|
Regional info
Czech Republic The Czech Republic is one of the most recent independent European countries. It split from its neighbour Slovakia in 1993 when there was a fall of the Soviet influence in Eastern Europe. Although two separate countries, the Czech national flag has remained the same as it was before the split, which illustrates the economic power of the Czech Republic over its neighbour. The economic prosperity also led to it joining the European Union in 2004. The Czech Republic has had a vast cultural history for many centuries, producing many famous composers like Smetana and Dvořác, and writers such as Franz Kafka. However, the country was not really popular with tourists from western Europe for many years. This changed when the Czech Republic promoted itself as a profitable alternative to nature lovers and mountain ramblers and the capital city of Prague has become a popular city trip. Other large cities include Brno, which is also known for its motor racing circuit and Pilsen, situated close to the German border and known for its excellent beer. Prague still remains the most popular tourist attraction as many people consider it one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. The whole area of the historic centre is on the World Heritage list.
|
|
Typical Czech RepublicThe Czech automobile factory Skoda was a leading brand in technical innovation between the two world wars. 1894 the two founders Laurin and Klement started a small bicycle works in Mladá Boleslav. Soon, the first motor cycle was constructed, and in 1901 came the first car. Skoda was one of the world's top brands for years, and 1908 they managed to set a world speed record of around 119 km/h, a unique speed in those days. Even the Japanese emperor ordered a Skoda for his own. Today it is still one of the four oldest remaining car factories in the world, though it is now part of the German VW works.
|
In Prague you definitely must go into the old city centre. See the old town hall, the astronomical clockwork, the Karels bridge over river Vltava (Moldau) with its artists stalls, the old Jewish area and the 'golden alley' with Franz Kafka's house of birth. In West Bohemia close to the German border you will see beautiful traditional health resorts (including casino) but also great nature. Another wandering tip: the Giant Mountains in the north section of the country.
|
|
|
Nederland
Ireland
België
Italia
Magyarország
Danmark
Österreich
Deutschland
Polska
France
United Kingdom
