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Monday, December 17, 2012

Prague




In 1989, communism fell in the Czech Republic under the “Velvet Revolution”.  I had recently graduated from college and was focused on getting a better job, getting a bigger apartment, getting a new car, and acquiring all of those things that I thought defined the foundation of a responsible adult life.   At the time, I was also starting to pay a little more attention to the news and followed the story of the massive street protests in Prague with some interest.  But beyond the political intrigue, I couldn’t help but hearing some of the background chatter on Prague itself.  The city was supposed to be fantastic.  Unlike much of the rest of Europe, it had never been bombed in modern warfare and was filled with the original buildings and culture that was at the heart of Bohemia.  And it was completely untrodden by cookie-cutter western commercialism making a perfect launch pad for hip young explorers looking for something authentic in which to find themselves. 

But even though I felt it calling me back then, it was never to be.  Prague has always been a symbol of disappointment for a hip young explorer that never quite got the nerve to just buy the ticket and go.  I never even used my passport until I was over 30.  So, this year’s Christmas market jaunt had special meaning for me…I was finally going to Prague!  And you better believe that I was bound and determined to experience what I should have done more than 20 years ago.    The city has definitely been overrun…but it is also undeniably fantastic!  And that velvet, Bohemian vibe?  Well, you’ve got to have a sharp eye and an open mind, but it’s still there…it’s very, very subtle, but it’s still there.   I can now forgive that younger version of me…I loved Prague.     Here are some pics from the weekend in Bohemia.    


The main Christmas Market - The market itself was a bit below German standards, but the lights and decorations were the best I've ever seen.  







As always, the little squares and out of the way places held the real charm.  


These carolers and Christmas band playing under the bridge were awesome !  The acoustics were unreal.

Street food!  Always a hit with me!


The sausages were very much like Polish Kielbasa...and anyone from Pittsburgh has to love Kielbasa!


These donuts were new for me.  They were wrapped on a wooden dial and then "roasted" over open coals and rolled in sugar before serving.  Excellent!


Pig on a spit!


Pictures of "Classic" Prague


 Old town, from "the" bridge...


Prague Castle


Taking a picture of him taking a picture of them taking a picture of Prague.  Nice perspective!





Lone rower


My favorite guy on the famous clock...this skeleton rang his heart out when the chimes started!


My favorite building - the municipal building.  Art Deco at it's finest!


Just remember if you take your canoe on a commercial flight to Prague, you'll need to pick it up in oversized baggage!  Who does that?!


Wishing you a very Merry, and Bohemian Christmas!