As someone whose family ties to Czechoslovakia, I’m looking forward to the history aspect of this trip. From what was discussed in the pre-departure meeting and the itinerary, it looks like we’ll have lots of free time, so I plan to go to some museums and hopefully learn about the country and its history. I would also love to find a way to learn more about my family, though I think that might require a bit more information than what I have access to.
As for expectations, the first thing that comes to mind is the weather. Unlike most of my classmates on this trip, I’m from Pennsylvania (born and lived here my whole life). This means I’m pretty familiar with all types of weather, including snow, and dealing with temperatures in the 20s/30s. My advice to any Floridians reading this? Wear layers, warm socks, and gloves.
Another expectation is good (hopefully) food. I’m not big on pork or beef but from restaurants I’ve looked at, I should be able to find an option. Prague (and most of Europe) is big on food from all over. I mean, there’s a Hard Rock Cafe in the city, which is probably the most American restaurant, other than McDonalds or Starbucks there. I also know Prague is famous for beer, however, I will only be able to have a little bit because I hate carbonated drinks with a passion. I’m a bit sad that the Aperol Spritz terrace will be closed because that’s another drink that is heavily associated with Prague.
I will admit, I am very nervous about this trip. It’s my first time traveling internationally alone, but I’ve done research on every airport I’ll be at, have packed and repacked my suitcase and backpack multiple times since August, and even purchased a new wool coat to keep me warm as we walk around.
I guess that leads to what I’ve packed. I’m only bringing a backpack and carry-on, as I’m paranoid about losing luggage. So, we’ve established that it’s going to be very cold and potentially snowy. I practically live in jeans, so I’m bringing a few pairs, some blouses, tees, and tanks to wear under sweaters, and a few extra pairs of socks. I’m only bringing one pair of shoes, my boots that I wear on an almost daily basis, mainly because I can’t fit anything else in my suitcase.
I am also excited to have a day to myself, as I’m flying out on 14/12 (5 days!). Now, I am staying at a hotel at the airport because I’m not a big fan of language barriers in unknown cities, however, I’ll be able to get used to the time change, get a good sleep, and have a good breakfast before joining the rest of my classmates on 16/12.
Preconceived ideas of Prague:
I really don’t think I have any preconceived ideas of Prague, other than that it’s a very walkable city. I assume that with the Christmas markets, and the amount of walking we’re scheduled to do, roads may be blocked off, or public transportation will be used more than individual cars.
I guess my other preconceived idea is that the city will be mainly Czech-speaking. From what I know, after leaving the Soviet Union, they kept their language and didn’t start teaching English in schools till fairly recently, as tourism rates grew.
I’m going to end this post on a very honest note: I didn’t know much of anything about Prague, or Czechia, for that matter, till I was accepted into this program. Yes, I have roots there, but it’s kind of a hidden country. In European History in 9th grade, we learned about Germany, France, England, Russia, and a little bit about Italy and Spain, but nothing about Czechia. It’s not a country you hear people talk about, and I’ve mentioned that I’m going to Prague/Czechia to friends and coworkers, and they may have heard of it, but know nothing about it.
In a way, I guess I’m going to try to break that stigma and tell everyone I know and have contact with about the city (given I have a good experience). Overall, though, I’m really looking forward to not only this trip but also my first FIU experience, as I’m planning to be a student starting in Fall 2025 to get my degree in spirits management. I can’t wait to meet everyone, and I’ll see you on Monday!