Do get a phrase book as it'll help. Most people speak some english in the major cities.

As far as Austrian friendliness go, I've heard through friends, read in books and here on Flyertalk that they can be very bigoted towards foreigners - even towards whites (northern European) - especially in the rural areas (same can be said for the U.S., Canada and Japan, among other places, I suppose) though I haven't had the opportunity to meet too many Austrians in such areas. Just be aware of those around you and know when to leave if you feel unwelcome. I say that even though my GF is ethnic Austrian and her parents and all her extended family are native Austrians.