Eastern Europe: Introduction

 
Czech Republic, Austria and Hungry:  This vacation includes a bike ride from Prague to Vienna; then we take the train to Budapest.  The bike tour includes four UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Prague, Český Krumlov and Telč in the Czech Republic and Vienna in, Austria.  Budapest is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Brief history: The Czech Republic was once part of the Great Moravian Empire before being subjugated by the Romans, invaded by the Hapsburgs, overrun by the Nazis, "rescued by the Soviets" in the Communist era before finally becoming independent in 1993.

Our bike ride:  We journey amongst the Gothic castles and spires of beautiful Prague, medieval cities and impressive castles as we cycle along quiet country roads and gently rolling hills. Highlights are two rest days in UNESCO World Heritage towns:

• Cesky Krumlov with 300 protected medieval buildings and
• Telc with a guided walking tour through the renaissance hall of Telc Chateau.

Crossing into Austria, at the Mikulov border we pass vineyards, fields and small villages before entering Vienna.



Our flights were flawless. We got first grade tickets with American Advantage miles, something that doesn’t happen very much these days.  The luggage was on time and our driver was at the Prague airport. The only downer is that the UK security folks at Heathrow confiscated my sun block and chamois cream because both were greater  than 3 ounces. What the hell does this have to do with  security?
Trivia:

• Prague is one of the few European cities not bombed during the first and second world wars.
• The Czech Republic is a member of the European Union (since 2004) but does not use the Euro as currency.  Their currency is the koruna or Czech crown, 25 crowns = $1 USD.
• Prague is Houdini's home town. Other notable Czech's are Madeline Albright and composer Antonin Dvorak.
• Until 1800 Prague was four distinct towns with four town squares separated by fortified walls.  Today the town still has four unique areas.  The Vltava river divides the city onto two halves.