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When you visit Prague, you have a unique oportunity to check if beeing a Czech is really like the picture says. We at Bohemia Apartments Prague assume that there is a lot of to agree :-) Anyway you will see and you can tell us your opinion.

During your stay in Prague, you're sure to spend some time on Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí) and the nearby streets (by the way do not miss the chance to book your apartment at The Bohemia Apartments Prague Wenceslas Square), many of which are bisected by arcades (known in Czech as pasáže). These passages, some of which form mini mazes, are rewarding to explore and can tell you a lot about Prague's modern history. And if the weather's bad, you can shelter in them while shopping or taking a break in one of their cosy cafes.

The arcades on and around Wenceslas Square were built in the first decades of the 20th century, in the Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles. As many retain their original features, wandering through them is like going back in time to the interwar period – the days of the First Czechoslovak Republic. The nostalgic atmosphere is enhanced by the shops, many of which are long-established and sell items not often found elsewhere.

Each passage has its own unique character. For example, the elegant Pasáž Adria, on Jungmannovo naměstí / Národní třída, has a special place in Czecho(Slovak) history. It leads to the Theatre Without a Balustrade (Divadlo bez zabradlí), the headquarters of Civic Forum, which was established during the Velvet Revolution of 1989 and steered Czechoslovakia to democracy. The most famous arcade of all is Pasáž Lucerna, linking Wenceslas Square and Vodíčkova and Štěpanská and V Jámě Streets. It forms part of the famous Lucerna entertainment complex, built by Vácslav Havel, the grandfather of the late former Czechoslovak / Czech president Václav Havel.

There are many more Prague passages to discover, but there's not space to describe them all here. They're easily accessible, especially if you're staying in accommodation on Vodičkova Street where you find The Bohemia Apartments Prague Centre residence. So you've time, why not spend a lazy couple of hours exploring them? You're sure to uncover some hidden gems.

It's fairly safe to say that football is the favourite sport in many countries, but for many in the Czech Republic, ice hockey (lední hokej) is even more important than football.

The modern ice hockey started in Canada and the the game spread later to Europe, where it became popular particular in countries with sufficient natural ice cover in winter for matches. These days the game is played indoors. Matches are fast-paced and physical, and can last up to three hours.

Ice hockey has a cult following in the Czech Republic, and even the smallest town has a “winter stadium” (zimní stadion), where games are played. At the national level, the biggest teams, including the Slavia Praha and Sparta Praha, play in the Czech Extraliga. At the international level, the Czech team competes in the World Ice Hockey Championships, held in the late spring. Even if you don't know much about ice hockey, you'll certainly notice the special atmosphere when the Czech team is playing, if you're in Prague during the championships. And if the Czech team wins, you can expect a carnival atmosphere on Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square.

The Czech men's national ice hockey team is one of the world's best and is currently ranked fifth by the International Ice Hockey Federation, after Finland. The team has won numerous titles, including a famous gold medal at the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano. It has also won gold three times in a row at the ice hockey world championships, from 1999 to 2001.

Previously Czechs and Slovaks played together in the Czechoslovak National team, which won many victories, including famously twice over the Russians at the World Ice Hockey Championships in 1969. These matches acquired a special significance after the Soviet-led invasion in August 1968.

Czech players are among the best in the world. As a result, they're much in demand, and after the Velvet Revolution of 1989 many were snapped up by the big American and Canadian teams. Some Czechs also play in the Russian league. The most famous Czech hockey “expat” is Jaromír Jágr, one of the world's best players.

This time Bohemia Apartments Prague welcome a famous guest. Who does not know the name of Rembrandt - the name of the greatest Dutch painter? In February will come to Prague so we would like to invite to the exhibition Rembrandt & Co. - Stories of art in the century of prosperity.

For the less dedicated - Rembrandt van Rijn (1606 - 1669) is considered one of the best creators of Western art. As one of the few have become famous during his lifetime and especially thanks to figurative painting and mastery of chiaroscuro. In his work among portraits and autoportraits you also find the Dutch landscape or mythological and biblical themes.

National Gallery has opened in February 2012 the largest and most important exhibition of the season. The exhibition doesn‘t show only Rembrandt canvas, but also other Dutch masters of the "Golden Age" – there is exposed to a total of one hundred and twenty paintings. Some come from the collections of the National Gallery, others are borrowed from abroad, from Berlin or from Brunschwig gallery. The most important works are the Man in oriental costume, which was painted by Rembrandt in 1635 and is otherwise seen in Rijksmuseu in Amsterdam. The only Rembrandt painting which is permanently located in the Czech Republic, is a picture of a Scholar in the study from 1634. The National Gallery acquired it from Nostický collection in 1945.

Do you know what is interesting in both paintings? Yes, on both is the same man! Among the unique works that deserve your attention, there are also portraits of Rembrandt himself and his wife, whose authors are masters students. According to art experts around the world there are about 650 works where Rembtandt should be the author. But one hundred percent authenticity has been demonstrated only in about three hundred. The more the National Gallery is proud of the original. The exhibition will last until 27.05.2012 and you can find it in Sternberg Palace.

Prague has still a lot to offer to its guests. To know and see as much as possible, you must stay here at least a few days. So do not forget the accommodation. Good price and luxury apartents offers Bohemia Apartments Prague.

Italians are outgoing and sociable. Swedes are quiet and reserved. British people never show their emotions in public. Of course, it's always dangerous to make general statements about how nationalities behave: there are many reserved Italians, loud Swedes and emotional Britons. But it's possible to describe national characteristics to some extent, and it helps visitors understand a little better the country they're visiting. So what are Czechs like?

Tourists often say that they find Czechs to be quiet and reserved. Generally speaking, Czechs do not tend to be as expressive as southern Europeans, and when interacting with others, their body language is less animated than that of Italians for example. Czechs are also more likely to keep themselves to themselves. For example, when waiting at a bus or tram stop, they won't strike up conversations with strangers.

However, if you are entering an enclosed space where others are present, for example a shop, a train compartment, or even a lift, it's polite to greet them by saying hello: “Dobrý den” (pronounced “DOB-ree Den”). And when you leave, you should say goodbye: “Na schledanou” (NA skle-DAN-ow).

Another characteristic is that Czechs, particuarly the older generation, are more formal towards people they don't know. Unlike the American culture of first name terms, even between people who don't know each other well, Czechs often address colleagues or neighbours or others that they meet regularly as “Mr X” or “Mrs Y”. This is the case even then they've known each other for a long time. The reason is partly due to the fact that the Czech language has a formal word for “you” – vy – and an informal word – ty. Of course, there are exceptions, and the presence of numerous international companies in Prague is introducing more informal ways of interacting.

If you bear the above points in mind, and make sure you don't address the old lady at the tram stop in informal English, you should make a good impression.

Since the last days we have really cold winter in Prague, Bohemia Apartments Prague have an interesting news for you. If you revel cross-country skiing, you can do your favorite sport now also in Prague from the 7th February in Prague Chuchle. With the current freezing weather there is artificially covered snow area with a six hundred meters long circuit. It is expected to satisfy all lovers of white track. The main news is that the entry is free.

The track is and will be continuously adjusted and is expected to extend the route to one kilometer. The opening of Ski Park was due mainly to cross-country skier Katerina Neumann, who also leads the area in ski school for children.

Ski Park Chuchle is fully equipped and available to all athletes. There is enough parking spaces, dressing rooms and local restaurants. Do you miss skis and other equipment? No problem - you can rent everything on spot. Public area is open every day from 1pm to 8.30pm. So do not hesitate, put the skis and check the white trail.

When you're tired enough from the movement and stay in the fresh air, you can relax. In this case, use the offer of Bohemia Apartments Prague - its luxury apartments give you everything you need for your pleasant relaxation.

Current changeable weather walking around Prague is not favorable. Perhaps everyone is happy to hide somewhere in the warm place. One option is to visit one of exhibitions which take place in numerous places in Prague. Bohemia Apartments Prague recommend you the one that wants to remind its visitors the anniversary of the death of Rudolf II., Emperor and King of Bohemia.

For Prague, the arrival of the emperor from Vienna made a fundamental change. Until that moment began to circulate to Prague scholars and artists, scientists, astronomers and alchemists and other emissaries of the royal courts. At this time Rudolf II. returned Prague a luster and importance of the capital.

These days has been opened to the public the Rudolph Gallery at Prague Castle. It is normally inaccessible to visitors, but in these days you can see it for ten days.

And what is hiding the Rudolph Gallery? Extensive collections of paintings, art objects and specimens of the Emperor Rudolf II., who was living in Prague in the 16th century and who has died about 400 years ago. Moreover, the exhibition is depicting his last days, including Rudolph's funeral. If you find time for the exhibition, you will see the emperor's burial equipment for example, a complete suit, jacket or hat. The program is supplemented by a short documentary films about Rudolf's time, which is shown every half hour, we can mention the Golden Lane, the footsteps of the Golem, search the cosmic order, Rudolf II. - Myth and reality, etc.

Rudolph's celebrations at the Prague Castle will continue in February. From the 16th February in the Picture Gallery will be exposed the works of Rudolph's court painters - Hans von Aachen, Bartholomeus Spranger and Matthew Gundelach.

If you will go for a walk and will go to Wenceslas Square, you can find the name of Rudolf II. under the windows of the National Museum - it is one of 72 names carved there in Czech history. And do you want to stay longer in Prague? Looking for accommodation? Then do not hesitate to contact Bohemia Apartments Prague which will ensure competitive rates for quality accommodation in their luxury apartments - such as Wenceslas Square.

Today Bohemia Apartments Prague is coming with something for fans of architecture. If we were to play a word association game and we said “Prague architecture”, you would probably respond with words like “Baroque”, “Gothic”, “Renaissance” or “historic”. But would you say “Cubism”?

Believe it or not, there is a Cubist style of architecture, which is unique to the Czech Republic. Cubist painting, made famous by artists such as Picasso and Braque, spread to the Czech lands before World War I. In 1911, the Group of Fine Artists, of which the architect Josef Chochol was a leading figure, was established. He and others were interested in façades divided by sharp angles, which created the light and shadow effect seen in Cubist paintings. Soon, during a brief but productive period, these architects were designing Cubist buildings, which appeared in the years just before or after 1918, when Czechoslovakia was founded.

Many examples of Cubist architecture are found in Prague, including in the centre, near your apartment. The famous House at the Black Madonna (Dům u černé Matky boží), at the corner of Celetná and Ovocný trh in the Old Town, is a good early example; the cafe on the first floor retains much of its original Cubist interior. The building also contains a small exhibition on Czech Cubism.As well as buildings and interiors, Cubist architects designed furniture and even crockery, among other things. And behind the flagship Bat'a shoe shop on Wenceslas Square is the only Cubist street lamp in the world.

You'll also find a handful of Cubist buildings in or close to Neklanova Street, below the Vyšehrad fortress. Perhaps the most impressive is Neklanova Street no. 30, built in 1913 and designed by Josef Chochol. It's a tall, impressive tenement building and strikingly different from its neighbours. The steep site emphasises its appearance and enhances the play of light on the façades.

So, if you want a different angle (pardon the pun!) on Prague's architecture, why not go on a Cubist trail to see examples of a unique period in Czech architectural history. Bohemia Apartments Prague wish you a pleasant and enjoyable stay.

Prague is a wonderful destination at any time, but to help you get a better of idea what you can expect during each season, Bohemia Apartments Prague brings you a brief description of each period.

Spring is one of the most rewarding times to visit because you can take advantage of longer days, and warmer and sunnier weather. Don't forget, though, that it can still be chilly in spring.

In terms of traditions, the highlight is Easter, and Easter Markets are held on Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. A old custom that remains popular today is Čarodejnice (Burning of the Witches) on 30 April, when spring is welcomed with bonfires. The following day is traditionally is for lovers, who gather at the statue of 19th century “poet of love” Karel Hynek Macha on Petřín Hill.

Late spring, when Prague suddenly becomes very green, is particularly spectacular and the perfect opportunity for strolls in blooming parks such as Petřín Hill, the Franciscan Gardens (Františkanská zahrada) just off Wenceslas Square, or Stromovka Park.

Summer is inevitably the most popular time to visit Prague. Temperatures are at their highest and the days are at their sunniest, although watch out for occasional storms and heavy rain.

Many Czechs leave Prague for long periods in the summer, spending time on holiday and at their cottages in the country. It's also useful to know that 5 and 6 of July are public holidays in the Czech Republic, and if either or both these dates fall on a week day, many people take the whole week off.

Summer is naturally a good time to visit, but Prague can be extremely busy and hot during this season, so a day trip out of the city is a great idea. Why not visit the historic towns of Tábor or Kutná Hora? Or you could explore the countryside of the Berounka Valley, southeast of Prague.

Autumn, is characterised by shorter days and pleasant temperatures, although November is cooler and mornings can be chilly or foggy and damp. In October the leaves start turning spectacular shades of red.

Autumn traditions include the short burčák season in September, when this young, sweet but strong wine is available. Small wine festivals (vinobrání) with burčák are also held. October is a public holiday and commemorates the date when Czechoslovakia was founded, in 1918. Just over two weeks later, on 17 November, Praguers enjoy a public holiday that marks the start of the Velvet Revolution in 1989, when Communism was overthrown.

Winter in Prague, especially around the Christmas holidays, is a special time. The city is often chilly but grey, but the historic centre looks amazing under a blanket of snow on a cold day. Temperatures frequently fall below zero in winter, so be prepared!

Christmas markets open at the beginning of November, coinciding with advent, celebrated on the four Sundays before Christmas. On the evening of the 5 December you may spot little groups dressed up as bishops, angels and devils. The bishop is “Mikuláš” or St Nicholas, and he and the others visit local children, rewarding them if they've been good. As elsewhere, the highlight of winter in Prague is Christmas, which is celebrated in the Czech Republic on the evening of 24 December. If you're in Prague just before it, you may see giant tubs on street corners. They're filled with carp: in the Czech Republic this freshwater fish, accompanied by potato salad, is the Christmas meal. On the same evening gifts are also brought by (invisible) Ježíšek (Baby Jesus). New Year is often celebrated with friends in the mountains. By then, the Czech skiing season will have started. It lasts until March/April, by which time spring is starting all over again in Prague.

Every season you visit Prague you will like it. Do not worry about the weather and come any time to experience the beauty of Prague. Book your Prague apartment on time, especially in the summer to avoid the booking by someone else. Bohemia Apartments Prague will be happy to meet you and provide you the best accommodation services. 

You can spend a fairytale prom night in Prague and believe that there's plenty to choose from. In Prague take place many styles of balls which enjoys anyone who loves dancing and entertainment. Bohemia Apartments Prague shows you some most important events.

Annual social highlight of the season is held at the Opera Ball. This year will focus on the time of Rudolf II. who managed to raise Prague as the threshold of the world metropolises. As Rudolf II. loved the food, visitors can savor the ball on the right Rudolph feast. The ball is held on 25th February 2012 in the Prague State Opera.

Žofín Palace is also the venue for the 70th representative horticultural ball on February 4, 2012. The highlight of the carnival season will be Prague's baroque royal ball in the Clam - Gallas Palace, designed primarily for lovers of costumes that are required. And what awaits you in addition to the show masks and dance? Acrobatics, theater and culinary specialties.

The offer of places where you can have great fun and dance the night away closes The Costumes ball. It will take place February 4, 2012. Also this ball has a tradition - every year there is one of the Czech regions and this year it will be Prague and Central Bohemia. Throughout the ball you will enjoy fifteen costume associations and more than a hundred dancers and singers in costumes.

We have showed you the best known and most sought balls but of course you can also visit others, either in the Lucerna Palace or the National House of Vinohrady.

If you don’t want to dance you can visit the Museum of Decorative Arts in Prague 1. The exposed set of eighty clothing fashion salons of Prague shows you years 1900 - 1948 so you can admire the beauty and elegance. The exhibition titled fashion salons of Prague 1900 - 1948 is open to the public until 29 April 2012.

Enough of dance and viewing and admiring the elegant costumes? Perhaps the only thing to look for is a suitable accommodation in Prague. Check the offer of Bohemia Apartments Prague which ensures a comfortable stay and a pleasant rest. In our Prague apartments you will feel like at home.