Author: George Pitiranggon

CZECH REPUBLIC HIGHLIGHTS

• Take a stroll down the most iconic bridge in Prague, Charles Bridge.
• Enjoy a guided tour through St Vitus Cathedral.
• See the iconic spires of Prague Castle.
• Retrace history in Wenceslas Square.
• Watch the Astronomical Clock display every hour.
• People watch in the old town square.
• Take an optional guided tour to the charming town of Cesky Krumlov.

CZECH REPUBLIC VACATION TIPS

• The currency used is the Czech Koruna.
• Czech cuisine is not exactly fancy but it sure is hearty and delicious, try Goulash and other local cuisines when possible.
• Take in the culture around you: admire the beautiful architecture on your walking tours and a local beer in the pub.
• The Czech Republic has a very low crime rate, so you can feel safe if out and about at night. As with any destination, practice common sense.
• Like the U.S., tipping is not required but usually expected.
• Do support local shops when doing your souvenir shopping.

THINGS TO DO IN CZECH REPUBLIC

1. CHARLES BRIDGE

A must-do while in Prague is to take a walk down Charles Bridge. There is a certain charm you feel as you stroll down the gaze of old baroque period statues that line the bridge. Regardless of the buskers and people selling all types of stuff, tourists squeeze past by and you enter a river-like flow as you move along.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Due to the crowds of both tourists and entrepreneurial locals, any time during the day is prime time and will be crowded. Try going at sunset where you’ll feel the charm of the bridge a bit more.

2. PRAGUE CASTLE

Looming over the city with the castle’s spires viewable from almost anywhere in the city, it’s no surprise Prague Castle is the most popular attraction in the city. Home to historic buildings, museums, and various galleries, some of the Czech Republic’s most prized arts and cultural artifacts are within the castle walls.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

There is no bad time to visit Prague; summer has nice temperate weather, but fall and winter bring cooler weather and fewer crowds. If you don’t mind the cold weather, walking around the city in the wintertime has a magical feel.

3. ST VITUS CATHEDRAL

Taking almost 600 years to complete, St Vitus houses some of the richest cultural treasures in central Europe. St Vitus is integral to the cultural and religious side of the Czech Republic. A mix of Gothic and Romanesque, this unique cathedral is a must-see in Prague.

YOU SHOULD KNOW

If you are traveling to Prague with one of our partners on a guided tour, St Vitus is almost always included in your walking tour of Prague. If included, you’ll skip the line to get in and get a local guide to narrate as you explore. Inclusions vary by itinerary.

4. PRAGUE JEWISH MUSEUM

One of the most visited museums in Prague is the Jewish Heritage Museum. With about 40,000 artifacts, 100,000 books, and more, it houses one of the largest Judaic collections in the world. The museum is made up of four synagogues and includes the Old Jewish Cemetery.

5. WENCESLAS SQUARE

The most famous square in Prague, Wenceslas Square has been witness to some of the most famous historical events in Czech history. Actually, it is less of a square and more similar to a large public street, like one you’d find in Paris. The square is located in New Town, which was created during Charles IV’s reign.

YOU SHOULD KNOW

Although many important demonstrations and speeches have been given at Wenceslas Square, arguably the most important was given by Alexander Dubcek, known as the man who started the Prague Spring.

6. ASTRONOMICAL CLOCK

A tourist favorite attraction, every hour very large crowds begin to form under the Old Town Hall Tower to watch the Astronomical Clock. An intricate dance of puppets and other objects depict a story representing 15th-century life. Called a “must-see” event by everyone ever, the truth is the display is hyped up a little too much and don’t feel guilty if you find it a bit underwhelming.

YOU SHOULD KNOW

t’s not an exaggeration to say that large crowds begin to form quite early under the tower. If you really want to see and get a good view, you’d have to stake out your spot at least 15 minutes before the hour.

7. CESKY KRUMLOV

Located in the Southern Bohemian region of the Czech Republic is Cesky Krumlov. Along with Prague Castle, it was designated a UNESCO site in 1992. The town was built around a 13th-century castle with various design cues from Baroque, Renaissance, and Gothic. A popular day trip among visitors, the charming town of Cesky Krumlov is definitely a must-see.

YOU SHOULD KNOW

If not already included in one of our itineraries from our partners, most will offer Cesky Krumlov as an optional guided day tour. Activities and inclusions vary by itinerary.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Known for its castles and baroque style architecture, the Czech Republic is full of history, art, and culture. Whether you’re doing a land tour or a river cruise with one of our partners, you’ll want to plan accordingly to maximize your time in this beautiful east European country.

QUICK FACTS

• Spring and Fall time are two of the best times to visit.
• The most popular tourist time is during the Summer.
• Winter can get really cold but you’ll want to be there for the beautiful Christmas Markets.

1. Spring – March to May – Good Season

The average high in Spring is 58F and the low is 38F. It’s a really comfortable time to visit, plus there is fewer crowds to deal with. You won’t have to worry about the rain and the days are typically sunny and long, so you can have more time to explore and discover.

2. Fall – September to October – Good Season

The average high in the Fall is 66F and 48F low. Like the Springtime, this is a really comfortable season to explore the country.

3. Summer – June to August – High Season

The average temperature during the Summer is 77F high and 55F low. Summer has the best weather with long sunny days, but it also has the most crowds. Along with tourists, locals also love to spend their time outdoors as much as possible. Because it’s the busiest time of the year, expect prices to be higher than in other seasons.

4. Winter – November to March – Low Season

The average temperature during the Winter is 36F and 27F low. The winters can be quite cold but you may find a sizable amount of people here for the famous Christmas Markets. These stalls are set up every year and they are beautifully lit, each selling different items that would make perfect souvenirs.

North America Tour Highlights

• Get in an “empire state of mind” with the best views of New York atop the Empire State Building.
• Get a breath of fresh air at the natural wonder of the Grand Canyon.
• Roam the wilderness at Yellowstone National Park.
• See the stars at Kennedy Space Center & Space Center Houston.
• Witness The Rockies in Canada by rail.
• Stroll through the Butchart Gardens.
• Get your photo taken at Lake Louise, in Banff.

North America Vacation Tips

• If this is your first time, no trip to North America is complete without a visit to New York City.
• Nothing is as American as apple pie or a road trip. An escorted tour is perfect because you’ll have your own luxury motorcoach with a driver and a dedicated travel director leading the way.
• Take a rail trip in Canada if possible. Few places are as beautiful as Lake Louise and Banff.
• US dollars are different than Canadian dollars. Remember this if you’re visiting both countries.
• The USA alone is huge. Don’t try to do too much as once as you’ll likely miss out on a lot of amazing things to do and see.
• The service industry – restaurants, bars, porters, etc – runs on tipping. When appropriate, don’t forget to tip for good service.
• Whether in Canada or the USA, visit a national park when possible.
• Depending on your itinerary, you’ll want to pack layers since climates can change quickly from one place to another.

Eastern Europe Tour Highlights

• Go island hopping (and swimming) in the Adriatic Sea in Croatia.
• The castles… so many beautiful castles!
• Explore the beautiful old town of Dubrovnik with its iconic orange tiled roofs.
• Discover the two sides of Buda and Pest.
• Hit the thermal baths in Budapest.
• Take a photo of the world-famous Vienna Opera House.
• Count all the waterfalls at Plitvice Lakes National park in Croatia.
• Visit the beautiful town of Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic.

Eastern Europe Vacation Tips

• Just because most Europeans speak English, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t look up some basic native language phrases. The locals will appreciate your effort and you might even make a friend!
• Don’t convert your currency at the airport. Wait until you get to your hotel or a local currency exchange place.
• Make sure you carry some cash as not all places will take credit cards (especially the smaller businesses).
• Support locals and shop at family businesses. You’ll be making a bigger difference for these families.
• If your tour package does not include a specific attraction you want to visit, make sure you buy your tickets in advance.
• Try to walk as much as you can to take in the area and destination.
• If you’re planning to walk for most of your trip, make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing.
• If you’re from the USA, you’re probably used to free water and bread in restaurants. European restaurants do not do this. You’ll pay for everything you ask for.

Asia Tours Highlights

• Climb the Great Wall Of China.
• Visit the impressive Angkor Wat in Cambodia.
• Marvel at the Taj Mahal in India.
• In Kyoto, Japan, climb and visit the orange Fushimi Inari Taisha.
• Explore Gardens By The Bay in Singapore.
• Sail through the beautiful Ha Long Bay in Vietnam.
• Try your luck at the Japanese cherry blossoms during the spring.
• Learn about Asian culture through food. Sample sushi, dim sum, pho, and bibimbap.
• Spot Komodo Dragons in Indonesia.
• Stay in a traditional luxury ryokan in Japan.

Asia Vacation Tips

• Take advantage of local transportation for a more immersive experience. Ride a tuk-tuk in Thailand, rickshaw in India, or the bullet train in Japan.
• Carry cash with you. US dollars or Euros are very helpful when country hopping. Change over any local currency before you leave a country.
• Street food is a very common place to eat budget-friendly and delicious local foods. Foods that are cooked in front of you are your best bet.
• Stick with bottled water when traveling through most countries in Asia. If you prefer a reusable bottle, bring water purification tablets.
• Night markets are a great place to pick up souvenirs. Bartering is expecting in markets so don’t be afraid to ask politely for a lower price or deal.
• Traffic can be chaotic. Don’t be afraid to use public transportation like busses, tuk-tuks, or rickshaws.
• Pay attention to dress codes. In temples, you might be asked to cover your shoulders or take off your shoes. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees.
• Check the weather before you travel. Parts of Asia can be humid and hot. Pack light clothing, sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent.
• Hotels and bathrooms might be different than Western accommodations. Don’t be surprised if you only find squat toilets.

Europe Tour Highlights

• Europe’s beautiful scenery is best enjoyed on a luxury motorcoach as you drive from one destination to another.
• Go to the top of the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris.
• Take a photo of the famous Duomo in Florence.
• Walk around St. Peter’s Square, the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and more in Rome.
• Take a romantic gondola ride in Venice.
• Marvel at a masterpiece in the Sistine Chapel at Vatican City.
• Enjoy the breath-taking Swiss Alps during your tour.
• Explore some of the most beautiful European vineyards.
• Walk through the infamous Red Light District in Amsterdam.
• Enjoy dinner and a show at the world-famous Moulin Rouge in France.

Europe Vacation Tips

• Just because most Europeans speak English, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t look up some basic native language phrases. The locals will appreciate your effort and you might even make a friend!
• Don’t convert your currency at the airport. Wait until you get to your hotel or a local currency exchange place.
• Make sure you carry some cash as not all places will take credit cards (especially the smaller businesses).
• Support local shops and family businesses. You’ll be making a bigger difference for these families.
• If your tour package does not include a specific attraction you want to visit, make sure you buy your tickets ahead of time.
• Try to walk as much as you can to take in the area and destination.
• If you’re planning to walk most of the time, make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing.
• If you’re from the USA, you’re probably used to free water and bread in restaurants. European restaurants do not do this. You’ll pay for everything you ask for.