Nowadays, it feels like studying abroad is becoming the norm for many collegiettes. And really, who wouldn’t want to spend five months of their life traveling, meeting new people, experiencing a new culture, and (let’s be real) enjoying the perks of only kinda-sorta having to do school?
Here are 10 reasons why you should study abroad in Prague:
1. It’s beautiful.
Prague’s architecture and atmosphere make it absolutely exquisite. No matter what the day may bring, you can always be comforted by the the almost unreal quality of your surroundings. Seriously, who wouldn’t want to look at this all day?
2. It’s cheap. Really cheap.
20 Czech Koruna is equivalent to around 1 American Dollar. The average price of a dinner (including wine because you just have to have wine) is around 180 koruna. In other words: $10 for a NICE dinner and drinks. This is unheard of! Can you say ca-ching?
3. It’s different, in a good way.
Prague was under Communist rule until 1989, when revolts (actually started by students) shut down the Communist government and began a new democracy. It is one of the only cities that didn’t get bombed during World War II because it was thought to be an ideal place for a capital for the Third Reich. This rich history is noticable and makes Prague one of the most, if not the most unique cities in Europe.
4. Being there will take you back to the ’90s. And who doesn’t love the ’90s?
This is no joke. Remember in 3rd grade when you used to wear pink striped leggings under your sligtly-too-long skirt? Yeah. That still happens in Prague. Fashion is so not a priority. Even the music they prefer is very ’90s-esque. Being in Prague is essentially a flashback in time to one of the best decades on earth. Love it. Embrace it. It’s the ’90s.
5. The food: it’s glorious.
Get ready for some serious meat and potatoes kind of living. Sausages are abundant, as well as oddities (to us) like pork knuckel. If you’re not a huge meat eater (which the Czech semi-frown upon), there are also lots of vegetarian and healthy options. Even though it may be out of your comfort zone, try everything!
6. Pivo, pivo, pivo! (Aka beer)
The beer in Prauge, and all of the Czech Republic for that matter, is AMAZING. Beer is essentially water. As in, you may as well not drink water because it’s more expensive anyway. And it’s actually good. Even non-beer drinkers will have to admit a new appreciation for the barley-pop after trying brews like Kozel and Budvar. So drink up!
7. The people you meet there may be some of the greatest on earth.
Some people say that the people of Prague are cold and unwelcoming. This may be true on the surface, but given their past history of oppression what else would you expect? Once you get to talking to them, they are some of the most inspiring and profound individuals you will ever meet. They possess a certain indescribeable charm that makes you just fall in love with them as a people. Not to mention their weird, quirky, and slightly inappropriate humor.
8. The clubs: 100% awesome, every time.
Going out will never be the same. There is legitimately a club or bar for every taste: from a five story mega dance party (featured in Eurotrip) to a bar located in caves underground, Prague will always make your weekends (or weekdays) adventerous. Klub will become your new favorite word.
9. It’s outside your comfort zone.
When most people think of studying abroad, they tend to gravitate towards Western Europe. Makes sense: it’s Western, which means it’s much more like what you’re used to at home. Prague is essentially the epicenter of Eastern Europe. Yes, the culture, the food, everything is a little different than it would be in a more Western country. But the point of being abroad is to expand your horizons and challenge yourself personally. Being in Prague pushes you outside your comfort zones. And that’s where all the magic happens.
10. It will honestly and truly make you a better human.
Prague is one of those places that has the ability to change you and form you into a better person than you were when you arrived. You are stronger. You are more independent. You are more confident and more appreciative. You are more you than you! So take the leap. Learn some Czech, drink some beer, and come back an entiely better human. Na Zadrave! (Cheers!)