Prague is a Czech Mate!

Greetings from the warm sunny Cloud, my friends! I hope that you are enjoying nice weather and clear skies!

If you are looking for a great European vacation spot, that is convenient to visit anytime during the year, you can do no better than visiting Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic.

Prague is a modern and clean city with a rich history that is just waiting for you to discover. Prague has been a settlement since before the Romans, but it gained prominence during

the 14^th Century when it was the Capital of the Kingdom of Bohemia and the home of the Holy Roman Emperors. Much of the architecture is from the Middle Ages and this makes the city a sight-seeing gem that is easy to walk.

There is so much to see and do in Prague that it is hard to narrow down a few recommendations. A good place to start, though, is in the Old Town Square with its famous Astronomical Clock. This beautiful cobblestone covered space is home to excellent restaurants, cool shopping and people from just about everywhere! I especially like catching chamber music concerts or plays in the excellent theatres in this area.

There is so much to see and do in Prague that it is hard to narrow down a few recommendations. A good place to start, though, is in the Old Town Square with its famous Astronomical Clock. This beautiful cobblestone covered space is home to excellent restaurants, cool shopping and people from just about everywhere! I especially like catching chamber music concerts or plays in the excellent theatres in this area.

1357 was the most auspicious time to set the first stone. Apparently, the Astrologer’s advice worked because the bridge has been standing for more than 650 years!

Castle hill is a climb from the Charles Bridge but the views are well worth the effort. Stop on the way up and the way down at U Hrocha for a cold beer in an authentic Medieval setting. Prague Castle is an architectural gem with many different styles dating from its original fortifications built in 800 AD until the present time. I love to watch the changing of the guard at the Castle. The Castle also has an excellent museum which is well worth a visit.

The Castle precinct also includes the Prague Cathedral. This amazing edifice was started in 1344 but was only finished during the 20^th Century – talk about a long building project! The stained-glass windows in the cathedral provide an ethereal light that is sure to impress the visitor and provide lots of photo opportunities. Stop by Golden Street past the castle and cathedral for a quick trip into the past days of Prague with its cool authentic shops and inns.

Here’s a Pro-Tip: In order to visit the cathedral properly, you’ll need a ticket. This isn’t very clear when you first enter the Castle Precinct. So, look for one of several ticket offices around the castle and obtain your ticket before you queue to enter the cathedral. There is a combo ticket that gives access to the Castle, the Cathedral, the Museum and Golden Street. The ticket is good for two days. You’ll be happier if you take my advice!

Prague offers food options for all tastes and budgets. I especially like the tasty Bohemian recipes that feature local produce, meats and fish. Each time I go, I sample the Knedlo Zelo, made from pork, cabbage and dumplings. It is excellent! Prague is a world-class foodie city though, so you’ll find many tempting options that are very reasonably priced. Even the street food is clean, yummy and a very good value!

Prague offers food options for all tastes and budgets. I especially like the tasty Bohemian recipes that feature local produce, meats and fish. Each time I go, I sample the Knedlo Zelo, made from pork, cabbage and dumplings. It is excellent! Prague is a world-class foodie city though, so you’ll find many tempting options that are very reasonably priced. Even the street food is clean, yummy and a very good value!

Here’s a final Pro-Tip: The Naplavka Riverbank is a recently renovated gem on the banks of the Vtlava. This is a local hangout with concerts, dance parties, places for refreshment and access to the Botels. It’s a totally cool way to hang out with friendly Czechs!

You’ll have a great time in Prague, but if you don’t trust me, be sure to “Double Czech”!

Love,

Isabella