I made it through midterms. I had Czech yesterday and today I had History and Sociology... back to back.
But now, the light at the end of the tunnel is here: FALL BREAK.
Here's what I'll be up to...
10/21, THURSDAY
Plane out at 9 pm
Paris
10/22, FRIDAY
Paris
10/23, SATURDAY
Paris
10/24, SUNDAY
Train out at 11:20 am
Arrive in Nimes at 2:15 pm
10/25, MONDAY
Nimes
Day trip to Pont du Gard
10/26, TUESDAY
Nimes
Day trip to Avignon
10/27, WEDNESDAY
Nimes
Day trip to Arles
10/28, THURSDAY
Train from Nimes at 2:00 pm
Train into Barcelona at 8:00 pm
10/29, FRIDAY
Barcelona
10/30, SATURDAY
Barcelona
10/31, SUNDAY
Barcelona
Flight out at 8:15 pm
Arrive in Prague at 10:40 pm
-----------------------------------------
Be back in a week!
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Monday, October 18, 2010
Study Breaks & Midterms
On Sunday, 10/17, I went to Radost FX for brunch. The NYU in Prague student council was giving a 100 kc subsidy for the first 25 people to arrive. We made sure to get there in plenty of time - which was easy enough since Machova is so close to the place! I got the waffles with fresh fruit, maple syrup and whipped cream. I haven't had a "traditional" American breakfast like waffles or pancakes in ages, so I was set on ordering that. In the past when I've ordered pancakes, I've gotten crepes. So, it shouldn't have been too much of a surprise when my waffles came out and they looked and tasted exactly like frozen toaster waffles. They were fine, but not what I was expecting. By the way, little known fact: Radost FX is the location where Rihanna shot her music video "Please Don't Stop the Music"!
This current week is midterms. I have 3 midterms and 1 paper. The rest of the day on Sunday I went to work studying and writing. I did take a little break in the evening though... I went to the Statni Opera House to see the Sleeping Beauty ballet with Kim! The dances, music, set, and costumes were great as always. Imagine our surprise, though, when at no point in the ballet did the princess fall asleep! It turns out that the Czech version of Sleeping Beauty is the US Disney version of Anastasia. Although I could not follow too much since I didn't know the plot of Anastasia, I still really enjoyed the ballet.
As of now, I have turned in one English paper. 3 more midterms to go, and then it is fall break! I have a week off and will be traveling to France and Spain.
My breakfast of waffles
This current week is midterms. I have 3 midterms and 1 paper. The rest of the day on Sunday I went to work studying and writing. I did take a little break in the evening though... I went to the Statni Opera House to see the Sleeping Beauty ballet with Kim! The dances, music, set, and costumes were great as always. Imagine our surprise, though, when at no point in the ballet did the princess fall asleep! It turns out that the Czech version of Sleeping Beauty is the US Disney version of Anastasia. Although I could not follow too much since I didn't know the plot of Anastasia, I still really enjoyed the ballet.
Sleeping Beauty cast taking a bow
As of now, I have turned in one English paper. 3 more midterms to go, and then it is fall break! I have a week off and will be traveling to France and Spain.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Kutna Hora
Today I had a NYU day trip to Kutna Hora. The town is famous for its silver mines, a cathedral built to rival that of St. Vitus in Prague (near the Castle), and the bone church. We boarded the bus bright and early at 8:15 am, and were on our way. Around 2 hours later, we arrived at St. Barbara's Cathedral, which is a late Gothic Cathedral considered to be one of the most beautiful churches in the country.
After that, we were on our own for lunch. A group of us had lunch at a Czech / Mexican place called Harmonia. I had a burrito there (tortillas, striploin, cheese, beans, eggs, and jalapenos with sides of salsa mexicana and refried beans). Then we made our way back to go on the silver mines tour. We toured the Hradek fortress, and explored the underground mines. It was around 40 m underground and very dark. We suited up in white, long jackets and helmets, and with our heavy duty flashlights climbed down the stairs leading into the mines. The mines were dark, damp, and narrow. There are areas that the miners had to crawl on their hands and knees to get through. We only went through the regular tunnel-like paths, and although at some points I had to walk sideways, there were very few places I had to bend downwards (although I'm sure many others did have to often!).
St. Barbara's Cathedral
Next up, we went to the Italian Court (Vlassky dvur) with its Royal Mint where the famous Prague grosches were minted. We had another tour of the area and even saw a demo of how they make the silver coins.
The Italian Court
After that, we were on our own for lunch. A group of us had lunch at a Czech / Mexican place called Harmonia. I had a burrito there (tortillas, striploin, cheese, beans, eggs, and jalapenos with sides of salsa mexicana and refried beans). Then we made our way back to go on the silver mines tour. We toured the Hradek fortress, and explored the underground mines. It was around 40 m underground and very dark. We suited up in white, long jackets and helmets, and with our heavy duty flashlights climbed down the stairs leading into the mines. The mines were dark, damp, and narrow. There are areas that the miners had to crawl on their hands and knees to get through. We only went through the regular tunnel-like paths, and although at some points I had to walk sideways, there were very few places I had to bend downwards (although I'm sure many others did have to often!).
Walking down the path in the mines...
When we got back up ground, we went on our way, at last, to the "bone church". Named the Chapel of All Saints (also known as the Ossuary Chapel), it was rebuilt in baroque style by J. B. Santini at the end of the 14th century. It was decorated entirely with human bones which were arranged into decorations and pyramids by a half-blind monk in 1511.
The "bone church"
Like the bone chandelier?
More Malastrana and Ghost Tours
Thursday, 10/14, after class I was off to spend more time in Malastrana ("Lesser Town"). Remember Jon and Elissa, the recent college grads that we met in Munich? Well, they're continuing their 4 month Eurotrip and arrived in Prague the other day. They made plans with Laura and I to get together, and we figured we'd show them around Malastrana.
We met at the Ujezd tram stop and there are a bunch of things in that area. There is a Communist monument, Petrin Hill (I hadn't yet been there), the Lennon Wall, and the love lock bridge. Petrin Hill is a small version of Paris's Eiffel Tower. The Observation Tower was built in 1891 for the Jubilee Exhibition. The tower is 60 m tall and sits atop of Petrin Hill, which is 318 m high. You can walk a half an hour up the hill or you can take the funicular up the hill from Ujezd street. To get up the tower there are 299 steps to reach the top or an elevator you can take. There is also rose gardens and a glass maze at the top of the hill, along with great views.
On the way over, I saw a dance show of some sorts on Narodni
We met at the Ujezd tram stop and there are a bunch of things in that area. There is a Communist monument, Petrin Hill (I hadn't yet been there), the Lennon Wall, and the love lock bridge. Petrin Hill is a small version of Paris's Eiffel Tower. The Observation Tower was built in 1891 for the Jubilee Exhibition. The tower is 60 m tall and sits atop of Petrin Hill, which is 318 m high. You can walk a half an hour up the hill or you can take the funicular up the hill from Ujezd street. To get up the tower there are 299 steps to reach the top or an elevator you can take. There is also rose gardens and a glass maze at the top of the hill, along with great views.
Communist monument
Petrin Observation Tower
The rose garden
The view from the funicular up the hill
After showing Jon and Elissa the Lennon Wall and the Love Lock bridge (I'll leave out pictures of these places since I've already posted them in other entries), we walked to Old Town Square on the other side of the Vtlava River via the Charles Bridge. We walked into the Church of Our Lady Before Tyn and afterward said our good byes. It was nice to return the favor to them after they had taken us around Munich as well as to catch up on their travels.
Next up for me, a ghost tour. NYU's student council had arranged a ghost tour for us, on a first to sign up basis. The 60 minute walking tour featured around 10 stories focusing on unsolved mysteries, legends, and paranormal activity covering the area surrounding Old Town Square with its many hidden, winding streets. Unfortunately, instead of seeing any ghosts (ha), the only thing I discovered is that Prague has gotten very cold! I realized, while freezing my fingers off, that it's already time to take out my winter coat. I did not capture any orbs on my camera, but here is a picture of the Tyn Church at night. My camera does Prague injustice, because it does not capture it's full beauty. I'm still not sure whether I think the city is prettier in the daytime or nighttime!
Next up for me, a ghost tour. NYU's student council had arranged a ghost tour for us, on a first to sign up basis. The 60 minute walking tour featured around 10 stories focusing on unsolved mysteries, legends, and paranormal activity covering the area surrounding Old Town Square with its many hidden, winding streets. Unfortunately, instead of seeing any ghosts (ha), the only thing I discovered is that Prague has gotten very cold! I realized, while freezing my fingers off, that it's already time to take out my winter coat. I did not capture any orbs on my camera, but here is a picture of the Tyn Church at night. My camera does Prague injustice, because it does not capture it's full beauty. I'm still not sure whether I think the city is prettier in the daytime or nighttime!
Tyn Church, (Týnský Chrám)
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Beatlemania exhibit & Malastrana
Today, 10/14, my English class went on another field trip, this time to the Czech Museum of Music. I only had 8 minutes in between classes to get to the Narodni Trida tram stop, wait for tram 22, and get to the Hellichova stop... so, besides all of the initial rushing, the trip was good.
The museum currently has a "Beatlemania" exhibit in commemoration of the music group The Beatles. I'm not too sure how this pertained to our class, but I enjoyed the exhibit.
The museum currently has a "Beatlemania" exhibit in commemoration of the music group The Beatles. I'm not too sure how this pertained to our class, but I enjoyed the exhibit.
A yellow submarine, after their song
Me in front of the wax figures of the 4 band members
After we finished walking around the exhibit, class was over, but a couple of decided to go for a walk. We were already in Malastrana (Lesser Town), and the Lennon Wall was right around the corner. I've already been there before, but after seeing a Beatles exhibit, the timing seemed appropriate for a second visit. Also, after hearing that the love lock bridge is just past the wall, I'd been meaning to go back. There is a small pedestrian bridge off of Velkoprevorske Namesti over a sidearm of the Vltava river in front of a water wheel. Apparently couples attach padlocks to the bridge to symbolize their love.
Some random costumed people who burst into a dance routine to pop music in front of the wall
The love lock bridge
Later, I went out to eat for dinner with a few people in my building (Machova). We ate at a place relatively close by, 3 tram stops away called Pivovarský Dům. I ordered the wiener schnitzel with potatoes. I wasn't too impressed with my dish, but it was a nice break from midterm studying. Did I mention that next week is midterms here at NYU? Yeah, contrary to popular belief, I do actually go to classes, and do in fact (sometimes) have work to do, unfortunately.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
NYU residential buildings
In case you were curious about the living arrangements in Prague... here is the NYU description of the housing selection, all of which are NYU owned buildings outside of the tourist areas of Prague 1.
Machova and Slezka:
On the first floor there is the guard's office, who is there 24/7. He is supposed to check your ID when you key in, but he never does... they recognize faces instead. The basement floor has a tv room with couches and a DVD player and the laundry room (previously featured on another blog entry). Floor 6 is the study lounge and has couches, computers, and a printer - and a large balcony! There is also a courtyard accessible from Floor 1 complete with outdoor cooking grills. A cleaning lady comes in Monday, Wednesday, and Friday to clean all common spaces (basically everywhere except your bedroom). I rarely take the elevator although I live on the 5th floor, since it takes a while to arrive, but the elevator did save my life during move in with my 2 huge suitcases.
As I have previously mentioned, the Vinohrady neighborhood that I live in is great. It's residential, and away from the tourist hubbub but still full of things to do. There are trams, buses, and metro stops located close by. There are a ton of restaurants, cafes, small grocery stores, meat stores, drug stores, a nonstop grocery store and laundromats. There is a vineyard and a park. You can walk to the KB bank, Vodophone store, and fast food places. I'm constantly finding new places to try out here. The only thing that is not within close walking distance is the gym (2 metro stops away and 1.6 miles away). Technically, I can even walk to class. Old Town Square is 3 metro stops away and 2.4 miles away.
The Osadni building is on the other end of the spectrum. Osadni is apartment style, so there are much fewer people sharing any one kitchen. The rooms are a lot larger. For example, two of my friends have an apartment with 3 singles, a common room with desks, a kitchen, and a bathroom. However, Osadni is the only 1 out of 4 buildings that is across the river in Prague 7. It takes a lot longer to get to class, and involves transfers. The neighborhood is much less residential and instead comprised mostly of work places.
Basically, I really like where I live and wouldn't trade space for the location, at all.
Machova and Slezka:
If you prefer residence hall living, you may live in one of two NYU in Prague residences, both of which are recently renovated and feature student lounges with a televisions, study rooms with panoramic views of Prague, and suites with modern kitchens and bathrooms. The residences have both wireless Internet and computer labs and are located in the residential neighborhood of Vinohrady (named for the fact that it was covered in vineyards dating back to the 14th century), a neighborhood well known for its bohemian cafés, acclaimed restaurants, and beautiful art nouveau buildings.Jarislova and Osadni:
If you'd prefer a more independent lifestyle, you may choose from NYU-leased apartments that are available in recently renovated, early-20th-century buildings in the Nusle and Holesovice neighborhoods. These loft apartments are fully furnished and feature modern kitchens and baths, laundry facilities, and spacious rooms with exposed-beam ceilings. Travel time from all the residences to the NYU Center is about 20 to 30 minutes.I live in Machova (and Slezka is very nearby). My building (along with Osadni) is one of the larger buildings, housing around 60 people. Machova is 6 floors. Floors 1-5 make up the 11 suites. These floors (except floor 5) have 2 suites each. Each suite has a full bathroom and a water closet. Each floor shares a full kitchen. (My floor is the exception - we only have one suite because the other half of the floor is the building manager's apartment, which is awesome because we have the same sized kitchen as the other floors for half of the people.) Each suite houses about 6 people. There is 1 RA on floor 1, 3, and 5. The RAs are a couple of years older than us, and Czech students at Charles University.
On the first floor there is the guard's office, who is there 24/7. He is supposed to check your ID when you key in, but he never does... they recognize faces instead. The basement floor has a tv room with couches and a DVD player and the laundry room (previously featured on another blog entry). Floor 6 is the study lounge and has couches, computers, and a printer - and a large balcony! There is also a courtyard accessible from Floor 1 complete with outdoor cooking grills. A cleaning lady comes in Monday, Wednesday, and Friday to clean all common spaces (basically everywhere except your bedroom). I rarely take the elevator although I live on the 5th floor, since it takes a while to arrive, but the elevator did save my life during move in with my 2 huge suitcases.
As I have previously mentioned, the Vinohrady neighborhood that I live in is great. It's residential, and away from the tourist hubbub but still full of things to do. There are trams, buses, and metro stops located close by. There are a ton of restaurants, cafes, small grocery stores, meat stores, drug stores, a nonstop grocery store and laundromats. There is a vineyard and a park. You can walk to the KB bank, Vodophone store, and fast food places. I'm constantly finding new places to try out here. The only thing that is not within close walking distance is the gym (2 metro stops away and 1.6 miles away). Technically, I can even walk to class. Old Town Square is 3 metro stops away and 2.4 miles away.
The Osadni building is on the other end of the spectrum. Osadni is apartment style, so there are much fewer people sharing any one kitchen. The rooms are a lot larger. For example, two of my friends have an apartment with 3 singles, a common room with desks, a kitchen, and a bathroom. However, Osadni is the only 1 out of 4 buildings that is across the river in Prague 7. It takes a lot longer to get to class, and involves transfers. The neighborhood is much less residential and instead comprised mostly of work places.
Basically, I really like where I live and wouldn't trade space for the location, at all.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
The Dancing House
Today, I went to see the dancing house! You may remember this from an orientation blog post, but we went on a boat cruise and saw this building on the shore line of the Vltava River. (Click here to see the blog post) I've been meaning to see the building in person, and I finally got a chance to.
First, I went to have a Mexican lunch with Valerie, Bonnie, and Brandy. We had heard of this place called Zlouta Pumpa, right around the corner, that has a daily 88 crown lunch special. Included is a big bowl of goulash soup, a plate of nachos with salsa, and an entree of a chicken burrito. That is one pretty good deal!
Interior of Zlouta Pumpa
There is also a vineyard or park very close to where I live, and I've been meaning to go there for a while too. It's called Havlíčkovy Sad, and is Prague's second largest park. The weather was really nice out today, so I went there and took a walk around. At first the place is very wooded with a winding cement path, but then the path widens up and opens out into large fields. There is also a hill with a cafe with great views of the city skyline! This is definitely a great place to go and read a book or bring a picnic on a nice day.
The vineyard
And, then it was finally time for the dancing house! The building was constructed between 1992-1996, and is a modern, glass building. The shape of the Dancing House led its architects, Vlado Milunc and American Frank O Gehry, to initially name it the "Astaire & Rogers Building", after the legendary dance duo.
The Dancing House
Friday, October 8, 2010
Karlštejn Castle
Today, 10/8, I went on a day trip to the Karlštejn Castle with NYU. I got off the wait-list for this trip since I had heard from many people that, besides the Prague Castle, it's the other must-see castle in The Czech Republic.
First, we hiked a trail to the Bubovický Waterfall and then visited the Koněprusy Caves. We had a tour guide show us the caves, which are in the middle of the nature reserve of Czech Karst. The caves are developed in 400 million years old Devonian limestones. The caves are several kilometers long but the accessible part is only 620 m long.
Next off, a several kilometer hike to the castle. The weather was gorgeous, and the day was perfect for hiking though. The skies were blue, the sun was out, and leaves were turning autumn colors all around us. We got to the castle area, and had an hour before our tour started so got some lunch at a local Czech restaurant first. To expediate the process (we only had an hour) we all ordered the same dish. The RAs helped us with the Czech only menu, and we all got the chicken with cheese and broccoli.
Some background on the castle: it was founded in 1348 by Czech King and Roman Emperor Charles IV as a place for safekeeping the royal treasures. The castle is in the Karlštejn NNR, which is a predominantly forested territory lying north of the Berounka River in the Central Bohemian Region. I, again, was not allowed to take pictures inside the castle... and we also had to wear these slippers over our sneakers, which was funny.
Afterward, we walked on the main road and window shopped. There were a bunch of tourist-y souvenir shops that we went in and out of. We left shortly after, and got back to Prague in the evening.
First, we hiked a trail to the Bubovický Waterfall and then visited the Koněprusy Caves. We had a tour guide show us the caves, which are in the middle of the nature reserve of Czech Karst. The caves are developed in 400 million years old Devonian limestones. The caves are several kilometers long but the accessible part is only 620 m long.
The limestone mine
The waterfalls were surprisingly anticlimactic. Apparently, they're supposed to be a lot better in the winter with more water and ice.
Inside the caves
Hiking along the trail...
Some background on the castle: it was founded in 1348 by Czech King and Roman Emperor Charles IV as a place for safekeeping the royal treasures. The castle is in the Karlštejn NNR, which is a predominantly forested territory lying north of the Berounka River in the Central Bohemian Region. I, again, was not allowed to take pictures inside the castle... and we also had to wear these slippers over our sneakers, which was funny.
The castle
Afterward, we walked on the main road and window shopped. There were a bunch of tourist-y souvenir shops that we went in and out of. We left shortly after, and got back to Prague in the evening.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
The National Museum
...is quite boring.
The first Thursday of every month is free admission at Prague's National Museum. Conveniently located near the Muzeum metro stop at the end of Wenceslas Square, Brandy and I decided to go there after class on Thursday, 10/7. We were expecting exhibits on Prague's history. Instead, we got exhibits on zoology and paleontology. The exhibits were cool to see, but nothing next to the size and variety of the historical museums in NYC.
Some of the exhibits were kinda cool...
But the whole museum building was pretty!
The first Thursday of every month is free admission at Prague's National Museum. Conveniently located near the Muzeum metro stop at the end of Wenceslas Square, Brandy and I decided to go there after class on Thursday, 10/7. We were expecting exhibits on Prague's history. Instead, we got exhibits on zoology and paleontology. The exhibits were cool to see, but nothing next to the size and variety of the historical museums in NYC.
Some of the exhibits were kinda freaky...
Although the building seems large on the outside, the interior exhibits (all 2 of them) are comparatively small. I was also surprised that they called this the 'national museum' since the place only had zoology and paleontology exhibits, but it was still a productive afternoon. And I'm not complaining about the free admission.
Jewish Quarters Tour
On Monday, 10/4, my English professor had arranged a tour of the nearby Jewish Quarters since we have an upcoming chapter on Jewish themed literature.
First off, was The Old-New Synagogue. Built in early Gothic style around the middle of the 13th century, it became known as this when other synagogues were later built in Prague. The main hall is the only existing medieval type hall of its kind.
Then we passed by King Solomon, a kosher restaurant, that Michelle Obama dined at during a past visit to Prague.
Then we went to the Pinkas Synagogue, which has entire walls covered in small type with thousands of names of Holocaust victims. Then, in the Klausen Synagogue, which was the largest synagogue in Prague's Jewish Town and served as the Bural Society. Outside is the Old Jewish cemetery, where thousands are buried. The Pinkas Synagogue was turned into a memorial after WWII to the Jews of Bohemia and Moravia murdered by the Nazis. The Old Jewish cemetery has 12,000 tombstones and several more buried. The oldest tombstone marks poet and scholar Avigdor Kara from 1439. Most prominently, are also Mordechai Maisel (Mayor of the Jewish Town, 1601), David Gans (Renaissance scholar, 1613), Josef Solomon Delmedigo (scholar and historian, 1655), and David Oppenheim (rabbi and Hebrew manuscripts collector, 1736).
Next was the Spanish synagogue, and another gallery with walls covered with the text of true life stores. Built in a Moorish style, the synagogue includes an exhibition on the "History of the Jews in Bohemia and Moravia from Emancipation to the Present." And, next was the Ceremonial Hall, which is now an exhibition space. The exhibition is of "Jewish Customs and Traditions."
And, finally we went to the Maisel Synagogue. Originally built in a Renaissance style, it has seen been renovated to a psuedo-Gothic style. It now is used by the Jewish Museum as exhibition space and a depository.
(I was not allowed to take pictures of the interiors of any of these buildings.)
First off, was The Old-New Synagogue. Built in early Gothic style around the middle of the 13th century, it became known as this when other synagogues were later built in Prague. The main hall is the only existing medieval type hall of its kind.
Old-New Synagogue
Then we passed by King Solomon, a kosher restaurant, that Michelle Obama dined at during a past visit to Prague.
King Solomon Restaurant
Then we went to the Pinkas Synagogue, which has entire walls covered in small type with thousands of names of Holocaust victims. Then, in the Klausen Synagogue, which was the largest synagogue in Prague's Jewish Town and served as the Bural Society. Outside is the Old Jewish cemetery, where thousands are buried. The Pinkas Synagogue was turned into a memorial after WWII to the Jews of Bohemia and Moravia murdered by the Nazis. The Old Jewish cemetery has 12,000 tombstones and several more buried. The oldest tombstone marks poet and scholar Avigdor Kara from 1439. Most prominently, are also Mordechai Maisel (Mayor of the Jewish Town, 1601), David Gans (Renaissance scholar, 1613), Josef Solomon Delmedigo (scholar and historian, 1655), and David Oppenheim (rabbi and Hebrew manuscripts collector, 1736).
Pinkas Synagogue
Old Jewish Cemetery
Next was the Spanish synagogue, and another gallery with walls covered with the text of true life stores. Built in a Moorish style, the synagogue includes an exhibition on the "History of the Jews in Bohemia and Moravia from Emancipation to the Present." And, next was the Ceremonial Hall, which is now an exhibition space. The exhibition is of "Jewish Customs and Traditions."
Spanish Synagogue
Ceremonial Hall
Jewish street vendors down the street
(I was not allowed to take pictures of the interiors of any of these buildings.)
Just another day of class in Prague...
Wednesday, 10/6, I had quite a busy school day. That's probably what I love most about living and studying in Prague: there is no such thing as monotony here! That also sometimes means there is no such thing as having a minute to relax around here! But I had quite a fun day of classes and going around Prague...
In the morning I woke up early to do work (as always, I rarely have time to do work after class in the afternoons like normal people! Instead I have to wake up at crazy, ridiculous hours). I then met fellow Machova-ers, John, Ruby, and Henry, for a breakfast at Bohemia Bagel. Bohemia Bagel is right off of Old Town Square, and is a bagel store with bottomless coffee, wi-fi, and separate smoking and non-smoking sections that is uniquely American in a country full of goulash and dumplings. I had not yet been to Bohemia Bagel, even though it's a 2 min walk from classes, and after over a month in Prague, it was nice to have a taste of home.. or should I say a taste of bagels. Anyone from NJ or the NY area will understand what I mean when I say bagels, delis, and sandwiches such as taylor ham, egg, and cheeses are abundant.
Afterward, I had my Czech class at noon. It was boring, as always. And we learned barely anything, as always. We don't take notes and are not given lessons on what we're learning. Instead, we go straight to the workbook to do exercises, which is an odd teaching method, if you ask me...
My English class was good, as always. We're studying literature from the Eastern European countries and today my professor brought us in a Slovakian feast! Between discussing poems on food, we ate some food.
After class, I had an hour of downtime, and then I met Kim for dinner at Maitrea. I hadn't been back here in a while, so it was nice to go back. I had meatless "chicken" and mushroom balls with udon noodles, tomato sauce, and coriander.
Kim and I then met up with Laura. Where to next? Oh, only the ballet! The ballets and operas are unlike and like going to Broadway plays in New York City. Unlike because here the shows are really a night out. They take place in beautiful buildings, and you have to dress up. This isn't just another building in the theater district / times square. But also, like because they're fantastic shows full of culture. I still will enjoy going to Broadway musicals when I go back home, but trust me, the ballets and operas are really something else. We saw Cinderella, which was very appropriate since we would know the story perfectly! It was fantastic, and I enjoyed it a lot. Needless to say, we are going back next month to see Sleeping Beauty!
The day had been busy and fun filled, but the night was yet to begin. Our NYU in Prague student council had arranged a study abroad mixer at Retro Cafe - conveniently located right across from the Namesti Miru metro stop (the metro I take to school everyday from where I live in Machova). We went to that, where they had a DJ and games, and had a good time with people in our program, as well as other programs that had been invited.
So, that was my Wednesday in a nutshell. You know, just another day of class in Prague. Nothing too out of the ordinary, don't you think?
In the morning I woke up early to do work (as always, I rarely have time to do work after class in the afternoons like normal people! Instead I have to wake up at crazy, ridiculous hours). I then met fellow Machova-ers, John, Ruby, and Henry, for a breakfast at Bohemia Bagel. Bohemia Bagel is right off of Old Town Square, and is a bagel store with bottomless coffee, wi-fi, and separate smoking and non-smoking sections that is uniquely American in a country full of goulash and dumplings. I had not yet been to Bohemia Bagel, even though it's a 2 min walk from classes, and after over a month in Prague, it was nice to have a taste of home.. or should I say a taste of bagels. Anyone from NJ or the NY area will understand what I mean when I say bagels, delis, and sandwiches such as taylor ham, egg, and cheeses are abundant.
Bacon, egg, and cheese on a Parmesan-oregano bagel
Afterward, I had my Czech class at noon. It was boring, as always. And we learned barely anything, as always. We don't take notes and are not given lessons on what we're learning. Instead, we go straight to the workbook to do exercises, which is an odd teaching method, if you ask me...
My English class was good, as always. We're studying literature from the Eastern European countries and today my professor brought us in a Slovakian feast! Between discussing poems on food, we ate some food.
Assortment of meats and cheeses, a squash pickle, & cranberry sauce
Clockwise:
Langoš- yeast bread
Korbačik- braided natural cow's milk cheese
Blaťácké zlato s vlašskými ořechy- southern Bohemian "gold" with Wallachian walnuts
Parenice uzená pikant- spicy, smoked cheese
Bryndza- fresh sheep's cheese
Cabajka- spicy salami
Salami ribbed with cheese
Dalmaitian prosciutto
Clockwise:
Langoš- yeast bread
Korbačik- braided natural cow's milk cheese
Blaťácké zlato s vlašskými ořechy- southern Bohemian "gold" with Wallachian walnuts
Parenice uzená pikant- spicy, smoked cheese
Bryndza- fresh sheep's cheese
Cabajka- spicy salami
Salami ribbed with cheese
Dalmaitian prosciutto
After class, I had an hour of downtime, and then I met Kim for dinner at Maitrea. I hadn't been back here in a while, so it was nice to go back. I had meatless "chicken" and mushroom balls with udon noodles, tomato sauce, and coriander.
Kim and I then met up with Laura. Where to next? Oh, only the ballet! The ballets and operas are unlike and like going to Broadway plays in New York City. Unlike because here the shows are really a night out. They take place in beautiful buildings, and you have to dress up. This isn't just another building in the theater district / times square. But also, like because they're fantastic shows full of culture. I still will enjoy going to Broadway musicals when I go back home, but trust me, the ballets and operas are really something else. We saw Cinderella, which was very appropriate since we would know the story perfectly! It was fantastic, and I enjoyed it a lot. Needless to say, we are going back next month to see Sleeping Beauty!
Statni Opera House
Cinderella cast taking a bow! (I wasn't allowed to take pictures at any other time of the performance.)
The day had been busy and fun filled, but the night was yet to begin. Our NYU in Prague student council had arranged a study abroad mixer at Retro Cafe - conveniently located right across from the Namesti Miru metro stop (the metro I take to school everyday from where I live in Machova). We went to that, where they had a DJ and games, and had a good time with people in our program, as well as other programs that had been invited.
So, that was my Wednesday in a nutshell. You know, just another day of class in Prague. Nothing too out of the ordinary, don't you think?
Weekend of exhaustion and excitement continues...
That Saturday, 10/2, we woke up exhausted, again. But I was intent on showing Alex a scattering of all my favorite places in Prague. So, I of course wanted to take her to Radost for their vegetarian weekend brunch! We met up with Laura, John, and Mitha and had some delicious food at Radost (which is again, within walking distance!). I had an apple quesadilla (tart apples and melted brie in a crisp fried tortilla served with peanut / coconut sauce.)
I really wanted to take Alex on a tour of the Lesser Quarters, but with fall break planning we had very little time. Laura and I booked our flight to Paris for 10/21, a euro rail pass between France and Spain, and a flight back from Barcelona on 10/31. The rest is to be continued!
I wanted to take Alex to dinner for a traditional Czech meal, so we walked on over to Chudoba. I hadn't had actual Czech food (besides smažený sýr) since orientation, so I was looking forward to the (heavy) meal. Laura and Alex ordered the goulash dish I had there a month ago during orientation, and I ordered a dish, which interestingly enough, had a piece of chicken cooked inside a hash brown!
Alex had an early morning Sunday flight to wake up to, so we were pretty low key. I took her to the Peach Pit (since we are both huge 90210 fans!), and then to Wenceslas Square for some of the infamous smažený sýr fresh from the vendor's stalls!
I really wanted to take Alex on a tour of the Lesser Quarters, but with fall break planning we had very little time. Laura and I booked our flight to Paris for 10/21, a euro rail pass between France and Spain, and a flight back from Barcelona on 10/31. The rest is to be continued!
I wanted to take Alex to dinner for a traditional Czech meal, so we walked on over to Chudoba. I hadn't had actual Czech food (besides smažený sýr) since orientation, so I was looking forward to the (heavy) meal. Laura and Alex ordered the goulash dish I had there a month ago during orientation, and I ordered a dish, which interestingly enough, had a piece of chicken cooked inside a hash brown!
Beef goulash with dumplings and horseradish
Traditional chicken breast and hash brown
Alex had an early morning Sunday flight to wake up to, so we were pretty low key. I took her to the Peach Pit (since we are both huge 90210 fans!), and then to Wenceslas Square for some of the infamous smažený sýr fresh from the vendor's stalls!
Me, the tour guide
On Friday, 10/1, we slept in a little, but I had a busy day planned for us. I wanted to show Alex a bunch of the main places of Prague. So I took her on a little tour...
First we went to Old Town Square and walked there. We saw the astronomical clock as well as my 2 school buildings. We then went to the Jewish Quarters - I've never actually taken a tour of this place, so I wasn't very informative during this part. Plus, it was a Jewish holiday that day, so everything was closed. I did know we were in the right place though, because the buildings had Jewish stars on them! We then went to a certain, very interesting museum... (Sarah, you will be glad to hear I finally took your advice and went!)
Next we walked down to Wenceslas Square (and shopped in the H&M) and I also took Alex to the gardens where they have that great ice cream. Then, we met up with Laura, and later Kim and walked to the Charles Bridge. The weather was great that day and cooperating with all of our walking! We crossed the bridge over the Vltava River into the Lesser Quarters and had lunch at this little Italian place called Carmelita.
Next up? A tour of Prague Castle. We walked up Nerudova Street (Royal Way or Kings Road), that is on a steep incline, and features the typical cobblestone on a narrow road with ancient burgher houses on one side, and a great view on the other side. Finally, one huge hill later, we were at the castle and cathedrals there.
It was quite an exhausting day, and we were long overdue for a nap when we finally got back to Machova that night!
First we went to Old Town Square and walked there. We saw the astronomical clock as well as my 2 school buildings. We then went to the Jewish Quarters - I've never actually taken a tour of this place, so I wasn't very informative during this part. Plus, it was a Jewish holiday that day, so everything was closed. I did know we were in the right place though, because the buildings had Jewish stars on them! We then went to a certain, very interesting museum... (Sarah, you will be glad to hear I finally took your advice and went!)
Old Town Square!
Next we walked down to Wenceslas Square (and shopped in the H&M) and I also took Alex to the gardens where they have that great ice cream. Then, we met up with Laura, and later Kim and walked to the Charles Bridge. The weather was great that day and cooperating with all of our walking! We crossed the bridge over the Vltava River into the Lesser Quarters and had lunch at this little Italian place called Carmelita.
Alex and I on the Charles Bridge
Risotto with roasted chicken breast and vegetables, parmesan cheese, and spring onions.
Next up? A tour of Prague Castle. We walked up Nerudova Street (Royal Way or Kings Road), that is on a steep incline, and features the typical cobblestone on a narrow road with ancient burgher houses on one side, and a great view on the other side. Finally, one huge hill later, we were at the castle and cathedrals there.
The view from Nerudova Street!
It was quite an exhausting day, and we were long overdue for a nap when we finally got back to Machova that night!
My 20th birthday!
Thurday, 9/30, was my 20th birthday! Yes, I am no longer a teenager... Although I still feel the same!
The previous evening, 9/29, Laura and I had gone to the Peach Pit. It's located very close to Machova in the Vinohrady neighborhood. This place is supposed to be modeled after the infamous juice cafe / after school hang out place depicted in Beverly Hills, 90210 and the current spin-off 90210, but it really looked nothing like the same. I had been been meaning to go for awhile though, so I took a study break to ring in my birthday a little early.
I had to wake up the next morning to finish my paper that my professor had assigned to us during the class, so this definitely was not going to be a late night! I woke up, bright and early, and told myself that my birthday wasn't going to start until my paper was finished and printed. A few pages later, and done, it was 10 AM and I was off to breakfast! Laura couldn't go to my birthday dinner that night, as she had a boat cruise with her study abroad program, so we went out to breakfast at Zanzibar. It's a cafe type place located within walking distance (if you haven't noticed yet, a TON of places are located in my neighborhood. Seriously. You don't have to walk far to find any of what you're looking for. Chinese, sushi, coffee, the bank, 24/7 grocery shops, etc...) I haven't had good, old traditional pancakes since coming here, so I figured I'd order the pancakes with chocolate and nuts. Imagine my surprise when out came a plate with two crepes filled with what must have been an entire bowlful of melted chocolate. It was delicious. I just told myself I was having my birthday cake a little early... and for breakfast!
Then, I had class from 12-3. Then I had my internship from 4-6. (I'm not sure if I've yet mentioned my internship in this blog... I'll save that for another entry, in that case.)
Then it was time to go to my birthday dinner at Pizzeria Grosseto! Again, conveniently located 4 blocks down right by the Namesti Miru metro stop, I've heard great things about this place. Past and current NYU students have raved about the place, and there are not too many restaurants that give you free bread for the table! I had some delicious pizza with Bonnie, Sam, Cassidy, Brandy, and Brianna, and then it was back to Machova... for my cake! They surprised me with a nice strawberry shortcake.
By this time it was 9:30 pm, and I was expecting my friend Alex, from Bucknell. She was studying with NYU in Florence, and was taking a flight in to visit me for the weekend. Lo and behold, I got a phone call, and she was at the door! I was really excited to see her! We hadn't seen each other in a while, and it was great to catch up and hang out again after a few months.
It was a pretty good birthday, if you ask me!
The previous evening, 9/29, Laura and I had gone to the Peach Pit. It's located very close to Machova in the Vinohrady neighborhood. This place is supposed to be modeled after the infamous juice cafe / after school hang out place depicted in Beverly Hills, 90210 and the current spin-off 90210, but it really looked nothing like the same. I had been been meaning to go for awhile though, so I took a study break to ring in my birthday a little early.
I had to wake up the next morning to finish my paper that my professor had assigned to us during the class, so this definitely was not going to be a late night! I woke up, bright and early, and told myself that my birthday wasn't going to start until my paper was finished and printed. A few pages later, and done, it was 10 AM and I was off to breakfast! Laura couldn't go to my birthday dinner that night, as she had a boat cruise with her study abroad program, so we went out to breakfast at Zanzibar. It's a cafe type place located within walking distance (if you haven't noticed yet, a TON of places are located in my neighborhood. Seriously. You don't have to walk far to find any of what you're looking for. Chinese, sushi, coffee, the bank, 24/7 grocery shops, etc...) I haven't had good, old traditional pancakes since coming here, so I figured I'd order the pancakes with chocolate and nuts. Imagine my surprise when out came a plate with two crepes filled with what must have been an entire bowlful of melted chocolate. It was delicious. I just told myself I was having my birthday cake a little early... and for breakfast!
Then, I had class from 12-3. Then I had my internship from 4-6. (I'm not sure if I've yet mentioned my internship in this blog... I'll save that for another entry, in that case.)
Then it was time to go to my birthday dinner at Pizzeria Grosseto! Again, conveniently located 4 blocks down right by the Namesti Miru metro stop, I've heard great things about this place. Past and current NYU students have raved about the place, and there are not too many restaurants that give you free bread for the table! I had some delicious pizza with Bonnie, Sam, Cassidy, Brandy, and Brianna, and then it was back to Machova... for my cake! They surprised me with a nice strawberry shortcake.
Our pizzas! Mine was verdure e prosciutto crudo (tomatoes, mozzarella, prosciutto crudo, roasted fresh vegetables, small tomatoes, fresh basil, and parmesan shaving)
The interior of the restaurant
My strawberry shortcake! Yum!
By this time it was 9:30 pm, and I was expecting my friend Alex, from Bucknell. She was studying with NYU in Florence, and was taking a flight in to visit me for the weekend. Lo and behold, I got a phone call, and she was at the door! I was really excited to see her! We hadn't seen each other in a while, and it was great to catch up and hang out again after a few months.
It was a pretty good birthday, if you ask me!
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