An Excerpt from "Slightly Overcrowded World: Prague"

"Hello again, adventurers! Slightly Overcrowded World (SL.O.W.) is back again, with yet another guide for our SL.O.W. readers out there. Before we begin, some general tips to ensure you get the most out of this fine city.

°First, be sure to wear that 'Prague Drinking Team' shirt you bought last night. You're certainly never going to wear it at home, and it is a courteous reminder to others not to be your friend.

°While referring to the locals around you, be sure to refer to them as 'Chechans'. Occasionally, wish them luck on their future independence from Russia. Be active in this Satin Revloution!

°Don't forget to hassle the Mime in the main square. After all, once we get rid of this last holdout of the dying art, we'll finally see nothing but those HILARIOUS gold-painted "Look, I'm a statue!" guys.

***Extra points for Stag parties who repeatedly flick off the mime's hat with toy light sabers. Those Mime tears sure will make you feel like a man!***

°Be sure to change money with men who approach you on the street.

°Finally, when taking some night-landscape photos with your new $2000 camera, be sure to use the flash. This is the mark of a true pro."

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Okay, so maybe that last one is just a bit of jealousy. It would be nice to have one of those DSLRs, but this Z5 is actually pretty great. I'll add a bunch of shots at the bottom of the page.

Prague is, despite the crowds, pretty fun. The views from the Charles Bridge or from atop the Prague castle are worth a gasp or two. I'm undecided as to the feel of the city, since I'm not sure there is any industry other than tourism (and it's auxiliaries). For example, all the jazz bands that fill clubs at night seem to spill out onto the squares and bridges for some practice in the daytime. But then we have tons of awful street performers competing for change. The city has thousands of trinket shops lining streets, which can be a sad sight. But then the "other" vendors come out after sundown, and it's a good laugh to hear the "Weed, speed, whatever you need!" chants. I guess once I accepted the fact that this is Prague, I started to appreciate the benefits of touristdom.

The city does feel completely different in daytime and night-time. Aside from the traits which I've hinted at, there's also a teriffic pub and club scene, and thousands milling about to join up with. The beer is also another plus. Whereas the Czech Budweiser isn't much better than the Busch Bud, Pilsner Urquell is simply delicious. This is coming from someone who isn't a beer fan. This is the original brew invented in Plzen in 1842, and yes, this is the original Pilsner.

So, I'm very glad to have seen Prague, though I'm just as psyched to be moving South. I got into Munich today, albeit with an hour of sleep (hence the dull, short post). Right off the bat I was served Schweinsbraten (Pork and sauerkraut) by a lady wearing the full Bavarian garb. I had to pass at the litre of beer. Somehow, I have a feeling I'll enjoy this town.









Stick around.