Discovering Czech culture in Prague

Hey there. My name is Norayr. As I'm studying in France, my name is shortened into Nora, as it is easier for French people to pronounce it. I'm Jewish Armenian. As a part of my master's program at the University of Auvergne, I did an internship in the capital city of the Czech Republic, Prague. And also decided to make a contract with Erasmus during that internship. I would like to share my 3 months' experience with you in the heart of Europe and tell you about it as accurately as possible and also will share many pictures that made during that unforgettable experience. Let's go!

Prague is a very dynamic city which can be a perfect place for you, especially if you are young and your blood is pumping very fast in your veins.

First of all, you need to find an apartment there for the long or short term. It is easier to find it using groups in social networks, such as Facebook. The prices for the rooms vary and can be from 4.500 CZK to 12.000 CZK but you also must be sure if the price includes utilities such as gas or water. And I hope you love dogs, as most of the apartment owners in Prague have a dog there. Be careful of the people who will demand money before your arrival by bank transfer, there are many cases of internet scamming. They can even make you sign a fake contract, so be very observant.

So, you are finally in Prague. If you have cash with you, you need to change it into Czech crowns which you can have for this approximate currency 1€=26 CZK.

The transport system works very well in Prague. You will not have to take a taxi to get somewhere, as there are many buses, trams and a subway with three lines which work as precisely as the Big Ben clock in London.

You can buy a monthly ticket and use all types of transportation means in Prague without any limits. This type of ticket can be purchased in some subway stations such as Hlavni Nadrazi. The cost of it is 670 CZK. Be careful! If the controllers will catch you without a ticket, they will make you pay a fine of around 800 CZK.

The prices for food are much cheaper than in many Western countries. You can feel the difference with just entering into supermarkets and especially if you are from countries like Spain, France or Italy.

The first place to visit here is of course the Astronomical Clock which is located in the very center of Prague. Even if you don't interested in history, this place is a "must-see" and then the next destination will be Charles bridge (Karluv most in Czech) which is not so far from the astronomical clock and also amazes with its greatness and beauty.

For me, as a Jewish, it was a big pleasure to witness the beautiful synagogues and also the oldest one in Europe.

To integrate into Czech culture can be very easy as people are very warm and kind. Also, if you know some Russian, you can easily learn the Czech language as it has some similarities. Speaking only English can be a problem, as the country was in a Soviet block before and the English language became popular only in the last 10 years.

The city is very juicy and colorful. It is a perfect place to enjoy beautiful historical places. If you prefer more nightlife, the weekends in Prague will not let you unsatisfied. The city gets crazy every Friday and Saturday evenings. The people are literally making parties on the streets.

To conclude my experience, I can say that it was one of the best in my life and if you will decide to make here an internship or study at university you will not regret it.

Thank you for your attention.

Na shledanou!

Photo gallery