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The Czech Republic and Prague have embraced the European Union, and tourists from all over the world have embraced this graceful capital. This is one of Europe's best preserved historic cities.... It's the only Central European capital to escape the bombs of World Wars I and II.
Once we got used to the crowds, the first place we headed for was the Old Town Square, and this is a good place for you to start too. It's been a central point and market square for the town for centuries.
The Old Town Hall anchors one side of the square. Watch the 15th century astronomical clock strike the hour and put on a show with great mechanical pageantry.
The 14th century Tyn Church towers on the opposite side of the square. The rest is lined with wonderful pastel Art Nouveau buildings.
This Square is a tourist mecca with outdoor cafes, horse drawn buggies, classic cars offering city tours, and musical groups playing for tips on the corners. Even with all that it's beautiful and a fun place to start exploring.
Karlova Street starts just beyond one side of the Old Town Hall. It's a narrow, twisty old street that winds it's way through medieval Prague to the Charles Bridge. You'll be swept along with tourist crowds... just be sure to watch your wallet. This is definitely a place to be wearing your money belt to protect your valuables. Since you know you have things safely tucked away, just enjoy the exuberance of this old and engaging street.
You can spend hours on the Charles Bridge if you want. Explore each of the statues that line both sides of the bridge. (Many of them are copies, with the originals in the National Museum, but they're still fun to see.) Vendors set up stalls that sell everything a tourist could want. Musicians set up shop just far enough apart that they don't compete with each other... too much. If you want some quiet time, sit on the side and admire the view of the Prague Castle on the hill.
Do make your way over the bridge and through the Little Quarter. This quarter is full of Baroque Palaces and old houses and of course, churches. The streets slope up to the Castle. Explore the huge castle, but don't obsess on it. It's rooms are simple by castle standards.
See what you can, and enjoy the city views from the promenade along the edge. The city is sometimes called the "Golden City of 100 Spires" and you can see why it got that name from your vantage point by the castle.
There is also a Jewish Quarter and the New Town to explore if you have time.
There are plenty of B&Bs and restaurants in the city. The old city center is very walkable. Linger over a beer on the riverside. Take in a concert in the evening, and enjoy being one more tourist who has discovered Prague.
Happy travels... even if you don't travel the world... just remember that life is a journey... embrace and enjoy it! Judy and Mark
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