Czech Republic

Everyone who visits the Czech Republic starts with Prague, the cradle of Czech culture and one of Europe’s most fascinating cities. Prague offers a near-intact medieval core of Gothic architecture that can transport you back 500 years – the 14th-century Charles Bridge, connecting two historic neighbourhoods across the Vltava River, with the castle ramparts and the spires of St Vitus Cathedral rising above, is one of the classic sights of world travel. But the city is not just about history; it’s a vital urban centre with a rich array of cultural offerings, and a newly emerging foodie scene.

The Czech Republic is one of the undiscovered gems of European golf, with new, quality courses springing up all over the place – the country has gone from having three 18-hole courses in 1990 to more than 100 in 2017. There are a couple of nine-hole courses within the Prague city boundary, but the nearest championship course is at Karlštejn. 

On the surface of it, Czech food seems very similar to German or Polish food: lots of meat served with dumplings and cabbage. The little differences are what make the food here special – eat a forkful of svíčková (roast beef served with a sour cream sauce and spices) sopped up with fluffy bread dumpling and you’ll be wondering why you haven’t heard more about this cuisine.

Czechs who eat snídaně (breakfast) at home generally have bread with butter, cheese, eggs, ham or sausage, jam or yoghurt. Commuters gobble down soup and frankfurters at a bufet (self-service, cafeteria-style place).

Traditionally, a big feed of meat and dumplings is taken at lunch time, although the meal is eaten quickly and there’s no time for a nap afterwards. The Western way of life is catching on, however, particularly in Prague, and most people are too busy to even take an hour out for lunch. The evening meal is usually no more than a plate of cold meats and condiments eaten with bread and washed down with a glass of beer.

The Czech Republic presents few dangers you wouldn't encounter in any other European country.

• Expect beggars or homeless people to occasionally ask for spare change, though there's no expectation that you need to give anything.
• Czech drivers are notoriously bad when it comes to yielding to pedestrians on cross walks. Before crossing, wait until you see the driver slowing down to yield the right of way.
• Rogue taxi drivers remain a problem. Never get into an unmarked taxi and, if possible, phone ahead to use the services of a reputable radio taxi company.