Prague - introduction

Well it is difficult to know where to start when describing Prague. The Lonely Planet states that 'You are lured there by the past, but compelled to linger by the present and the future'.   A fascinating city, with a strong and rich cultural and architectural heritage, yet with modern cafes, restaurants and nightclubs and interesting displays.  A vibrant and lively city.   It is also an established centre of classical and jazz music, with many theatres, and the greatest number of large booksellers I have seen in a long time.  Obviously Amazon has not had an impact in Prague yet.  

The Czech people are very friendly, and always willing to help, or give advice.   They remind me so much of the people in Bavaria.   We noticed this as soon as we came across the border from Poland and stopped at the first services on the motorway.    It quite took us aback.    But we love it, and feel very comfortable in the Czech Republic.

Prague is extremely busy though, and thronged with tourists of many nationalities.   We have heard so many Australian accents, we thought we were back in Australia.   Except when we look at the scenery around us.   Not quite the same.   

We are staying in a campsite, Camping Sokol Praha, in Dolni Pocernice, which is a 15 minute train ride into Prague central.   There is a half hour walk from the campsite to the railway station, but a staff member at the campsite runs a shuttle service in the mornings.   The camping ground is full of Dutch vans, so obviously a popular place for Dutch tourists.

The first stop on day one was for coffee of course, in a cafe attached to a theatre.   Excellent coffee, made by a very friendly man.     Walter looking very happy, underneath a bright pink plastic statue of a Greek Goddess.   

 

 Lunch was excellent also.   A three course meal, wine for me, beer for Walter, sparkling water and coffee - all for the equivalent of 21 pounds.  The view out of the window was very pleasant, people walking past in the sunshine.

 The musicians on Charles Bridge.    A very professional group, who attracted a large crowd.   The buskers in Prague are very good, and people certainly show their appreciation in the amount of coins that they leave.

 More coffee, in the sunshine this time.    And no scarf!     McCafe produce good coffee, and apple cake as well.

 Charles Bridge, a pleasant walk across, and plenty to see, but thronged with tourists.   A perfect place for pickpockets.

And to finish this blog, a little bit of history.  According to the Lonely Planet, Czech history 'is the story of a people surviving occupation, and Czechs are more interested in their rebels and heretics than the kings, emperors and dictators who oppressed them'.  They have been invaded by the Habsburgs, the Nazis and the Soviets, and they have fought against them, often for many years, and eventually won.   Successful, determined and optimistic people.