How to adapt to the Czech culture in Prague
Settling down anywhere in the world can take you some time. How difficult is it to adjust to the Czech culture? Depending on your experience and nationality, you may find similarities with other European cultures. Considering work, and punctuality, the Czech culture is very close to German, or Austrian culture. Regarding eating and drinking habits, it is similar to countries like Poland, Russia, Hungary, and other countries in Eastern Europe.
Czech culture in general
Czech culture is in some ways like other cultures around Europe. It can look like German or Dutch one. Also, if you are from Poland, Hungary, and eastern Europe, you will probably not have problems to find your place and settle down in Prague. But still, there are few things and facts which make the city different.
Czechs may seem as cold and distant people. This usually changes when they feel comfortable or if somebody introduces you. In this case, shake hands, and greet the person with “Dobrý den” or less formal “Ahoj”.
Try not to be as an expatriate, but more like a local. Find friends amongst Czechs, observe, and do things which local people do. This is the way how to be one of them and not only the foreigner.
The state supports family life, and they offer generous maternity benefits. This is unique around Europe because women can stay at home with kids for a maximum period of four years. Men have the traditional role of breadwinner. Even in Prague, this traditional life is still common, but not so much like in the villages. Extended maternity leave can also be considered as a disadvantage because it creates gender pay gaps and unemployment amongst young mothers.
Food and eating culture in Prague
Are you invited to somebody's house for lunch or dinner? Then, it is polite to bring some small gift. Chocolate, biscuits, coffee, or a bottle of wine will be a good choice. You are also expected to take off shoes before entering someone's home.
When the meal is finished, place your fork and knife together so that they are parallel. This is a signal that you are done, and the plate can be removed. If you cross your knife and fork over the plate, it means you are just taking a short break and have not finished yet. Usually, the one who does the inviting pays the bill, although the guest is expected to make an effort to pay. In the case of bigger groups, everybody pays his own meals and drinks. It is common to give a tip around 10 % in the restaurants. Of course, only in the case that you were happy with food and service.
What should not be missed in Prague? Try typical Czech meals like svíčková, or guláš, and accompany it with Czech beer. The most common commercial brands are Pilsner Urquell, Gambrinus, Staropramen, or Kozel. For beer lovers, beer tasting is a must. Try also less known beers produced by microbreweries. Brands like Polička, Únětice, Matuška, or Chříč are accessible in Prague's pubs.
What you must try to do in Prague
Just landed and you are wondering how to adjust to local culture in Prague? In the summer, go to the riverside of Vltava – Náplavka. Every evening, people meet there. Buy some drinks and food, sit on the ground, and observe the swans and sunset. Each Saturday, there is a farmer market, and during the weekdays you can find markets around Prague's districts. Do not eat breakfast and enjoy it there. Numerous stands offer local desserts, cheese, jams, apple juice, etc.
During the weekends, there are also many food festivals. Take friends and visit Food Truck Festival, Apetit piknik, Chilli Fest, or Mercado. Square Jiřího z Poděbrad is a place where many events take place, and it is very popular amongst locals. As a fresh Prague citizen, do not forget to visit Vyšehrad, Petřín tower, or Žižkov observatory. During your free time, enjoy a walk around the city, or relax in Letná park, Parukářka, or Riegerovy Sady.
