Prague

The Czech Republic is a small landlocked country situated south-east of Germany bordering Austria to the south, Poland to the north and Slovakia to the south-east. It is not a large country but has a rich and eventful history. From time immemorial, Czechs, Germans, Jews and Slovaks as well as Italian stonemasons, French tradesmen and deserters from Napoleon’s army have all lived and worked here all leaving their influence, all to be seen on a Czech Republic vacation.

It is thanks to their inventiveness and skill that this small country is graced with hundreds of ancient castles, monasteries and stately mansions, and even entire towns that give the impression of being comprehensive artefacts. The Czech Republic contains a vast amount of architectural treasure and has beautiful forests and mountains to match. On 1 January 1993, the country underwent a "velvet divorce" into its two national components, the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

The main language spoken is not only Czech. The Slovak language can also be heard, especially in big cities, as there is a sizable Slovak minority and both languages are mutually intelligible. Czech people are very proud of their language, and thus, even in Prague, you will not find many signs written in English (outside of the main tourist areas). Many older people, especially outside the large cities, are also unable to converse in English. However, most young people speak at least some English as it has been taught in most schools since 1990. Most Czechs speak a second and often a third language. English is the most widely known, especially among younger people.