Archive: Travel | Travel Travel
Cycle path shows the hidden side of Žižkov
The rumbling railroad track that used to pass through Žižkov in Prague
was completely natural to the gritty-but-chic image of the 19th century
proletariat quarter. The main western entrance to Žižkov was arched by
three foreboding railway bridges, and the noisy, spray-painted cars passed
alongside Vítkov hill to the cargo station. Four years ago the trains
were
still rattling the plaster off that lower end of the neighbourhood, just
as
they had been since the late Industrial Revolution, and then the route was
cancelled for a higher-capacity alternative. More
Litoměřice
The North Bohemian town of Litoměřice has long enjoyed the reputation of
being one of the Czech Republic's most beautiful towns. Founded roughly
1,000 years ago, Litoměřice lies in one of the Czech Republic's hilliest
ranges on the confluence of the Elbe and Ohře Rivers. The town's
beginnings was originally a Slavonic fort overseeing a number of small
municipalities, later replaced by a castle and emerging town in the 11th
century. More
Romantic Kokořín
Anyone longing to escape the Czech capital in the stifling summer months
would do well to visit the nearby Kokořín region - only around 40
kilometres or so northeast of Prague. Kokořín - with deep forests,
valleys, as well as characteristic sandstone cliffs and unique
architecture, is remarkable. You'll feel you've travelled more than one
short train or bus ride away. It's an escape back to nature, with numerous
spots for swimming and excellent trails for hiking, all in quiet and peace.
More
Křivoklát Castle
With the arrival of spring in the Czech Republic the tourist season is
beginning to slowly re-awaken and with it a favourite Czech pastime -
visiting the country's many castles and chateaux with family and friends.
In that spirit today we visit the royal castle of Křivoklát - a most
remarkable site with a history that stretches back to the 12th century.
Found on a promontory of rolling hills overlooking deep woodlands,
Křivoklát was a favourite of King Wenceslas IV. He used it primarily for
leisure and sport, preferring it to his father's more famous Karlštejn,
located in the same region. Over the centuries Křivoklát then served as
bastion as well as prison; as fans of the esoteric will know even famous
English alchemist Edward Kelley was imprisoned there, breaking his leg in
a botched escape. Certainly, Křivoklát never easily released its own.
Their histories continue to pervade the site going back hundreds of years. More
What Mecca is to Mohammed, Říp is to a Czech
What are the origins of the Czechs? Where did they start out? The cultural
anthropologist would tell you there is no clear answer. The patriot however
would tell you the answer is as clear as day, or in this case, as clear as
a mountain: a famous one outside of Prague that has played a special role
in the history of Czechs, and it’s called Říp. More
Švihov Castle
Anyone visiting the area of southwest Bohemia throughout May to October
shouldn’t miss a tour of Švihov Castle, one of the country’s most
significant water castles found not far from Plzeň. Founded in the late
16th century, the castle represented the best defence system in its day –
a combination of high fortifications and moats that put off the most
obstinate of would-be attackers. Today the castle offers two tours, which
include a look into its inner courtyard, a private chapel and the armoury.
More
Mailbox
Today in Mailbox: Spotlight on Říp Mountain, music played on Radio
Prague. Listeners quoted: Mark Zubik, Richard Prokopchuk, David Eldridge,
William Dodd.
More
"What Mecca is to Mohammed, Říp is to a Czech"
What are the origins of the Czechs? Where did they start out? The cultural
anthropologist would tell you there is no clear answer. The patriot
however
would tell you the answer is as clear as day, or in this case, as clear as
a mountain: a famous one outside of Prague that has played a special role
in the history of Czechs, and it’s called Říp. More
Organisation promoting convention tourism in Czech capital
Tourism is one of the biggest industries in Prague, with millions of people
visiting the Czech capital every year. One important element of the
business is “convention tourism”, when visitors come to attend
conferences, seminars and trade fairs. The Prague Convention Bureau
promotes congress tourism in the city – I discussed its activities with
marketing manager Andrea Libová.
More
Regional dishes to attract more tourists to Czech Republic
Sour rye soup from the Giant Mountains, the south Bohemian štrachanda or
rump steak goulash from Prague, these are just some of the Czech
specialties, that will appear on the menus of Czech restaurants as of
April. Czech Tourism, in cooperation with the Czech Association of Hotels
and Restaurants and the Association of Cooks and Confectioners, have
prepared a special project with the aim of promoting the Czech Republic
through regional specialties. These dishes will appear on menus under the
label ‘Czech Specials’.
More
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