| General Information About the Czech Republic |
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Czechoslovakia, a country with a very checkered and sometimes violent past, is not a favorite vacation destination for many people. Cedok, the official state travel bureau, operates hotels, runs sightseeing tours, and provides rental cars. Recently, Czechoslovakia has made special efforts to attract tourists. Click Here for Fodor's the Czech Republic and Slovakia
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One of the big attractions in Czechoslovakia (I guess I just have a hard time calling it the
Czech Republic, but I will try to do better.) are the over 4,000 castles and manors and some 40,000 other historic buildings
and monuments. Prague, which survived World War II relatively intact, has numerous palaces and churches from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. There are also many mountain resorts, especially in northern Bohemia and the High Tatras. You might find you would really enjoy visiting this very interesting country. Click on the following for more specific information on The Czech Republic. Passport and Visa Information Language Money A Few Health Matters Electricity Telephones Safety Matters Shopping and Hours Tipping Holidays Travel Insurance Travel Warnings |
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United States passport holders traveling to the Czech Republic do not need a visa for a visit of up to 30 days. For Canadian passport holders, up to 90 days. And, as always when you are traveling out side of the United States, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from the planned date of entry. No other documents are required. For more information, contact the Czech Embassy in Washington, or you can click on the following links: General Consular Information, Visa Information, Import of Small Animals, and other Import and Export Regulations.
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Passport Visa Express specializes in obtaining Passports for United States Citizens who wish to travel internationally within the next 30 days. We work directly with the U.S. Passport Agency assisting you in expediting your passport application in as fast as the same day! Our passport consultants have many years of direct experience working with the Passport Agency. |
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Language
The Czech is a tough language to learn. It seems
there is just so much of it! A member of the Slavic language family (which
also includes Slovak, Russian, Polish, Bulgarian, Ukrainian, etc.), Czech uses
an abundance of consonants (it even boasts whole words consisting entirely of
consonants) and a wealth of conjugation and declension types, so words change
depending on their position within a sentence. At least that is what
others tell me. As for me, I am just not very good on languages
anyway. However, you should try to learn a little of the language.
Even if all you can learn is how to find a toilet and how to ask if anyone can
speak English.
The good news is that you can find many people, especially in the larger cities,
that do speak enough English so you will at least be able to get something to
eat or find that all important souvenir! Prague especially is rather
cosmopolitan and English-friendly. Hotel and pension personnel almost
always speak English. In smaller towns and villages, the most commonly
spoken foreign language still tends to be German. As a rule of thumb,
younger people are likely to speak English as their second language, older
people German.
I have found that it helps to know at least a little bit of the language as I travel in other countries. You do not have to be able to be a fluent speaker, but knowing a few key words and phrases will really help. I have found that, although almost everywhere I go I can find someone who speaks English, knowing just a few words of the local language can really be a help. And, it lets others know I am at least interested in their language. Visit the Getting Away Language Learning Center where you can find out how to learn another language, or where to purchase books, dictionaries, electronic translators, software and more
Click here for language helps, dictionaries, electronic translators, language software and other helps for learning a foreign language. Being able to speak at least some of the language in the country you are visiting will help you have a better time and enjoy your trip more. Jim.
Other good language links would include the Rough Guide Dictionary and Phrasebook (Which I recommend also for their great guides! Go to the Getting Away Book Shelf for additional information.), and the Hippocrene Czech Phrasebook.
MONEY MATTERS
Exchange rate is about one US dollar to about 33 Czech crowns
(abbreviation: Kc or CZK). To try and make it easy, for every Kc100 you
use, you have spent about $3. Be sure to bring your credit card and your ATM
card. I also find it helps to have some of the local currency immediately
on hand whenever I arrive in a foreign country. So, be sure to exchange
for some Czech crowns before you leave home although it is sometimes quite difficult, and expensive, to obtain Czech currency in the United
States. However, American
Express or Thomas Cook normally can help you out. And, even though it may
be expensive and time consuming to do so, you will be glad to have the local
currency if you need it immediately upon your arrival. Such as to use a
public toilet or other such emergency! And, by bringing some with you,
will have access to Czech money immediately after you arrive. It is also a
safety factor to have some of your money in travelers' checks. I always
travel with a combination of the local currency, American money, my credit card,
and at least 100 (American) in travelers' checks.
Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) are the most convenient means of access to Czech currency. They offer good rates and don't charge commissions. You will find them located throughout Prague and most larger cities, usually in train stations, banks, and (in Prague) in subway vestibules. There are several ATMs in the arrivals hall at the Prague airport. The Czech word for an ATM is "bankomat". In order to use your ATM card in the Czech Republic, make sure it's affiliated with either the Cirrus or the PLUS network, and has a four-digit PIN. This is something you will want to check before you leave home!
Unless you are in a pinch, DON'T use one of the many round-the-clock exchange offices located on the streets of major tourist destinations. Despite the "low commissions" they claim to offer, they should be used only as a last resort. If you wish to exchange cash or get a cash advance on your credit card, go to an exchange office that's affiliated with a bank. And, of course, never agree to change money with anyone on the street.
DON'T bring personal or company checks - they will not be accepted as payment for goods or services. Shops and restaurants, especially in Prague, will accept most major credit cards (Visa, AmEx, MasterCard), and, of course, cash (Czech crowns only!).
Currency Exchange - Get your currency needs managed in advance! Many airports, railroad stations, bus depots, and other points of entry have no currency exchange. When currency exchange is available in airports, lines can be long and rates can be "sky high". These long waits and usurious fees can be a nightmare. Order in advance from All Foreign Currency right online. It's fast, easy, and you save time and money! The can also provide you with Travelers' checks, bank drafts, and transfers. U.S. dollars are not accepted everywhere and rates can be atrocious! Current Exchange Rate: Check Today's Exchange Rate
HEALTH ISSUESYou will find there are no health risks associated with traveling to the Czech Republic. The hygiene standards are reasonably high and the risk of infectious diseases (other than the seasonal flu) is low. No vaccinations or immunizations are required. The tap water is safe to drink, although it may have an unpleasant odor due to chlorination. However, even though the water is safe to drink, I recommend you drink bottled water. I have always found that doing this kept me "regular," if you know what I mean. I think our bodies get used to our water at home and, even when in a country where the water is safe to drink, our bodies sometimes have a problem adjusting to the different blends of chemicals found in the local water. Bottled spring water is available everywhere.
One of the important factors anytime you are out of the country is, "What if I get sick?" As there are no international agreements in place between the US and the Czech Republic regarding free emergency medical care, we recommend that you purchase travel medical insurance prior to traveling. Check the Getting Away Travel Safety Page for additional information.
In the case of an emergency, you should call for an ambulance. The toll-free number is 155. And, you should try to have a Czech-speaking person assist you with the call.
In Prague, there are several hospitals with
English-speaking doctors that cater to foreigners. However, you will need to pay a fee
for a visit to any of them. Here are a few numbers to call: American Medical
Center,
80 77 56; Canadian Medical Center, 316 5519; First Medical Clinic, 2481
0744; Na Homolce Hospital
Policlinic for Foreigners, 5292 2146; Dental Emergencies, 24 22
76 63; and Health Centre
Prague, s.r.o.: 24 22 00 40.
Even over-the-counter drugs like aspirin need to
be purchased in a pharmacy, LÉKÁRNA in Czech. You can find locations and
telephone numbers of pharmacies that stay open
24 hours a day listed near the front of the yellow pages phone directory
under Lekarny s nepretrzitou pohotovostni sluzbou. If you have prescription
medication you take on a regular basis, be sure to take it with you along with a
prescription (written in generic form) for the drug.
ELECTRICITY
You will need to bring
an adaptor and converter if you plan to use American appliances. The Czech Republic uses the
220V system common throughout Western Europe. Plugs have two rounded prongs. You
will need a voltage converter, or (if your appliance has a 120/220V switch) a
plug adaptor to use your electrical appliances, PCs, etc. in the Czech Republic.
The adaptors are available in hardware and travel stores throughout the US. Find the converter you will need in the
Getting Away
Travel Store. Additionally, you will find just about anything and
everything you will need when you travel. Across the state, country, or
to a destination on the other side of the world, you'll find what you
need in the Getting
Away Travel Store!
TELECOMMUNICATIONS
The country code for calling The Czech Republic is
420.
When calling from the US, dial
011-420-area code-number. City/Area Codes can have between 1 and 3
digits. For instance, Prague is 2. These codes are preceded by a zero when calling from another
area code within the Czech Republic. The zero is dropped when calling from
abroad. Therefore, when calling from the US, dial 011.420.2.local #. When
calling from Europe, dial 00.420.2.local #. When calling from within the
Czech Republic but outside of Prague, dial 02.local #. When calling from
Prague, dial just the local #.
Local numbers can have anywhere between four and nine digits. This may look a little funny to you when you receive a telephone number. However, try to remember that there is no "standard length" for a Czech phone number. So, just go ahead and dial, regardless of how many digits you are given. If you can't get through although you have the correct area code, the number has probably changed, which seems to happen quite often. In that case, call directory assistance at 120 (from the US, call 011.420.2.120).
When you are calling from a public phone you will need a telephone card, which you insert into a slot in the lower part of the telephone. Follow the prompts on the display which are always available in several languages -- including English. There are also coin-operated telephones. However, they tend to be somewhat less reliable and hard to find. So, be sure to buy a telephone card--you will probably need one sooner or later. These are available from larger post offices, airports, railway stations, metro stations, big department stores, kiosks, and hotels. There are several types of these cards, usually from 50 to 150 units.
When in the Czech Republic and you need to
call back to the US, you can simply dial 001,
followed by area code and number; you will pay around $1-$1.30 per minute. You can use the following US-based direct-dial services:
AT&T: 00-420-00101,
MCI: 00-420-0011, and
Sprint: 00-420-87187
I would recommend you leave your cell phone at home. Your cell phone is most likely 800MHz. In the Czech Republic, the
current standard is 450MHz. Therefore, your cell phone won't work there. If you
want to use a cell phone, you have to purchase or rent one.
CellPhone
Rentals Limited - Rents cellular phones in Britain, to business visitors and
tourists from the USA.
For Internet access you will find that some business hotels include Internet facilities and data ports in the cost of the room. There are also numerous Internet cafes in Prague. Find the converter you will need in the Getting Away Travel Store. Additionally, you will find just about anything and everything you will need when you travel. Across the state, country, or to a destination on the other side of the world, you'll find what you need in the Getting Away Travel Store!
SAFETYIn general, the Czech Republic is a very safe country, and you'll feel comfortable walking around at any time of day or night. The two things to look out for, especially in Prague, are pickpockets and dishonest taxis.
As for pickpockets, the best advice is just to stay alert, and they'll never get you. Predictably, pickpockets (individuals or organized gangs) plague mostly Prague's "tourist spots," crowded subway, and trams. They specialize in taking advantage of visitors who are busy sightseeing or reading their map and not paying attention to their bags and pockets. Don't carry valuables in an open or easily accessible pocket of your pants or backpack, don't leave your bags unattended, and DO use a money belt or a safely zippered inside pocket to keep your money in. Whenever you find yourself in a crowded area, especially on the tram or subway, hold on to your belongings and don't be distracted by all of the pushing and shoving.
Overcharging foreigners is still a frequent occurrence in Prague with some drivers seeming to specialize in it. Although the situation is improving, to avoid "being taken for a ride," be sure to use reliable radio taxi companies like AAA (tel. in Prague 1080), hotel taxis, or public transit. And, try to stay away from those shiny new Mercedes cabs waiting in places like Wenceslas Square or the Old Town Square. You may also want to request a receipt printed by the meter, not one written by hand. This Transportation Sheet has other good details you may find helpful.
TRAVEL
INSURANCE
If you need medical
care while you are away, it is best to be aware that medical providers may not
accept payment through your insurance company and that you will therefore to pay
in full for your treatment and file a claim with your insurance company for
reimbursement. Therefore you should have access to cash, either from a credit
card or by wire transfer. If you need assistance contact the country's local
embassy or representative. For compensation, you must be treated by licensed
medical personnel and provide your insurance company with proper documentation
and receipts. It is advisable to always ensure you have a comprehensive travel
insurance policy which covers you for repatriation to your home country. Visit
the Getting Away
Health
and Safety Tips for Travelers
page for additional information about insurance.
TRAVEL WARNINGS
Check with the U.S. State Department for
Travel Warnings, Consular Information Sheets & Public
Announcements.
OPENING HOURS & SHOPPING
Favorite souvenirs and best bargains include glass and
crystal, handmade toys and marionettes, art (glass, paintings, photography, even
sculpture), those wonderfully intricately decorated eggshells and other
folklore items. You will find your credit cards (AmEx, Visa, MasterCard) are
accepted in most major stores.
Value added tax (VAT) in the amount of 5%
(products) or 22% (services) is usually included in the price; for some
services, it is stated separately. There are currently no refunds available to
non-residents on VAT paid on products and services purchased in the Czech
Republic.
For shops and banks, the hours of operation are generally 9-5. You may find that some shops, especially those in the country, still hold lunch breaks between 12 and 1pm and may therefore be closed. Some banks may close as early as 4pm. On Saturday, most stores close at noon and are closed on Sunday. Only large department stores and shops catering to tourists are open throughout the weekend (usually 10am-6pm). Restaurants are usually open every day from about 11am to 11pm.
Museums and cultural monuments are usually closed on Mondays and on days following public holidays. They are open on most holidays except Christmas and New Year. Their opening hours vary, but none are open after 6pm. The Jewish Museum in Prague is closed on Saturday and all Jewish holidays.
TIPPING
Tipping is normally expected in
►January 1st - New Year's Day
►Easter Sunday, Easter Monday (= the day
following Easter Sunday)
►May 1st - May Day
►May 8th - Liberation Day (end of World War II
in Europe)
►July 5th - Slavic Missionaries Cyril and
Methodius: the arrival of Christianity (along with a written language--the
Church Slavonic) in Greater Moravia, AD 863
►July 6th - John Huss Day (Master Jan Hus, or
John Huss, a Czech religious reformer and thinker, was burned at the stake
by the Catholic Church in 1415 in ►Konstanz, Germany)
►October 28 - Independence Day (the founding of
independent Czechoslovakia in 1918 after the breakup of the Austro-Hungarian
Empire)
►November 17th - Fall of Communism (1989) -
pending approval
►December 24, 25, 26 - Christmas holidays:
Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Second Christmas Day
