Zanca thinks Vienna is ‘one of the most magical places in the world’
When Ion Zanca left his native Romania for the United States, he said he went through a huge culture shock. He wasn’t as fluent in English as he had believed he was. And then there was the casual clothes his classmates wore that he found very odd. “Back in Romania, my sister would bring me clothes from Rome, so I was used to a certain style and level of fashion,” said the founder, violist and composer for Dallas String Quartet (DSQ). “But when I went to Louisiana State University, the students would wear pajamas to class and I thought it was so strange. In my early classes, they would even bring pillows!” Now 42, the Dallas-based musician is enjoying the success of DSQ’s latest release “Love Always,” which debuted at No. 2 on two Billboard charts: Classical Albums and Classical Crossover Albums.
Q: Where have you visited for work that you went back to later for a vacation?
A: A few places, actually. West Palm Beach and Telluride stand out the most. Florida was beautiful and the food scene was incredible. It was also nice to go to the beach with my wife and son. Telluride was special because it felt like a small European town in the mountains.
Q: What is your favorite vacation destination?
A: I love Vienna. I’d recommend just start walking down the street in the old city center and in two minutes you will run into the cafe where Freud used to sit and write, or pass by a building Mozart used to rent. (Vienna is) one of the most magical places in the world, in my opinion.
Q: What untapped destination should people know about?
A: Wyoming. It’s filled with stunning views and beautiful ranches where you can stay and connect with nature.
Q: What was the first trip you took as a child?
A: Back when I was living in Romania, I went to visit the Black Sea. I loved it, but I was also a bit scared because I got lost a few times.
Q: If you could only pick one place to eat, would you prefer a food truck or fine dining?
A: Fine dining. I like to take my time when I eat. Food should be shared with friends and you need a good atmosphere to make a night of it.
Q: What are your five favorite cities? A: Vienna, Barcelona, Dallas, San Francisco and Bucharest.
Q: When you go away, what are some of your must-have items?
A: I always must have my AirPods, GMT watch, a good jacket — it’s always so cold on the plane — my American Airlines card to get access to the airport lounges and a phone charger.
Q: What is your guilty pleasure when you’re on the road?
A: I have a guilty pleasure snack when I’m on tour or the road. If we’re ever stopping quickly at a gas station or I need a snack in my hotel room while I watch TV before heading to bed, I love to have Cheez-It. I don’t eat them when I’m at home in Dallas, but on the road they always hit the spot.