Prague Tourism Thriving for Good Reason
Author: Matt Spock
When you think of hot vacation destinations, Prague may not immediately spring to mind. But this capital city of the Czech Republic is actually becoming a bit of a tourist destination. And why not? The city features dozens of historic sites, wonderful restaurants, friendly pubs and a thriving nightlife scene. Its little wonder that Prague tourism is booming. Nearly 4.6 million tourists visited Prague in 2008, according to the citys own stats. Tourism dollars today account for nearly 5 percent of Pragues Grass National Product. Prague tourism can generally be broken down into three parts: There are the historic castles, shrines, cathedrals and villages that attract history buffs from around the globe. Then there are the fine dining and shopping districts. Finally, theres the natural beauty of this capital city, one that the locals and visitors alike have dubbed the Golden City. Few Westerners realize how scenic this Czech city is. Prague, though, boasts more than 24,000 acres of green space and nearly 20 miles of winding rivers. It features 10 scenic islands. Its location on the River Vltava offers plenty of amazing vistas, whether youre strolling through one of the citys many historic districts or enjoying a late-night bite at one of its many riverside fine-dining establishments. You can expect Prague tourism to only continue its impressive rise. After all, this is a city that gives visitors the chance to see the home of legendary author Franz Kafka. The stone house in which Kafka wrote many of his most famous works is tucked inside the grounds of Prague Castle. Prague is whimsical, too. Tourists enjoy listening to the street buskers that perform regularly on the citys St. Charles Bridge. Take a stroll here, and stop a bit at the stalls where Prague residents sell art, handmade gifts and other souvenirs, and youre likely to hear banjos, trumpets, clarinets, guitars and accordions filling the air with music. Just as magical is the Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square. The clock tells time, of course, but does it in its own special way. When a new hour dawns, the figure of a skeleton appears. The 12 Apostles of Christ follow. The sight is a popular one among tourists, and its not unusual to find Old Town Square crowded with them whenever a new hour approaches. But historic sights and beautiful scenery arent the only reasons for the boom in Prague tourism. Theres something special about the people here, too. They have a joy and vitality that is unusual. The residents of Prague work hard, but they also know how to celebrate. This has attracted a colorful mix of residents and travelers to the city, everything from hard-charging businessmen to eclectic Bohemian types. And none of them are above spending a long evening in a friendly neighborhood pub sampling some of Pragues world-famous beer. There are a number of reasons for tourists to visit Prague and the above article reflects this, if you are thinking of visiting soon then chack out the available Hotels in prague or if you would prefer to be in the city centre then check out the available Prague centre hotels.About the Author: Basilica Of Bom Jesus, A Historical Masterpiece Belgrade Travel Overview Of Tuscany, Italy The True Glory Of Tuscany Egypt Travel Guide Rose Duvet Covers for Spring Kpc A Piece Of Kuwaiti History After The Holidays, When You Need Cash Income...YOU Can Start Making Money By Selling Out Of Beautiful Catalogs! New Years Eve In Bangkok - A Memorable Celebration Indonesia Travel and Accommodation Guide Kringleslist Capture Some Of The Brilliant Moments Of Your Kid In A Video Sunda Kelapa A Harbour Of Stylish Grace A New Clubbing Holiday Destination To Try