No Regrets

Arriving in Praha

Four months after I first stepped on Czech soil and I can proudly say, I do not regret my decision to go to Prague. While I have definitely discovered the city’s flaws since living here, I have come to learn that some of what I initially viewed as Prague's shortcomings is, in fact, some of its greatest traits.  I would not change my decision in the least. And I would definitely urge others to study abroad in this central European city (Especially if you are like me—and on your first excursion to Europe.)

My Advice-

Come in the Fall Semester:

Prague’s winter is cold, grey, snowy, and all around dismal. It’s empty streets, silent nights, citywide curfew, and overall quiet demeanor make for a harsh change from New York City’s bustling Christmas season. If you are someone who likes to see the sun every day…or even every couple of days, then I would definitely advice against coming to Prague in January and February. That being said, the quiet grey, lackadaisical vibe that exists during Prague’s winter is one of the city’s traits many people also enjoy. However, as I look outside now to see the streets chock full of tourists embracing the warm (actually hot) sunny Prague, I cant help but be jealous of their initial impressions of the city that I had to learn to love. However, since April brings about tourist season (and its more like a flooding in these parts), the tourists in the spring replace the quiet Prague of winter with one loud with German, Italian, Japanese, and shouts. In summary, I would recommend coming in fall so that you can see Prague at its physical beast before learning about its true more interesting, but slightly harsher self. In truth, studying during the fall semester may allow you to see the city’s face before understanding its personality.

Get Lost

Prague’s winding roads easily become recognizable for any person with a decent sense of direction. However, since four months really do fly by…I would advise any student here to try and get lost once a week…sometimes “getting lost” leads you to your new favorite restaurant!

Travel

This would have to be my number one reason for choosing Prague. I don’t believe any student on a very fixed budget could go to Europe for 4 months, visit nearly 40 towns or cities, and seven countries…while still eating, and sleeping (most of the time) horizontally. Prague’s currency is 20ish crowns for the dollar. That means groceries are about 15 dollars a week. While London, Paris, and Madrid are all probably fine cities, If you are coming to Europe…for Europe opposed to being culturally immersed in a single city (Which could also be a good thing), then Prague is the best location. For not only is cheap, its central location allows many countries to be an inexpensive bus, train, or flight away!

Make it Your Own City

While I could now list the restaurants, pubs, streets, and shops that have become my favorite in Prague. I think that may defeat the point. For my utmost favorite part of Prague, is that it has become familiar and I have even caught myself taking it for granted. For, I believe there comes a time for every student abroad where you purposely or accidentally call this foreign city home. And for what its worth, it will become one once you allow it to be yours.