When in Prague
Known as the capital of Bohemia, Prague has always been popular with travellers with an independent streak, but since the collapse of communism it has really come into its own as a tourist destination. Numerous hotels, guesthouse and hostels have sprung up across the city since the Velvet Revolution of 1989, offering a range of accommodation to suit most pockets.
Curiously hotel owners can grade their own accommodation in Prague, so travellers should be aware that a three-star hotel in Prague might not match with their expectations of what a three-star hotel should provide. However, this can bring benefits, with travellers often finding that it's cheaper to stay in a four-star hotel than a three or even two-starred alternative. Bargain hunters should also take note that accommodation is cheapest away from the immediate city centre and with Prague smaller than many other European cities, a slightly far out hotel doesn't mean wasting time on buses and trams.
When it comes to getting around, Prague rewards the independent tourist. A compact, ancient city, many of its sights are easily accessible by foot, meaning energetic visitors can do some sightseeing and save money for the fabulous Czech beer while they travel across the city. Prague does also have an established public transport system, made up of trams, buses and a subway. Tickets are valid on all forms of travel and can be purchased simply at newsstands or from the yellow machines at stations. The best value option is probably a short-term travel pass, which offers unlimited travel across the city.
Night owls may, however, be disappointed by the subway system, which tends to stop at 11:30pm. Buses and trams also become much scarcer at night, with many tourists resorting to taxis. Taxi drivers in Prague used to be notorious but the city has come along way towards combating this in recent years. Visitors are nevertheless still advised to choose a firm booked through the operator, with AAA taxis particularly recommended to foreign tourist as many of its drivers speak English.
Like the UK, the Czech Republic is a member of the European Union but is yet to adopt the Euro. Accordingly tourists should stock up on Czech Crowns. They are advised to do this before they travel and to avoid exchanging money on the black market at all costs, with many unsuspecting visitors falling victim to scams. A number of ATMs will also accept foreign credit or debit cards for anyone running low on funds.
With very cold, often snowy, winters and milder wetter summers, the best time to visit Prague is between May to September, although the Bohemian city is also popular over Christmas and the New Year.
British tourists can fly to Prague from an increasing number of airports across the UK, with Bmibaby, British Airways, Czech Airlines, easyJet, flyglobespan and Jet2 all offering good value flights to the Czech capital. Those keen to stay faithful to the city's Bohemian spirit may be tempted to reach Prague by bus or train and both options are certainly feasible. A number of international trains serve Prague, although it is advisable to book a seat several weeks in advance during the busy summer period. A bus is undoubtedly the cheapest way to reach Prague, with routes connecting the city to a number of European locations.
|
Introduction
