Czech Republic

Currency: Koruna (CZK)

Official language: Czech

The Czech state can be traced back to the early Middle Ages, but it wasn’t until the 13th century when a significant kingdom was established. It was during the 14th century, under the rule of Charles IV, fondly known as the Czech King and Holy Roman Emperor, that the Czech lands gained any considerable power, with the area later becoming part of Austria under the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1867.

After the fall of the empire and the tragic events of WWI, the Czechs and Slovaks won independence and in 1918, formed Czechoslovakia, which was declared a sovereign country. The area grew, developing great infrastructure and power, and becoming a significant political force through most of the 1920’s and ‘30s, but that all changed in 1938 when Hitler led an invasion into Czechoslovakia that split the country into three states, Bohemia, Moravia and Slovakia.

Czechoslovakia was reformed again in 1945, after Hitler’s defeat and the end of WWII, but much of the eastern portion was handed over to the Soviet Union and became the Ukraine. The end of the war also resulted in a change in government with the Communist Party wining the 1946 elections, leading Czechoslovakia into a new era.

On first impression, Czechs often come across as quiet and polite, moreover, reserved and modest. This is until the evening begins and they switch into social mode, hitting the pubs and taverns, and celebrating their love of music, dancing and beer. Czechs are typically straightforward and honest people, calm and laid-back, happy to talk about politics and religion, often with very liberal views.

Etiquette is very important in the Czech Republic; they are courteous and pay respect to those who are well-mannered, frowning on rude, strange and anti-social behavior. Social greetings are important, and it’s polite to say Dobrý den (“hello, good day”) when meeting someone other than close friends or family.

The Czech Republic is known for its reasonably cool summers and cold, humid winters. Depending on the type of weather you wish to experience, pay close attention to the seasonal climates. The overcast, moody winter around the Gothic areas of Prague may set the scene to enjoy a pint of Pilsner by a roaring tavern fire, while others will find the winter months a little too dark and dreary, especially during December.

Czech Republic is part of the Schengen Agreement, which means there are no border controls for nationals of EU countries. EU citizens only require a valid national identity card or passport to enter Czech Republic. Non-EU citizen require a valid passport and possibly a visa if you intend on a longer visit. 

With such frequent and cheap public transportation in the country’s big cities, you are unlikely to need to rely on taxis unless traveling late at night, with a lot of luggage or during the cold winter months. All taxis in the Czech Republic have meters, but it is up to the passenger to make sure they’re turned on. Some cabs prey on travelers’ lack of local knowledge and try to negotiate a flat fare, especially when heading to a known attraction. Your best bet to avoid this is to flag one down on the street instead of picking one up that’s been hovering around tourist traps. If in doubt, ask the driver if he is using the meter before you depart or try to find out how much the journey will cost before it begins. Alternatively, pre-book a cab from a trusted company like AAA Radiotaxi (+420-222-333-222) or City Taxi (+420-257-257-257), both serving Prague.

Buses are more often than not the fastest and most efficient way to get around the towns and cities of the Czech Republic, as well as being one of the cheapest modes of transportation. Schedules vary, but inner city travel tends to be frequent enough that one shouldn’t need to rely on timetables. It’s not unusual for Czech buses to arrive late or even early, so get where you’re going with plenty of time to spare if you’re running on a tight schedule. Buses between cities are operated by the Student Agency, among other providers, and are often cheaper and more convenient than trains due to more direct routes.

Ceske Drahy is the national rail operator, with an extensive network covering even remote areas. More expensive than buses, train can be slower and routes indirect, with the exception of key lines between major cities such as Prague and Ostrava. The Prague metro is another fast and efficient means of transportation, with three subway lines covering a large part of the Czech capital, along with 57 stations and several new ones being developed. Prague buses and metro use the same ticketing system with 30 minute, 90 minute, 24-hour, and three-day passes available.

Trams are another alternative in Prague running across 300-plus miles (500 kms) of track that are used by close to 300 million people a year. The trams run around the clock at eight to 10 minute intervals during the day (some every 15 minutes on weekends), while night trams (12:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.) run every 40 minutes.

Before you leave on your holiday, there are at least four health-related things you should do. Please check the handbook for specifics, but for now, here’s the short list:

Step 1: Check with the CDC for their recommendations for the countries you’ll be visiting.

Step 2: Have a medical checkup with your doctor.

Step 3: Pick up any necessary medications, both prescription and over-the-counter.

Step 4: Have a dental and/or eye checkup. (Recommended, but less important than steps 1-3.)

DO

• Use public transport, and don’t forget to STAMP YOUR TICKET to validate it when entering.
• Go to a farmer’s market.
• Discover the many buildings of Prague’s National Gallery.
• Get out of the city center.
• Wake up early and take a morning walk in one of Prague’s many peaceful parks.
• Visit the Agricultural Museum. 
• Try some seasonal summer treats.

DON'T

• Don’t exchange money at the airport or on the streets.
• Don’t hail a cab on the streets of Old Town unless you want to pay multiple times a normal rate.
• Don’t try to board public transport before others have finished exiting.
• Trdelník (a sweet, spiral of dough covered in sugar and spice) – just don‘t call it a traditional Czech dessert.
• Don’t buy Soviet-era memorabilia.
• Don’t take your party into the streets.
• Don’t come to Prague to do drugs.
• Don’t eat dumplings with your hands.
• Don’t be afraid to explore or approach the locals.