Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is astounding and it is one of my favorite places on the planet. I love it so much I’ve lived here, twice. Most travelers arriving to Czech Republic via air arrive at Prague’s Vaclav Havel International Airport. While there is another international airport in Brno, Prague remains the main point of entry. Countless trains and buses connect its cities directly and affordably. Many transportation companies offer luxurious buses that feature amenities such as electricity and Wi-Fi. I’ve even been lucky enough to have access to Wi-Fi on trains traveling within Czech Republic. It’s incredibly well-connected here, so, don’t worry – you’ll be able to Instagram your way through the country. Prague, the capital of Czech Republic, serves as the major hub to access other areas within the country. Companies like my favorite, Student Agency, offer great deals on routes within the country and internationally.

Although Czech Republic is a member of the European Union, it has yet to switch from its local currency to the euro. The Czech crown (CZK), or koruna, is the current monetary unit in Czech Republic. Tipping is practiced in Czech Republic and is similar to tipping in the United States. Wages are extremely low in this country – I know this because I lived and worked in Prague. Make sure to tip you server 10-15% at restaurants, and to round up for taxi drivers. Tour guides should be tipped accordingly – remember the amount of time that’s invested in showing you around the city.

Czech Republic offers all types of housing, from dorm rooms and hostels to five-star hotels and resorts. Lodging in this country is affordable, especially when compared to its neighboring countries. During the warmer summer months and December’s holiday season, rates for accommodations throughout Czech Republic (especially Prague) rise considerably. If you are planning on visiting this country during the holidays, make sure to book in advance. The gorgeous and lively Christmas markets bring big crowds and higher prices.

Czech food is amazing! Many of the traditional dishes and pastries found throughout central Europe originated in Czech Republic, although you will find influences from surrounding countries in Czech cuisine. While Czech cuisine isn’t synonymous with healthy or vegetarian, there are dishes for everyone to enjoy. Beer is cheaper than the bottled water and Water isn’t free in Czech Republic. You may as well enjoy some of the world’s best beers.

If you’re looking to stay active, the Czech Republic is a great country to cycle in, but avoiding metropolitan areas is key – cobblestones are beautiful, but they provide a bumpy bicycle ride. Hřensko and Jetřichovice are gorgeous areas with canyons and caves for climbing and hiking. Many of the hiking trails in these areas overlook beautiful castles, chateaus and ruins. Czech Switzerland, or Bohemian Switzerland, is a breath-taking region in the northwestern Czech Republic known for its natural rock bridge.