ARRIVING IN BOHEMIA

 

I’ve often thought I had a bent towards a “bohemian” lifestyle and if you were to look up the definition it would describe someone who generally does not follow the crowd, hangs out with like-minded people and has a focus on artistic, literary or spiritual pursuits. Sounds about right! But I never, EVER, considered taking a trip to the Czech Republic, the birthplace of Bohemia. So when my husband suggested I tag along while he participated in a work conference in Prague I thought….Why Not? 

Typical of Europe, Prague is ancient, full of history and culture. Everywhere is beautiful architecture leaning towards renaissance and gothic spires.

The people are warm and friendly; many reminded me of gypsies with dark swarthy looks and flashing eyes. As we walked along we past musicians and artists entertaining us with their talents. 

Prague Castle will take your breath away!

How can you not be in awe of this incredible workmanship? 

As Sheldon was in the conference for a few days, I was on my own. Now this is dangerous business! My sense of direction is nil and the thought of heading out in a strange country alone was unsettling! But I wanted to take this challenge on and with the help of Apple Maps, I made my way to a beautiful Italian Renaissance style park about 20 minutes from our hotel. A couple of wrong turns, but I found it!

So, there I wandered in my best Bohemian style snapping pics, people watching and spending an hour or so reading “The Secret Garden” which is an excellent book to read in a park. I’ve discovered that pairing a book with the location you are reading it in is much like pairing wine and cheese; it is a fine art! 

The next day my target was the Cafe V Zahrade. 

This one was a bit closer so once I located it, I wandered the shops nearby. I found a Second Hand Clothing store which was busy with locals snapping up deals. I snapped up a deal myself: a sundress that cost $2.50 in Canadian! And I found a Bakery and bought an Apple strudel for Sheldon and Babovka (Czech local cake) for me. 

In the evenings there were Conference dinners to attend with Sheldon where the food and wine/beer flowed with abundance. 

Prague is a beautiful city. If you ever get the chance to visit, by all means do so! Come live your best bohemian lifestyle and pursue the music, read a book in the park or be enveloped in the hushed, awe-inspiring atmosphere of their ancient churches.