Born and raised in Vienna, Ingrid studied languages at the University of Vienna. After an MA degree she wrote her PhD thesis in Italian linguistics. Following her love for Italy she taught for a year in Florence. Back in Vienna she became a teacher and worked in various schools, universities and professional education institutions in Austria. Travelling and connecting to different countries, cultures and people has always been an important part of her life. After retraining for a career in tourism, she became a tour manager and a Licensed Tourist Guide in Austria. Exploring the links between Austria and other European countries is one of her passions.