Located in Central Europe, the Czech Republic is split into
two main historic districts - Bohemia in the West and
Moravia-Silesia in the East. Once two separate nations under the
Austro-Hungarian Empire, Czechoslovakia was created after World
War I. The Czech Republic was actually formed in 1993, and is
now a member of NATO and the European Union. While it is a small
country when it comes to land mass, the country is rich in
cultural heritage. Located in Central Europe, the country has
always attracted people from most of Europe, offering a melting
pot of sorts. This is still evident today when you walk the
streets of the cities in the Czech Republic.
Places to Go in the Czech Republic
Prague - The capital is the
largest city in the Czech Republic and one of the more popular
destinations for tourists. The thing is, the country is so
small, even if you're staying in Prague, you'll still have a
good chance to visit other places in the country.
Ostrava - If you want to
see the heavy industry side of this European country, the
third largest city - Ostrava - should be on your list of
places to see.
Mutěnice Wine Region -
While France is probably most famous for wine in Europe, the
Czech Republic's wine region will have your taste buds happy.
Terezín - Want to see a red
brick Baroque fortress up close? This is the place to go.
Traveling in the Czech Republic
Getting Around - The usual
modes of transportation are available in abundance, including
cars, taxis, buses and more. If you fancy hitchhiking, make
sure you point the thumb up as the other way is used by
prostitutes in the country.
Language - Czech is perhaps
a difficult language for some who are not familiar with it,
but there are a few signs in English in the areas with more
tourists.
Currency - Local currency
is the koruna, but many shops and restaurants will accept (or
even have their prices listed in) Euros.
Activities - Whether you're
into hiking or even swimming, the Czech Republic has a lot to
offer. Even though it's a landlocked country, there are
several nude beaches where it is permitted to go without
clothing. This usually only happens in less crowded, secluded
areas.
Eating - Normal customs
(like tipping) apply in the Czech Republic, with most people
tipping 10% on average for good service. Most of the local
food is "filling" to say the least. Still, you may have a hard
time finding traditional Czech dishes in public.
Drinking - Modern beer
originated in the Czech Republic area, so you know it's still
an important part of the local culture. There are wine and
spirits available as well, but you could say the Czech
Republic is more of a beer drinking country.
One thing you should think about before traveling to the
Czech Republic is that they're a very proud people and don't
take kind to visitors coming in and talking about the history of
the Czech Republic without actually knowing what they are
talking about. Don't think that they're mean and horrible to
outsiders, though, because this just isn't the case. As long as
you show respect, you're going to get it in return and be able
to experience the Czech Republic that so many people know and
love for various reasons.
