So many people tell me to go to Prague? If anyone has gone there, let me know what you think? <BR> <BR>Paul <BR>

Paul---- Prague is an absolutely breathtaking city. I have mentioned this before, but to me what makes Prague so unique is that, since it was not heavily bombarded during WWII, it has outstanding representations of every architectural period, including medieval structures, romanesque towers, gothic spirals, baroque facades, and renaissance buildings all very well preserved. The city is like a time machine. Charles Bridge, the main square, their astronomical clock and the town hall are all amazing sights. Tough to describe. <BR> <BR>One thing that does detract from all these are the signs of pollution (coal burning, car fuel) over most of the statues and buildings. <BR> <BR>I have to say, having been to Paris, and just about every other major European capital city, Prague takes them all.

Paul, I've noticed at least two other postings from you in the last day, so I gather you are trying to find the best places to go in Europe. Is it your first trip? <BR> <BR>Prague is truly wonderous. Before I went last fall, I too wondered what all the fuss was about. And now I know. What Maira said is true, and I personally prefer Prague to Paris. But you will find the opinions differ widely so what you need to do is go experience and learn what you yourself love best. <BR> <BR>Also, don't try to do it all in one trip. Presume that there will be other trips to follow. <BR> <BR>A word of caution. Prague is overwhelmed with tourists in the summer. That hurts the experience. Of course all of Europe is, but some places more than others.

I went to Prague around 1990. We stayed with friends who stay in our home when they visit the US so I think I had an advantage in that everywhere I wanted to go, I had several "locals" to assist me. I think the city is wonderful. In 1990, there were no McDonalds-type of foreign influences, although they were getting a Dior Boutique and the locals were just getting into capitalism as the Russians were leaving. There is an obvious mix of Russian-style monuments (very stern and geometric, almost) and tons of lovely Art Nouveau to see in both artecture and monuments. Just walk the city...there everywhere yuo look. Watch for "scrafito" on bldgs., Nouveau, even the subway is interesting. There is good food at the Ministry of Culture; get a car and drive through the countryside to see Lednice and Valtice and the Lake District. Go see the old Jewish Section with it's antique shops and memorial museum. And speaking of Museums, go to the Industrial Museum ...the Bleriot IX is there, along with 2 Bugattis, and a 30s Mercedes Racer, trains, you name it! Go to Moser, the lovely glass mfgr....the Czechs are famous for their glassware. Someone mentioned the Charles Bridge...how 'bout the Alchemists Alley and the Castle? Go see the old brewrey U Flecu (14th Century) and have some wonderful beer. I can't say enough about the town. I get tired of some cities but Prague seems underrated. They know that tourism brings revenues to the city and they are trying to be more friendly...don't forget that they used to be more utilitarian and now they must change their skills to run service industries, something they haven't had. Now if they aren't full they don't get paid. Its an adjustment for them.

Prague is a beautiful city &, since it was not damaged in WWII, the architecture is most interesting. The Charles Bridge at night is a must see & very romantic. The above posters have offered good advice. The prices are very reasonable, particularly if you go off season. It is a definite see. The people are friendly, the food good & day trips interesting.

Paul, some of the folks recommending Prague to you may just be responding to increased media attention the last few yearrs, but itIS a wonderful place. Until I visited there Paris was my favorite city in Europe; now I have two favorites. As previously mentioned, the fact that Hitler shielded Prague from bombing during WWII saved a fabulous architectural showplace, and the experiences of daily life that accompany it. One caveat: due to increasing popularity, things have become more expensive, but it is still a major bargain. Eschew the same old coookie-cutter chain hotels (except maybe Ibis) and you'll save bundles. Food is still a bargain. Enjoy!

I live part-time in Prague and have travelled around. In short, it is a breathtaking city, e.g. Tyn Cathedral lit up at night in the Old Town Square, the statues on the Charles Bridge with the Castle/St.Vitus Cathedral on the hill as a backdrop, etc. Also, because most of the site in the city are in Prague 1 and 2, it is extremely manageable purely by foot even though the Metro is great. Czech food probably doesn't rank high on most people's list (although I like it) but various cuisines/restaurants abound and crystal is fantastic from there. Whether it is good or not, since Cherie was last there, Western shops also abound, Pizza Hut/McD's to Hermes/Dior and during the spring/summer, it is teeming with people but you can still steal a roantic moment on the Bridge late at night.

Put me down as one who loves Prague. My favorite city is Paris because of its combination of beauty and variety, and I have not yet been to Italy, which has many of Europe's most beautiful cities. However, I have seen many other major European cities, and Prague rates right between Paris and Vienna for me in regards to beautiful architecture. Prague will amaze you at every corner. Going between the major sites of Prague is just as fun as getting there. As much as I love the Eiffel tower at night and the view of Notre-Dame from the Left Bank, nothing in Paris surpasses the breathtaking view of Prague Castle from across the Vltava River. One bit of advice: see Charles Bridge early or late for the best magic - it can be a very crowded area during much of the day (the same goes for the castle).