I did my best to avoid the Euronet ATM's whole day, drained 15 euros from the most normal/ bank official looking atm and after denying the conversion and "withdraw 600 instead of 400 for better rate" I got hit with a 7€ transaction fee as I was with an impatient family member so I was caught by not fully reading the final agree message. 7€ fee for a 15€ withdraw is insanity...
That’s not really a scam though. It’s common for cash machines here (least in Scotland also) to have first option like ‘withdraw and check balance’ so you can see how much you have in your bank available to withdraw (removes pending credit you maybe spent before or online). Most ATMs are free to use or ever cost a single fee like £1.49-£4, regardless of how much you take out. TLDR; most ATMs here are free but I recommend using Revolut or some other currency card and just use the card, much easier for you.
The UK seems to be one of the few places in Europe where its actually fairly simple to find a non-Euronet non-begging entirely Feeless ATM at any medium sized supermarket. Not that you need much cash in the UK either nowadays
No he is not. Take a few steps from the tourist trail. Which is just few streets in this city and ask for help. Anyone that speaks English will be more than happy to give you good advice
Maybe in Prague :) You need to consider the fact that Prague city center is usually filled mostly with tourists and people who want to make money of them..... Prague has like 90% of all tourism in our country , that's why many locals won't be happy to see a tourist , they see them everyday... But if you visit some more rural town and villages , you will maybe struggle with language barrier a bit more but people will be much more pleasant.
I'm not a Prague local. And I'm an introvert so I won't approach - but if you approach me, or I clearly see you have a problem I can help with, I'm happy to help. Have done so multiple times in Prague before (am not a local, but my mother and grandma live there so I do have a bit of local knowledge - and sometimes a bit of local _traveller_ knowledge, too).
@@beth12svist Statistically, you must be from Moravia. In Prague, my local friends would be in shock if I ever asked a random stranger for advice or directions. They would try to avoid making contact with anyone. When you are looking for parking, no one in parking lot would randomly tell you if they would be leaving. You are eating at a restaurant and they look at you without wishing you dobrou chut', they just continue as if you don't exist. It can be Christmas, in a church at 8pm, and at most there you will hear is dobry den (when it's actually night). At airport gates, a person finds a piece of info and they don't tell you. I got tons and tons of examples, and I just gotta say most folks in Prague and Bohemia have a heavy case of social public aversion, keep to yourself, don't stick your neck out. It's what happens after 350 years of being under some form of oppression or foreign rule--keep quiet, keep to yourself. In very private settings, it's a whole different deal, people loosen up, Švejk pops out, and it can get wild. It's a constant alternation in life between Švejk and Franz Josef in CZ. Moravia is a bit different, people are a lot more approachable and approaching. Slovakia, yeah, it actually is different country, especially in these respects.
I was in Prague in the late 90s and got horribly lost. (Think, ending up outside of the city after midnight lost.) On a very early first morning tram I tried to ask the driver about another tram that I knew was near where I was living but he was no help. A very drunk man grabbed me, wrestled me to the door, and shoved me off the tram at one of the stops at the last moment and into the street. Then shouted "go hill," and pointed behind him. Turned out he had figured out I was lost and if I went up the hill I'd be just a few blocks from where my apartment. That ranks in the top 3 most helpful strangers I've ever encountered. ...I had quite literally been walking all night in the cold and rain.
He is right that you can easily survive and function in Prague with a credit card, but it is also true that some places only accept cash. It's a good idea to carry some cash...about 1200 - 2400 czk = $50 - $100 is plenty.
I was going to write this. If your card fails to scan or gets locked you need to have some emergency cash on hand. The merchant can easily say that they don’t accept foreign currency and call the cops.
I’ve been to Prague twice, 2012 and 2015 and I absolutely loved it, definitely time to go back! I remember falling for the ATM scam, I thought I was taking out the equivalent of about $100 Canadian, but the machine ended up giving me closer to $600. I ended up having to exchange the excess and I lost so much money. With respect to accepting help from strangers. Prague is the only city where I’ve gotten lost, after walking past the same coffee shop three times in about five minutes, two locals asked if I needed help, they were extremely friendly, asked where I was trying to go and then gave me extremely easy directions, I was very grateful! Loved the city and love your channel!
3 месяца назад+37
I would never accept unsolicited help from a random guy in the city Square, but on the flip side I won't hesitate to ask someone who looks local for help when I need it.
Yep, it's exactly the same with me. And although i'm a man too, when us men offer help it can look suspicious and tourists are already out of their comfort zone in a new country. God, I've seen so many people who look completely lost and I want to help them but I'm afraid i'll look way too sketchy if I offer my help so I just go my way and hope they find theirs too. Unless if they are old in which case all my discomfort disapppears.
I lived decades in a touristic place and I know when people are lost or looking for something, and when I wasn't too busy I would propose my help, especially since I have knowledge about the place, speak two foreign languages well enough that can almost be a tour guide. And I will happily accept help even unsolicited, the trick is to know the kind of people that will help you just to be kind. Generally, they're heading somewhere, so they won't be waiting here to help whoever like sollicitors, you will notice that they are on the move, and just taking some extra time to put people on their way. It's possible that some people are chilling on a place and can provide help also: you'd notice that they are with friends, and how their friends will look at you can help recognize their intent. The general look of people can also be an indicator: someone with groceries in the hands, outdoor gear and clothes, metalheads if you arbor yourself a metal band shirt. It's OK to be suspicious of scammers and I never took it badly when tourists thought I looked not the part to be able help (and I honestly didn't back when I was a student) and refused.
This channel inspired my wife and I to explore Prague on multiple trips. We’ve ate at City Hall and at the school. We stayed in Źiźkov and walked to/from all over avoiding mass-transit on a 10-day visit. We walked all 10 bridges zigzagging one day. It was fun. The subway/metro is very easy to use as well as the trams. The antique tram was interesting. The WC dumped directly onto the tracks. Yikes!
You forgot one thing: You guys did a video about a good place to drink and eat (U Pivrnce) that only accepts cash. I went there and had cash because I watched your videos. Never been treated so good, way different than the places crowded with tourists. Sometimes it is good to carry some cash.
You should always have cash as what happens if your credit card gets lost/ stolen or if, for some reason, your VISA card gets blocked or denied. This happened to me and my friend in Muscat as both our credit cards were blocked, and my ATM card was eaten by a machine in a 5 Star Hotel bank. This all happened on a holiday. It was a nightmare, and now I also carry cash, but I leave most of it in the hotel safe and only take what I need for the day.
Beside walking to little, I often experience the opposite. People walk too much because the don't dear to take Metro or Tram, don't know what ticket to buy etc.
can also be intimidating if you never use it. Where I live, I drive everywhere. However, when I visit CZ, I'll be taking trams and trains. Sure, I'll be a little nervous about it but I've taken rail before, it's easy to figure out. Prob why people walk too much or take Uber when they don't need to.
I sort of get that. I think there's a bit too much fearmongering about pickpockets and bad things happening even on local public transit. Plus, if you don't have much experience with it, there is a bit of apprehension about using it. I'm from Toronto, so I really don't have an issue with taking local transit. Could have some problems if there isn't any English for me to read but my mobile apps can help me out should that happen.
@@kevwwong no, it's not. That's absolut Nonsense, but a legend among american conservatives. Last time I heared about pickpockets was 1980 from my grandma. And it was not in public transport. Europe is a safe place. You can leave your Laptop on the table on the street, go to toilet and nothing will happen.
@@holger_p "That's absolut Nonsense, but a legend among american conservatives." That is exactly what I meant about fearmongering. Rumours spread around until people believe it to be the truth. Granted, there ARE pickpockets and thieves in every city but I think most of us watching HG are aware enough to stay alert while still enjoying ourselves wherever we go.
I'm local in Prague, and I love how warm people we are. We might look grumpy, but we are always trying to help. I love to help, I like to offer help, I like to help when asked. And not only to tourists. And since I had some babies I love to accept the help with a stroller myself. I bet 99% of locals will gladly help you with anything to the best of our knowledge. And especially in city center most of locals speak english, and if they don't i bet there will be somebody passing by who will overhear your trouble and offer help as well. I personally hope we will be able to morally overcome the street sellers who cannot be trusted.
I was on a bikepacking trip vom Harrachov up to the Labe spring and down the river into Germany one week ago. I followed all your recommendations, used campgrounds, local restaurants, shops, butchers, bakeries and asked locals. From Spindleruv Mlyn to Melnik, the tour was not touristic at all and we enjoyed the places togehter with locals. From Melnik to the German border, way more bike tourists appeared, but again, staying with Czech people lead us to the lovely places. I can only recommend to travel the country besides the main touristic spots, it has so much more to offer. Thanks for your work and information. It is helpul througout the country!
nice video - just a few a things [01:05] - the walk may take an hour but as a tourist you are not going to be stopping for sightseeing rather walk at a faster paste (as a local would do) [01:20] - a walk from the Old town square or Wenceslas square where he is standing takes longer about 30-ish minutes and it is little bit uphill so it is better to use public transport as that would be within 15 minute [07:40] - i believe older types of tram like the one passing behind do not have the modern stamping machines where you can buy tickets and need to have one beforehand [09:40] - as someone has pointed out there still are smaller shops or restaurants where you cannot pay with a card so having a little bit of cash may be useful :)
Currently in prague...honestly one of the most beautiful cities i have seen ever. It fascinates me every time how fast you can get from one place to another by foot or public transport. It feels great to be here and I do recommend to visit this town. Great Tips Honest Thank you
@@oerci8175 We stopped in Prague for a couple days while training through Europe in 2015. We loved it so much we kept extended out stay. Ended up using most of our days there because we fell in love.
"survive with card" is nice idea but doesn't really work all places in prague. Wanna go to the oldest rock club in prague? Pay cash! Wanna go few legendary pubs in Mala Strana? Pay cash! Wanna go to the cool metal bar in zizkov? Pay cash! Just a few examples ;)
Easy. Every time you go somewhere, first ask if they take cards and if they don't, then leave. Over time, it will force them to implement decades-old technology (hopefully). Fun fact: The first successful payment by payment card took place in 1968. It's a shame when a business resists implementing a 50-year-old service that makes life so much easier for customers.
@@jannovak5481 I think it is a gopd Thing to have both! I live in Germany (where Cash is often King) and think both should be possible. It is just Fail Save - if Card do not work which happens - there is still Cash.
I just came back from Prague yesterday... My legs hurt still, all places are visitable on foot, really, you can crisscross for example, from Army museum to Tym in 20 minutes, but when you do all these, and than also walk through inside... Just go buy the tram tickets, do not be my brother and be cheap, they are good price and you get to see a lot of things from new trams, or enjoy the historical tram's wooden vibe.
Your brother was right. As a local, I walk a lot because it's often faster than public transit, especially when going shorter distances, like you usually do when sightseeing. You _can_ save some time in this scenario with intimate knowledge of all the lines and stops, but we're talking tens of minutes over the course of a day and it's not really possible to pull off for a tourist. The way our public transport is designed, basically any two points are roughly 30 minutes apart. If you're going a longer distance, absolutely use public transit, but if your destination is 20 minutes or less away on foot, it's almost never worth the bother.
Well, the Army museum is historically on the place where a watchtower ovrwatching the city itself from the outside used to be, so that is like the furthest place we would still consider center today
3 месяца назад+24
That cafe at 04:30 is awesome! My wife and I were sitting at that exact same table, and maybe one other table was occupied (more people were inside in the cafe area). Servers were also very friendly. And of course, the view was great, more so because there were millions of tourists down there, all oblivious to the cafe on the balcony, queuing at Starbucks and Trdelník places xD
that is a big honor for me, that you called Luxembourg for their public transportation 😂 yes the public transportation is reliable and fast 😊 clean, that I don't know how to compare to other countries, I know some buses aren't clean. I worked at a bus company and during the C-years we needed to clean the other buses and we found food what was outdated already two years ...
Your videos are too amazing and informational to be so focused on Prague alone. Lovely city, but this kind of video in other major cities and highlighting their differences in culture, risks and easy mistakes to fall into would be amazing as a series!
I visited Prague in 2001 and I ate at McDonald's because the tourist guide told some interesting historical stuff about McDonald's in Czechia. 😅And I lived in a small town without any McDonald's restaurants so it was a refreshing change to visit one.
We are in Prague and we have been told twice about a minimum spend on a card. Including U Fleck. Also insist on an itemized bill. If you're paying on a card a few places have just guest at the price and when you work it out the are overcharging you
As someone who lives in Prague and has gone to U Fleku a ton: That's strange, I've never been met with a minimum at U Fleku. The usual minimum amount is in Vietnamese shops (which are absolutely everywhere and in city centre are the plague of expensive stores like the 840 water mentioned in the video). If you like clubbing also prepare some cash (usually drinks can be paid by card but wardrobe might require cash). Also watchout after eating on the bill if there is a "service fee", this is a tip that is pre-done by the restaurant and is actually quite a parasitic way, as you might not see it and are tempted to give them a tip (which would go on top of their tip). Restaurants I recommend (some are franchises): Lokal, Potrafena Husa, Kolkovna Celnice (although watchout with the service fee + tip there), Sia (asian food). All of them are slightly higher priced for Czech standards however, and Sia is quite a mid-to-high end restaurant here, so if you're looking for more Czech local prices you might need to find something else.
@@snelle_tomos I agree - Sia makes really EXCELLENT Asian food. But if you want to experience REAL Vietnam, you must go to SAPA - a bit further from center, but experience for life... :D
@@toruvalejo6152 I actually still haven't gone to SAPA in the year that I lived here! Heard about it and I really have to go, thanks for convincing me. I had an AMAZING Vietnamese restaurant near me at Folimanka, but unfortunately their quality degraded over the last few months so I can't recommend them anymore, real bummer!
As a Swede where it's rare to talk to strangers on the street those people selling/promoting something or wanting you to do a survey has absolutely made people even more reserved when approached as instead of it being rare thing that happened but they genuinely needed help with directions or something it's now happens often but it's 95% of the time just those kind of people who works for some corporation and waste your time. However if you ever visit a Nordic country don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it, we might be very reserved but it's because we have big respect for each others space and don't want to bother others but we are friendly and helpful if you approach us :)
10:50 "I can't think of a place where you couldn't pay with card".. Janek, you once recommended Jidelna Svetozor, the place where you eat regularly.. BUT they only accept cash payments, at least they did when I last was there a few months ago. Has it changed?
Hanza this video is genius . ive done a little traveling my self and lucky enough with my mom too . What a blessing. When i traveled the first time i noticed everytime these long lines for mediocre buildings or art pieces,i quickly figured there usually not worth it. So i started to just walk around and truly appreciate a city for what it is and not just all the tourist traps. i would often stop locals and ask them:" hey where should i eat , hey anything cool to do around the city now? or later? what should i go see ,where and how to get there.". I actually have a funny story when i was in athens greace it took me 3 hours to get to my hostel cause they the locals were SO RUDE like EVERY SINGLE ONE. Till i decided to take a break at a coffee shop and use their wifi to figure out how to find my way. When looking at the menu for the coffee* DING DING DING* i found the reason why people where so rude to me and it was cause i kept showing them on my phone an address and me asking how to get there in English letters!!! Thats when it clicked and i translated the address to greek and i arrived to my hostel 15 minutes later. This taught me we are humans and misunderstandings happen all the time and when communication flows you will always find nice helpful people that will guide you along your way. Sometimes frustrating and scary to not walk the beaten path but it so worth it. P.S. Small mom and pops restaurants love tourist and a great way to get the locals perspective and how they live life and what they value most in their lives. after a while you just realize we are people living on this planet trying to survive doing our best everyday.
7:18 - As a Luxembourger, I absolutely adore the public transport in Prague. It's clean, reliable and extremely well coordinated. I take this over my free public transport where every second day, the train doesn't work.
Social media IS a big thing for these stupid queues. I don’t have neither tiktok, nor insta, nor facebook. I wouldn’t know bout these plces nor would I care. But even if I would, I would never queue for a picture
We went in Prague last year and also 3 weeks ago. Last year we had a friend of mine as a local guide, and we actually found a student bar where they only take cash. But other than this one place, card is good to go anywhere.
I visited Prague years ago with all of your recommendations and it was an amazing visit prior to all the craziness that ensues now. Your tips were incredible! Hope to visit again soon, let's grab a beer!
I was in Prague 2019 for a concert and follow the guide. I ate Chlebiczek and visited some of the places from the book. For the money part --- I usually plan what I will spend and just exchange in here in Sofia. We have excellent change buro - the rate is 1 EUR for 24-25 CZK.. In the worst terms you can bring revolut card and pay with it in the bars
Janek. Something you shoud know i LOVE the public transport and you got me and my brother to use it. The buss and metro from the airport. The metro overall so easy! The trams. It needs some getting used to some use to . I love them but i dont always end up where i was supposed to go. Prefer the subway. Love your videos as always!
Nice video, but I hate using credit cards. You easily can lose track of your spendings. I prefer cash, especially when travelling. I have a budget, and I easily can see my spendings.
I just laughed when you said, you took the bus from the airport to the city in New Orleans, me and my daughter were on vacation and did just that 😂, we are from Sweden
About choosing for chain restaurants, I also have done this on my vacation. But choosing a local restaurant is difficult in a "strange" country. There's the language barrier, the risk you go for a bad restaurant (in price or quality) or a tourist trap that will be expensive and not exactly what you expect. While a chain restaurant is trustworthy and familiar. A Starbucks coffee or Big Mac is everywhere the same.
I recently travel in Poland, and the only time I needed to pay with cash, was in a local market selling home made traditional cheese. And even then, they had the card reader, but I was simply unlucky as wifi was not working... And even then, they accepted my painment in euros. While yes, I payed a bit more in euros than I would have in zloti, but hey! It worked!
Me and my family was in Prague for the second time this summer. We loved the public transport, and with a 72hours ticket from the metro,we could just jump on and off the trams and exploring this exciting city! About only paying with card, we only experienced some bathrooms, and one restaurant not taking card (it was the restaurant, at the halfway stop in the cablecar).
Tiy NEED cash though. You just dont ned to spend it. But you ARE in foreign country, things can go wrong. And if, for example, youor card got blocked, you gonna have MUCH harder time to resolve it with no support network to back you up, so having some local currency on you is smart thing to do. Just pay with your card when you can and exchange back before leaving. Maybe leave couple of bills and coins as memento :)
If you leave the Palladium Mall via the exit on Na Poříčí, go right and follow the building, take another right onto the square and continue to follow the edge of the building. You will run into a currency exchange that won't rip you off. The Honest Guides showed it in a different video.
@@zmfcz Maybe in the extremely touristy places in the very center of Prague, but outside of that, it's better to have CZK in the Czech Republic. You will also be ripped off if you have Euros. Outside of the touristy areas, I have seen a single Costa Coffee accept Euros in Prague 7. I've had extra Euros before, and none of the shops would let me pay with them.
It's funny you're suggesting Grand Café Orient to take photos in this video. I like the place but if want to have a coffee or breakfast there, this is one of the few cash-only places in Prague
If you feel that you must have local currency (cash) on hand when you travel, the exchange rate is usually always better in the country where you are exchanging local currency for the other country’s currency. So, for example exchange US dollars into Euros while you are still in the US. Or exchange Euros into US dollars when you are in a European Union country. It is usually bad to exchange currency at the airport. They have you trapped, and the exchange rates are usually bad. Plan ahead and make the exchange well before your trip, and try the rates are your local bank, many will provide the service at a very nominal fee which may be closer to the spot rate. But you must give them time to secure the other currency.
I just realized that my own Prague trip was over six years ago! And I was watching you guys in preparation for it. :) There definitely wasn't a line at the book tunnel back then! Thanks for always supplying us with great content!
I'm from Berlin and I come to Prague at least twice a year on different occasions. I know everything Jan said in this video but still enjoyed watching it because Jan is soo cool
Reminds me of or visits to Hong Kong many years ago. You only had to get out a map and there was always some friendly chinese local who would stop and help, whether you wanted it or not. Sometimes several at the same time and they would chatter amongst themselves (in Chinese) to try and work out the best way to help you get to where you want to go. Nothing required in return. In some countries, however, you have to be careful as there is often an ulterior motive when someone offers help.
Thanks for these cool and helpful videos, I often recommend them to my students! I loved that you emphasized the accessibility of Prague's public transport and how walking is often the most efficient means of transport. Knowing everything is pretty close in our lovely (and relatively small) country, I love to walk everywhere. When I open Google Maps to check how far a place is, I always check the distance on foot first. That's why kinda I suffer when I go to a huge American city, I forget how far everything is! And if I ask the locals about how public transport works, many of them don't know because they simply don't use it. So I can imagine that people who come from a different culture and a big city don't realize how accessible Prague / Czech Republic is without a car.
Living in Munich as a Canadian coming to Prague in September for 3 days with my partner. I have watched your videos for years. Thanks so much for the great information. Have you guys thought about franchising your Honest Guide concept to other European cities? I think it would work and would be invaluable for tourists. Find a native born resident of X European city who follows your format.
I think it's an issue of trust, unless you're local you can't really verify if the tips are actually helpful, so unless you really know the person you can't be sure.
3 месяца назад+2
I live in Luxembourg and I never expected you to refer us as a standard of great public transportation 😂
I was just there for 3 days, leaving for krakow today. The Zabka tip is a lifesaver! and the Pasta place is love! Thank you Honest Guide! Great help in enjoying Prague! love from the Philippines!
5:34 I don't think that pay only by card is the best option. There is still a lot's of places with accept only cash. Just member almost the same rate 1 € = +-25 Kč
just a note - the thing about paying with card - it only works in Prague (and not even there always, f.e. most of outside stalls do not accept cards) and some very touristy places like Cesky krumlov. just this weekend we went to Okor castle (well ruin of a castle) and out of 3 places 2 didnt accepted cards (cafe did, restaurant and castle box office didnt)
True, some shops and restaurants are still cash only. Happened to me on my trip to Austria. But at some you can also pay by QR code or direct bank transfer.
Exactly the point. And non accepting is growing (may tax or control reasons)… Solution would be: Dear Czechs, do it like nearly all of your neighbors (including your Slovak brothers) and install Euro. That would solve the problems. But our economy, our independence… holy s§it on that: If German industry f.e. got sniffles, Czech industry got strong fever…
@@wernerleinberger9847 Stick your EURO where the Sun don't shine! Paying the debts of foreign indebted states like Greece, Italy and Spain out of our taxes?! Hell no!
@@robinsebelova7103 since (I guess from your comment) you´re part of the EU you still do exactly that - you just pay in CZK instead (with a conversion fee, so you pay even more) - without all the benefits of a common currency (like no conversion fees, easy possibility to compare prices, ...).
@@tammybambini1096 There is no direct conversion fee on my card. My bank just has conversion rate at 2.7% above national bank rate. And you can easily convert CZK/EUR in head by multiplying 25x/26x.
Also for the conversion: even with Ryanair [or other flight operators] you can chose to accept the conversion rate [e.g. pound sterling to euro] and most of the time it is worse than it is in reality with your card.
Getting a 1-, 2- or 3-day pass on public transports solves a lot of issues. It’s way cheaper than taxis and if you get tired of walking, skip a few kilometers by taking the tram, bus or metro. Besides that pass is way cheaper than buying single tickets for each ride and you may start exploring places outside the city centers. Prague is nice!
I am one of the people who keep going to the chains. Since I am primarily travelling in germany, the only restaurants where I am sure I can pay by card. In Germany, accepting cards is apparently expensive enough for restaurants to decline card payments.
WRT: The chain restaurant tip: I'm acutely aware that I do this myself even going on domestic day trips (like a trip to London on whatever - I'm doomed to end up in a Wetherspoons or Greggs after walking past 100+ indie places). I try not to whenever possible but sometimes: a) It's comfortable - you know what to expect, you know how it works & how to order, you have the app on your phone with loyalty schemes. They have those ordering kiosks (which abroad can translate to English) making things even easier. b) They always take card. Don't need to worry about cash. c) They're good for solo traveling - no-one bats an eyelid at a single person having a burger in McDonald's. Some local/fancy restaurant? Maybe a bit odd. This maybe comes more down to your "giving a shit what other people think" d) You don't feel like you need to tip. (Sorry, Americans). e) You know you're not going to get ripped-off/scammed. f) (If abroad) you don't need to know the local language or worry if the service staff can speak English. There's probably more reasons.
great tips thanks! I was so impressed by Prague public transportation. its disappointing to see so many tourists opt to use taxis instead of use such an efficient and easy system.
Last week was in Prague, did all payments with card (Revolut Visa Card, physical card and NFC/Google Wallet payments with phone when I was lazy to get card out of physical wallet) and used public travel whenever it was possible :) Great city to visit, and also, Czechs visit us here in Croatia we are waiting for you at summer time :) P.S.: It was business trip, had paid accommodation near location where I had to do all work events which was near Charles Bridge, but videos helped to get few "hidden" places for coffee and food in close proximity of accommodation and event location. Edit: thankfully as both countries are in EU I didn't need to buy spare SIM card just for Internet as I got from employee bigger package for same price :)
I actually had a problem using my card in Karlovy Vary at a supermarket once and I had to pay in cash 😕 Even though it might be more practical to use a card, it doesn’t hurt to at least have some cash on hand in case your card doesn’t work or an establishment’s payment terminal doesn’t work.
The ending made me think of an interesting video idea - pretending to be a tourist and trying to identify a local, and asking them in English for some recommendation. Because I'd be surprised if it actually works well:D
I have to agree that Prague's public transport is fantastic. My first visit was due to a 12 hour gap between flights and getting from the airport to the city center was simple, straightforward (with the help of google maps) and quite cheap too. As for your recommendation about using your card, I couldn't agree more! I exchanged about 70 euros (that's the maximu amount of euros I would allow myself to spend in a 12h stop) but it was pointless honestly. First thing I did was walk around the city center then jump on a Lime and zooooom to the beest cafe/brunch I could find at the city outskirts while also goinng around. It's such a peaceful, beautiful and clean city from the eyes of someone who is currently living in Marseille. I can't wait to come again but for a longer stay and your videos help me a lot at planning out my stay :)
Paying by card also has a trick - depending on terminal config the exchange rate could be different. You can be charged in krons (which is good) or in currency of your card with exchange rate of NOT yours bank (bad scenario). But still that better than ATM of course
All good tips in general for travel. I have used your ATM tip in other countries. I even had one guide give me the same tip about declining the exchange rate. If you walked up to me and asked if I needed help, I would likely decline because of the reasons you mentioned. The only place I ever broke that rule was when I was approached multiple times in the Tokyo subway by someone in business attire. They were always so helpful.
Just out of curiosity why would it take 3 hours to get from New Orleans city center to the airport using public transit when Google maps says around 40 minutes?
Landed in Budapest and drove through Slovakia and Czechia around 1500km , the 200$ I had on me never left my wallet. Everything was paid by card. its much easier not to use cash!
We mananged three weeks in northern Europe (Belgium, Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, and France) with just one small withdrawal from an ATM in Denmark. We did have about 40 Euros from a previous trip some of which we still have. Card is King these days. We did have one tourist trap in Kobenhaven try to trick us with a "card fee", we left the goods on the counter and walked out.
I too have made my way to and from New Orleans airport using the bus and trolly. I did have some trouble finding the bus stop at the airport. You are not the only one.
We were just in Prague, Karlov Vary, Munich, Innsbruck, Bolzano, and Zurich. The one place where you sometimes need cash - coins (yes we did find toilets that take cards too!!!) is the toilet. Even in some restaurants, particularly in busy tourist places, where you are buying food, the toilet is not free!
I was in the last 30 years about 100 times in this beautiful City because i worked longtime in Melnik and Liberec. So i know the whole City and need no map anymore. Prag changed this time very much Positiv.
Also, in France (and probably other places) a lot of banks have very bad exchange rates when you pay with your card in another currency, and in those cases it can be better to change some cash. Most online banks don't do that, but it's quite frequent with old-school brick and mortar banks.
Trivial card tip: When paying with your foreign card here in Prague, always, ALWAYS pay in local CZK currency instead of choosing your home currency (EUR, USD, etc.). You will thank me later ;)
Yes! That's why Janek advises to avoid DCC option. If you pay in local currency, exchange/conversion rate is done by your bank. If you use a DCC to pay in your home currency, the conversion rate is done by local provider with much higher fee.
I don't know how common this is outside of Czechia, but my bank has an option to disable DCC. Then, most of the time, you won't even get the choice of currency, but even when some terminal/ATM wouldn't respect this and it will try to do the conversion for you, the bank will then decline the payment.
As an American, i like going to a Mcdonald’s in another country, just to compare what it’s like versus at home. But it’s usually just one meal, and for fun.
When you’ll visit during the Christmas season, some store that sells cute finds are small businesses and they don’t offer card payment yet. Likewise,based from experience some restaurants accept card payment on certain days, but then on other days can only accept cash payments.
In some cases, for example Brazil, there is a 6,38% tax whenever you use your card abroad, and add the credit card company’s spread to that you get something around 10% tax on the conversion rate. It’s not always the best deal.
About the paying with card, still gotta be careful. Always check if the amount on the machine is correct, and when dining in a restaurant never give your card to the person with the bill.
If you want help with directions, ask a letter carrier (fka mailman) or, better still, someone walking a dog. A dog walker is almost always from the area and is usually helpful.
Dobrý den, jako obvykle skvěle natočená epizoda :-) Námitky mám jen dvě: i v Praze se najdou místa, kde kartou opravdu nezaplatíte (není jich moc, plně uznávám). A pokud dokážete z Václaváku dojít na Vyšehrad za čtvrt hodiny, gratuluju. Já to dám tak za 20 - 30 minut (pohodlnou chůzí) :-)
I got cash from an ATM in London, it asked me 4 times if I wanted to see my balance - thanks to your videos I know why and avoided the extra charge. 🙂
that's one desperate machine for sure!
I did my best to avoid the Euronet ATM's whole day, drained 15 euros from the most normal/ bank official looking atm and after denying the conversion and "withdraw 600 instead of 400 for better rate" I got hit with a 7€ transaction fee as I was with an impatient family member so I was caught by not fully reading the final agree message. 7€ fee for a 15€ withdraw is insanity...
That’s not really a scam though. It’s common for cash machines here (least in Scotland also) to have first option like ‘withdraw and check balance’ so you can see how much you have in your bank available to withdraw (removes pending credit you maybe spent before or online).
Most ATMs are free to use or ever cost a single fee like £1.49-£4, regardless of how much you take out.
TLDR; most ATMs here are free but I recommend using Revolut or some other currency card and just use the card, much easier for you.
The UK seems to be one of the few places in Europe where its actually fairly simple to find a non-Euronet non-begging entirely Feeless ATM at any medium sized supermarket. Not that you need much cash in the UK either nowadays
Why do you need ATM for balance, if you get sms after each transaction?
The walking fast part is SO TRUE. Its the same thing in Poland lol
LOL
It's also the reason why locals hate tourists. :-) God, I try not to go to the center...
I would have no problems accepting help from a local in Krakow, in Prague, no thanks, I'm good.
@@CastorRabbitwhy
@@mand4lex Too many scammers
You are probably the only Czech that will randomly want to help a foreign stranger, thanks, and any others, for trying though!
No he is not. Take a few steps from the tourist trail. Which is just few streets in this city and ask for help. Anyone that speaks English will be more than happy to give you good advice
Maybe in Prague :)
You need to consider the fact that Prague city center is usually filled mostly with tourists and people who want to make money of them.....
Prague has like 90% of all tourism in our country , that's why many locals won't be happy to see a tourist , they see them everyday...
But if you visit some more rural town and villages , you will maybe struggle with language barrier a bit more but people will be much more pleasant.
I'm not a Prague local. And I'm an introvert so I won't approach - but if you approach me, or I clearly see you have a problem I can help with, I'm happy to help. Have done so multiple times in Prague before (am not a local, but my mother and grandma live there so I do have a bit of local knowledge - and sometimes a bit of local _traveller_ knowledge, too).
@@beth12svist Statistically, you must be from Moravia. In Prague, my local friends would be in shock if I ever asked a random stranger for advice or directions. They would try to avoid making contact with anyone. When you are looking for parking, no one in parking lot would randomly tell you if they would be leaving. You are eating at a restaurant and they look at you without wishing you dobrou chut', they just continue as if you don't exist. It can be Christmas, in a church at 8pm, and at most there you will hear is dobry den (when it's actually night). At airport gates, a person finds a piece of info and they don't tell you. I got tons and tons of examples, and I just gotta say most folks in Prague and Bohemia have a heavy case of social public aversion, keep to yourself, don't stick your neck out. It's what happens after 350 years of being under some form of oppression or foreign rule--keep quiet, keep to yourself. In very private settings, it's a whole different deal, people loosen up, Švejk pops out, and it can get wild. It's a constant alternation in life between Švejk and Franz Josef in CZ. Moravia is a bit different, people are a lot more approachable and approaching. Slovakia, yeah, it actually is different country, especially in these respects.
I was in Prague in the late 90s and got horribly lost. (Think, ending up outside of the city after midnight lost.)
On a very early first morning tram I tried to ask the driver about another tram that I knew was near where I was living but he was no help. A very drunk man grabbed me, wrestled me to the door, and shoved me off the tram at one of the stops at the last moment and into the street. Then shouted "go hill," and pointed behind him. Turned out he had figured out I was lost and if I went up the hill I'd be just a few blocks from where my apartment.
That ranks in the top 3 most helpful strangers I've ever encountered.
...I had quite literally been walking all night in the cold and rain.
He is right that you can easily survive and function in Prague with a credit card, but it is also true that some places only accept cash. It's a good idea to carry some cash...about 1200 - 2400 czk = $50 - $100 is plenty.
I was going to write this. If your card fails to scan or gets locked you need to have some emergency cash on hand. The merchant can easily say that they don’t accept foreign currency and call the cops.
I’ve been to Prague twice, 2012 and 2015 and I absolutely loved it, definitely time to go back!
I remember falling for the ATM scam, I thought I was taking out the equivalent of about $100 Canadian, but the machine ended up giving me closer to $600. I ended up having to exchange the excess and I lost so much money.
With respect to accepting help from strangers. Prague is the only city where I’ve gotten lost, after walking past the same coffee shop three times in about five minutes, two locals asked if I needed help, they were extremely friendly, asked where I was trying to go and then gave me extremely easy directions, I was very grateful!
Loved the city and love your channel!
I would never accept unsolicited help from a random guy in the city Square, but on the flip side I won't hesitate to ask someone who looks local for help when I need it.
Yep, it's exactly the same with me. And although i'm a man too, when us men offer help it can look suspicious and tourists are already out of their comfort zone in a new country.
God, I've seen so many people who look completely lost and I want to help them but I'm afraid i'll look way too sketchy if I offer my help so I just go my way and hope they find theirs too. Unless if they are old in which case all my discomfort disapppears.
I lived decades in a touristic place and I know when people are lost or looking for something, and when I wasn't too busy I would propose my help, especially since I have knowledge about the place, speak two foreign languages well enough that can almost be a tour guide. And I will happily accept help even unsolicited, the trick is to know the kind of people that will help you just to be kind. Generally, they're heading somewhere, so they won't be waiting here to help whoever like sollicitors, you will notice that they are on the move, and just taking some extra time to put people on their way. It's possible that some people are chilling on a place and can provide help also: you'd notice that they are with friends, and how their friends will look at you can help recognize their intent. The general look of people can also be an indicator: someone with groceries in the hands, outdoor gear and clothes, metalheads if you arbor yourself a metal band shirt. It's OK to be suspicious of scammers and I never took it badly when tourists thought I looked not the part to be able help (and I honestly didn't back when I was a student) and refused.
This channel inspired my wife and I to explore Prague on multiple trips. We’ve ate at City Hall and at the school. We stayed in Źiźkov and walked to/from all over avoiding mass-transit on a 10-day visit. We walked all 10 bridges zigzagging one day. It was fun. The subway/metro is very easy to use as well as the trams. The antique tram was interesting. The WC dumped directly onto the tracks. Yikes!
I don't think trams have WC.
😂
the wc dumped on the tracks was common in europe untill 30 years ago, now only eastern europe have trains with dumping toilets.
I took a ride on the antique tram, but I didn't see a WC in there.
Everyone needs an honest guide 😊
You forgot one thing: You guys did a video about a good place to drink and eat (U Pivrnce) that only accepts cash. I went there and had cash because I watched your videos.
Never been treated so good, way different than the places crowded with tourists. Sometimes it is good to carry some cash.
This is so true. I was just about to post the same thing.
@@tvzonazika7274
Thank you!
Just put it on the list.
Not sometimes, always. It's always good to carry cash. It's even better if you don't let your bank accounts control it instead of yourself.
@@DrewLSRP I always take at least €300 with me. If I need it, I ask a local or look on Google where to exchange it.
the partner of the video is VISA, so thats why
You should always have cash as what happens if your credit card gets lost/ stolen or if, for some reason, your VISA card gets blocked or denied. This happened to me and my friend in Muscat as both our credit cards were blocked, and my ATM card was eaten by a machine in a 5 Star Hotel bank. This all happened on a holiday. It was a nightmare, and now I also carry cash, but I leave most of it in the hotel safe and only take what I need for the day.
Beside walking to little, I often experience the opposite. People walk too much because the don't dear to take Metro or Tram, don't know what ticket to buy etc.
can also be intimidating if you never use it. Where I live, I drive everywhere. However, when I visit CZ, I'll be taking trams and trains. Sure, I'll be a little nervous about it but I've taken rail before, it's easy to figure out. Prob why people walk too much or take Uber when they don't need to.
I sort of get that. I think there's a bit too much fearmongering about pickpockets and bad things happening even on local public transit. Plus, if you don't have much experience with it, there is a bit of apprehension about using it. I'm from Toronto, so I really don't have an issue with taking local transit. Could have some problems if there isn't any English for me to read but my mobile apps can help me out should that happen.
@@kevwwong no, it's not. That's absolut Nonsense, but a legend among american conservatives.
Last time I heared about pickpockets was 1980 from my grandma. And it was not in public transport. Europe is a safe place.
You can leave your Laptop on the table on the street, go to toilet and nothing will happen.
@@holger_p "That's absolut Nonsense, but a legend among american conservatives."
That is exactly what I meant about fearmongering. Rumours spread around until people believe it to be the truth.
Granted, there ARE pickpockets and thieves in every city but I think most of us watching HG are aware enough to stay alert while still enjoying ourselves wherever we go.
@@kevwwong it's a bit arrogant to set tourist= american, without mentioning. And my comment was about the fear to buy the wrong ticket.
I'm local in Prague, and I love how warm people we are. We might look grumpy, but we are always trying to help. I love to help, I like to offer help, I like to help when asked. And not only to tourists. And since I had some babies I love to accept the help with a stroller myself. I bet 99% of locals will gladly help you with anything to the best of our knowledge. And especially in city center most of locals speak english, and if they don't i bet there will be somebody passing by who will overhear your trouble and offer help as well.
I personally hope we will be able to morally overcome the street sellers who cannot be trusted.
great to know ahead of my trip this week :)
I was on a bikepacking trip vom Harrachov up to the Labe spring and down the river into Germany one week ago. I followed all your recommendations, used campgrounds, local restaurants, shops, butchers, bakeries and asked locals. From Spindleruv Mlyn to Melnik, the tour was not touristic at all and we enjoyed the places togehter with locals. From Melnik to the German border, way more bike tourists appeared, but again, staying with Czech people lead us to the lovely places. I can only recommend to travel the country besides the main touristic spots, it has so much more to offer. Thanks for your work and information. It is helpul througout the country!
nice video - just a few a things
[01:05] - the walk may take an hour but as a tourist you are not going to be stopping for sightseeing rather walk at a faster paste (as a local would do)
[01:20] - a walk from the Old town square or Wenceslas square where he is standing takes longer about 30-ish minutes and it is little bit uphill so it is better to use public transport as that would be within 15 minute
[07:40] - i believe older types of tram like the one passing behind do not have the modern stamping machines where you can buy tickets and need to have one beforehand
[09:40] - as someone has pointed out there still are smaller shops or restaurants where you cannot pay with a card so having a little bit of cash may be useful :)
Currently in prague...honestly one of the most beautiful cities i have seen ever. It fascinates me every time how fast you can get from one place to another by foot or public transport. It feels great to be here and I do recommend to visit this town. Great Tips Honest Thank you
@@oerci8175 We stopped in Prague for a couple days while training through Europe in 2015. We loved it so much we kept extended out stay. Ended up using most of our days there because we fell in love.
"survive with card" is nice idea but doesn't really work all places in prague. Wanna go to the oldest rock club in prague? Pay cash! Wanna go few legendary pubs in Mala Strana? Pay cash! Wanna go to the cool metal bar in zizkov? Pay cash!
Just a few examples ;)
Easy. Every time you go somewhere, first ask if they take cards and if they don't, then leave. Over time, it will force them to implement decades-old technology (hopefully). Fun fact: The first successful payment by payment card took place in 1968. It's a shame when a business resists implementing a 50-year-old service that makes life so much easier for customers.
Can't edit it from phone: first card transaction in Czechia, at the time Czechoslovak Socialist Republic.
@@jannovak5481 I think it is a gopd Thing to have both!
I live in Germany (where Cash is often King) and think both should be possible. It is just Fail Save - if Card do not work which happens - there is still Cash.
What's the name of this club?
@@jannovak5481card payment companies take a big cut, so it's just not profitable for small companies.
I just came back from Prague yesterday... My legs hurt still, all places are visitable on foot, really, you can crisscross for example, from Army museum to Tym in 20 minutes, but when you do all these, and than also walk through inside...
Just go buy the tram tickets, do not be my brother and be cheap, they are good price and you get to see a lot of things from new trams, or enjoy the historical tram's wooden vibe.
Wow, he is really cheap...those tickets aren't even expensive lol
He's not cheap, you are just weak
Your brother was right. As a local, I walk a lot because it's often faster than public transit, especially when going shorter distances, like you usually do when sightseeing. You _can_ save some time in this scenario with intimate knowledge of all the lines and stops, but we're talking tens of minutes over the course of a day and it's not really possible to pull off for a tourist.
The way our public transport is designed, basically any two points are roughly 30 minutes apart. If you're going a longer distance, absolutely use public transit, but if your destination is 20 minutes or less away on foot, it's almost never worth the bother.
Well, the Army museum is historically on the place where a watchtower ovrwatching the city itself from the outside used to be, so that is like the furthest place we would still consider center today
That cafe at 04:30 is awesome! My wife and I were sitting at that exact same table, and maybe one other table was occupied (more people were inside in the cafe area). Servers were also very friendly. And of course, the view was great, more so because there were millions of tourists down there, all oblivious to the cafe on the balcony, queuing at Starbucks and Trdelník places xD
What is the name of the cafe, please?
@@PupasAtPlay Cafe Academia ☕
It used to be a really great secret place for Czechs to go in Prague. I guess the secret got out. 😅
@@beth12svist Heh, truth be told, I think most of the tourists still prefer their Starbucks etc. which is awesome for the rest of us xD
that is a big honor for me, that you called Luxembourg for their public transportation 😂
yes the public transportation is reliable and fast 😊
clean, that I don't know how to compare to other countries, I know some buses aren't clean. I worked at a bus company and during the C-years we needed to clean the other buses and we found food what was outdated already two years ...
In my 2022 visit to Prague, I used all the advice I learned from your videos. You have a beautiful city that I fall in love with. Thank you
Your videos are too amazing and informational to be so focused on Prague alone. Lovely city, but this kind of video in other major cities and highlighting their differences in culture, risks and easy mistakes to fall into would be amazing as a series!
I visited Prague in 2001 and I ate at McDonald's because the tourist guide told some interesting historical stuff about McDonald's in Czechia. 😅And I lived in a small town without any McDonald's restaurants so it was a refreshing change to visit one.
We are in Prague and we have been told twice about a minimum spend on a card. Including U Fleck. Also insist on an itemized bill. If you're paying on a card a few places have just guest at the price and when you work it out the are overcharging you
As someone who lives in Prague and has gone to U Fleku a ton: That's strange, I've never been met with a minimum at U Fleku. The usual minimum amount is in Vietnamese shops (which are absolutely everywhere and in city centre are the plague of expensive stores like the 840 water mentioned in the video). If you like clubbing also prepare some cash (usually drinks can be paid by card but wardrobe might require cash). Also watchout after eating on the bill if there is a "service fee", this is a tip that is pre-done by the restaurant and is actually quite a parasitic way, as you might not see it and are tempted to give them a tip (which would go on top of their tip). Restaurants I recommend (some are franchises): Lokal, Potrafena Husa, Kolkovna Celnice (although watchout with the service fee + tip there), Sia (asian food). All of them are slightly higher priced for Czech standards however, and Sia is quite a mid-to-high end restaurant here, so if you're looking for more Czech local prices you might need to find something else.
@@snelle_tomos I agree - Sia makes really EXCELLENT Asian food. But if you want to experience REAL Vietnam, you must go to SAPA - a bit further from center, but experience for life... :D
@@toruvalejo6152 I actually still haven't gone to SAPA in the year that I lived here! Heard about it and I really have to go, thanks for convincing me. I had an AMAZING Vietnamese restaurant near me at Folimanka, but unfortunately their quality degraded over the last few months so I can't recommend them anymore, real bummer!
As a Swede where it's rare to talk to strangers on the street those people selling/promoting something or wanting you to do a survey has absolutely made people even more reserved when approached as instead of it being rare thing that happened but they genuinely needed help with directions or something it's now happens often but it's 95% of the time just those kind of people who works for some corporation and waste your time. However if you ever visit a Nordic country don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it, we might be very reserved but it's because we have big respect for each others space and don't want to bother others but we are friendly and helpful if you approach us :)
10:50 "I can't think of a place where you couldn't pay with card".. Janek, you once recommended Jidelna Svetozor, the place where you eat regularly.. BUT they only accept cash payments, at least they did when I last was there a few months ago. Has it changed?
Its still only cash by Janek
Video was sponsored by VISA, offcause he would say that
Because of this guy I visited Prague in 2019 ❤❤❤ He is angel for every tourist 😂
Hanza this video is genius . ive done a little traveling my self and lucky enough with my mom too . What a blessing. When i traveled the first time i noticed everytime these long lines for mediocre buildings or art pieces,i quickly figured there usually not worth it. So i started to just walk around and truly appreciate a city for what it is and not just all the tourist traps. i would often stop locals and ask them:" hey where should i eat , hey anything cool to do around the city now? or later? what should i go see ,where and how to get there.". I actually have a funny story when i was in athens greace it took me 3 hours to get to my hostel cause they the locals were SO RUDE like EVERY SINGLE ONE. Till i decided to take a break at a coffee shop and use their wifi to figure out how to find my way. When looking at the menu for the coffee* DING DING DING* i found the reason why people where so rude to me and it was cause i kept showing them on my phone an address and me asking how to get there in English letters!!! Thats when it clicked and i translated the address to greek and i arrived to my hostel 15 minutes later. This taught me we are humans and misunderstandings happen all the time and when communication flows you will always find nice helpful people that will guide you along your way. Sometimes frustrating and scary to not walk the beaten path but it so worth it.
P.S. Small mom and pops restaurants love tourist and a great way to get the locals perspective and how they live life and what they value most in their lives. after a while you just realize we are people living on this planet trying to survive doing our best everyday.
7:18 - As a Luxembourger, I absolutely adore the public transport in Prague. It's clean, reliable and extremely well coordinated. I take this over my free public transport where every second day, the train doesn't work.
it speaks volumes that there's nobody above 30 in the line to take a photo of some uniquely stacked books!
Don’t you worry, old people can do dumb stuff too!
It is placed inside of a public library, arrive in the morning or later afternoon and you can see it without standing in a line.
Social media IS a big thing for these stupid queues. I don’t have neither tiktok, nor insta, nor facebook. I wouldn’t know bout these plces nor would I care. But even if I would, I would never queue for a picture
We went in Prague last year and also 3 weeks ago. Last year we had a friend of mine as a local guide, and we actually found a student bar where they only take cash. But other than this one place, card is good to go anywhere.
I visited Prague years ago with all of your recommendations and it was an amazing visit prior to all the craziness that ensues now. Your tips were incredible! Hope to visit again soon, let's grab a beer!
I was in Prague 2019 for a concert and follow the guide. I ate Chlebiczek and visited some of the places from the book.
For the money part --- I usually plan what I will spend and just exchange in here in Sofia. We have excellent change buro - the rate is 1 EUR for 24-25 CZK..
In the worst terms you can bring revolut card and pay with it in the bars
Janek. Something you shoud know i LOVE the public transport and you got me and my brother to use it.
The buss and metro from the airport. The metro overall so easy!
The trams. It needs some getting used to some use to . I love them but i dont always end up where i was supposed to go. Prefer the subway.
Love your videos as always!
Nice video, but I hate using credit cards. You easily can lose track of your spendings. I prefer cash, especially when travelling. I have a budget, and I easily can see my spendings.
When I am travelling in Europe, Rule 1 is to avoid global chain restaurants like the plague!
The Plague sounds like a terrible global chain restaurant.
@@tom_eldridge it does sound like a very cool underground bar though!
I just laughed when you said, you took the bus from the airport to the city in New Orleans, me and my daughter were on vacation and did just that 😂, we are from Sweden
About choosing for chain restaurants, I also have done this on my vacation. But choosing a local restaurant is difficult in a "strange" country. There's the language barrier, the risk you go for a bad restaurant (in price or quality) or a tourist trap that will be expensive and not exactly what you expect.
While a chain restaurant is trustworthy and familiar. A Starbucks coffee or Big Mac is everywhere the same.
I recently travel in Poland, and the only time I needed to pay with cash, was in a local market selling home made traditional cheese. And even then, they had the card reader, but I was simply unlucky as wifi was not working...
And even then, they accepted my painment in euros. While yes, I payed a bit more in euros than I would have in zloti, but hey! It worked!
Me and my family was in Prague for the second time this summer. We loved the public transport, and with a 72hours ticket from the metro,we could just jump on and off the trams and exploring this exciting city! About only paying with card, we only experienced some bathrooms, and one restaurant not taking card (it was the restaurant, at the halfway stop in the cablecar).
Thank you for all this. Your previous Videos helped me in my vacations.
Tiy NEED cash though. You just dont ned to spend it. But you ARE in foreign country, things can go wrong. And if, for example, youor card got blocked, you gonna have MUCH harder time to resolve it with no support network to back you up, so having some local currency on you is smart thing to do. Just pay with your card when you can and exchange back before leaving.
Maybe leave couple of bills and coins as memento :)
If you leave the Palladium Mall via the exit on Na Poříčí, go right and follow the building, take another right onto the square and continue to follow the edge of the building. You will run into a currency exchange that won't rip you off. The Honest Guides showed it in a different video.
true but as a backup its better to get € than CZK
@@zmfcz Maybe in the extremely touristy places in the very center of Prague, but outside of that, it's better to have CZK in the Czech Republic. You will also be ripped off if you have Euros. Outside of the touristy areas, I have seen a single Costa Coffee accept Euros in Prague 7. I've had extra Euros before, and none of the shops would let me pay with them.
BTW, I live in Prague.
It's funny you're suggesting Grand Café Orient to take photos in this video. I like the place but if want to have a coffee or breakfast there, this is one of the few cash-only places in Prague
And the waiters are awful if you don't speak Czech, or speak Czech with a foreign accent.
If you feel that you must have local currency (cash) on hand when you travel, the exchange rate is usually always better in the country where you are exchanging local currency for the other country’s currency. So, for example exchange US dollars into Euros while you are still in the US. Or exchange Euros into US dollars when you are in a European Union country. It is usually bad to exchange currency at the airport. They have you trapped, and the exchange rates are usually bad. Plan ahead and make the exchange well before your trip, and try the rates are your local bank, many will provide the service at a very nominal fee which may be closer to the spot rate. But you must give them time to secure the other currency.
I just realized that my own Prague trip was over six years ago! And I was watching you guys in preparation for it. :) There definitely wasn't a line at the book tunnel back then!
Thanks for always supplying us with great content!
Good morning from Prague :-) The Book tunnel was not on Tic-toc six years ago, so nobody cared about it then 😀
Prague public transport is amazing. Love your city, man. Can't wait to visit again.
I'm from Berlin and I come to Prague at least twice a year on different occasions. I know everything Jan said in this video but still enjoyed watching it because Jan is soo cool
Thinking to visit Prague for the first time in the coming months, and sure I'll need your expertise to explore this beauty of a city🌹
Reminds me of or visits to Hong Kong many years ago. You only had to get out a map and there was always some friendly chinese local who would stop and help, whether you wanted it or not. Sometimes several at the same time and they would chatter amongst themselves (in Chinese) to try and work out the best way to help you get to where you want to go. Nothing required in return. In some countries, however, you have to be careful as there is often an ulterior motive when someone offers help.
Thanks for these cool and helpful videos, I often recommend them to my students! I loved that you emphasized the accessibility of Prague's public transport and how walking is often the most efficient means of transport. Knowing everything is pretty close in our lovely (and relatively small) country, I love to walk everywhere. When I open Google Maps to check how far a place is, I always check the distance on foot first. That's why kinda I suffer when I go to a huge American city, I forget how far everything is! And if I ask the locals about how public transport works, many of them don't know because they simply don't use it. So I can imagine that people who come from a different culture and a big city don't realize how accessible Prague / Czech Republic is without a car.
We always enjoy your videos and they helped us so much during our extended stay in your beautiful country.
Living in Munich as a Canadian coming to Prague in September for 3 days with my partner. I have watched your videos for years. Thanks so much for the great information. Have you guys thought about franchising your Honest Guide concept to other European cities? I think it would work and would be invaluable for tourists. Find a native born resident of X European city who follows your format.
Probably others do exist, they are just less successfull, less found.
I think it's an issue of trust, unless you're local you can't really verify if the tips are actually helpful, so unless you really know the person you can't be sure.
I live in Luxembourg and I never expected you to refer us as a standard of great public transportation 😂
I was just there for 3 days, leaving for krakow today.
The Zabka tip is a lifesaver! and the Pasta place is love!
Thank you Honest Guide! Great help in enjoying Prague!
love from the Philippines!
Krakow is the best
5:34 I don't think that pay only by card is the best option. There is still a lot's of places with accept only cash. Just member almost the same rate 1 € = +-25 Kč
just a note - the thing about paying with card - it only works in Prague (and not even there always, f.e. most of outside stalls do not accept cards) and some very touristy places like Cesky krumlov.
just this weekend we went to Okor castle (well ruin of a castle) and out of 3 places 2 didnt accepted cards (cafe did, restaurant and castle box office didnt)
True, some shops and restaurants are still cash only. Happened to me on my trip to Austria. But at some you can also pay by QR code or direct bank transfer.
Exactly the point. And non accepting is growing (may tax or control reasons)… Solution would be: Dear Czechs, do it like nearly all of your neighbors (including your Slovak brothers) and install Euro. That would solve the problems. But our economy, our independence… holy s§it on that: If German industry f.e. got sniffles, Czech industry got strong fever…
@@wernerleinberger9847 Stick your EURO where the Sun don't shine! Paying the debts of foreign indebted states like Greece, Italy and Spain out of our taxes?! Hell no!
@@robinsebelova7103 since (I guess from your comment) you´re part of the EU you still do exactly that - you just pay in CZK instead (with a conversion fee, so you pay even more) - without all the benefits of a common currency (like no conversion fees, easy possibility to compare prices, ...).
@@tammybambini1096 There is no direct conversion fee on my card. My bank just has conversion rate at 2.7% above national bank rate. And you can easily convert CZK/EUR in head by multiplying 25x/26x.
Your videos are so helpful. I am visiting Prague for the first time in November and am looking forward to it!
In Portugal, some places might:
1.Not accept card
2. Only take card payments from 5€
3. Accept only Portuguese cards
Haha , Luxembourg , great FREE system we have used.
Also for the conversion: even with Ryanair [or other flight operators] you can chose to accept the conversion rate [e.g. pound sterling to euro] and most of the time it is worse than it is in reality with your card.
Coming to Prague next week and hope to see you guys!!!
Getting a 1-, 2- or 3-day pass on public transports solves a lot of issues. It’s way cheaper than taxis and if you get tired of walking, skip a few kilometers by taking the tram, bus or metro. Besides that pass is way cheaper than buying single tickets for each ride and you may start exploring places outside the city centers.
Prague is nice!
That local coffee place serving coffee in a Julius Meindl cup - as a person from Vienna, we will feel at home almost anywhere
I am one of the people who keep going to the chains.
Since I am primarily travelling in germany, the only restaurants where I am sure I can pay by card. In Germany, accepting cards is apparently expensive enough for restaurants to decline card payments.
WRT: The chain restaurant tip:
I'm acutely aware that I do this myself even going on domestic day trips (like a trip to London on whatever - I'm doomed to end up in a Wetherspoons or Greggs after walking past 100+ indie places). I try not to whenever possible but sometimes:
a) It's comfortable - you know what to expect, you know how it works & how to order, you have the app on your phone with loyalty schemes. They have those ordering kiosks (which abroad can translate to English) making things even easier.
b) They always take card. Don't need to worry about cash.
c) They're good for solo traveling - no-one bats an eyelid at a single person having a burger in McDonald's. Some local/fancy restaurant? Maybe a bit odd. This maybe comes more down to your "giving a shit what other people think"
d) You don't feel like you need to tip. (Sorry, Americans).
e) You know you're not going to get ripped-off/scammed.
f) (If abroad) you don't need to know the local language or worry if the service staff can speak English.
There's probably more reasons.
Visiting other countries' McDonald's is something that I really enjoy doing. There is always something different, usually subtle - but there is
great tips thanks! I was so impressed by Prague public transportation. its disappointing to see so many tourists opt to use taxis instead of use such an efficient and easy system.
The library item, priceless!
Last week was in Prague, did all payments with card (Revolut Visa Card, physical card and NFC/Google Wallet payments with phone when I was lazy to get card out of physical wallet) and used public travel whenever it was possible :) Great city to visit, and also, Czechs visit us here in Croatia we are waiting for you at summer time :)
P.S.: It was business trip, had paid accommodation near location where I had to do all work events which was near Charles Bridge, but videos helped to get few "hidden" places for coffee and food in close proximity of accommodation and event location.
Edit: thankfully as both countries are in EU I didn't need to buy spare SIM card just for Internet as I got from employee bigger package for same price :)
I actually had a problem using my card in Karlovy Vary at a supermarket once and I had to pay in cash 😕 Even though it might be more practical to use a card, it doesn’t hurt to at least have some cash on hand in case your card doesn’t work or an establishment’s payment terminal doesn’t work.
Made me want to go to poland again. Cheers from Denmark.
The ending made me think of an interesting video idea - pretending to be a tourist and trying to identify a local, and asking them in English for some recommendation. Because I'd be surprised if it actually works well:D
I have to agree that Prague's public transport is fantastic. My first visit was due to a 12 hour gap between flights and getting from the airport to the city center was simple, straightforward (with the help of google maps) and quite cheap too. As for your recommendation about using your card, I couldn't agree more! I exchanged about 70 euros (that's the maximu amount of euros I would allow myself to spend in a 12h stop) but it was pointless honestly.
First thing I did was walk around the city center then jump on a Lime and zooooom to the beest cafe/brunch I could find at the city outskirts while also goinng around. It's such a peaceful, beautiful and clean city from the eyes of someone who is currently living in Marseille. I can't wait to come again but for a longer stay and your videos help me a lot at planning out my stay :)
Been to Prague several times and loved the city so much that started learning the language. And now troski rozumim cesky :D
Paying by card also has a trick - depending on terminal config the exchange rate could be different. You can be charged in krons (which is good) or in currency of your card with exchange rate of NOT yours bank (bad scenario). But still that better than ATM of course
Exactly, just pay with the card. I don't remember the last time I touched cash here in Prague
All good tips in general for travel. I have used your ATM tip in other countries. I even had one guide give me the same tip about declining the exchange rate.
If you walked up to me and asked if I needed help, I would likely decline because of the reasons you mentioned. The only place I ever broke that rule was when I was approached multiple times in the Tokyo subway by someone in business attire. They were always so helpful.
Ok next vacation period, I will take the public transport, however I usually walk everywhere when I am there.
Both works
Paying with card everywhere. I wish we would have that in Germany
Honest guide, you have saved me me being scammed so many times since moving to Prague. If I ever see you I'm going to buy you a drink.
Just out of curiosity why would it take 3 hours to get from New Orleans city center to the airport using public transit when Google maps says around 40 minutes?
Landed in Budapest and drove through Slovakia and Czechia around 1500km , the 200$ I had on me never left my wallet. Everything was paid by card. its much easier not to use cash!
@@hamoudalotaib sounds amazing, have fun!!!!!!
We mananged three weeks in northern Europe (Belgium, Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, and France) with just one small withdrawal from an ATM in Denmark. We did have about 40 Euros from a previous trip some of which we still have. Card is King these days. We did have one tourist trap in Kobenhaven try to trick us with a "card fee", we left the goods on the counter and walked out.
For currency needs, you could just order currency from your local bank before traveling. There you’ll usually get decent rates.
I too have made my way to and from New Orleans airport using the bus and trolly. I did have some trouble finding the bus stop at the airport. You are not the only one.
We were just in Prague, Karlov Vary, Munich, Innsbruck, Bolzano, and Zurich. The one place where you sometimes need cash - coins (yes we did find toilets that take cards too!!!) is the toilet. Even in some restaurants, particularly in busy tourist places, where you are buying food, the toilet is not free!
I was in the last 30 years about 100 times in this beautiful City because i worked longtime in Melnik and Liberec. So i know the whole City and need no map anymore. Prag changed this time very much Positiv.
You are a True ambassador of your country
Regarding cash: you might actually need some cash. Last year I had to go to an Atm (from a real bank) to get cash to pay for toilets. But that was it.
Also, in France (and probably other places) a lot of banks have very bad exchange rates when you pay with your card in another currency, and in those cases it can be better to change some cash. Most online banks don't do that, but it's quite frequent with old-school brick and mortar banks.
7:04 An absolute fact. I WISH my city had public transport like Prague. 😞
Getting around in Prague is super easy via the metro. It was easier to understand than where I've lived my entire life in California. And way cheaper.
Unfortunately you cannot pay with a card at Grand Cafe Orient (the Cubist cafe). It is cash only.
Trivial card tip: When paying with your foreign card here in Prague, always, ALWAYS pay in local CZK currency instead of choosing your home currency (EUR, USD, etc.). You will thank me later ;)
Yes! That's why Janek advises to avoid DCC option. If you pay in local currency, exchange/conversion rate is done by your bank. If you use a DCC to pay in your home currency, the conversion rate is done by local provider with much higher fee.
I don't know how common this is outside of Czechia, but my bank has an option to disable DCC. Then, most of the time, you won't even get the choice of currency, but even when some terminal/ATM wouldn't respect this and it will try to do the conversion for you, the bank will then decline the payment.
I can't wait to visit your beautiful city again ❤
As an American, i like going to a Mcdonald’s in another country, just to compare what it’s like versus at home. But it’s usually just one meal, and for fun.
When you’ll visit during the Christmas season, some store that sells cute finds are small businesses and they don’t offer card payment yet. Likewise,based from experience some restaurants accept card payment on certain days, but then on other days can only accept cash payments.
In some cases, for example Brazil, there is a 6,38% tax whenever you use your card abroad, and add the credit card company’s spread to that you get something around 10% tax on the conversion rate. It’s not always the best deal.
About the paying with card, still gotta be careful. Always check if the amount on the machine is correct, and when dining in a restaurant never give your card to the person with the bill.
If you want help with directions, ask a letter carrier (fka mailman) or, better still, someone walking a dog. A dog walker is almost always from the area and is usually helpful.
I remember taking a pic in the library like 4 or 5 years ago - I ran on this occasionally and there wasn't anyone! Wow, what a tiktok could do
Dobrý den, jako obvykle skvěle natočená epizoda :-) Námitky mám jen dvě: i v Praze se najdou místa, kde kartou opravdu nezaplatíte (není jich moc, plně uznávám). A pokud dokážete z Václaváku dojít na Vyšehrad za čtvrt hodiny, gratuluju. Já to dám tak za 20 - 30 minut (pohodlnou chůzí) :-)
Great vid as always, cheers!