Sunday, December 13, 2009

Praha and Dresden

From Praha

Ahoj!

Prague was a wonderful trip with the students, and we even visited a few sights while about, including Dresden.

Our visit to the Czech capital and cultural center of Bohemia took us through the historical sections of town, such as the Prague Castle and the Staré Město, or Old Town. By day, we were lead through detailed tours on the history of this significant city, while at night, the students - with me taging along - enjoyed the vibrant night life. Albeit the weather did not cooperate in any regard: Rain, rain, for 4 days out of our 5 day trip (and to counter this, I came up with very clever ways of drying my soaked clothes and shoes).

Walking across the Charles Bridge (Karlův most) was one of my first impressions of Prague's medieval side. As you walk ancient statues, such as John of Nepomuk and towering structures, like the one pictured (right), pass by you.

Touring Prague for a week felt to me like I was dipping my toes into a deep cultural abyss. That thought alone motivates me to continue with my Czech lessons, even though they may be meager compared to studying the language. Perhaps that opportunity will present itself here in Austria : )

For more views of Prague and Dresden, you can view the photos I put together from the trip.

Na Shledenau,
-Stephen

Sunday, December 6, 2009

Vienna, next Prague

From Kraków and Vienna

I just got back from an enjoyable, but nevertheless short weekend in Vienna. I'm starting to think it will always be too short : )

Here are the pictures from the weekend, which include my first-ever visit to the popular "Naschmarkt" on Saturday morning and Advent mass at Stephan's Cathedral on Sunday.

On Monday, I will leave by bus to visit Prague with a class from the business school (HAK) in Rohrbach. We will be in the Czech capital all week, so it will also give me a chance to improve the little Czech I've learned this semester!

Expect a great post from me next weekend,
-Stephen