Astonishingly exotic and utterly compelling, the Czech Republic is a country of breathtaking natural beauty with an incredible heritage that quickly becomes addictive.
Remember how your parents used to tell you to keep your elbows off the table during meals? Or that it’s rude to slurp your soup? Well there’s good news guys, these American cultures and customs don’t always translate to other countries! While the local people you meet won’t expect you to be fluent in their language, culture and customs, it is important to familiarize yourself with them.
Do you know how kissing, snoring and other things sound in other languages? That’s right, even sound effects can be translated!
Things to Know
- Obligation to the family is a top priority
- Time appropriate greetings are important! Do not use dobrý den (good day) at night
- Czech people can be very private and reserved until they get to know you
- Czechs do not tend to say hello to strangers while passing them on the street
- Most greetings include a handshake and direct eye contact
- When invited to a dinner, eat everything on your plate, praise the host, and ask for seconds! No matter how full you are.
- Read up on Czech Etiquette to impress your future hosts!
The most important thing to remember while you’re abroad is that things will be different. But, different doesn’t mean wrong. Be open, be curious, and read more about the culture you will be stepping into. Get excited about LIVING the life you’ve only dreamt and read about until now!