Prague Parking Matters!

Posted May 11, 2012 by
Tagged As: | Categories: Prague, Prague Accommodation, Prague Advices, Travel | Comments Off

Parking in Prague has become a severe problem since the fall of communism, as if this change made the city similar to other European cities in everything including traffic matters.

The main problem for parking in Prague if you travel to Prague with you car, is that you have to pay almost for each street parking. The first and stressed recommendation you may hear  about getting around in Prague is “use the Prague public transportations, don’t drive!”. But at some point you may find yourself with a car stuck in the streets with no plan on how to find a parking space!

In any zone, make sure not to leave any valuables inside that could attract the attention of car burglars. Car burglary and theft are common crimes in Prague as they are in other big cities. For more safety, you may choose to park your car in a garage or even in a lot. Lots are located close to metro stations, and the purpose of these lots is to encourage people to leave their cars and take public transportation to reduce the traffic jam!

There are ‘color codes’ for the parking zones  in Prague downtown.

Orange – 2 hour parking (from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.)
Green – 6 hour parking (from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.)
Blue – reserved for residents and offices.

For more information about parking in Prague you can read this article.

Holidays in Prague with Children

Posted May 4, 2012 by
Tagged As: children in Prague, Prague areas, Prague Certovka, Prague fireworks | Categories: Prague, Prague Accommodation, Prague Advices, Prague Events, Travel | 9 Comments

cs:Pohled na Petřín ze Staroměstské mostecké v...

Image via Wikipedia

Prague has been always renowned as a destination for adults with its animated nightlife, pubs and clubs. Because of such a reputation, the capital of the Czech republic has never been considered as a friendly destinations for families traveling with children, which is not always true. Prague has a lot to offer for kids, unique attractions and new activities that may enrich the experience of your children and open them to a different culture.
In this article we will try to talk about all the necessary and important points that you should consider while organizing you trip to Prague with your children. In case you see that some subjects or information missing in this article, please leave your comments (at the bottom of this page) and I will be glad to update this article or answer your question directly.

Where to stay with children in Prague?

First important thing that will play the biggest role in the success of your trip, is the accommodation, where should you stay?

To be more concrete and specific, we won’t really recommend a hotel in Prague if you are traveling with kids, with the growing number of serviced apartments in Prague, you have now a large choice of great apartments of different sizes where you can stay with your family, it’s far better than a hotel and with the fully equipped kitchen, it gives you more freedom in regards to meals and meal times. You will feel like home in Prague, no restrictions but enough of space and flexibility, and you will for sure save money if you go for an apartment.

Now for choosing the right area of Prague for your accommodation, we recommend that you read our detailed article about the best areas of Prague to stay in. It depends on your budget, but we would highly recommend apartments in the Mala Strana (Lesser Town), then the Old Town apartments and if you want to save more on your budget, you can choose even a budget apartment in one of the residential areas around the center of Prague, you will use the metro and/or the tramway and usually kids like trains. For example we have a budget apartments Villa A 1, run by Mr and Mrs Kafka, really very helpful and kind people, I know them personally and we had only positive feedback from families who stayed in their apartments. Also try apartments Na Belidle, they are in Andel district, near Novy Smichov Shopping center which offers many facilities for children, the apartments themselves offer a space for kids in the ground floor with the possibility of babysitting.

Prague airport transfer with children

Here an important remark, to go from the airport to your apartment, better to book Prague airport transfer service in advance, it’s more safe and practical than catching the bus or a taxi at your arrival. And don’t forget to order in advance the children safety seats for the airport transfer, usually the safety seats are free of charges.

Where to eat with children in Prague?

Usually children are not allowed in pubs (Hospoda and Pivnice) in Prague, and even if they do allow, don’t take your children to such places, smoking is still not prohibited in the Czech republic as in some other European countries, and the aeration inside restaurants is not that good. Also Czech cuisine is not that healthy, and worse if your kids are used to McDonalds or KFC’s. In Prague we recommend you to go to one of Ambiente restaurants, they have kid’s corner open daily from 10am to 5pm, they cook fresh, they have a nonsmoking area, they provide a great service(which is unusual in Prague), and they have their restaurants of different specialties almost in each district in the center of Prague. More you can find on Ambiente restaurant website.

Where to go with children during your stay in Prague?

Petrin Hill and its mirror maze in Prague

Take the funicular railway to Petrin hill, there is a copy of the Eiffel Towner and a mirror maze inside, usually fun for children, then if the weather is good you can walk through the Rose Garden and the nice parks of Petrin to the neighborhood of Prague Castle.

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Prague Castle Guards

Once you are at Prague Castle, let children see the changing of the Guards ceremony, it could be a good memorable scene for the kinds, sometimes they can even take a photo with the guard.

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Toy Museum of Prague

Near Prague Castle we recommend to visit the toys museum at Jirska street number 4, the entrance is free of charges for children under 15 and 60 CZK (around 2 EUR) for adults. This museum is considered as the the second largest museum of this kind in the world with its 7 exhibition rooms and a collection of toys not only from the Czech republic but from all over the world and belonging to different civilizations and centuries. This won’t be interesting only for children, but also for you as an adult, you will refresh your memory seeing toys that you used to play with in your childhood.

Prague Zoo

Don’t miss the zoo of Prague, it’s located in U Trojskeho zamku number 3/120, in Prague 7, you can take the bus112 from Nadrazi Holesovice metro station, or if you want a unique experience, take the boat that goes from the center of Prague to the zoo and sales around 75 minutes. The zoo is worth spending the whole day with children. Heres is the official website of Prague zoo.

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Sea World in Prague

An impressing Sea world permanent exhibition located at the fairground in Vystaviste in Prague 7 with a flat of 1.000 m2 and a water volume of around 260.000 liters holding about 4.500 varieties of fishes and other sea animals. Visit the website of Prague sea world.

Prague National Technical Museum

With its 50.000 filing items exhibited on13.000 m2, the National Technical Museum of Prague could play an educational role in your children’s knowledge.

Divadlo Minor Puppet Thaetre of Prague

This is the largest puppet theatre in Prague which offers shows suitable for different kid’s ages. The Czech Republic has a long tradition in marionette making and its theatrical performance, so don’t miss Divadlo Minor, it’s right in the center of Prague in Vodickova street number 6.

Boat Trip on Vltava River in Prague

This an unforgettable experience for your kids and a romantic cruise for you also, you will admire Charles Bridge and Prague Castle in different way. Try to go for this boat trip at the sunset and don’t forget your camera.

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Nostalgic Tram Line ride and Prague Public Transport Museum

Pay only 35 CZK (20 CZK for children) and jump in the historical nostalgic Tram Line No. 91, kids like trains and enjoy the ride, mainly if you don’t have a similar tram in your home town,

If you want you can combine your Nostalgic Tram Line ride with a visit to the Prague Public Transport Museum (Muzeum MHD). It is located in the former tram depot of Stresovice in Prague 6 and it houses a unique collection of period public transportation vehicles going back to 1875, the year in which the first tramway, pulled by horses, started toperating in the streets of the Royal Capital City of Prague.

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Zlute Lazne outdoor swimming and playground in Prague

Take the tram number 21, 16, 17 or 3 to tram stop Dvorce and you will find the “yellow spa”, a multi-functional center for sports and free-time activities for all age groups including children. you will find in Zlute Lazne a grass beach, a beach volleyball court, a dragon boats, a water bicycle rental, a closed cage for sand football gladiators, 8 courts for petanque, table tennis, netball street-ball, xxl chessboard, bouldering, restaurants and an Internet cafe, Children’s play area, inflatable swimming pool with toys, baby sitting, dancing area, a safe parking and all areas are with wheelchair access.

Children playgrounds in Prague

In Prague you will find children playgrounds in every district, it doesn’t matter where you will stay. Usually playgrounds are in green parks and accessible only for children and their parents, no dogs and no adults are allowed. One of the largest play areas is the Detsky Ostrov / Children’s Island, a long, narrow river island in the Vltava river, accessible via a footbridge from the Janackovo nabreri embankment.

Shopping for children in Prague

Wooden toys: Handmade quality traditional Czech wooden toys are almost everywhere in specialized shops, mainly in the Old Town.

Sparky’s toy shop: One of the biggest toy shops in Prague, located in the Old Town at Havirska street number 2

Mothercare: Baby wear and accessorieson the first floor in the Myselbek shopping center in Na Prikope

C&A” shop: The first floor is for the kids clothes with a play area.

Palac Knih: a large book shop with a children section

Marks and Spencer: First floor for children clothes

Oasis City: Just next to Marks & Spencer in the Wenceslas Square, you will find a place where you can leave your kids under supervision with different levels depending on the age of the kids starting from 2 years old, they charge 60 CZK per hour (around 2 EUR)

- More shops for kids like Au Pays des Mimis ou Zara Kids are in Novy Smichov Shopping center in Andel district.


Luxury Apartments for Long Term Rentals in Prague

Posted April 24, 2012 by
Tagged As: Apartment, Czech Republic, long term rentals prague, prague, Prague luxury apartment, Wenceslas Square | Categories: Prague, Prague Accommodation, Prague Advices, Travel | Comments Off

Attic Klimentska Apartment in PraguePrague is one of those cities where you can enjoy a one week vacation or holiday, but where you can also go for just a long stay for business or study. This Central European city offers easy access to a number of facilities, the headquarters of international companies, conferences all year long and plenty of interesting architecture and sites. So how should you go about finding an area and place to stay in Prague; what is a good area to stay in and what kinds of things can you do in long stay in the city of Prague, Czech Republic?

Whether you are with your family, friends, or on a romantic getaway an apartment is just the place for you to stay. You can find one that suits any budget. From Prague Luxury Apartments to the basic accommodation that major travelers require. So once you figure out your personal budget and needs then all you have to do is choose whether you want to be in the center of town or if you would like to be on the surrounding districts like for example Andel.

Prague ApartmentPlan.cz agency offers you a large range of Long-term Apartments Rental in Prague to suit all budgets: whether you are looking for a Prague vacation rental or an alternative to a luxury hotel in Prague . We have luxury apartment rentals in the heart of Prague (in the Wenceslas Square and the Old Town), often for less than the price of a five star hotel. As an added benefit, you will have the luxury of more space to relax at the end of a day of sightseeing or long business meetings, with more privacy than a typical hotel room in Prague.

All the apartments in Prague are fully equipped and located in the heart of the city, in central and safe areas: Like for example the Luxury apartment Attic Olivova or the newly opened apartment Attic Klimentska. It is a good opportunity to safe your money, to rent a comfortable and cozy apartment will cost you indeed less than a 5 star hotel room. Our apartments for rent in Prague are the adequate  option to make your business or holiday travels a pleasure because our Prague serviced apartments are worth in quality and budget.

The quality of your apartment in Prague will play a large part in the success of your business stay. That’s why our selection of holiday apartments is the result of a very demanding quality charter. Moreover, our Luxury apartments are located in the most exciting districts of Prague.

These fully equipped apartments can be rented as a whole for families or groups and dispose of several bedrooms, living room, dining room, and equipped kitchen, bathrooms with shower and / or bathtub, TV and washing machine, and located in buildings with elevator.


Best Area to Stay in Madrid

Posted April 23, 2012 by
Tagged As: Chueca, Madrid, madrid accommodation, madrid apartments, Museo del Prado, Puerta del Sol, Salamanca, Sol, Spain | Categories: Madrid, Spain, Travel | Comments Off

Deutsch: in Madrid

If you enjoyed staying in Barcelona’s Gracia district, you’ll love staying in Salamanca quarter. This very upscale area does get very quiet on weekends and it’s certainly the safest area to lodge, within walking distance of everywhere and there is a few really nice places to eat along the square. For an area that is very safe (whatever that means), I would suggest the Salamanca district such as the area around calle Serrano and the streets leading off it further north of the center where the expensive designer boutiques are located.  It’s kind of sterile and I wouldn’t stay there, but it’s ultra high end and seems really safe and secure.

It is difficult to advise you about what apartment choosing, as we all have different preferences and requirements. Choosing the right area is basic for having a happy time in Madrid. For that reason in this Madrid Guide you will find plenty of information about the different Madrid areas, pictures and maps which will help you to take the right decision. Staying in the former ‘shabby’ corner-turned revival neighborhood of Madrid is a lively affair, with buzzing crowds on hot summer nights around its epicenter Plaza de Chueca. Apartments in Madrid are great value and never far from the many, cafés and restaurants dotted around this trendy spot. Nearby Fuencarral is regarded as the heart of Madrid’s fashion scene.

Puerta del Sol is about as central as you can get. There’s plenty of Madrid Apartments dotted around the near by streets and you can’t move for cafes, restaurants and shops. You’ll be right on the main hub for the metro to get around and plaza Espana, Plaza Mayor and numerous other sites will be right on your doorstep. Madrid is a very safe city except for the pickpocketing that goes on in many European cities. The Plaza Mayor and the Puerta del Sol are spots where you are more likely to have your pockets picked, simply because it is easy to do in those crowded places where tourists bunch up and are easy pickings.

The first aspect you should consider is the location. As mentioned, don’t rack your brain, simply because Madrid’s 1000s sights are scattered all over the various areas, so you will be roaming around all the areas in any case. If you plan to avoid Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol at night, you might as well skip Madrid.  Madrid is very lively at night, and those two areas have a lot to offer.  While I understand how some might consider areas bordering on Puerta del Sol as seedy, this is actually a very old area full of traditional Spanish ambiance that has many tapas bars and little restaurants and is hopping late into the night and considered by those of us who love the city as one of the most desirable areas to stay in to be near all this.

Many of the museums and plazas can be found staying around the city’s Centro and nearby districts of Retiro and Salamanca. Centro de Arte Reina Sofia, home to Picasso’s ‘Guernica’ is arguably Spain’s single-most famous artwork. The stunningly beautiful Plaza Mayor, Prado Museum and the splendid gardens of Retiro Park are all close by. With easy transfers in Madrid, Vincci Via 66 hotel is a great place to rest those weary feet after a busy day’s sightseeing. While car hire in Madrid is easy to arrange, you won’t need it in the home of the city’s Castizos,  just 15 minutes walk from the quaint old winding streets of Rastro Market. Enjoy the rough diamond-cut locals and its multicultural melting pot of personalities.

These are just few areas in Madrid’s Center where you may consider staying during your visit. Other Center quarters plus peripheral areas provide more options. There are many different types of Apartments in Madrid to suit your tastes in whatever area you choose to stay.


Attic Olivova Apartment in Prague Topping TripAdvisor Reviews

Posted April 13, 2012 by
Tagged As: luxury Prague apartments, prague apartments, Wenceslas Square | Categories: Prague, Prague Accommodation, Prague Advices | 1 Comment

Some examples of reviews of apartment Attic Olivova:

Great apartment, great service! The photos don’t really do this apartment justice, it’s a big bright apartment with really good quality equipment everywhere. Small details can ruin a stay anywhere so it was great to stay somewhere where everything worked perfectly. Plenty of bedding, towels and hot water. Comfortable, clean sofas and beds. There are many good looking apartments in Prague that on arrival turn out to be a bit more tired and worn looking than in the photos – this wasn’t one of themm – everything is better than expected. Highly recomended :)  

Or also:

Great apartment!  This is a quality apartment in a very central location in Prague. The welcome was very warm from our host, and everything in the apartment was in working order exactly as described.

Apartment Attic Olivova is an Exclusive two bedroom apartment of 122 m2, located in a quiet lateral street, just a stone’s throw from the world famous Wenceslas Square. A stay here puts you right in the deep heart of Prague, all you have to do is step outside the door. The location is phenomenal, there’s the Wenceslas Square on your right, the Republic Square on your left, and just behind, the Na Prikope pedestrian street, the heaven for shopping lovers. The Old Town Square, considered as a privileged and one of the most prestigious and sparkling neighborhoods of the capital is at a short stroll away.

Apartment Attic Olivova, Prague

This part of the city is full of character provided by some of the best destination restaurants, traditional Czech pubs, music bars and trendy cafes as well as a good selection of nightlife attractions. The area is also known for being rich in culture with the State Opera and the National Museum practically on your doorstep. In the direct vicinity of Apartment Attic Olivova you’ll find everything you need. There is an excellent range of small independent shops for fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, seafood together with bakeries and pastries. This is also a fantastic place to dine out as the choice of restaurants is truly astonishing. Whether you are seeking a prime restaurant, a bistro, an outdoor cafe or a fast food.
For further excitement and for night lovers, the Wenceslas Square area offers trendy bars and music clubs, as well as legendary Czech pubs. For shopping lovers, don’t miss a visit to the nearby extremely appreciated and incredibly busy Na Prikope street, it boasts a large choice of fashions stores. Wonderfully light and spacious, this comfortable apartment is well-appointed and comes complete with elegant decor, modern furnishings and added luxuries. There is also a private terrace for your enjoyment. Air conditioning and wireless high speed Internet is matter of course. For carefree and modern city living at its finest, this inviting Prague apartment is the perfect choice for discerning guests. Thanks to its central location, the area has extremely good public transport connections, not only with the ever-efficient metro, but also with the tram services. The closest metro stations are Mustek and Museum. You will also easily reach the Wenceslas Square tram stop.

If you prefer the Old Town, also consider the brand new luxurious Attic Klimentska Apartment.

Prague boasts one of the most comprehensive and efficient public transport systems in Europe. Inexpensive and quick, using public transport is often preferable to using a Taxi. Metro and trams offer extensive coverage with stops in most major sights. The nearest metro stations are Museum and Mustek. Maps and pocket guides are available. This duplex apartment is on the top floor, with rich wood floors, neutral color schemes throughout, modern home comforts and air conditioning. On the main level are the living room, the terrace, the kitchen the first bedroom and the first bathroom. Wooden stairs lead to the upper floor where are the second bedroom and the second bathroom. The apartment is spacious and luxury and it is furnished and equipped to a very high standard, it has a large furnished area for relaxing and a fully equipped kitchen. This is a truly exceptional apartment that stands out above the rest and a must see, it offers an abundance of character with highlights like exposed beams and lots of light.


Satisfied Guests at Apartment Attic Klimentska, Prague

Posted April 12, 2012 by
Tagged As: Na Příkopě, Old Town Square, prague, Republic Square, Wenceslas Square | Categories: Prague, Prague Accommodation, Prague Advices, Travel | Comments Off

(Update) 4 Months already since we first opened, and our guests have been satisfied with their stay in apartments Attic Klimentska, Prague. Now for any stay over 4 nights, you get a Discount.  Also Special Bonus: Free airport transfer to the apartment.

Elegant and luxury two bedroom apartment of 146 sqm, sits among iconic landmarks, in a distinguished address in the heart of Prague, just a few steps away from the world famous Old Town Square and the Josefov Quarter. A stone’s throw away is the bustling Republic Square, the renowned Na prikope street and the fabled Dlouha street. Perfectly located in the heart of Prague, it offers a peaceful and tranquil haven in a central location, yet just moments from the myriad delights of the renowned Old Town Square, and just minutes away from the vibrant bustle of the Republic Square and Na Prikope street.

The city centre is easily navigated on foot, however, Prague boasts a comprehensive transport system comprising of metro, tram and bus services. The Republic Square metro station is close by and allow an easy connection to the rest of the city. The nearest underground station is Republic Square, which is less than two minutes’ walk away and gives simple and quick access to all the primary areas of central Prague. At night, the neighborhood is sizzling with activity — it’s an exciting, welcoming place to take a drink, hear live music or do your own thing. You are pretty much always guaranteed a great time. Another lovable aspect after dark — everything is conveniently close together, you choose, you can almost certainly hit multiple hot spots within a short walk.
Klimentska Street
Apartment Attic Klimentska in Prague offers high quality amenities, it consists of a large living room with an open kitchen, two bedrooms, a dressing rooms, an anteroom with large bay windows facing the terrace, a bathroom and a separate toilet. The living room has a dinning corner and a living area. For billiard fans, a superb billiard, allows them to practice their passion in Prague. The kitchen is very modern and fully equipped. The bathroom is large and luxurious. The terrace is superb, where the tasting of your favorite drink in the late afternoon will be a real pleasure!

General facilities: security door, fully air-conditioned, high-speed Internet, TV satellite, hair dryer, welcome pack (including shower gel + shampoo, cotton swabs (buds) and cosmetic cotton pads), washing machine and ironing facilities.

First bedroom: double bed or twin beds (anti allergic mattresses), night tables, reading lamps, double sided oval makeup mirror, chest of drawers, flat screen TV (LED – New generation), docking speaker for connecting iPods, MP3 players, computer or other devices.

Second bedroom: double bed or twin beds (anti allergy mattresses), night tables, reading lamps, double sided oval makeup mirror, chest of drawers, flat screen TV (LED – New generation), docking speaker for connecting iPods, MP3 players, computer or other devices.

Living room (massive teak furniture): large leather sofa (allows two additional sleeping), coffee table, home cinema, large flat screen TV (LED – New generation) and billiard.

Dinning corner (massive teak): dinning table & chairs.

Kitchen: fully equipped kitchen, fridge / freezer, ceramic hob, oven, microwave, electric kettle, coffee maker, toaster, sandwich and waffle maker, dishwasher, cooking utensils, cutlery and crockery.

Bathroom: bathtub, walk-in shower, washbasin, liquid soap, three towels (big, medium & small), mirror, toilet and heated towel bar.

Anteroom: comfortable oriental lounge in front of the terrace.

Terrace: table and chairs.

Utility room: washing machine and storage space.

Dressing room: separate dressing room.

ApartmentPlan.cz Prague Apartments New Website: New Features, the Same Great Experience

Posted March 19, 2012 by
Tagged As: | Categories: Prague, Prague Accommodation, Prague Advices, Travel | Comments Off

English: A view of the bridge tower at the end...

We have been working hard over the last few months on launching our new website and we will continue to work hard as we always did since 2004 to support and serve our guests with Apartments in Prague. We are very pleased to announce the launch of the new ApartmentPlan.cz website with several new features to help you choosing and filtering the best apartments in Prague and finding the most suitable accommodation for you.

We cordially invite you to experience the new website from ApartmentPlan.cz, offering an immerse and user-friendly experience combined with rich information about Prague Apartments and functional design. Browse and search our unique properties, take advantage of the instant “Ask a Question” request form feature, and read real time reviews for Prague apartments by our clients. The new website from FARUX s.r.o Travel Agency is more dynamic, incorporating vivid images and user-generated content delivering a completely personalized experience. The new website has also been fully optimized for mobile devices to create an effortless experience tailored to every guest planning his stay in Prague.


Plan your Trip Early for Prague Easter 2012

Posted January 9, 2012 by
Tagged As: Charles Bridge, Czech Republic, Easter, Easter egg, holidays, Old Town Square, prague, Wenceslas Square | Categories: Prague, Prague Accommodation, Prague Advices, Prague Events | Comments Off

This image was selected as a picture of the we...

Image via Wikipedia

Prague Easter is a very busy time for tourists who want to be part of the Czech Easter traditions. Visitors will need to plan their visit well in advance and ensure that accommodation is also booked. This is a wonderful time to visit Prague with the Prague Easter markets and the city full of color and vibrancy.

Prague’s Old Town Square transforms itself into a large market packed full of wooden toys, candles, jewelery, metal-ware, embroidered cloth and much much more. The true gems of the market however are the hand-painted Easter Eggs. Beautiful traditional women dressed in beautiful traditional clothing can personalize your eggs by writing a private message or a name on them. Red-roofed booths fill the square, hawking one-of-a-kind knick-knacks, including Czech glass, jewelry, handcrafted straw products, wooden toys and candles. Visitors will also get a chance to paint Easter eggs and weave their very own willow sticks during one of the numerous workshops offered throughout the month.

Easter in Prague

The architecture here is beautiful and you don’t need to spend a lot to have a great time. Visit at the end of March for Easter and you can cheer on the runners in the Prague half marathon before hitting the Easter Markets with a vengeance. You’ll find handcrafted gifts, including wooden toys, crystal, candles, jewelery, puppets and dolls. Some of the Luxury Apartments in Prague have up to 60% from discounts, including Apartment Attic Olivova and Apartment Attic Klimentska. You’ll be directly in the main square and the charming and lively Wenceslas Square filled with many restaurants, shopping malls and historical monuments and sights.

Prague Old Town Square in Easter

There is a tradition of Easter flogging which is a more gentle activity than its title suggests. The young men armed with their Easter sticks which are made of wicker with colourful ribbon tied to it, move from house to house flogging the women. The men were rewarded with a decorated egg although that has now changed to plum brandy which ensures that men get quite jovial as the day progresses. Prague Easter markets in the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square are full of brightly coloured, hand-painted Easter eggs, embroidery, crystal ware, handcrafted products and Easter whips, not to mention the many Easter treats and enticing snacks that are on sale. Other Easter experiences include Easter egg painting by the girls and women.  Easter caroling are performed by the boys who, with their braided whips, call on homes and whip the legs of girls and women of the homes.  The boys recite Easter carols as they go about their whipping. In return, they are given one of the colourful Easter eggs.

Traditional Eggs Painting in Prague

People can also donate to charity. There are two charity stands in both Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, as well as charity moneyboxes. Various performances on a stage are planned for every day, especially performances of music and dance choirs from all over the country. The breathtaking, fairytale vision of Prague’s ancient squares and Gothic architecture makes it easy to see why it’s known as ‘the city of golden spires’. During the Easter period, the Prague Easter Markets (Velikonoční Trhy) can be found in the Old Town Square and are hugely popular with locals and tourists alike. Rather than filling up on market treats, save room for dinner at the Michelin-starred restaurant Allegro: if the spring days are warm enough, guests can dine on the terrace with its river-level views of the Charles Bridge and Castle spectacularly lit up by night.


Prague Winter Snow Pictures

Posted December 13, 2011 by
Tagged As: Andel, Charles Bridge, Malá Strana, prague, Prague Castle, prague winter, snow prague, Wenceslas Square | Categories: Prague, Prague Accommodation, Prague Advices, Prague Events, Prague Monuments | Comments Off

Snow in Prague Lesser Town (Mala Strana)

Prague Mala Strana Winter

Prague Old Town in Winter

Snow in Prague Old Town

Prague Wenceslas Square in Winter

Wenceslas Square Snow

Apartments in the Wenceslas Square, Prague

Apartment Attic Olivova in the Wenceslas Square, Prague

Winter Market in Andel (Smichov), Prague 5

Andel Winter Market

Snow on Prague Castle

Prague Castle Snow

Charles Bridge in Winter

Charles Bridge in Winter

Madrid Mosques and Halal Restaurants for Muslims

Posted December 7, 2011 by
Tagged As: andalus, Halal, Islam, Madrid, Madrid Central Mosque, Muslim, Restaurant | Categories: Madrid, Travel | Comments Off

The word “Madrid” is derived from the Arabic word Mayra, which stands for water conduction; thus Madrid means place of mayras. By 711 A.D Muslims introduced a myriad of new technologies one of it the hydraulic technology known as a qanāt (aqueduct) helped them establish themselves in the peninsula.

Islamic Cultural Center of Madrid

Opened on 21 September 1992, The Centro Cultural Islámico (Islamic Cultural Center) in Madrid is the largest mosque in Europe. The mosque is mostly modern in design, but with traditional elements such as a minaret with balcony. Made of fine white marble, it includes a college, ritual bath house, gymnasium, cafe and an Arabian restaurant called Zahara.
The exterior is seen as closed solid, while the interior forms a frame for the integration of the multiple social activities centering around the mosque. The internal spatial organization is based on ordered system of patios: entrance patio, main patio, and patios designed for special purposes. The ground level groups functions of mass character but aiming to provide conditions for quiet and concentration: the mosque, permanent exhibitions, education, teaching area etc. The underground level contains an auditorium, a hammam, multi-purpose rooms, and temporary exhibition space.

Madrid Mosque

Facilities of the Islamic Cultural Center of Madrid:
Mosque: This was built on the style of Cordoba mosque, marrying modern architecture and original Islamic architrave
School: This educational institution, which is officially recognized by the Spanish Ministry of Education, consists of classes ranging from kindergarten to secondary stage.
Library: This is replete with a number of Islamic reference books and journals in Arabic, Spanish, French, and English.
Assembly Hall: This is a modern style-conference hall, furnished with advanced interpretation system for live languages, and having a seating capacity for more than 500 individuals.
Exhibition hall: This is a hall which furnished with the means required for display of various art works.
Zahra Restaurant: It is a luxurious Arabic restaurant that serves its customers with daily distinctive Arabic meals at reasonable prices.
Cafeteria: This is situated at an appropriate site and serves customers with tea, coffee and Arabic confectionery.
Gymnasium hall: It is furnished with training apparatus for physical fitness and muscle building.

Madrid Central Mosque

The Madrid Central Mosque or Abu-Bakr Mosque is a building located in the Cuatro Caminos neighborhood of Tetuán district. During its construction its proximity to the Estrecho metro station gave birth to the popular name of the Strait Mosque.
The building, spread over four floors, has in addition to the mosque and offices, a nursery, a school, a library, an auditorium and a shop. It performs worship, charitable, educational, cultural and social functions, having signed an agreement with Al-Azhar University for the training and provision of imams.

Mezquita Central de Madrid

Muslim City Wall in Madrid (Muralla Musulmana)

The Madrid city walls or Muralla Arabe (Arabic Wall), are one of the rare remnants of Islamic Madrid.  However, only a small stretch of the outer defense wall that dates back to the 9th century has survived.  The wall protected a 9th century fortress built buy the founder of Madrid, Emir Mohammed I.
The Muslim wall of Madrid protected a fortified complex, which highlighted three main buildings: the palace, the mosque and the house of the emir or governor.
Plucked directly from the castle, from its southern part, leaving the other three sides of the building exposed and rough terrain that did not require a major defense of it. To the west, situated on the cliffs along the river Manzanares were a natural defense of the castle; similar role fulfilled the ravines and gorges Arenal Brook to the north and east.
Its total length was about 980 meters and enclosed an area of about four hectares. It had a moat outside only in its eastern section, the one where the ground had a height greater than that of the wall itself.

Madrid Muslim City Walls

Halal Food and Restaurants

Where can we find a halal restaurant in Madrid, where the dishes respect and are inspired by the culinary Islamic traditions? On the following link we suggest great restaurants in Madrid that provide tasty halal food.

Halal Restaurants and Fast Food in Madrid

Madrid Halal Restaurants

Accommodation in Madrid Apartments Suitable for Muslim Travellers

Muslim family friendly Serviced Apartments in Madrid in La Latina, Puerta del Sol, near Prado Museum and in Gran Via.

Apartments for Muslims in Madrid