About Prague: Summoning Travel Experts, Please Help?

Question

I'm a college sophmore and a first-time international traveler planning to head to Prague sometime next year. I've done quite a bit of research on the Czech Republic, but no information can take the place of actually, being there. Feedback please, if you will.
What technology is in use? (Are there computers? Internet access?) Can I use my credit card? Which [card] is most recommended? Or should I bring cash? If so, where should I go to get it exchanged? What's the legal system like? What offenses am I protected against? What might I do that could be considered an offense? What is the most prevalent language? Second most? Are there many English-speakers? How is the transportation system in comparison to US transit? What is considered impolite during dining? Is there a certain hand to eat with or an order in eating and drinking? What is considered unacceptable attire for women? (Jeans, T-shirts, hats...?) Is smelly stuff okay (i.e. lotions, perfumes)? Etc. Many, many thanx : )

Answer 1

The Czech Republic is quite modern, and you’ll have no problem finding an internet café. As for credit cards, most touristy places take them, but like the rest of Europe, people generally prefer cash. Don’t bring a lot of cash with you when you arrive, instead use your ATM card since you always get a better rate; you’ll have no trouble finding an ATM machine either.

I’m not especially familiar with the laws, except that you can drink at 18, but just be respectful, I doubt the Czech laws deviate far from those in other European countries. Last time I went to the Czech Republic they had dogs sniff through the train, so I’m guessing they’re really strict with drugs.

Czech/Slovak is the national language, after that I’d say it’s a tie between English and German. You probably won’t run into too much of a language barrier though since there’s a flood of British tourists in Prague, believe me, you’ll see…

Transportation in Prague is wonderful, easily on par with NYC or Boston. There is an easy to use subway, a tram network and busses. You won’t have any trouble getting around. It’s dirt cheap too, just make sure you have a ticket before getting on the subway, since the entry system is based on “honor,” and the controllers love to bust and fine tourists who forgot to buy one.

I don’t think the Czech eating manners are really different than those in the US, except for the whole switching knife and fork thing, which they don’t do. But who really cares about that?

As for acceptable clothing, lotions, perfumes etc….it’s all just like in the US, in fact, I’d say Czech girls are even more fashion conscious….you’ll see tons of people wearing shirts with random things written on them in English.

Best of luck on your trip!

Answer 2

All 3 are great places. An charm for London is that each and every thing is in English. London and Munich are extra costly than Prague. while you're vacationing by way of practice then Prague could be farther away (shuttle time reduces your bypass to time).