first-name basis in the Salzkammergut region. Locals among themselves, but also with tourists and holidaymakers. It starts with the greeting: "Griaß Di" (Greetings) and ends with the farewell: "Pfiat Di" (God protect you). So it's not disrespectful, but rather an expression of the openness we extend to people from other regions of Austria, Europe, and the world.
In revolutionary France, a "Du-Decree" was even issued in 1793. Anyone who didn't use the informal "Du" at that time placed themselves under general suspicion of perpetuating inequality. "Besides," Werner Besch described this phenomenon in his standard work "Duzen, Siezen, Titulieren" (Informal, Formal, and Titled).
With the student revolution of 1968, there was a veritable expansion of the informal "Du" in German-speaking countries, which continues to this day with the influx of American corporate cultures into European companies and various social media platforms.
We notice it ourselves, too. Not only is work easier, but conversation flows more easily as well. Using the informal "you" breaks down barriers. Not only do swear words slip out more readily, but especially positive things: "Hey, I have a problem" or "Hey, can we work on a solution together?" Using the informal "you" fosters openness and creativity, creates closeness, and lowers the barrier to addressing sensitive topics.
In the Salzkammergut region, the informal "Du" (you) has always been the customary form of address, and so we have decided to address all our guests informally. This is not out of disrespect, but rather out of openness towards people we don't yet know. With this in mind, we look forward to conversations with you when we meet or reconnect...
