If I hadn't already booked my hostel in Berlin, I would stay another day. As it is, I'm catching a later train tomorrow so that I can have a few more hours here. When I was planning my trip, Prague was the last addition to the list. I am so glad that I put it on there, because it is absolutely stunning.
I only will end up having a day and a half of sunlight hours here. Knowing this, I tried my best to cram in almost everything today - Prague Castle, a walking tour of the Old Town, the Dancing House, Petrin Tower, and more. It meant that I barely had time to eat or sit down, but it was so worth it.
I started in the Mala Strana/Lesser Town district, which is where the Castle and my hostel are. From there, I visited Petrin Hill, which not only had the Tower (Prague's answer to the Eiffel), but also this monument erected for the victims of communism (This middle-aged lady, who should know better, took a selfie in front of the sculptures of decaying bodies and all I could think was, Really?).
I then saw the Dancing Building, which is striking, but in the end, just a building. I was more fascinated by the views of the river and how incredibly well the Prague medieval architecture has aged (Not being bombed in WWII also helped.).
From there, it was time for my tour, which was given by a guy from Leicester, of all places. He was great, kooky and funny, and totally suited for the job. I love hearing about the history of all these cities I've visited. It really gives meaning to studying the buildings, as opposed to just snapping photos because I think they're pretty.
BTW, I want to take the opportunity to give myself props for climbing up Petrin Hill. And the mile hike to the Sleeping Beauty castle in Bavaria. I will never understand how people hike for fun, but at least I've moved my lazy ass and tried my best to go out of my comfort zone. I also realise I am incredibly out of shape, but that is a problem to be rectified after I'm done vacationing and I have to pretend as though I'm taking care of my body.
I haven't had a chance to try traditional Czech food, because a)I am not using my debit card at ATMs so I can avoid charges, and many places don't take cards; and b)I only took out just enough krona to cover my accommodation costs and the barest of food budgets. I don't feel like I'm missing too much though - it seems very meat and potatoes (I'm not knocking it, it's just that I'm not a huge fan of red meat.).
I do plan to try some of the German bread and pastries, as I've heard great things. I'm approaching the final week of this adventure, but I won't dwell on that. I still have time to make you all envious, and it is not a duty I take lightly.
I can easily see myself returning to Prague. I can't imagine how anyone would think once would be enough. Also, before I forget to mention it, Prague is sooo cheap in comparison to a lot of other European cities, especially London. there is nowhere in London where I could find a cappuccino for the equivalent of 2 euro. Sigh.
Prague, I'll be back, no worries. I still have to try goulash.
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