24.06.2019
Prague, Czech Republic (27 of 30)
Over the past eight years, Prague has morphed from an inconspicuous city in Europe to one that every travel website is promising. The city averages nearly 7 million foreign visitors annually and most of these tourists stay less than four days. After a month consisting mostly of Prague, I’m still convinced I have only seen the tip of the iceberg. On top of that Prague is always changing and even my professor who has been 17 summers in the past 17 years says there is always something new. Even though I have been non-stop this month there are still plenty of buildings to explore, streets to walk, and museums to see.
Despite the heavy tourism, I have only found the foot traffic extreme around the most popular attractions. The oldest clock in the world that still operates in Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, and Prague Castle are among the most sought after tourist enticements. I found these to be satisfactory, but there are much more superior castles to see near Prague and better bridges to walk so that the architecture Charles Bridge demonstrates can be admired. To find the best places exploring is necessary. There are many incredible places in the heart of the city that the majority of tourists don’t even bat an eye.
There are also many tourist traps in Old Town due to the prevalence of short-staying visitors. The famous Trdelník chimney cakes seen on every corner are not Czech at all and actually originate from Hungary. Cannabis has also not been legalized in the Czech Republic despite all the mini-marts advertising false products in stores. Prague is best traveled when kept to its culture. I feel for the locals who have to deal with oblivious tourists rambling around their city.
Life is in motion 