Living in the Czech Republic - A General Overview

"What is it like living in the Czech Republic?" This is a question that I have been asked by many of late. Having also been invited to contribute an article to Gooverseas.com (http://www.gooverseas.com/go-abroad-blog/better-know-country-czech-republic/8626), I decided to write a post that would give readers a general overview of life in the country I feel very lucky to currently call 'home'. 

With it's central location, the lands which today constitute The Czech Republic have long served as a gateway to surrounding Europe. The first Czechs arrived in Bohemia (an area still used to describe the West) in around 200BC. In the 9th Century the Czech state emerged, resulting in the formation of a kingdom that would for many centuries be an influential player on the European political landscape. Subsequently the Czech Republic is a country steeped in history. The architectural grandeur and historical importance of it's capital Prague, it's equally fascinating and attractive cities and towns, and 2000+ chateaus and castles dotted throughout are all constant reminders of it's former opulent days.

Places of Interest

Whilst undeniably important, the Czech Republic's appeal is not just limited to it's history. With it's three regions of Bohemia, Moravia and Silesia boasting a multitude of landscapes, it's no wonder the Czechs love nothing more than to get outdoors with their bikes, rollerblades, skis or simply just on foot! In the western area of Bohemia, visitors can discover distinct rock formations such as those in Cesky Raj (Bohemian Paradise) and Ceske Svycarsko (Czech Swiss) and captivating mountainous regions such as Krkonose (home to the country's highest mountain 'Snezka' at 1,602 km) and Sumava.  There are also various places of interest such as the famed spa town of Karlovy Vary (each year it hosts the 'International Karlovy Vary Film Festival', which is often referred to as the 'B-grade' version of Cannes), the former silver-mining town of Kutna Hora (it is home to a striking and rather macabre Ossuary aka 'bone church' comprised of approximately 40 000 skeletons!) and my personal favourite - the enchanting and fairytale-like town of Cesky Krumlov. To the east, the regions of Moravia and Silesia are largely comprised of rolling hills, highlands and low mountain ranges. The land is particularly fertile in the South, where the Czech's answer to Tuscany lies - the Moravian Wine Region. There are various towns throughout complete with their own vineyards and cellars, which during the harvest season host many wine-related festivals.

Beer Culture

Whilst on the topic of alcohol, the ever-important role that 'pivo' (beer) plays in Czech life must also be mentioned. The Germans may have Oktoberfest, but it is actually the Czechs who drink more per capita than other nation in the world. They also lay claim to another important statistic - the development of the world's first lager 'Pilsner' in the Bohemian town of Plzen. And with Plzen recently winning the 'European Capital of Culture' for 2015, it's clear that all of Europe can vouch for Czech beer! There are 100s of breweries throughout the country and a plethora of beers available, ensuring a favourite brew for all and converting even the non-beer drinkers such as myself! What's more the good news continues where price is concerned, on average you can buy half a litre for around 30 Kc - that equates to just over 1 euro!

Prague

As with most countries, the capital of Prague is the epicentre of action. Whilst smaller in comparison to other European capitals, it's intimate size is all part of it's charm. Stunning historically, culturally and architecturally, visitors are never short on things to do. Prague has an array of prominent sites such as the imposing Prague Castle, ornately statued Charles Bridge and beautiful Old Town Square. Throughout the city there are many parks, which during the warmer months heave with action. An impressive range of museums and theatres showcase the depth of Czech cultural talent. Prague also has a thriving nightlife with innumerable bars, restaurants and clubs. If all else fails, one can simply meander along the cobble-stoned streets and revel in the 'City of 100 Spires'.

And for those wishing to stay more permanently, Prague is an extremely livable city. It boasts a highly efficient and integrated public transport system comprised of metros, trams and buses. Coupled with the city's cosy size, residents are never more than a few metro stops from the action. The majority of Prazaks are English-friendly, meaning that newcomers with absolutely no knowledge of the Czech language are able to get by. But as with any foreign country it helps to learn some basics. (NB. The Czech language is considered one of the hardest to learn. Also that in smaller Czech towns one can not rely on the locals to speak English as they would in Prague.)

Employment

With the English language widely used and in demand, they are subsequently many English-speaking jobs on offer in Prague in a variety of industries. TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) is perhaps the most common. A plethora of language schools and TEFL training schools have resulted in Prague becoming a European hotspot for all things TEFL. And with a growing number of English native speakers jumping onboard the employment wagon, the expat culture is also thriving. Expats.cz is the 'go-to' guide for English-speaking expats living in the Czech Republic. Listing everything from jobs to flat rentals, second hand furniture to news and reviews, it serves as trusty companion to those navigating a life in the Czech Republic.

So there you have it, a general overview of life in the Czech Republic. It is by no means a comprehensive guide but I hope it has provided some insight to those who had asked the question, as well as to those who may have been a little curious about life in this cool, central European country.

Australian in Prague

Charles Bridge with Prague Castle in the background

The enchanting, fairy tale-like town of Cesky Krumlov

The macabre Ossuary (bone church) - Kutna Hora

The chic town of Karlovy Vary