Prague Beckons

After a long drive from home, spanning over 1000 miles, we finally arrived in the Czech Republic. Our journey began with a refreshing stop in Plzeň, where we indulged in a quick swim at the local pool, Na Slovanech. The warm showers were a welcome relief after the road, preparing us for our next leg to Prague.

Our first stop in Prague was to sort out Dana's Czech ID, a necessary administrative task that took us to the city centre. Dana was thrilled to introduce Bryan to her father, a heartwarming moment filled with smiles and stories. Joined by Katja and Adam, our group ventured into Prague's bustling centre. While Dana and Katja explored the shops, Bryan and Adam savoured delicious ice cream at Ice Cream Světozor.

Ice Cream Světozor: A Sweet Treat in Prague

Ice Cream Světozor, situated in the heart of Prague, is a delightful spot for anyone with a sweet tooth. Known for its creamy, rich texture and high-quality ingredients, this parlour offers an array of flavours from classic vanilla to adventurous options like lavender or pistachio. The parlour’s modern, minimalist design creates a welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal break while exploring the city. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious treat amidst Prague’s vibrant streets.

After our ice cream indulgence, we took a leisurely walk around the Old Town Square with Katja and Adam. The highlight of our stroll was the renowned Astronomical Clock.

The Astronomical Clock: Prague’s Timeless Treasure

The Astronomical Clock, or Prague Orloj, is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Installed in the Old Town Hall in 1410, it’s the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world and the oldest one still operational. The clock’s intricate design includes a dial that displays the position of celestial bodies, a calendar with the signs of the zodiac, and a series of mechanical figures that perform at the top of each hour.

Every hour, the clock puts on a show: the figures of the Twelve Apostles appear in the windows above the clock face, while other moving figures, including Death (represented by a skeleton), ring a bell. This hourly spectacle draws crowds who gather to witness the mechanical figures in action and admire the clock’s historical craftsmanship. The clock’s beauty and complexity are a testament to medieval engineering and artistry, making it a must-see for visitors to Prague.

The evening unfolded with visits to local pubs, where we enjoyed the lively atmosphere before heading to Kmotra, an old pizza restaurant situated in historic vaults.

Kmotra: A Historic Pizza Experience

Kmotra is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience steeped in Prague’s rich history. Located in the atmospheric cellars of an old building in Prague’s Old Town, the restaurant’s warm and inviting décor complements its centuries-old architecture. Known for its exceptional pizzas, Kmotra offers a menu that ranges from classic Margherita to inventive creations, all prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The thin, crisp crust and generously layered toppings make each pizza a flavourful delight. Dining here is as much about the setting as it is about the food, with the historic vaults providing a unique backdrop that enhances the overall experience.

Day 2: Practicalities and Pleasures

The second day began with practical errands, picking up Dana's Czech ID and ensuring our pets, Poppy, Lola, and Douglas, were ready for travel with updated vaccinations and passports. The affordability of Czech vet services pleasantly surprised us, a stark contrast to UK prices. This meant we could travel with our beloved pets hassle-free across Europe, saving significant costs each trip.

After tying up these loose ends, we treated ourselves to a visit to Westfield shopping centre, where we enjoyed a leisurely breakfast and printed cherished photos for Dana's father's wall. In the evening, we met Dana's brother, Pavel, for a delightful meal at a local Chinese restaurant, enjoying good food and catching up on family news.

Our time in Prague has been a blend of administrative tasks, heartwarming reunions, culinary delights, and cultural exploration. As we continue our journey through the Czech Republic, we look forward to uncovering more hidden gems and creating lasting memories with family and friends.

Stay tuned for more adventures from our Czech escapade!