We flew KLM from Vancouver to Amsterdam and then on to Prague, the largest city of the Czech Republic (or Czechia, as the locals call it). We were met at the airport by an Emerald representative and taken to our hotel. Novotel. Due to rotating strikes at KLM, we were delayed by several hours and arrived too late for the orientation tour with the rest of our tour group. And so began our twelve-day land tour.
Prague is located on the Vltava River and has a population of 1.4 million.
It was the capital of the Kingdom of Bohemia and residence of several Holy Roman Emperors.
Prague Castle.
Built in the 9th century, it served as seat of power for kings and emperors through the ages and is still the official residence and workplace of the president of the Czech Republic.
Giant's Gate...leading to the first courtyard of the castle.
St. Vitus Cathedral is part of the castle complex.
The cathedral contains the tombs of many Bohemian kings and Holy Roman Emperors.
Tuscany Palace...opposite Prague Castle.
An artist painting what he sees...
...the red roofs of the city of Prague.
We enjoyed a slice of the famous Czech dessert...
...apple strudel at a table with a view.
Our walking tour took us down narrow walkways...past open windows.
And always with flowers!
We passed through the tower gate leading to Charles Bridge...
and crossed the bridge with masses of tourists.
What a surprise to meet a couple from Chilliwack in the crowd.
A few quick words and we re-joined our tour.
Little Venice...
..as seen from the bridge.
Charles Bridge.
Old Town.
City Square.
At Old Town Square with Our Church of our Lady Tyn in the background.
The crowd that gathers at the clock tower on the hour!
Animated figures emerge to mark the time.
The Prague Astronomical Clock...a 15th century medieval clock in the Old Town Hall Tower.
It is the oldest working astronomical clock in the wolrd.
We felt right at home in 'old town'!
The eats and treats of Prague.
We had to try the 'chimney cake' sundaes that we saw everyone enjoying.
They are a spiral shaped pastry, coated in cinnamon and sugar and filled with ice-cream and toppings.
A little messy...but delicious.
We enjoyed a gourmet dinner with our tour group at the Paris Hotel Restaurant.
Prague at night...
...near the Powder Gate.
Powder Tower...built in 1475 and used to store gun powder originally.
We walked a lot...
...and found a step to rest on occasionally.
We thought for a moment that we were in Germany!
A sunset cruise on the Vltava River was the prefect way to end our time in Prague.
Pedestrians on the Charles Bridge.
Goodnight and farewell, Prague.
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