19.7.2009 - Bohemian Switzerland (“České Švýcarsko”) has become the first European Destination of Excellence in the Czech Republic.
Bohemian Switzerland became the first holder for the Czech Republic in history of the title EDEN (European Destinations of ExcelleNce). According to the verdict of a special jury, this very destination is best suited to develop tourism within the conditions of a protected natural area. Twenty-one destinations registered in the competition for the marketing brand EDEN, and in the finals the choice was between the tourist areas Králický Sněžník – Śnieżnik, the Orlické Mountains and Podorlicko region, as well as Bohemian Switzerland.
Bohemian Switzerland was the outright winner. “This destination is an exemplary model of how to successfully co-operate in developing the tourist industry in a protected area. That co-operation entails the participation of a non-profit organisation together with the national park’s management on the development project. Also unique are special eco-education projects for nursery and primary schools and walks with a certified guide, which should help to regulate tourist traffic in the region. Besides, a tourist will himself recognise here that the local people realise the importance of the tourist industry as a contribution to their region,” explains Rostislav Vondruška, Minister for Regional Development, about why the jury went with this selection.
The destination Bohemian Switzerland is located in the territory of the national park of the same name, which was declared in 2000. The region is characterised by its unique rock towns with various rock structures – gates, towers, walls and passes. This romantic landscape offers plenty of possibilities for bikers, rock-climbers and nature lovers. Together with the Saxon side of the region, the destination is now applying to be included on the UNESCO list.
The European Commission has promoted the EDEN competition since 2006 as part of a project focused on developing sustainable tourist industry. This year, the participants had the task to prepare a tourism product that would emphasise the uniqueness of the protected area and bring development to the entire community in accordance with the principle of sustainable development.
The sponsor of this year’s competition in the Czech Republic was the CzechTourism agency, which also organised the competition in co-operation with the Ministry for Regional Development. Twenty-one destinations submitted their projects. Besides the tourism products themselves, the jury also evaluated how communication with the representatives of the protected area proceeds, how developed the region’s infrastructure is (range of accommodation, information centres, and the like), and how well the local community and promoters are able to co-operate.
Euromonitor International, a leading market research organisation, issued its ranking of the Top City Destinations 2007 at the end of last year. It shows that Prague stood as the 19th most visited metropolis in the world and the 7th most visited city in Europe.
The unwavering first position in the European as well as worldwide competition belongs to London, with more than 15 million visitors. Despite its 10% decrease in the number of visitors year on year, Paris still ranks second in Europe. Rome maintained its third place, but Barcelona is coming closer to it each year.
Besides London, only the Asian metropolises Hong Kong, Bangkok and Singapore passed the 10 million mark for foreign visitors.
Euromonitor International, международная исследовательская организация, лидер глобального рыночного анализа, опубликовала в конце прошлого года итоги рейтинга «Top City Destinations-2007». По данным этой организации Прага занимает 19 место среди самых посещаемых городов мира, среди городов Европы – седьмое.
Euromonitor International, международная исследовательская организация, лидер глобального рыночного анализа, опубликовала в конце прошлого года итоги рейтинга «Top City Destinations-2007». По данным этой организации Прага занимает 19 место среди самых посещаемых городов мира, среди городов Европы – седьмое. Стабильная первая позиция в европейской и всемирной конкуренциипринадлежит Лондону сего 15-ю миллионамигостей. Второе место в рамках Европы, и несмотря на 10% среднегодовой спад посетителей, занимает Париж. Третье место держит Рим, к которому с каждым годом все теснее приближается Барселона.
Кроме Лондона на границу свыше 10 милионов иностранных туристов вышли и три азиатские метрополии - Гонконг, Бангкок и Сингапур.
Aria Hotel Prague is, according to the travel server Tripadvisor, the most luxurious hotel in the world. Aria prides itself on its unique concept, which connects the historic locality of Malá Strana (“Lesser Quarter”) with music. Each floor of the hotel is set to a different beat, thus allowing guests to choose whether they wish to be surrounded by jazz, opera, classical or contemporary music.
Italian architects Rocco Magnoli and Lorenzo Carmellini, known especially for their co‑operation with Gianni Versace, inspired the interior of the most luxurious hotel in Europe and the world. Guests have access to a music and DVD library and in-room entertainment equipment including a CD/DVD player, computer with internet access and an iPod. Guests also may conveniently visit the Baroque Vrtbovska Garden whenever they wish.
In the Traveller’s Choice 2009 opinion poll, other Czech hotels scored as well: Ventana Hotel, Hotel le Palais, The Icon Hotel and the hotel U Zlaté Studně (“At the Golden Well”), the last of which was awarded third place in the “Hidden Treasures” category.
По данным туристического сервера Tripadvisor пражский отель «Aria» стал самым престижным в мире в категории «люкс». В концепции отеля проявилось сочетание романтической атмосферы пражского квартала Мала Страна и такого волшебного вида искусства, как музыка. Каждый этаж отеля «звучит» по-разному и гости сами выбирают, каким музыкальным стилем «озвучить» свое пребывание – джазом, оперой, классической или современной музыкой.
Интерьер самого роскошного отеля Европы и мира создали итальянские архитекторы Рокко Магноли и Лоренцо Кармеллини, известные прежде всего своей совместной работой с Джанни Версачи. К услугам гостей музыкальная и DVD библиотека, CD/DVD проигрыватели в номере, компьютер с Интернетом и iPod. Прямо из отеля гости могут спуститься в изысканный Вртбовский сад в стиле барокко.
В анкете Traveler´s Choice-2009 оценивались и некоторые другие чешские отели: Ventana Hotel, Hotel le Palais, The Icon Hotel и отель U Zlaté Studně («У Золотого колодца»), который был назван третьим лучшим отелем в категории «скрытые сокровища».
How can one briefly describe a city with architecture and history a thousand years old, a city associated with the significant personalities and history of the Czech state, a city whose beauty has amazed its visitors since the Middle Ages? Prague is a magical, golden city of cobbled streets and a hundred spires, but, most importantly, a city that is always amazing and original. Once, you will notice the details on a historic gateway; the next time, you will discover the ornamentation on the facade of a Baroque house; and still the next how in an instant the setting sun transforms the skyline of monuments into a fairy-tale scene… Welcome to Prague, the city of everyday wonders!
Why is Prague so unique?
Aside from the poetic attributes, its comparison to a European textbook of architectural styles most describes the singularity of Prague. A riveting textbook, indeed, as the main roles here are played by Romanesque rotundas, Gothic steeples and cathedrals, Renaissance mansions and palaces, Jewish synagogues, Baroque churches and cloisters, and Cubist and Secessionist monuments. All this in the 866 hectares of the Historic Centre of Prague, entered in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1992.¨
Prague in a day, or the best of Prague on the Royal Tour
Should you have the misfortune of being in Prague for only a day, waste no time but set out at once to discover the most famous monuments along the so-called Royal Tour. This pleasant walk around the city centre begins in front of the Municipal House. Without question the most spectacular and most beloved Prague Secessionist building, it is also a well-known concert and exhibition space. After passing through the Powder Gate, a surprise awaits: certainly you are familiar with Cubist paintings, but what about Cubist buildings? One of the first examples of Cubist architecture in the world is the House of the Black Madonna, where you will find an exhibition on Czech Cubism. Continue walking down Celetná Street, with its historic palaces, and at the end the fairy-tale scene that is the Old Town Square will spread out before you. Here, in the Middle Ages, celebrated tournaments were held. Here, 27 Czech Lords were beheaded during the Thirty Years’ War. Here, in 1948, people listened to the report on the establishment of the first communist government. Here, history was written. Today, tourists come to the square to see the Gothic Týn Church and, even more so, the Old Town Hall with the renowned astronomical clock. Wait until the top of the hour for the procession of Apostles before continuing on. Karlova Street will lead you safely to Charles Bridge. One of the symbols of Prague, it has connected the banks of the Vltava since 1357. In the 18th century, the leading masters of the time decorated the bridge with their sculptural works. You could spend a considerable time at each sculpture just admiring the work. Don’t forget to make a wish at the statue of the Czech Saint John of Nepomuk. When you place your hand on the brass cross so that every finger covers one of the stars, then your wish will come true! Enjoy the view of the river as you cross over to Malá Strana, or Lesser Town. On Nerudova Street, pay close attention to the poetic house emblems (House of the Three Fiddles, House of the Two Suns). At Hradčany Square, watch the changing of the castle guard, then enter into the courtyard of the largest castle complex in the world, Prague Castle. Here, if you have not already, you will regret that you do not have more time, as ahead awaits a visit to the monumental Gothic St. Vitus, St. Wenceslas and St. Adalbert Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace and the Golden Lane with its side by side houses…
Prague, at the crossroads of cultures
Still in the first half of the last century, Prague was a place where three cultures blossomed side by side and significantly influenced one another: Czech, German and Jewish. Franz Kafka, as a Jewish-German-Czech author, is the most prominent example of their interconnection, though in his own time not so unusual. The Second World War finally brought to an end several centuries of enduring (though not always peaceful) coexistence. Go for a tour of the old Jewish Quarter and try to imagine the ghetto that arose here back in the Middle Ages. A key landmark of the area was the Old New Synagogue from the 13th century, one of the longest continually used synagogues in Europe. The Spanish Synagogue, built in the Spanish Moorish style popular in the 19th century, evokes a considerably more recent time. In the area of Prague, still more synagogues (e.g. the Jubilee Synagogue – the only one in the world decorated in the Viennese Secessionist style) and Jewish cemeteries can be found.
Prague cultural marathon
If you are going to Prague with someone who enjoys going to museums, galleries and concerts, prepare yourself for a proper cultural marathon. Of the hundreds of galleries, the following are not to be missed: the modern Czech and international art at the Rudolfinum, the representative collection of Czech art from the Romanesque period up to the present day at the National Gallery, and the exclusive exhibition premises of the City Gallery Prague. Classical composers such as Dvořák, Janáček and Smetana have played an important role in the immortality of Czech music, and now you can hear their works in their homeland. The Rudolfinum, Municipal House, The Estates Theatre and the State Opera all feature beautiful music halls. Theatre lovers need not fear the language barrier either. The unique concept of the black light theatre offers performances that combine film, dance and pantomime.
Prague by day and night
Sightseeing by day, entertainment by night. Wenceslas Square and its adjacent streets transform at night into an animated thoroughfare with dozens of restaurants and bars. Jazz clubs and music bars in the Old Town often are located in historic premises and thus amaze their guests with the unusual contrasts of old and modern. Vinohrady recently has also become a favourite destination for entertainment, with excellent restaurants and G&L clubs. Those who opted for more inexpensive accommodations in Žižkov certainly will not be sorry. This section of the city is famous for its number of restaurants and pubs.
Prague the festive
After years of absence, carnival festivity reminiscent of the old carnival tradition has returned to Prague with the festival Bohemian Carnevale. The following music festivals form a relay of music events during the year: Prague Spring, Prague Proms, Strings of Autumn, as well as Easter and Christmas festivals… The festival United Islands presents enjoyable music and atmosphere on the Prague islands, while the International Jazz Festival Prague has an already more than thirty year tradition. Thanks to some distinctive cinemas (Světozor, Aero, Lucerna), treats of world cinematography omitted from standard distribution also are available for film enthusiasts. The Prague Food Festival and Czech Beer Festival once again are dishing up gastronomic delicacies, while the races of the Prague International Marathon comprise the number-one sporting event.
Prague the modern
To design a building in competition with so many architectural styles is not simple, and thus in the centre you will encounter modern buildings only rarely. Thus, the construction boom took place just outside the centre, where new business centres and large shopping malls arose. For the meantime, prominent buildings by Jean Nouvel (Anděl) and Frank Gehry (The Dancing Building) represent more the courage of private investors than of the municipality. Thus, in the heart of the city, contemporary art is left to evoke the modern period. The works of Czech artist David Černý, who shocked Europe upon the inauguration of the Czech presidency of the EU with his sculpture Entropa, already have become a part of tourist guidebooks. The babies climbing the concrete structure of the Žižkov TV tower, the upside down horse in the arcade at Lucerna and the bronze men peeing messages on Kampa island, however, already were among sought-after sights.
Where to stay, where to eat?
Nowhere else in the Czech Republic will you have such a selection of hotels and restaurants as in Prague. Here, luxury hotels of such renowned names as Four Seasons, Hilton, Sheraton, Mandarin Oriental and Kempinski are represented, and there are hundreds of other five, four and three star hotels and pensions. For gourmets, a mark of quality is the first Michelin star in Central Europe, which was awarded to the Prague restaurant Allegro. Other restaurants, featuring the cooking of Czech and foreign chefs, also endeavour to increase the prestige of Czech gastronomy.
Where to go for shopping?
Shopping in Prague is wonderfully simple. On Wenceslaus Square and the adjacent street Na Příkopě are located well known international fashion labels, while Pařížská Street is home to luxury boutiques. Large shopping centres offering everything from food to furniture under one roof can be reached by metro. If, however, you are pining for something original and already have Czech jewellery, crystal or wooden toys from previous visits, focus on Czech fashion and design. In the city centre, have a look around the boutiques of Czech fashion designers at the Czech Fashion Centre. Remarkable design pieces can be purchased in stores such as Kubista and Futurista.
Discover less well known monuments
Sometimes taking a tram a few minutes from the centre is enough to discover a different Prague. Vyšehrad, the original seat of the Bohemian princes, for example, is a mythic and storied place. The Church of St. Peter and Paul with its rich Secessionist decoration, the Romanesque Rotunda of St. Martin, the casemates (narrow underground passages built by the French armada in the 18th century) and a walk around the Vyšehrad gardens present a pleasantly spent afternoon. You can indulge yourself in a similar programme in the quiet neighbourhood of Prague 6. First, admire the details of the reconstructed functionalist Villa Müller designed by Adolf Loos, then take the tram to the final stop at the Hvězda preserve and after a visit to the Renaissance Hvězda summer palace go for a walk in the area surrounding the Břevnov monastery. For an all day trip, set out for Trója. There you will find art and architecture in a gorgeous Baroque chateau, exotic plants in the tropical greenhouse of the Botanic Garden and the second most visited tourist destination in the country – the Prague Zoo. Forget about public ground transportation and take a trip on a steamer! In the season, it goes from the centre all the way to the zoo. Among the newly opened monuments is the chateau Ctěnice – originally a fortress, which centuries of renovations changed into a chateau and then into a noble estate.
Prague from all angles
Where are familiar pictures of Prague taken from? You will capture the Prague bridges best from Letná Park, while you will discover a beautiful view of the Old Town at Prague Castle as well as at the top of Prague’s little Eiffel Tower – the Petřín lookout tower. From the Žižkov television tower, during good visibility, you can see to a distance of up to 100 km, while Vyšehrad also offers beautiful views. You can splendidly capture how the silhouette of the Castle changes on the surface of the Vltava from the deck of a steamer or ferry. Quite unusual, you can also photograph Prague from below during a visit to the underground tunnel network.
When to go?
According to statistics, most people come to Prague in the summer. Spring and autumn, however, can be just as charming – and without the crowds. During Easter and Christmas, moreover, the city becomes festive, and thus, thanks to the popular markets and cultural programmes on the city’s squares, a quite different atmosphere is created.
What to watch out for in Prague
As in other large cities, a risk for tourists in Prague lurks in the form of pickpockets, who will want to take advantage of confusing situations for their enrichment. Because the Czech Republic is not yet a part of the euro zone, a little caution is also in order when exchanging money. Just be sure to verify the final sum of an exchange, including fees, before hand. It will be some time yet before the label “Prague cabby” sheds its negative connotation, but the situation here has improved: Thanks to the informational campaign Taxi Fair Place and more frequent audits, the number of complaints about crooks behind the wheel has been significantly reduced.
Как коротко описать город с тысячелетней архитектурой и историей, город, связанный со знаменитыми именами и событиями чешского государства, город, красота которого поражала гостей еще в Средневековье? Прага магическая, каменная, стобашенная и золотая, а, главное, каждый раз -иная. Однажды вы заметите вдруг деталь на старинном портале, в другой раз вас поразит изысканное украшение барочного фасада... А затем, внезапно, заходящее солнце превратит городские силуэты в сказочную сценическую декорацию… Приветствуем вас в Праге, городе ежедневных удивительных превращений!
Чем же Прага так уникальна?
Восторженные туристы наградили Прагу множеством прекрасных эпитетов, но уникальность чешской метрополии, пожалуй, более всего выражает ее сравнение с учебником европейских архитектурных стилей. Увлекательнейший учебник! Потому что главными персонажами здесь романские ротонды, готические башни и кафедральные соборы, ренессансные дворцы знати, еврейские синагоги, барочные костелы и монастыри, памятники в стиле кубизма и сецессии. И все это на 866 гектарах Пражского архитектурно-исторического заповедника, который в 1992 году целиком был включен в Перечень памятников всемирного культурного и природного наследия ЮНЕСКО.
Прага за один день, или Самое интересное на пражском Королевском пути
Что делать, если вы оказались в Праге всего на один день? Жалко, конечно, но не теряйте времени и отправляйтесь смотреть самые знаменитые достопримечательности на так называемом Королевском пути. Приятную прогулку по центру города начните перед Муниципальным домом (Obecní dům). Это, бесспорно, самое роскошное и дорогое пражское здание в стиле сецессии или арт деко и оно является также известным концертным залом и выставочной галереей. Вступив через готические Пороховые ворота (Prašná brána) в древний город, вы останавливаетесь с удивлением: живопись в стиле кубизма – это понятно, но кубистские дома?... Одним из первых примеров архитектуры кубизма в мире является пражский дом У Черной Богоматери (U Černé Matky Boží), здесь сейчас находится экспозиция чешского кубизма. Пройдите по улице Целетна с ее старинными дворцами в ее конце перед вами откроются сказочные декорации Староместской площади. Здесь в Средневековье проходили рыцарские турниры. Здесь были казнены 27 представителей чешских сословий во время Тридцатилетней войны. Здесь горожане услышали известие об учреждении первого правительства коммунистов в 1948 году. Да, здесь писáлась история. Сегодня на площади туристы любуются сказочным готическим Тынским храмом. Но прежде всего Староместская ратуша со знаменитым часами-курантами - орлоем. Подождите выхода апостолов, это происходит каждый час, и отправляйтесь дальше. Карлова улица приведет вас прямо к Карлову мосту. Мост, один из символов Праги, соединяет берега реки Влтавы уже с 1357 года. В XVIII столетии мост украсили своими творениями лучшие скульпторы своего времени. Перед каждой скульптурой можно стоять долго, а у статуи чешского святого Яна Непомуцкого не забудьте загадать желание. Если на месте, где он был сброшен с моста, вы положите руку на бронзовый крест так, чтобы каждый палец касался одной из звезд, то ваше желание сбудется наверняка! Полюбуйтесь видом на реку и перейдите на Малую Страну. На Нерудовой улице со всех домов на вас будут смотреть старинные домовые знаки (дома У Трех скрипочек, У Двух солнц). На Градчанской площади надо непременно увидеть смену караула, а затем через внутренний двор вступить в самый большой в мире исторический замковый комплекс - Пражский Град (Pražský hrad). Теперь самое время пожалеть о том, что времени у вас осталось совсем немного: перед вами предстанут архитектурные и исторические сокровища – монументальный готический кафедральный собор святого Вита, Вацлава и Войтеха, Старый Королевский дворец, Золотая уличка с разноцветными как-будто игрушечными домиками…
Прага на перекрестке культур
Еще в первой половине прошлого века Прага была местом, где рядом развивались и взаимно влияли друг на друга три культуры: чешская, немецкая и еврейская. Франц Кафка, еврейско-немецко-чешский писатель, является самым известным примером взаимосвязанности этих культур, что для своего времени, отнюдь, не было ничем исключительным. Несколько столетий такого сосуществования (и не всегда, причем, мирного) окончательно и бесповоротно окончила Вторая мировая война. Посетите старый Еврейский город и попробуйте представить себе гетто, которое возникло здесь уже в Средневековье. Его частью была и Староновая синагога с ХIII столетия, одна из наиболее древних постоянно действующих синагог в Европе. Значительно более позднее время представляет Испанская синагога, построенная в испанском мавританском стиле, характерным для XIX столетия. На территории Праги находятся и другие синагоги (например, Юбилейная – единственная в мире, оформленная в стиле венской сецессии) и несколько клaдбищ.
Пражский культурный марафон
Если вы приехали в Прагу не один, а с партнром, который любит ходить в музеи, галереи и на концерты, будьте готовы: вас ждет интенсивный культурный марафон. Из сотни различных галерей выбрать непросто, поэтому выбирайте главное: современное чешское и зарубежное искусство представляет Рудольфинум, богатый культурно-исторический срез чешского искусства от эпохи романской и до наших дней демонстрирует Национальная галерея (Národní galerie), эксклюзивными выставочными помещениями располагает Пражская столичная галерея (Galerie hlavního města Prahy). Наши великие классики - Дворжак, Яначек, Сметана - прославили чешскую музыку, и вы можете насладиться ею здесь, на их родине. Изумительной красоты залы находятся во дворце Рудольфинум, Муниципальном доме, Ставовском (Сословном) театре и в здании Государственной оперы. Кстати, театралов не смогут остановить так называемые языковые барьеры. Уникальная концепция «черного» театра делает доступным содержание спектакля зрителям всех национальностей, потому что средствами выражения здесь являются кино, танец, музыка, пантомима и различные технические чудеса.
Прага днем и ночью
Днем – достопримечательности, вечером – развлечения. В оживленную артерию азарта и удовольствий превращается ночью Вацлавская площадь и прилегающие к ней улицы с десятками ресторанов и баров. Джаз-клубы и мюзик-бары в Старом Городе часто находятся в подлинных исторических помещениях и гости могут насладиться необычными контрастами – древности и современности. Популярным адресом для развлечений недавно стал также и пражский район Винограды со своими превосходными ресторанами и G&L клубами. Те, кто предпочли недорогое проживание в районе пражского Жижкова, определенно не будут сожалеть: ресторанчиков, пивнушек, трактиров здесь множество превеликое.
Прага фестивальная
С фестивалем Bohemian Carnevale вернулись в Прагу спустя много лет веселые гулянья Масленицы, припоминающие старинные карнавальные традиции. Или музыкальные фестивали... Один сменяет другой в течение всего года, словно передает эстафету: «Пражская весна» (Pražské jaro), Prague Proms, «Струны осени» (Struny podzimu), пасхальные и рождественские фестивали… Отличное настроение и супер музыку приносит на пражские острова фестиваль «Объединенные острова» (United Islands), более чем тридцатилетнюю традицию имеет уже Международный джазовый фестиваль в Праге. Благодаря специализированным кинотеатрам («Светозор», «Аэро», «Люцерна») ценители кино могут видеть и лучшие фильмы мировой кинематографии, которые не попадают на массовые экраны. Деликатесы же гастрономического характера сервируются на Prague Food Festival или Чешском пивном фестивале. Спортивным событием №1, бесспорно, считаются забеги Пражского международного марафона.
Прага современная
Проектировать новую архитектуру, имея под боком такую конкуренцию со стороны предков, задача не из легких, а поэтому в центре на современные здания набредете не часто. Строительный бум немного отодвинулся от центра, и там выросли новые бизнес-центры и большие торговые галереи. Такие знаменитые здания, как у метро «Андел», построенные Жаном Новелем или Танцующий дом Фрэнка Гери, отражают скорее лишь отвагу частных инвесторов, чем усилия пражского магистрата. Наше время припоминает в сердце города сегодняшнее искусство. В туристических путеводителях и брошюрах уже прочно поселилось имя чешского скульптора Давида Черного, который по случаю начала председательства Чешской Республики в Евросоюзе шокировал мировую общественность изображением объединенный Европы инсталляцией Entropа. Его младенцы, ползущие по бетонной конструкции Жижковской телебашни, перевернутый вверх ногами конь в пассаже Люцерна или бронзовые мужчины, совершающие малую нужду на острове Кампа, уже давно радуют туристов.
Где переночевать, где поесть?
Нигде в Чехии нет больше такого огромного выбора отелей и ресторанов, как в Праге. Отели класса люкс с такими звучными названиями, как «Фор сизнс», «Хилтон», «Шератон», «Мандарин Ориентал» или «Кемпински», представлены здесь также, как и сотни других пяти-, четырех – и трехзвездочных отелей и пансионов. Для гурманов знаком качества чешской гастрономии может быть тот факт, что первая мишленовская звездочка в Восточной Европе была присуждена пражскому ресторану «Аллегро». Над ростом своего реноме работают также многие другие рестораны, в которых чудеса кулинарии творят чешские и зарубежные шеф-повара.
Куда за покупками?
В этом плане любителей шоппинга ждет в Праге одно сплошное удовольствие. На Вацлавской площади и прилегающей улице На Пршикопе сверкают окнами магазины всемирно известных фирм. Парижская улица – это адреса эксклюзивных бутиков. У остановок метро находятся большие торговые комплексы, где под одной крышей вы купите все, начиная от бутерброда и кончая мебельным гарнитуром. Если же вам хочется чего-нибудь оригинального, а чешскую бижутерию, хрусталь или деревянные игрушки вы купили еще в прошлый раз, то нацельтесь, например, на чешскую моду и дизайн. В центре города зайдите в бутики чешских модельеров, объединенных в Чешский центр моды (Сzech Fashion Centre). Предметы оригинального дизайна можно купить в магазинах Kubista или Futurista.
Откройте для себя и менее известные достопримечательности
Иногда достаточно проехать несколько остановок на трамвае от центра и через пять минут вы обнаружите совсем другую Прагу. Место, овеянное легендами и сказаниями – это подлинные места, где жили первые чешские князья на холме Вышеград. Костел святых Петра и Павла с богатым оформлением в стиле сецессии, романская ротонда святого Мартина, казематы (узкие подземные коридоры, проложенные французской армией в XVIII столетии) или прогулка по вышеградским паркам с прекрасными видами на Прагу – все это ждет вас всего в 5 минутах езды на метро от Вацлавской площади. Подобную познавательную программу на полдня вы можете осуществить и в тихом и спокойном месте в Праге 6. Начать можно с посещения тщательно отреставрированной функционалистической виллы, построенной венским архитектором Адольфом Лоосом, которую называют еще и Мюллерова вилла. Затем посетить расположенную недалеко отсюда на конечной остановке трамвая заказник Гвезда (Hvězda) с небольшим летним охотничьим замком, построенным в стиле Ренессанс в форме звезды – летоградек Гвезда. Завершить день можно прогулкой в окрестностях Бржевновского монастыря. Прогулку, которая займет у вас целый день, можно начать в пражском районе Троя. Искусство и архитектура в прекрасном барочном замке, экзотические растения в тропической оранжерее ботанического сада или самый посещаемый в Чехии туристический объект – Пражский зоопарк. Забудьте про городской транспорт и приплывайте сюда пароходом! Во время туристического сезона он ходит сюда прямо от центра города. К недавно открытым для посещения объектам относится и замок Цтенице (Сtěnice), первоначальная крепость, которую столетиями проводимые перестройки превратили в замок, а затем в дворянскую усадьбу.
Прага со всех ракурсов
Откуда делаются самые лучшие фотографии Праги? Пражские мосты, например, лучше всего «схватить» из парка на холме Летна, неповторимые виды Старого Города откроются вам с балюстрады на Пражском Граде или с вершины пражской «Эйфелевки» – Петршинской обзорной башни. А если вам повезет с погодой, то при хорошей видимости можно обозревать окрестности и до 100 км с Жижковской телебашни. Широкие панорамы открываются и с Вышеграда. Как меняются силуэты Пражского Града лучше всего увидеть с палубы речного трамвайчика или парома. Весьма необычные виды Праги можно сделать внизу, из пражского подземного коллектора, где также проводятся экскурсии.
Когда в Прагу?
По статистике больше всего людей приезжает в Прагу летом. Однако же весна или осень ничуть не уступают ему в волшебстве, а к тому же улицы и музеи не переполнены огромными толпами народа. На время таких самых главных чешских праздников, как Рождество и Пасха, город переодевается в праздничный наряд, а благодаря ярмаркам и богатым культурным программам на улицах и площадях здесь создается совершенно незабываемая атмосфера.
О чем забывать не следует
Как и в других мировых туристических мегацентрах, в Праге также имеют место всякого рода карманники, мошенники и тому подобные персонажи, которые хотят обогатиться за ваш счет. Поскольку Чешская Республика еще не стала частью еврозоны, то есть не приняла евро, то необходима определенная осторожность при обмене валюты. Достаточно, например, сначала выяснить, какую сумму в кронах вам дадут «чистыми» деньгами и какова сумма комиссионных, если они есть. К сожалению, еще не настало то время, когда пражскому таксисту мы будем доверять, как самим себе, а поэтому здесь тоже не будут лишними информированность и осторожность. Однако же здесь ситуация обещает измениться к лучшему: благодаря рекламной кампании Taxi Fair Place и регулярным проверкам удалось значительно уменьшить количество жалоб на недобросовестность таксистов.
Prague 20.11.2008
Dear friends of the Czech Republic!
Once again this year, it seems that the last couple of weeks of the year will pass unimaginably fast. This time, try to slow down a bit and indulge with more time for yourself. In the Czech Republic, this can easily be achieved: whether at the Christmas markets, on a visit to festively decorated castles or chateaux, or to some of the many Advent concerts. And if you want to stay at home this Christmas, there is already another holiday on the way. On New Year’s Eve you can enjoy a party in the town, and after the New Year you can head for the mountains.
Illuminated streets and squares, the hustle and bustle of Christmas markets and the omnipresent sound of carols demonstrate to even the least enthusiastic supporter of national holidays that Christmas in the Czech Republic is one of the most beautiful times of the year. It’s a time when museums of all kinds as well as people in their own homes observe age-old traditions. Admiring an advent scene or listening to a concert in a church, a chateau or on a square are just some of these customs.
The last day of the year deserves something special. A boat cruise, a visit to the theatre or a tour of a castle, spectacular fireworks in the square, night-time skiing… Choose your celebration and spend a remarkable New Year’s Eve in the Czech Republic
Cultural New Year’s
New Year’s performances present a relaxed atmosphere and are enjoyed by spectators and performers alike. In Prague and elsewhere, you can visit the ballet, opera and black light theatre performances.
Black Light Theatre: performance of “The Wonderful Circus” at the theatre Laterna Magika (www.laterna.cz) or “The Best of Image” at Theatre Image (www.imagetheatre.cz)
Ballet: “The Nutcracker” at The National Theatre (www.nd.cz)
Opera: “The Gypsy Baron” at Janáček Theatre in Brno (www.ndbrno.cz) or a gala evening at the Prague State Opera (www.opera.cz)
Classical music: Prague – New Year’s Eve in the Rudolfinum (www.ceskafilharmonie.cz), Christmas concert at the Bertramka Villa (www.bertramka.cz), Český Krumlov – Christmas concerts (www.ckkrumlov.info.cz)
Prague New Year’s Eve programme at www.prague-info.cz
New Year’s Eve in a club or discothèque Almost every music club and discothèque in the Czech Republic is preparing a special New Year’s programme. Admission typically also includes a New Year’s menu including a toast. If you are looking for the place to be, head to Stodolní Street in Ostrava (www.stodolní.cz). On this street, which is said to never sleep, you will find dozens of clubs, bars and pubs.
New Year’s Eve on the water
Though it may be damp and cold, on a boat with a cup of hot grog in your hands the cold does not matter! In Prague, choose a short cruise on the Vltava (www.prazskebenatky.cz) or book an entire evening on the waves. Golfers, you will most enjoy an invitation on board the GolfYacht (www.golfyacht.cz), as the New Year’s Eve package also includes indoor golf!
New Year’s Eve in luxury
The capital is becoming a Mecca of luxury hotel brands. For example, in the newly opened hotel Kempinski (www.kempinski-prague.com), you can indulge in an elegant six-course dinner and private midnight fireworks in the hotel garden. The New Year’s Eve programme at the Chateau Mcely (www.chateaumcely.com) is presented in the style of the 1950s. This chateau hotel is the only five-star hotel outside of town, and you can look forward to a stylish evening in pleasant company. At the Zbiroh Castle, you are invited to a pilgrimage through history (www.zbiroh.com). In the company of magicians, dancers and jugglers, you will take a journey from the Middle Ages to the present day…
New Year’s Eve at castles and chateaus At Karlštejn (www.hradkarlstejn.cz), the most visited Czech castle, a special tour in the festively decorated interiors awaits you on the last day of the year. Pre-booked groups also may visit the chateau in Nelahozeves (www.zamek-nelahozeves.cz).
New Year’s Eve in the mountains
Whether in a cabin or a hotel, New Year’s Eve in the mountains is something most Czechs long for. If you prefer winter romance, do not hesitate to book your accommodation in the mountains of Bohemia or Moravia as soon as possible (www.holidayinfo.cz).
One of the most beautiful Bohemian castles is to provide a winter sightseeing tour for the first time in its history. Visitors will be able to visit nine rooms in Hluboká.
The tour will lead visitors through the private apartments of the last four generations of owners of the Hluboká estate. A collection of porcelain and a silver travelling service from the castle depositary are on display. In individual staterooms, one can see firearms, graphic works and oil paintings. Lovers of textiles will prize the castle’s collection of character woven tapestries from the first third of the 17th century. A rarity is also a flushing toilet from the beginning of the 20th century, located in the living room of the last owner, Dr. Adolf. His private rooms form the final part of the sightseeing tour.
These days, altering the way you look through surgery is commonplace. It’s quite safe to say that all you need is money, a good doctor and a bit of determination. Financing the operation and the skill of the surgeon are also factors when choosing the place you undergo the surgery. Many people are not afraid to travel abroad. Medical tourism has become a phenomenon of our time, and thanks to the superb reputation enjoyed by local cosmetic surgeons the Czech Republic is a force to be reckoned with, as far as foreign tourists are concerned, that is – Czechs, it would seem, are far more cautious, and at least for now prefer home-grown specialists.
‘According to a Forbes league table the Czech Republic is one of the top 10 international destinations for medical tourism for 2008. This country, and Prague in particular, is now a popular destination for reasonably priced plastic and cosmetic surgery,’ concludes Rostislav Vondruška, head of CzechTourism. Although cosmetic surgery plays the leading role as far as medical tourism is concerned, overseas patients are also interested in dental and orthopaedic procedures as well as fertility treatment.
For a long time only estimates were available for the actual number of foreign clients arriving in the Czech Republic for medical treatment and surgery. More light was shed on the matter by a study carried out by Hilcom and published on the internet at www.cosmetic-plastic-surgery.info . From March through to May of 2008, the study attempted to map out the current situation on the Czech cosmetic surgery scene. The study took into consideration the specific nature of medical tourism in the Czech Republic, that being the relationship between patients and doctors rather than clinics. ‘Some 45 plastic surgeons who took part in the study said that foreign clients made up 19 % of all the operations they performed. We are talking about 5–6 thousand patients,’ cited Hilcom’s executive director, Pavel Hilbert. The largest number of cosmetic surgery patients came from Germany, followed by Austria, Great Britain, and Slovakia. The overwhelming majority were female (87 %) and travelled to the Czech Republic in most cases for breast enlargements, eyelid operations and liposuction.
Doctors also maintain that the number of foreign clients increases considerably when they offer to help organise the trip to the Czech Republic. Most of them are able to assist with arrangements themselves, while 19 % work with specialist travel agencies.
Satisfied customers then return home and recommend good doctors to their friends. Word of mouth is more effective in this area than anywhere else, which is borne out by the findings of the study posted on www.cosmetic-plastic-surgery.info . Doctors stated that personal recommendations are the most frequent way foreign clients find their way to the surgery door.
But is the risk to which patients expose themselves during treatment in a foreign country outweighed by the lower price tag? The research shows that patients from other countries are better informed than the Czechs, even though they have to discuss their issue with the doctor over a long distance by telephone and e-mail. According to Hilbert, foreign patients stay in the Czech Republic an average of 3–10 days (depending on the operation they are undergoing). It’s not that common for them to combine their time in the country with day-trips or recuperate at a spa. If we look at the situation in successful medical tourism destinations, there is still room to promote this kind of service. This could be especially attractive for clients from more distant countries and when the attractiveness of a destination could tip the balance when deciding where to go for an operation. In these cases the internationally celebrated Czech capital has a distinct advantage. Well known Czech spas could also benefit from this in the future.
The USA has seen a huge boom in medical tourism, but Europe is also on the up. Germans in search of dental treatment or other healthcare are travelling in ever greater numbers to Eastern Europe. Undergoing treatment abroad has become attractive for them as German health insurance companies foot the bill for healthcare across the EU. Across the globe, medical tourists made 19 million journeys in 2005 and, according to a report by Tourism Research and Marketing, this number could double by 2010. ‘The number one destination is Thailand which received 1.4 million tourists looking for medical treatment. India, where the number of foreign patients rises by 30 % every year, is catching up fast,’ stated Lenka Šindelářová of CzechTourism trend analysis department.
As yet, Czechs, it would seem, are none too enthusiastic about medical tourism. In an internet survey carried out by CzechTourism, some 59 % of people who took part expressed such faith in Czech doctors that they wouldn’t even consider going abroad even if the cost were lower. The main factors influencing those who said they would leave the Czech Republic to seek treatment were better care (30 %) and recommendations from friends (7 %).
Slavia is The League Champion!
Prague 26.5.2008
PRAGUE - After 12 years Slavia is celebrating the league title! Slavia players did not manage to beat Jablonec in front of more than 20 000 spectators in new stadium in Eden, but they got the important point. In the first halftime Slavia dominated, there were several chances to score for Slavia players, however they did not manage to score psychologically releaving goal.
Tijani Belaid scored the first goal of the match only in 51. minute from direct shot to the post. Immediately after the taking ball Igor Zofcak made sad Slavia fans in Eden. He overcame Slavia goalkeaper Martin Vaniak. Slavia got to the lead 3 minutes before the end. Daniel Pudil used the pass from Goce Toleski. But the end was dramatic, because the guests in 90. minute scored equalising goal to 2:2.
Immediately after the final whistling big celebrations broke out in Eden, players enjoyed traditional „thanks ceremony“ with the whole stadium. They ran the winning round on the pitch and then they went up to the tribune to take over medals and Winner's Trophy of I. Gambrinus league 2007/2008. After the captain Erich Brabec lifted the trophy over his head, crowds of Slavia fans run onto the pitch and celebrated the title together with players.
All was absolutelly peacefull, all match and concequent celebrations were without any incidents. Slavia management thanks to all fans for that.
In mid April, the trans-European cycle path was officially declared open. The new route will enable cyclists to ride from Prague to Paris via Nuremberg and in all three countries along the way they will be able to admire many attractions and places of interest which the cycle path passes. http://bulletin.czechtourism.cz/index.php?action=show&id=10555
Interest in luxury hotels in the Czech Republic increases every year. Last year four- and five-star hotels welcomed 3.46 million guests, an increase of 11 percent on 2006. The demand is being met by hotel chains which in the coming two years plan to open around 20 new luxury establishments in Prague alone. http://bulletin.czechtourism.cz/index.php?action=show&id=10558
In January 2008, the Czech Statistics Bureau published up-to-date information on the Czech Republic’s Tourism Satellite Account for the period 2003–2006. Included in the publication you will find, among other things, answers to questions such as how much revenue was generated by tourism, how much was generated by domestic tourism, how much money did Czechs spend on foreign holidays and how much of that money remained in the Czech Republic. http://bulletin.czechtourism.cz/index.php?action=show&id=10564
2007 saw a 3.8% increase in the number of foreign tourists travelling to the Czech Republic with 6.7 million people staying in the various regions of the country. Once again the highest number of tourists came from Germany, the UK and Italy. In the top ten source countries, the greatest increases were seen by Russia, a 33.9% increase, and Spain (a 16.6% increase). The most popular place in the Czech Republic was Prague followed by the Carlsbad and South Moravia regions. The greatest increases in visitor numbers were seen in the Moravia-Silesia Region (17.4 %) and the Pardubice Region (10.8 %).
One satisfying fact is that an increase was seen once again in the countries where CzechTourism had run marketing campaigns and upped the activities of its representatives to promote incoming tourist into the Czech Republic. ‘As far as Slovakia is concerned, we have witnessed a 10.1% increase, with Poland 9.3% a 0.8 % increase in visitors from Austria where figures had stagnated in recent years,’ said the head of CzechTourism, Mr Rostislav Vondruška. CzechTourism PR manager, Hana Fojtáchová, had this to say about the 4% fall in the number of tourists coming from Germany: ‘At the beginning of the year we saw a fall in interest in the Czech mountains on the part of German tourists, as there was too little snow, and the summer was hot which doesn’t favour city breaks’.
The downward trend with young visitors from the UK continues as these visitors move on to cheaper destinations and the Baltic States. As far as Italians are concerned, there is small long-term growth which has been assisted by intensive marketing by the CzechTourism office in Milan which opened in November of last year.
The most popular destination in the Czech Republic is Prague which received a total of 4 million tourists, constituting 60 % of all visitors to the Czech Republic (an increase of 8.2 %). The Carlsbad region finished in its traditional second place with 472,101 tourists (a fall of 1.6%) followed by South Moravia with 431,963 foreign visitors (an increase of 8.7 %).
Shrovetide, the most bizarre holiday of the year
It doesn’t matter whether you call it Shrovetide or carnival, this is always one of the liveliest and most exciting holidays of the entire year. Present-day Shrovetide celebrations in the Czech Republic take their inspiration from the Venice carnival and local folk traditions. However, they all have one thing in common: prior to a seemingly never-ending fast before Easter people wanted to feast and enjoy themselves and we are still doing that today with the same gusto as centuries ago.
Don’t know where to holiday this winter? In the mountains of course!
Last winter was a bit short on snow so skiers are hoping that this winter will make up for it. When snow conditions are right, winter sports fans in the Czech Republic can enjoy hundreds of kilometres of well maintained cross-country skiing trails, downhill slopes of varying degrees of difficulty, snow parks, sledging slopes and bobsleigh runs. In the last few years a lot of investment has gone into the mountains of Bohemia and Moravia: the quality of downhill slopes has improved, new ski lifts have been brought online and the range of après-ski activities at the various winter resorts has widened.
Special bus service in the Krkonoše now running for cross-country skiers
On the 26 December a new special bus service for tourists was launched in the Krkonoše providing a similar service as the summer bus services for cyclists. This winter service will mostly transport cross-country skiers between Harrachov, Vrchlabí, Špindlerův Mlýn and Pec pod Sněžkou. The service will operate in the Krkonoše for a total of 13 weeks every Wednesday and Sunday with the last service departing at Easter.
Take a walk in subterranean Prague
As you read this, on the Old Town Square hundreds of tourists are gazing up at Prague’s Astronomical Clock, waiting to see the twelve apostles appear at its doors. Little do they know that deep beneath their feet another group of tourists is on the move, but they are looking at something completely different – Prague’s subterranean spaces.
Prague Zoo introduces higher ticket prices
Even Prague Zoo has not been able to avoid the wave of price rises at the beginning of 2008. This is down to higher running costs and a cut in subsidies from the Prague City Authorities.
Model Petra Němcová to attract rich tourists to Prague
The City of Prague is preparing to launch a new TV campaign aimed at a predominantly younger audience. The ad which is set to run on the French channel Fashion TV will feature the Czech model Petra Němcová.
New rules regulating border crossings in the Šumava
In April a new set of visitor regulations will solve the problem of where the border can be crossed in the Šumava National Park. The entry of the Czech Republic into the Schengen zone has opened up new protected areas to visitors. New border crossings are set to appear at these places. In the Šumava area there are currently 18 crossings of various types on the borders with Germany and Austria. Czech and Bavarian national park administrators want to come up with a new access plan for the border areas.
The Babylon Centrum in Liberec now has its own wellness centre
Since December 21 guests at the Babylon Centre in Liberec have been able to unwind at a new wellness centre. The centre has three unique features: it is the first public wellness centre in the country and the first to open outside of a spa town; it is also the first project to give guests the opportunity to enjoy a spa similar to those in antiquity.
The Moravian-Silesian Region gets a new image
In December of last year the Moravian-Silesian Region launched a marketing campaign, the aim of which is to change the region’s image. Billboards on main roads, ads in the daily press, adverts on the Pendolino expresses and planes and multimedia web ads are all part of a varied marketing campaign. The result of the campaign should be to raise awareness of the region among the general public as well as maintain interest among investors, and developers and develop the region’s tourist industry.
Ticket price rises on Prague’s public transport system
On January 1 2008, passengers on Prague’s public transport system began to pay more for their journeys. The cost of a basic ticket rose from 20 to 26Kč (1 euro) and children and OAPs now pay 13Kč. An adult day pass costs a round 100Kč, a 3-day ticket 330Kč.
Rail news
On December 9 2007, a new timetable came into force on the Czech railways. In addition to changes in the way fares are calculated, there are several other new features. In Prague there will be a new system of local trains. This project is the result of a joint effort between Czech Railways, the Prague Transport Company, Ropid and the Central Bohemian regional authority.
Slavia getting ready for Bucharest journey
11/24/2007
PRAGUE – We bring you you quotes from Slavia players Martin Vaniak and Daniel Pudil ahead of the game on Matchday 5 in Bucharest.
Goalkeeper Martin Vaniak:
„I think it will be totally different match to the one we played against Steaua at home. Steaua will play at home, they will be playing for a win which will give them a chance to overtake us in the table. They have a very difficult match ahead of them at Arsenal, but still they will want to keep the chance to qualify to UEFA Cup alive. The media informed that Arsenal are not going to use the strongest line-up in both remaining games. In Bucharest we will have a tough and difficult match, but we will want to succeed.“
Daniel Pudil:
„We still have a chance to play for the second place and it would be a pity not to fight for it. I believe Arsenal will not lose against Sevilla and we will win in Bucharest. We have to get ready for tough match, Steaua do not have any points so far and I can imagine how much they wish to get the first ones against us.“
SLAVIA - OLOMOUC 0:0
Prague 24.11.2007
Slavia drew with vehemently defending side of Sigma Olomouc on Friday night. It is the second time in the autumn season when the red-whites did not earn full three points at home. Slavia missed a few players – Svento, Janda, Drizdal and Kalivoda are injured, while Suchy was rested after his demanding international programme.
Martin Vaniak returned to the starting line-up after a month. The best chances of Slavia to score came in the added time, but Olomouc keeper Drobisz provided good saves after shots of Senkerik and Krajcik. Also Mickael Tavares was twice in a good position.
Slavia had to be careful to cover the counter-attacks of Olomouc, Vaniak miracously saved the header of Hubnik in the first half. Slavia are still top of the league with five points.
The ill coach Karel Jarolim was not replaced by assistant coach Petr Vrabec at the press conference. „We knew that Sigma will play defensive football in Prague. We did not have full squad during the week, so we could not prepare for this well. We had some promising chances in the game, Tavares and Vlcek could score, we deserved to win for all the efforts, but if we do not score than it is impossible to win,“ Vrabec said.
Slavia - Olomouc 0:0 Slavia: M. Vaniak - M. Krajcik , M. Svec , E. Brabec , D. Hubacek - V. Smicer (71. T. Belaid ), T. Gebre Selassie (51. L. Volesak ), M. Tavares , D. Pudil - S. Vlcek , M. Ivana (56. Z. Senkerik ) Olomouc: P. Drobisz - J. Jindrisek , D. Suskavcevic , A. Skerle , D. Jurkic - L. Bajer (80. M. Knakal ), M. Kascak , D. Rossi da Silva , L. Onofrej - T. Melinho (90. M. Komarek ), M. Hubnik (78. V. Schulmeister)
Martin Vaniak
VIKTORIA ZIZKOV - SLAVIA 1:1
PRAGUE 18.11.2007
– The small Prague derby ended in 1-1 draw and the main role can be undoubtly given to the wet and muddy pitch. Right after the warm-up it was clear that quick one-touch passing football which brought Slavia success in the autumn season will not be possible.
The problems with controlling of the ball brought only a few chances, Volesak and Suchy missed from promising positions after the crosses. Slavia took the lead in 68 minute when Pudil´s cross swept the corner of the home goal.
A painful equaliser came in the injury time when Kalod rebounded the ball which hit the cross-bar to Slavia net. Slavia loss did not limit to the points, but also two players Drizdal who injured his thigh and Kalivoda who has a knee injury, both will be out at least for a couple of weeks.
“The bad pitch influenced the quality of the game which was more working for out opponents. Anyway we should have won it, we conceded the equaliser after a situation which we had under control,“ Slavia coach Karel Jarolim said.
How can Slavia improve on the result in London?
"This will be a different match just because we are playing at home. We must try not to concede and early goal and keep the pace with Arsenal as long as possible and not to make any mistakes."
What was the reaction in the Czech Republic to the result?
"The critics fell on our heads heavily. We knew that Arsenal are better team, but the result 0-7 is really shameful. We have to try to improve it at home. "
What do you think went wrong in London?
"The beginning. We conceded the goal in the fifth minute and were down 0-3 in the halftime which was bad. Arsenal started playing in great way and it was impossible to stop them. "
Did injuries play a big part in the defeat to Arsenal - you were missing a lot of important players?
"It is always better to play in complete line-up, but we certainly could have played a better match with the line-up that played in London.
How good do you think Arsenal are - are they good enough to win the Champions League?
"They have superb quality, if they keep their current form, they may win the Champions League. Can Slavia still qualify for the next stage of the Champions League? Our realistic aim is to finish third ahead of Steaua. Sevilla and Arsenal are both teams that are somewhere else as regards their performances. "
Is it important for Slavia's pride to do well against Arsenal in front of their own fans?
"It is a very important match for us. We must not allow similar result as in London. "
Everyone in England was very impressed with the Slavia fans, who were still singing and jumping at the end. Are they famous in the Czech Republic for being so committed and noisy?
"Our fans are one of the best in the Czech Republic. We are very glad to have them. The thank-you ritual after the match is great, the contact between the fans and players arises also after the match. We just hope to reward our fans with a good performance against Arsenal."
The building of the Highest Burgrave at Prague Castle to host exhibitions once again
Exhibitions of photographs, pictures and cartoons are to bring to life the building of the Highest Burgrave at Prague Castle from October until next summer. The location is best known as the venue for the Shakespeare festival which takes place every year from late June until early September.
Высшее бургграфство Пражского Града снова оживет выставками
Выставками фотографий, картин и комиксов с октября этого и до лета будущего года оживут интерьеры старинного здания Высшего пуркрабства на Пражском Граде. Сейчас оно известно главным образом, как сцена, на которой с конца июня до начала августа проходит традиционный фестиваль шекспировских пьес.
HILTON PRAGUE OLD TOWN opens its doors
Hilton Prague Old Town welcomed its first guests, becoming Hilton’s second hotel to open in Prague on November 1. Spread over nine floors, the hotel’s 305 rooms, including 33 executive rooms and 20 suites, offer guests the very best in upscale facilities and are equipped with high-speed internet access and wireless connectivity, also available throughout the hotel. Guests will also be able to enjoy extensive leisure facilities including a state-of-the art health club and gym, sauna and indoor swimming pool.
The Babylon Centre adds to conference capacity in the Czech Republic
In September the BABYLON CENTRE LIBEREC opened the Babylon Conference Centre (BCC). The BCC is the biggest conference and hotel complex outside of the capital and is capable of hosting 500-600 guests who can enjoy conference facilities as well as a place to rest and be entertained.
Центр Вавилон» приглашает на конгрессы
В известном комплексе «ЦЕНТР ВАВИЛОН» в Либерце в сентябре был открыт конгресс-центр «Вавилон» (KCB). Это крупнейший в Чехии (кроме Праги) центр, имеющий возможности для проведения конгрессов и проживания гостей. Здесь могут разместиться на ночлег 500-600 человек, которых тут ждут не только прекрасные условия для работы, но для отдыха и развлечений.
The Olomouc Museum of Modern Art presents an exhibition by Victor Vasarely
This exhibition represents the climax of this year’s programme at the Olomouc Museum of Modern Art. On 15 November an exhibition by the world famous painter, sculptor, printer and pioneer of the Op Art movement, Victor Vasarely, will be open. The first exhibition of Vasarely’s work in the Czech Republic since 1989 will give audiences the chance to see almost 80 pieces including pictures, graphic art and pieces of sculpture, as well as tapestries and mixed works.
Magic Christmas in the Czech Republic
Illuminated streets, the cheerful rush of Christmas fairs, festive decorations and omnipresent carols don’t leave anyone in doubt that Christmas in the Czech Republic is one of the most beautiful seasons of the year. Old folk traditions are remembered not only by open-air museums but by people in their homes. Those traditions include having a look at a Nativity scene or listening to an Advent concert in a church, castle or square. A Czech Christmas is above all a time of cheer and friendship so accept our invitation and spend the festive season with us.
Prague Airport introduces several new features for the winter timetable
On 28 October the new winter timetable came into operation and with it several new features were introduced at the airport. Passengers can now fly from Prague to Treviso in Italy and Bordeaux in France. The airport is also changing its terminal numbers and the arrival and departure points for 8 destinations.
Пражский аэропорт встретит зимний сезон новинками
28 октября вступило в действие зимнее расписание полетов. А с ним пришли и другие зимние новинки. Например, из Праги пассажиры теперь могут летать в итальянский Тревиз или французский Бордо. В аэропорту меняются также названия терминалов, места отлетов и прилетов из 8 дестинаций.
The Czech Airlines Winter Timetable
On 28 October the Czech Airlines Winter Timetable came into operation. There are now more flights to the most popular destinations in Europe such as Madrid, Amsterdam, Brussels and Moscow. A new feature is a service linking Prague with Bordeaux in France via Munich which Czech Airlines will operate six times a week. The Winter Timetable will be in operation from 28 October 2007 until 29 March 2008. During this period Czech Airlines will fly to 108 destinations in 43 countries around the world and will operate a total of 31,000 flights.
Новое расписание Чешских железных дорог – меняются цены билетов
С 9 декабря этого года действует новое расписание на Чешских железных дорогах. Его результат пассажиры почувствуют прежде всего на своем кошельке. Меняется способ расчета оплаты за проезд, скидки для владельцев карт In-karta/Rail plus, скидки для молодежи до 26 лет или плата за проезд велосипеда или собаки.
ARSENAL 7 - 0 SLAVIA
LONDON – 24.10.2007
Slavia were thrashed by one of the best world clubs on matchday 3 of the UEFA Champions League in Emirates Stadium. Arsenal attacking and quick passing football was dominant right from the beginning.
The first goal out of seven came right in the 5th minute when Fabregas opened the score with a precise shot to the right post of Vaniak´s goal. The other hits were coming as the home side enjoyed attacking raids to our defence.
Hleb´s shot was directed to own goal by David Hubacek and the third hit came from excellent Walcott, Hleb himself added the fourth in the second half.
The concert of home side with fluent scoring continued till the final end, Theo Walcott scored the fifth and Fabregas with Brendtner ended the record score of the Champions League.
“We were taught a footballing lesson. The quality of the opponent was enormous before the game and we added to the difference with our mistakes,“ Slavia coach Karel Jarolim. “It is hard to say something about a game in which the dominance of one team was so clear right from the beginning. I admit that I was looking at the time and wished the matched ended as soon as possible.“
SPARTA 0 - 2 SLAVIA
PRAGUE – 10.10.2007 (origin www.slavia.cz)
Slavia wrote another chapter to the autumn fairy-tale story. After a long time of fourteen years the red-whites won at Letna the away derby thanks to goals from Daniel Pudil and Zdenek Senkerik and got to the top of the Czech league.
The set-piece training proved to be very valuable right in the fourth minute of the derby, when Daniel Pudil knee-shot ended in Sparta net. Slavia soon could add the second goal, but Stanislav Vlcek failed to lob the home keeper Postulka.
Shortly before the halftime whistle Sparta midfielder Pavel Horvath revenged the foul on Daniel Pudil and was deservedly red-carded.
Slavia did not allow the rivals into a clear chance in the second half. Five minutes before the end, Ladislav Volesak provided a cross for Zdenek Senkerik who sealed the valuable win with a precise header. The history of Slavia football saw the first ever win in away derby in Czech league played since 1993.
“We had a good start to the game, scored an early opener, it was one of the decisive moments of the match. Sparta had more possession afterwards, but did not work out a clear chance. The red card for Horvath was another important moment when the opponents were down to ten men. We had many injured players, but managed to win the important game, I believe it will be inspiration for our upcoming games,“ Slavia coach Karel Jarolim said.
SEVILLA 4 - 2 SLAVIA
SEVILLA – 10.10.2007 (origin www.slavia.cz)
The stormy weather inspired the home side of Sevilla to present a stormy start to the game and it was Kanoute who scored the early opener of the game in which Sevilla dominated. Kanoute finished off the work of Luis Fabiano who lobbed the keeper Vaniak after a solo attack behind the defence line.
Slavia equalised in 19th minute, when Daniel Pudil´s long distance shot after the pass from Matej Krajcik swept the right corner of the goal. Seven minutes later Luis Fabiano capitalised on individual mistake of Slavia defence and after a dummy move to the keeper Vaniak added the second goal.
Slavia had a better start to the second half, but the third goal ended the hopes of getting the first ever Champions League away points. Julien Escude´s hit was followed by Kone´s fourth goal. The red whites did give up and Kalivoda rebound made the final change of the score-sheet. Sevilla deservedly got all the points.
“We knew the qualities of Sevilla, but we were nervous and made mistakes in defence and more or less presented the opponent with chances to score three goals. We made changes in the line-up in the second half, but the third goal finally decided about the result. I am glad we scored the second goal and made the result more acceptable for us,“ Slavia coach Karel Jarolim said after the game.
CZECH FOOTBAL LEAGUE - SLAVIA BEAT ZLIN
PRAGUE – 28.09.2007 origin www.slavia.cz
Slavia crushed the fifth side of the Czech table with an impressive 7-1 win in a magnificent game which started with four goals in away net right after seventeen minutes. Zlin were unable to recover from such an early, hefty blow and the red-whites continued to dominate. Their attacking efforts were rewarded seven times in total with Ivana, Pudil, Sourek scoring their premiere goals for Slavia.
Two goals were scored by French midfielder Tijani Belaid who ruled in the midfield and became the man of the match. The other goals were added by Vlcek and Volesak. Slavia players were the only scorers of the night as they found the target also in the 82th minute after a corner kick, this time unfortunately scoring an own goal.
“We knew how tough opponent we were going to face. Zlin so far were very successful in their away games. We knew about their strength in offence but also about their weakness in defence. After Bohemians game, we prepared responsibly and enjoyed a great start today. After that, it was only a question of the final score.“
“The only thing that I am not satisfied with, is the conceced goal. We managed to score seven times, but I don’t want to overestimate it. It means the same three points as after a 1-0 win. Our performance tonight makes me happy,“ Slavia coach Jarolim said.
“We entered the game badly and were two goals down after six minutes. We were unable to intercept fast attacks of Slavia although we knew how dangerous they can be. In the second half, we just wished not to concede any more goals, but we could not stop them,“ said dissapointed coach of Zlin Pavel Hoftych.
Czech president Václav Klaus addressed a UN conference on climate change in New York today, repeating once again his scepticism about the very existence of global warming for which he said there was lack of scientific evidence.
There is about 70 countries represented at the conference and most of the speakers, unlike Mr Klaus, do not question what the scientists call "a near certainty" that human activity is the main cause of the climate change
Prague belongs to bicycles. For a day
"A celebration of the freedom of movement in the city" and "an opportunity to experience the streets of Prague somewhat differently for a while" were some of the slogans used by organizers of the Critical Mass Ride through the streets of Prague on Saturday September 22nd, the International Car Free Day. With the beautiful weather, the event was well attended and passed without a glitch. It remains to be seen whether the city officials heed calls to make Prague more bicycle-friendly during the rest of the year too
40% of foreign tourists return to the Czech Republic
Prague, August 21, 2007
Statistics from the first six months of 2007 indicate that the number of foreign tourists in the Czech Republic rose by 4% to 3,005,504 when compared to the same period of 2006. The greatest number of tourists came, as is now the norm, from Germany, Great Britain and Italy. A percentage rise in numbers arriving from Poland, Slovakia and Austria was also recorded, countries in which CzechTourism has mounted extensive marketing campaigns to promote incoming tourism in the last two years. Russian tourists recorded the largest increase of 36.2%. Thanks to the relatively warm weather, city breaks and spa stays have proved particularly popular.
CzechTourism’s marketing campaigns in neighbouring countries have brought their first successes. In the first half of this year some 146,243 Slovak tourists stayed at hotels and guesthouses throughout the country, an increase of 12.4% on the same period of 2006; there were 7.6% more Poles (144,564) and an increase of 1.2% in visitors from Austria (80,647). ‘In recent years there had been a fall in interest in the Czech Republic from our neighbours, despite it being very close and having the potential to serve as a place they could come back to for breaks and holidays. Not only are these tourists returning to the Czech Republic, but the average length of time they stay is greater than the period visitors from faraway countries such as Japan or China spend here,’ said the head of CzechTourism, Rostislav Vondruška, explaining the choice of location for the campaigns, and adding: ‘And not all visitors feature in the statistics, such as people who come here repeatedly on day trips. If these could be counted, the numbers would grow even more’.
‘In the first half of 2007, the largest contingents of tourists came from Germany, Great Britain and Italy. Some 730,165 tourists arrived from Germany; this represents a fall of 1.8% on the same period of 2006, but as around 1.6 million Germans stay here every year, this decrease does not have a huge impact on the total number of tourists. The slight decrease is down to this winter’s lack of snow which had an affect on winter sports which attract Germans to the Czech Republic. Last year people were still skiing in the Czech mountains in April,’ stated CzechTourism analyst, Hana Fojtáchová, adding: ‘As has been stated several times previously, young people from the UK who would travel here for inexpensive services and entertainment, and hence pushed up the visitor figures from Great Britain, are now discovering cheaper destinations where they find services of a similar standard at a lower cost. In the first half of 2007, some 253,049 visitors from the UK stayed at accommodation facilities in the Czech Republic, a fall of 8.5%. On the other hand, British families with children and middle-aged couples are discovering the Czech Republic. The warm weather drew the third largest group of visitors, the Italians, to this country. They prefer city breaks and 206,205 visitors, an increase of 5.4%, travelled here in the first six months of 2007.’
The biggest increase, 36.2%, was recorded in the number of Russian tourists (148,616) arriving in the Czech Republic. As far as the amount tourists spend per day is concerned, the Russians are in fifth place, parting with 2,385Kč per person per day (pppd) while here. With holidays lasting 14–21 days they are in first place when it comes to the length of holiday they take. In the spending table, the Japanese come first with 3,143Kč pppd followed by the Canadians with 2,757Kč pppd. The Norwegians come in third (2,745Kč pppd) and the Dánish are in fourth with 2,529Kč pppd.
CzechTourism’s main aim of is to attract foreign tourists to the regions of the Czech Republic. In the first six months of 2007, Prague received the greatest number of visitors (1,761,830, up 5.6%), the Carlsbad Region witnessed a 4.5% increase (228,302 foreign visitors) and the South Moravian Region even saw a growth of 10% (191,004 foreign visitors). Another significant positive piece of news is that 40% of all foreign tourists return to the Czech Republic.
Regions away from Prague becoming more attractive to foreign tourists
Prague, 25th April 2007
In 2006 some 6,435,474 foreign tourists travelled to the Czech Republic and used the services of registered accommodation facilities. This represents an increase of 1.6% on 2005. Prague remains the most popular destination, but the greatest growth in visitor numbers (18.2%) was seen in the Carlsbad Region which held on to second place. The South Moravian Region occupied its traditional third place, recording an 8.1% growth in foreign visitor numbers. Through its various activities the state financed agency CzechTourism can take some credit for increasing the number of visitors to the Czech regions.
The Carlsbad region may be in second position in the visitor league table, but it is becoming an ever more appealing destination for foreigners. In 2006 it received some 479,742 foreign tourists who stayed an average of 7.6 days. This was an increase of 18.2% on 2005 and represents a 7.5% share of all foreign tourists arriving in the Czech Republic.
The Carlsbad Region was visited for the most part by tourists from Germany (289,405), who made up 60.3% of all tourists in the region. Second place went to visitors from Russia (54,332, an increase of 28.9%) who stayed an average of 13.1 days. The Dutch came in third with 16,808 visitors, an increase of 9.2% on 2005. When the Dutch travel to the Czech Republic by car and campervan, they begin their holiday in the Carlsbad Region before continuing on to other regions of the country. The Carlsbad Region boasts a comprehensive array of tourist sites - castles, chateaux, urban and rural architecture and industrial heritage. This is all complimented by the range of spa services on offer and large number of mineral springs.
As has been the case for many years, the greatest number of foreign tourists head for Prague, and since 2002 the city has witnessed constant growth. In 2004 this was + 31% on 2003. However, for the first time in several years there was a slight fall last year of 0.6% to 3,702,116 foreign tourists. Prague still enjoys a dominant position among the Czech regions and last year welcomed 57.5% of all visitors to the Czech Republic.
The greatest falls in Prague were among British tourists. 506,899 Brits travelled to the Czech capital last year, 15.5% less than in 2005. ‘Last year the British began to look for destinations cheaper than Prague, their main focus being on countries further to the east. The Baltic States have become especially popular,’ said the head of CzechTourism, Rostislav Vondruška, commenting on developments in the number of British tourists. This meant that tourists from Germany returned to top position (527,198, a fall of 3.8%), second position went to the British and the Italians occupied third place (322,736, a fall of 1.1%). The largest increases were among tourists from Russia, with 147,159 travelling to the Czech capital, 31.4% more than in 2005.
The South Moravian Region, in third place as far as foreign visitors were concerned, also witnessed an increase of 8.1% on 2005. Some 397,239 foreign tourists arrived in the area, mainly from Poland (59,277, a fall of 0.3%), Germany (54,808, a fall of 1.4%) and in third place Slovakia (45,135, an increase of 16.3%).
The South Moravian Region is popular for its historical sites, especially castles and chateaux, and many tourists who travel to this part of the country do so on sightseeing trips.
The Pardubice Region with 58,586 foreign tourists was the least popular region despite recording an 11.1% increase in visitor numbers when compared to 2005.
Through its activities abroad, CzechTourism has been involved in the gradual spreading of foreign tourists across the regions of the Czech Republic, and thus has fulfilled one of its key tasks for 2007 and beyond.
Looking for Charm and Atmosphere? … Enjoy the Czech Republic 2007!… (Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter)
(Prague 23. 3. 2007)
Based on experience from previous years, CzechTourism has decided to concentrate all individual and group press and fam trips to the Czech Republic for journalists and tour operators into four workshops entitled: ‘Looking for Charm and Atmosphere? Enjoy the Czech Republic!’
Each of the workshops will be preceded by a series of special themed trips (often called press and fam trips) for tour operators and journalists, which will be in accordance with the CzechTourism marketing strategy aimed at national tourist products in all the regions of the Czech Republic. CzechTourism has chosen this form of promotion mainly because the majority of foreign visitors to the Czech Republic head straight for the capital, Prague, Český Krumlov, Carlsbad and castles and chateaux in Central Bohemia.
In the week from 25 until 31 March, 2007 the first of these four events will take place. The event will bear the title Spring in the Czech Republic. Monday March 26 will see guests taking a tour of Prague, and in the afternoon they will leave for three days in the Czech Regions. These fam trips have been divided into themes - urban and cultural breaks and theme holidays with two subcategories – beer and wine, and spas and wellness tourism. On Friday March 30 at the hotel Crowne Plaza in Prague a workshop will take place at which foreign tour operators will meet their Czech counterparts, and there will also be a press conference. The evening will see an official leaving ceremony with guests including the Minister for Regional Development, Jiří Čunek, head of CzechTourism, Rostislav Vondruška and other important personalities from the tourist industry in the Czech Republic.
CzechTourism has also invited representatives from the regional and municipal authorities, tourism coordinators, destination management companies, associations of travel agents, hotel and restaurant associations, transport companies and a number of other private entities to take part in the event.
The individual CzechTourism offices abroad invited travel trade professionals from their countries to take part in the event. The Public Relations and Analyses Department at CzechTourism in Prague was responsible for attracting Czech Travel trade professionals – counterparts to the foreign entities at the workshop.
The event itself was preceded by a number of organisational activities: planning routes, organising activities and events on the fam trips, inspection trips to the regions, hiring professional guides, finding accommodation and catering, organising transport, arranging the final evening’s event and preparing the ground for the workshops and press conferences.
DYNAMIC PROMOTION OF THE Czech spas
Prague - June 23, 2006
CARLSBAD WEEK – this is the title of an event supported and organised by the CzechTourism, through which it hopes to link up the ‘Tourfilm Festival’ with the Spa Festival and a conference on ‘The Cure for the Czech and Moravian Spas’, all separate independent events up until now. The aim is to promote the Czech spas, not only in the week 2 – 6 October 2006, but also in the long-term future and help attract foreign and domestic clientele.
The dominant theme of the Carlsbad Week is the Czech spas and tourism – their current state and prospects in a European context. Carlsbad will be transformed into one large conference venue providing an environment for wide-ranging discussions to take place on this topic. Speaking about the project, the head of CzechTourism, Rostislav Vondruška, said: ‘The idea to hold the Carlsbad Week will intensify the promotion of Czech spa towns, one of CzechTourism’s priorities. During the Spa Festival CzechTourism will also be holding a so-called KNOW HOW forum, during which Czech companies and organisations will be given advice and information on how to break into markets in the UK, the USA and Mexico for instance.’
The Spa Festival is targeted at foreign travel companies, the Czech and foreign media, Czech GPs and clinics, professional health organisations and senior citizens’ associations. Representatives from Germany, England, USA, Belgium, Denmark, Israel, Russia, Italy, Spain, Turkey and many others have so far pledged to attend. The Spa Festival will also feature the prize for the Spa Company of 2006 awarded, a competition which will be judged by a festival panel made up of representatives from professional organizations, local authorities, CzechTourism and the media.
‘The Cure for the Czech and Moravian Spas’ conference should provide a forum for discussions on the problems facing Czech spas and possible solutions. ‘Only open discussion on the current situation at our spas and the conditions for their development in comparison with other similar industries in other countries in Europe can lead to a change in that situation,’ said Mr Vladimír Mertlík, Executive Director of the conference. The conference aims to reach out to regional authorities and individual spa companies, the main investors in the spas and associated tourist infrastructure in the Czech Republic, and to achieve greater success in promoting Czech spas on a European level. According to Vladimír Mertlík, the a motto for the Carsbad Week is ‘Czech and Moravian spas in Europe’, and for this reason the main guests invited to the conference will be Czech MEPs Josef Zieleniec and Tomáš Zatloukal, who will give an overview of the situation at the Czech spas and the relationship to the European Union including the building up of a strong position when resolving issues concerning European spas in general. These MEPs are expected to become emissaries for the Czech spa industry in Europe.
Discussions on the future of the domestic spa industry will sooner or later hit on the issue of a lack of funds. Accessing funds from the European Union and their best possible use in accordance with EU norms is the remit of the former EU commissioner and now head of Brussels company BXL, Pavel Telička: ‘The Spa Festival and the conference on ‘The Cure for the Czech and Moravian Spas’, taking place as part of the Carlsbad Week, are important promotional tools for the spa industry in the Czech Republic which will definitely help bring in the necessary funds.’
The head of a company called Czech Spas in Europe, Mr Jaroslav Dolina, said of the economic benefit of spa resorts: ‘Spas from an economic point of view are a promising service export where the services themselves do not have to be exported but are made use of here in the Czech Republic.’
Today’s spa industry is a service provided by 38 ‘miraculous’ places around the Czech Republic to European Union citizens and overseas guests alike. Time at a spa can eliminate or soothe health problems or even prevent them from developing. They have the advantage of being set in picturesque landscapes and are attractive for their architecture and layout. The unique nature of spa towns also lies in the quality of their natural resources (water, mud etc). Thanks to their rich natural resources and qualified health care professionals the Czech spas can compete with the best on the world stage.
Journalists working with CzechTourism are cordially invited to attend events at the Carlsbad Week including evening parties.
Information on the 39th international festival of films and videos with a tourism theme will be given at a separate press conference to take place at CzechTourism head office in September.
