Czech Republic Getting Acquainted
Ahoj!
Well, I have arrived. The trip was exhausting; one nearly-empty AA flight to London, a 4-hour layover in Heathrow, a 2-hour flight to Prague, lots of idling and a long bus ride to the residence hall. I haven’t a clue how long the trip took in total, only that I arrived with enough energy to unpack one suitcase, play with the oven and soak in the neighborhood.
I am living in a former industrial area of Prague called Holešovice in a converted meat factory. The building (called Osadni) is further from the NYU campus than the other residential options, but its splendor is worth the distance. They’re really spoling us; we have thrice-weekly maid service, a dishwasher, an exhaustive supply of cleaning supplies, two fridges—one for produce and one for beverages—and essential linens, dishes, and cookware. The top floor houses a study lounge, TV lounge, terrace and laundry facilities.
Bright and early Wednesday morning, I found my way to dm-drogerie markt for some toiletry hunting. Never in my life have I spent so long differentiating conditioner (balzám… I hope) from shampoo (šampon), helplessly translating the packaging by lifting Czech labels from American brands, creating a “key” for the other items. These Czechs sure do love fruity scents; I am proud to announce that I constantly smell like peaches, kiwis and citrus.
The tram ride from Holešovice to the NYU center is a relaxing trip out of the industrial suburbs, along the beautiful Vltava river, across the bridge, and into the Old Town. The trams run like clockwork, avoiding city traffic by using dedicated wired tram lanes. Prague metros, trams and busses are full of pickpockets, so people tend to be quiet and vigilant during transport.
I am blown away by how inexpensive this city is. A half-liter (pivo) of their signature Pilsner Urquell beer is usually under $2 USD, if not cheaper. And it’s stronger. Huge plates of beef, potatoes, vegetables and fried cheese cost as little as $5 or $6 USD, and street food is even less expensive. Pub air smells of smoke, beer and freedom.
For the first two days, we have been divided into two 80-person groups, learning city survival tactics, a little contextual history and touring our beautiful new home. There is so much to learn, so much to try and so little time. So much for sleeping.
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