This past weekend we visited the wonderful city of Prague in the Czech Republic. Prague was busier than we expected and, more importantly, much better value as the exchange rate from dollars to Czech Korunas was on our side (one US dollar = 22.84 czk). It’s a beautiful tourist-friendly city that has a lot to offer. We rented an apartment on Airbnb with friends and their kids close to all the action in the old town area as we all wanted to experience the city on foot.
Czech food is hearty and hot, and there is a multitude of street food vendors located in market places providing a taste sensation! Our favorite spot was the food market on the east side of the River Vltava a little south of the Dancing Building (so named as it was designed to resemble the straight suit and flowing dress of well, dancers). The market was bustling even at 9am, and many people were strolling around eating a variety of mouth-watering roasted meats, pies, cheeses, and baked goods. In fact, many were also drinking beer and hot or cold wine. Another famous market was the Staroměstské Nám located behind the Astronomical Clock. Known as the Winter Market, a must see during the run up to Christmas, it was now turned over to Spring and Easter. There was music and lots of food. Lots of churches, synagogues, and history too if you can pull yourself away from the culinary offerings. By the way, whenever we went to visit an attraction, for some reason we tended to arrive back at the Astronomical Clock. I guess all roads don’t lead to Mecca after all.
Travel over the popular stone Charles Bridge to the western bank, and you can visit the castle and even ride a funicular tram up to the observation tower (modeled on the bigger and more famous Eiffel Tower) on the high ground above the US Embassy. This part of the city is wonderful and houses the world’s narrowest street and the colorful John Lennon Wall where people from all over the world have written or drawn reminders for peace. We all enjoyed following the winding medieval streets as they meandered back and forth. At one point, we stumbled onto a film shoot and watched the action as a man was hauled off by a plain clothes security duo dressed in 1950’s suits, overcoats, and hats. We found out later that it was a German production company, who like many, come to Prague as there are many low-cost skilled tradesmen for set building. I’m not sure if the street was supposed to be East or West Germany, but it did interest all of us.
It was really great to be with friends in an easy and inexpensive city alive with springtime. Moving on foot gave us the opportunity to wander slowly and appreciate conversation and the sights. I would definitely recommend a visit, although make sure you have currency as many places do not take credit or debit cards.
