Czech Republic in a Nut Shell
- Eat! – Koleno. Slow roasted tender pork knuckle that falls off the bone – this is not for the faint hearted! It usually comes served up on a wooden carving board, with a side of pickled vegetables.
- Drink! – Pivo (aka beer). Look out for jugs (the cut glass mugs with handles), that’s what the good stuff is served in!
- Wear! – Socks with sandals. No, please don’t! But it’s a fashion crime that a lot of Czech men seem to be guilty of.
- Beware! – Overpricing! Beer should cost around 30-40kc for half a litre. Pay more than this and the barman will be laughing…
Introduction to Czech Republic…
Prague has been a popular tourist destination for the last decade or so, and with its historic neighbourhoods, the famous Charles Bridge and spectacular castles (not to mention the beer), it’s not hard to see why. But how many travellers venture further afield than the country’s capital? It’s second largest city (Brno) has plenty to offer – from UNESCO world heritage sites, to the dramatic Gothic Town Hall which is home to a full-sized stuffed crocodile. And then there’s the understated Olomouc (little known and still off the beaten tourist track), Karlovy Vary (for a dose of glamour) and České Budějovice (birthplace of Budvar lager). There really is something for everyone…
Czech Republic Basics:
- Currency: Czech koruna
- Capital City: Prague
- Main Religion: Christianity
- Main Language: Czech
- Telephone Code: +420
- Time: GMT+2
- Emergency Number: 112
Czech Republic Language Essentials:
- Hello: Ahoj
- Thank you: Děkuji
- How are you? Jak se máš?
- Can I have the bill please? Mohu zaplatit prosím?
- Please: Prosím?
- How much? Prosím?
- Good bye: Na shledanou
Czech Republic Visa Information:
The Czech Republic is another member of the EU and the Schengen area. The good news? Most visitors won’t need a Visa to visit the country! Check your eligibility online here.
Climate:
Pack your talc, it’s about to get sweaty! The Czech Republic has a fairly temperate climate – think mild, humid summers and cold, humid winters. Luckily there’s not too much rain, particularly in summer.
5 Random Facts About the Czech Republic:
- The Czech population drink more beer than any other country in the world!
- The country is entirely landlocked, and almost totally surrounded by mountains.
- Homer Simpson’s favourite beer is brewed here! Yes, you can actually buy Duff beer from the supermarket shelves.
- The Czech’s favourite hobby is mushroom picking…
- The country is dotted with castles – over 2,000 of them.
