Blogs from Prague, Czech Republic, Europe - page 5

Yesterday's activities were most assuredly not planned as part of this year's itinerary; however, given the circumstances, it could have been worse. In our experiences over the years, nothing has been more unsettling and stressful than finding ourselves in a foreign country with a medical issue. In 2014, Dee developed shingles while we were in the south of France, which required a trip to the ER in Aix en Provence. The following year, while in Paris, I went to the American Hospital there with borderline pneumonia. Then in 2017, during our around-the-world trip, I succumbed to a nasty intestinal infection for which I sought treatment in Athens, and subsequently in Nice. Last year we came away unscathed, but this year we've not been as fortunate. A few days before our departure, I strained, tore or severely ... read more

This morning, under cloudy skies but mild temperatures in the upper-60s, we embarked upon the first of two guided tours of Prague booked through a local agency. Today's itinerary focused upon the Old Town Square, the Jewish Quarter (Josefov) and the Charles Bridge. Our personal guide, Marek (along with a friendly young driver named Karel), turned out to be an impressive guy in his 40s who speaks nine languages--incredible! Throughout the tour he exhibited an encyclopedic knowledge of Czech history, while setting a pace that was easily manageable for us. The driver dropped us off in the vicinity of the Jewish Quarter, a three-block area in the Old Town that has been home to a Jewish community for a thousand years. Jews first came to Prague in the 10th-century, where they were allotted the least hospitable ... read more

Last time I wrote I was on the train travelling from Poland to the Czech Republic . Having WiFi as one travels is good idea . Fortunately there were no roaming charges involved . It was an easy train ride . Tomorrow it will be a 4 hour journey to Vienna by private vehicles...comfortable vans that we used today . But I am getting ahead of myself. Thank you for the notes you have sent . It sounds like everyone in enjoying the holidays and the spring weather . I do believe we were 'all real tired of winter . I must admit I have day dreamed a litle about plants showing themselves in my Back yard . I will be into that when I get home but now I am enjoying spring in Eastern Europe. ... read more

Early up for quick walk into main square before the tourists arrive. 2 brides having photos. Fantastic to have to myself with nobody much around, just people going about their own business. After breakfast joined the Top 30 walking tour with Renata, just 6 of us from the hotel. Driven up to Prague Castle to start the walk through of the palace. First St George basilica then through the palace grounds, most buildings still used for state government work. Today was a reception for some Chinese delegates. Then out to the gardens and down the terraces to Mala Strana district. Past St Nicklaus church and lunch at Lokal pub. Nice lunch then across the crowded Charles bridge then past the Astronomical clock to the crowdedain square. Past Jewish synagogue, St Agnes convent then home. Lots of ... read more

After we disembarked from our ship we had an early morning flight to Prague. Up at 4.20am for 9.25am flight. Spent lots of time walking the terminal to check in bags, flight delayed 1 hour. Arrived 2pm then we strolled to a local restaurant for a late lunch, Aldente Italian. Paula at Agnes recommended it. Perfect pasta and risotto. Just cannot believe the beauty of this lovely town. We have all fallen in love with it, such historic grand buildings everwhere. The stréetscape is gorgeous. We have a lovely quiet boutique hotel to stay in for 3 days. Very attentive service by Paula and staff. Tonight dinner at another recommend restaurant. Tomorrow a local guide will show us the highlights of the city. ... read more