Escape to Prague – a Piece of Heaven on Earth

Author: Karen Kirby
Date of Trip: April 2012

When we booked a 3 day extension into Prague through Amawaterways Amalego we had no idea of the treat that was in store for us. We stayed at the Hilton in Old Town Prague – our room was huge and had a beautiful view and was located on the fifth floor. To our surprise, and not advertised, a sumptuous breakfast buffet was included every morning. The cruise director, Damiano, accompanied the group into Prague and made sure that we were all settled in and taken care of. We had our room keys waiting for us and didn’t even have to go to the reception desk right away. That evening we had an orientation walking tour to familiarize us with the layout of the city. We met Liba who would be our tour mistress for the Prague extension. I have never met a more knowledgeable and accommodating guide. She was born in Prague and very proud of her city and of it’s history. One optional trip was a tour of Terazen – the concentration camp located just outside of Prague. We were met there by a local guide, but Liba had already given us a far more detailed history of the camp and added a very personal point of view.

We were taken by bus to the Prague castle and were again met by local guides. We chose to stay with Liba because her knowledge exceeded every other guide available. Her voice was clear and precise, and I will never forget her lovely accent and the way every word was understandable. I only wish my English was as good! The buses had left and we took a 2 mild walking tour over the Charles Bridge back to the hotel. There was not a statue, monument, building or local landmark that was not described to us in detail, along with it’s colorful history as part of historic Prague.

The main square is the home of the Astronomical Clock – truly a wonder! We happened to get there just at the top of the hour and were delighted by the mechanical puppets and the beautiful chimes.

We were in Paris last year, and in my opinion, and that of others that I talked with after this trip, Prague is truly a hundred times more beautiful than Paris. It is a shame that it is not as promoted as the other cities. Because it had no destruction by any wars, it is truly a monument to the rich history of the region. It’s high hillsides provide a beautiful backdrop for all the sights, and everywhere you look there is another beautiful view you did not see before. It was like a living art gallery, a true tapestry of life. Farewell Prague – I hope I see you again.