Prague: Unleashing the Wild Heart of Europe
Oh, what a journey it was to get here, but Prague has rewarded me with an unforgettable adventure. If there's one piece of advice I'd offer to fellow travelers venturing through Europe by train, it's this: always, without exception, book a seat reservation. I had heeded this advice, luckily, and secured a seat for my four-hour journey from Berlin to Prague. However, the train was a chaotic scene, with many passengers standing in the aisles or perched on their suitcases in any available nook. It was a lesson in preparedness.
Finally, I arrived, safe and sound, in my first new country of this journey. One of my life goals is to explore 30 countries before turning 30, and Czechia marked country number 25. It's no exaggeration to say that Prague has quickly become my favourite city on this European adventure. Prague, or Praha, as they call it here, literally translates to 'doorstep' or 'threshold.' It's precisely that—a gateway to a magical world brimming with castles and enchanting alleyways. It reminded me greatly of Hogwarts (RIP Sir Michael Gambon). As soon as I dropped off my bags, I wandered through the cobblestone streets until I found myself at Charles Bridge during a picture-perfect sunset.
Returning to the Prague Dream Hostel (which, by the way, was phenomenal), I waited in the lobby for an available spot in the laundry room, as I had no clean shirts left in my suitcase. But before I delve into my Prague adventures, let me take a moment to acknowledge that while solo travel sounds liberating and exciting, it's not always smooth sailing. There are numerous ups and downs in solo travel. Yes, you get to do exactly what you want, when you want, but it comes with its own set of challenges. For example, the longing to share experiences with others, or the lack of immediate support when you're having a rough night, like my 2 a.m. laundry mission (I’m lucky enough to have people supporting me virtually—you’re all phenomenal). Basically, solo travel is tough but incredibly rewarding!
After a late night, the wild fun began the next day. I joined a free walking tour of the Old and New Towns, which turned out to be one of the best free walking tours I've ever experienced. Our guide, Pistis, possessed a wealth of knowledge and history about Prague and spoke with a captivating passion. Not only did I learn a great deal about Prague's rich history, but I also connected with like-minded fellow travelers. After ascending the Astronomical Clock Tower and indulging in chimney cakes with a new Brazilian friend, Renata, we rendezvoused with the rest of the walking tour group at an atmospheric medieval tavern that evening. What started with half-litre mugs of Czech beer culminated in shots of Becherovka and Absinthe (oh dear). Two Americans, one Englishman, one Brazilian, and me—an Australian—conquered the rooftop club in the city centre. The specifics of the night remain a hazy memory, but I do know that we collectively consumed nearly an entire bottle of vodka on that dance floor. When in Prague, am I right?
Returning to the hostel at 3am, we made half-hearted promises to attend the free Prague Castle tour the next day. I say half-hearted because, let's be honest, the prospect of waking up at 10am with self-induced pounding heads seemed utterly implausible. At least it did for me. So, I embarked on a solo adventure to Prague Castle around noon, blessed with warm 27-degree weather. The castle was a sight to behold, boasting intricate Gothic architecture that's nothing short of breathtaking. What made it even more special was its location atop a hill, providing a perfect vantage point to take in Prague's beauty. After a considerable uphill trek and back, I opted for a more low-key evening than the previous one. I ventured to the Reduta Jazz Club, the oldest continuously run jazz club in the world. It was an exquisite night filled with the soul-soothing sounds of the saxophone.
The next morning, still nursing my two-day hangover, I shared a quick breakfast with my Brazilian friend Renata before whisking myself away to the train station for my next stop: Bratislava, Slovakia.