5.26.2006

Prague: Day 2


Thanks to jetlag, we awoke at noon. We had a hearty brunch at the Cafe Savoy. I told you we'd get back there. An elegant cafe with high frescoed ceilings, chandeliers and liveried waiters. All at McDonald's prices. We had a hearty fare of Prague ham and sausages, with the ubiquitous dumplings, washed down with Staropramen beer. Chocolate cake and "large" espressos. All for about $15 US.

It is very inexpensive in Prague. The way Spain used to be before adopting the euro. Go now, before prices skyrocket.

Today was another walking day. We started at the Mala Strana, or the Little Quarter, the section of the city below Prague Castle. Through the beautiful gardens below the castle, we then crossed Charles Bridge back into Old Town and to the Jewish Quarter. The Jewish museum here is said to be the best outside the Holy Land. Ironically, it was conceived by Adolf Hitler to be THE Museum of the Jewish race. Artifacts were brought in from all over occupied Europe, to document that Jews had once existed, after he had exterminated them all.

From there to outdoor Hvelka Market looking for souvenirs for the kids. Then up and down Wenceslas Square. This is a long, wide avenue of shops, much like Barcelona's La Rambla or Session Road in Baguio.

Martin and Hannah took us out for a traditional Czech dinner at a local pub or beerhouse. I can't pronounce the name, but I am told it translates to "Three Bears." Here, at the Budvar Bar, they serve the original Budweiser. The palacinky dessert - crepe with fruit, ice cream, and whipped cream, was excellent.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

First time ever in Prague, what a beautiful city! I know we only scratched the surface of what to see, but I was amazed by the churches and the castle... The city is incredibly beautiful, and there is history at every turn. I didn't even get through half of the castle, so I just have to go back! Lots of pictures, I'll create a Tabblo once I'm home (where the cable to my camera is...)