Moving to Prague and Czech Republic

So you’ve decided to move to one of the most historical cities in the world… the place known as the ‘City of 100 Spires’. Congratulations. Prague, not only the largest city, but the capital, as well, of the Czech Republic has been one of the most important cities in Europe for over a millennia. Surprisingly intact post WWII, the rich, lustrous history and architecture remain intact, and with the fall of Communism over a decade hence, has become more and more in demand as a tourist region.

Chances are high that you don’t speak the Slavic language, Czech. Quite complicated, it is believed to be second only to Icelandic, in it’s extreme difficulty to learn. The good news remains that overall, and particularly within Prague itself, many people speak English, in addition to both other commonly spoken languages, Russian, and German. Taking a little time to review Czech words, in their natural language formation can be especially useful, as though most of the guides you’ll find show things in English, when you are faced with an intersection of roads, unless you can translate what the Czech road sign says, your English guide will be of little use.

Prague operates on the common GMT +01:00 time used in Paris. You should have little trouble with electricity, as it is a standard 220v/ac. Czech money is known as the Crown. Symbols for Crown include Kc or CZK, and it has a current value of approximately .05 cents USD to each CZK. There are plentiful exchange offices for your convenience located centrally around Prague, and at the airport, and service needs of all common currency formats into CZK. Unlike many countries, where service workers in bars, restaurants, hotels, and even taxicabs work for their ‘tipped’ money, in Prague, they receive a standard wage, so any tips received are merely appreciated extra income. Following the standard of 5-10% of your bill would be quite acceptable in Prague. If you need to do any shopping, you will find that Prague stores open later than in many places, around 9am, however, they stay open later, until around 8pm, as well.

Here are a few tips to make your move to Prague go a little more smoothly:

* Ensure your passports and visas are all valid for every family member.
* Contact everyone you wish to know your forwarding address.
* Either arrange for the transfer, or pick up and take with you,
copies of all medical, school, and dental records.
* When your job is moving you, ask your employer exactly which
moving expenses are covered by the company.
* Make certain you know where all licensing, and registration
paperwork is for any car or cars you intend to bring with you to
Prague.
* Contact all utility companies at your new residence, don’t forget
beyond water, and electricity, to see if gas is needed, cable, or
satellite for your TV, and trash, as well as one that many people
oft forget, the telephone!

Take it slow, easy, and well prepared, and your move to Prague is certain to be a pleasant, fun move. Relax, and enjoy!