At 2pm sharp we arrived at the lobby of our hotel The Mozart. We met with our fellow travelers were learned what our tour will be like, what are the places we will visit, and who are buddy using a buddy system! The buddy system works by choosing somebody who you do not know and ensure that person is with you at times throughout the tour. If you are a solo traveler or if maybe you get lost easily this is a great way to make sure you stick together!
Our first stop was bustling Old Town Square! We were surrounded by beautiful buildings with vastly different architecture. America being so young compared to European countries, it is strange to see new gothic architecture contrasted with more modern ones. From the square itself we could see the Church of Our lady Týn.
We explored much of the town square but only scratched the surface of the city itself. Our tour guide pointed out many of the places we were going to explore in detail the next day, dazzling us with what was to come
Our next stop was Charles Bridge! This arch bridge is made from medieval 15th century stone that crosses the Vltava river. It was constructed by King Charles IV which took almost 45 years to build!
Prague had faced many natural disasters during this time period, where a flood has original destroyed the bridge before it.
Amongst the new technology of traffic lights, modern clothings and facades–stepping through the tall arches that proudly stood at beginnings of the bridges almost felt like walking through a time machine.
The cobbled stone pathway paved the way for my imagination to take flight. History had been carved at points along the pathway that made it come alive.
✴️ Many streets still have cobble stone which can be slippery during the rain. Bring well equipped shoes!
After our fairytale journey we started to head back to our hotel when it started pouring. It is always frustrating when rain comes in the way of travel but it is always good to come prepared! I recommend reading Rick Steves check list! He gives some great advice
It is best to always best to pack light and with essentials for any weather that may happen during that season!
But after rain, comes...a beautiful night sky! When the rain had dissipated we were met with beautiful walk back through the Charles Bridge.
After a long walk that whet our appetite, we gathered ourselves at our first meal together. It was nice to get acquainted with our party and learn about everyones lives. We met people from all over the United States and even some folks from Canada!
While having my first dish from Prague we were entertained by the Prague Castle Orchestra! Rick Steve LOVES this group and I couldn't agree more. They really condensed the ambience of the walk we had earlier that day in the music pieces they played. Josef effortlessly played his flute while his partner bolstered his musicality with the strength of his accordion.
It was nice end to a long day!