Czech Please...

Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

September 2, 2007
N48°48.763
E014°18.920

Since the train schedule required us to pass through Prague on our way back from Kunta Hora we figured we would spend one more night. Plus, we had a few more errands to take care of before heading south to Cesky Krumlov, another UNESCO heritage site.

The train ride to Cesky Krumlov was comfortable and even enjoyable. We were able to read, listen to music on our iPods and enjoy a couple sandwiches we bought at the train station for lunch. This was luxury as compared to our travel days in South East Asia. The high speed train zipped through the countryside making a few brief stops at rural train stations. As we got further south, we ventured through a beautiful, scenic pine forest, before we rolled into the 13th century village of Cesky Krumlov.

Walking down the cobblestone streets from the train station into the village we felt a calm come over us. As we crossed the Vltava river via an ancient cobbled bridge, covered by a towering archway; we were immediately pleased we scheduled three nights in the village. This would give us a chance to unwind, and escape the hustle-and-bustle of the large cities we’ve been in for the last three weeks; ever since we left the comfort of the beach on Koh Phi Phi.

It felt like we were transported back in time. The village, though modernized, has a very old feel to it, almost medieval; especially when gazing upon the amazingly well preserved Krumlov Castle. The castle is the main focal point for the town and immediately captures your attention. As we wandered down alleys, and criss-crossed the Vltava on little bridges, we realized the village has much more to offer than the beauty of the castle. The village is surrounded by endless green pastures, picturesque buildings, flower gardens, and meandering pathways along the river, the town almost seems surreal.

We have to thank Edana, whom we met in Prague, for telling us we must visit Cesky Krumlov before leaving the Czech Republic. Even though it’s listed in our guide book, we probably would have cruised right by it on the train to Salzburg.

Note… I have to say I get a kick out of asking for the bill at dinner every night. Marc typically says “check, please” making a little motion with his hand like writing the bill. However, in the Czech Republic we say “bill, please” we don’t want the Czechs to be offended.

Yes, I make the joke every night and still think it is funny. Marc makes a fake laugh across from me with his hand on his belly like it’s a real gut-buster. He says, “Check, Czech,… get it, get it?” It’s the little things in life, right? Ha…