Prague is described in many ways, ‘City of a Hundred Spires’, ‘Paris of the East’ or ‘The Golden City’ - all of which admirably convey its true spirit. However, it could be described simply, as one of the most beautiful and intimate cities in the world. It is stunningly atmospheric and has something for all tastes, simple to sophisticated. From sipping a coffee on Wenceslas Square, strolling through the tiny cobbled streets, taking a cruise on the river Vltava or casting a critical eye on some of the world’s finest art in the Hrad or castle, the city’s greatest building.

The city is an architectural revelation being influenced throughout the centuries by Slav, Jewish and Germanic civilisations, all leaving their mark. Then during the Middle Ages, four separate independent towns expanded forming the city which gave rise to the individual character of the varied quarters we see today. Then, during the 13th Century, Prague was catapulted to prominence through its position on trade routes to the East with merchants settling here from every corner of Europe, building the elegant townhouses you see today. Wealth poured in for over a hundred years and thus, Prague became one of the most important cities of the continent. The greatest of the Czech monarchs, Charles IV, ascended the throne and, using his subjects’ money to great effect, founded many of the city’s most famous monuments, including St Vitus’ cathedral, Charles University, and, symbol of the city - the famous Charles Bridge. Next came Habsburg rule and during the 17th century most of the city’s present day churches and palaces were built, which all together has left a legacy of some six centuries of magnificently preserved buildings, ranging in style from Medieval, to Baroque to Art Nouveau. Subsequently forty years of isolation behind the Iron Curtain has prevented haphazard development and it is not an exaggeration to state, few cities anywhere on earth look this good!

The overall beauty of Prague is greatly enhanced by its geography, nestling on a sweeping bend in the majestic river Vltava dotted with small islands and weirs, and dominated by a hill crowned by its grandiose castle and cathedral. A classic, picture-postcard view, it cannot fail to impress, especially at night when tastefully illuminated. But, beautiful cities are not made by buildings alone, they have to have spirit or ambiance which only emanates from people. The Czechs are warm and friendly and justifiably proud of their city, eager to show it off to appreciative visitors. In 1989 ten per cent of the entire population of Czechoslovakia demonstrated in Wenceslas Square asking for the changes which became known as the Velvet Revolution, a totally bloodless affair, so typical of the Czechs and the event which defined a nation unleashing the youthfulness and vitality you can feel today.

Adding to the city’s romantic atmosphere, Prague has always boasted a great musical legacy, with Mozart a resident for many years and premiering his opera Don Giovanni here. Very much in evidence today, talented street musicians installed on the many centuries-old squares and under medieval archways entertain appreciative audiences with great skill. Another advantage of Prague, is how reasonably priced everything is, from restaurants and bars, to shoes, glassware and leather goods, in fact shopping for most things is a real bargain.