There are too many adjectives that could be used to describe this city. I believe I found one of the best kept secrets in Europe, and let me tell you I am taking full advantage of it. I truly feel like Anthony Bourdain from 'No Reservations' on the Travel Channel. I am constantly trying exotic and unique cuisines, meeting local's within the community, and working my way from place to place exploring this vast city in Central Europe. As I sit in Cafe Louvre, where various prominent figures such as Albert Einstein, Franz Kafka, and Karel Capek visited before I wonder what things this city has in store for me. I could tell you dozens of things that have already happened or the various people I have come across but I'd rather tell you about some things I have noticed since I've arrived.
Listed below are some unique things I've noticed that you might not realize right away upon visiting the city. What I'm talking about are some customs that the people here do or just unique lifestyles that I am not used to. So here's a list of ten things that made me ponder:
1. They don't have dryers!!! After I wash my clothes I have to hang it up throughout my room or in the bathroom on a metal rack and air dry.
2. Many people own pets. Especially dogs. However, the majority of people that walk there dog everywhere are never wearing a leash. They just do there own thing but are still extremely aware and obedient to their master. I am sure that the owner's train their dogs themselves but one afternoon I walked to a neighborhood on the south side of Prague and there was a large dog training park. I believe it was available to the public but I did see someone teaching an owner and there pet various commands.
3. The beer here or (pivo) is cheap. Like really cheap. The average beer is 30-40 cent kc which is about a 1.50. Sometimes you can get beer for less. Especially at a grocery store. I got a bottle for 9 cent kc.
4. Liquor in general is cheap.
5. Everyone is very quiet. And humble. You can tell who the foreigners are; particularly Americans because they tend to be loud and obnoxious. Yes I am guilty but have been trying to blend in with everyone. I actually have been approached by many Czech's when I am on the tram or at any public transport and have been asked a few questions. So I would just smile, shake my head and apologize saying, "I am American, English."The Czech language is very similar to Polish and is very difficult to learn. I only know basic phrases and words but that's it. I am still in the process of learning some Czech with some lessons provided by the school.
6. People here are very affectionate. And sexuality is common and very open. You may walk around the city and see a couple passionately going at it, which is completely normal. Sex in general is very public and isn't hidden as advertisements are everywhere for cabaret's among other things.
7. They are very conservative with the use of electricity and energy in general. And keep few lights on.
8. Everyone recycles, and are particular with disposing them. There are receptacles everywhere around the city. And many 'waste management' workers go around and sweep or clean up the city everyday.
9. Clubs are open late. Really late. You also normally see people drinking in public and on the streets or trams as the policie just stand by and serve and protect the people. In America they scare and intimidate. They're actually very friendly and are primarily making sure no harm is brought upon anyone. Other than that they normally just stand there and people watch.
10. I walk everywhere and if I need a ride I can use any metro, bus, or tram line. They are everywhere and go everywhere. The furthest you would have to walk would be only a couple hundred meters at most. I prefer walking but the public transportation is safe, efficient, and always on time.
That's just about it, and I could list more but I'm sure you get what I am trying to explain and share regarding customs and lifestyles. There is a big difference but not that big, which is why I think it's fascinating just seeing the human condition in motion. Just because I am from America truly doesn't make me much different than anyone else, I knew that already, obviously; but being thrown into a place that is unfamiliar and actually seeing it has definitely opened up my eyes more. With that I leave you again, as I have just wrapped up my first week of the program and have to prepare my first lesson that I teach on Monday.
Na Shledanou,
J.P.
