It is said that the Emperor Rudolf II left behind a treasure. A Czech adventure movie Code Name Maharal builds on this legend and takes you back to the Rudolphine era.

An enthralling blend of history, humor, and suspense is screened on the 17th of April at Cinema Aero as part of the English-friendly “Some Like It Czech” series. Buy your tickets here.

The movie Code Name Maharal (Maharal – Tajemství talismanu, 2006, watch the trailer here) delves into a legend that speaks of a treasure left behind by Emperor Rudolf II, waiting to be discovered 400 years after his death.

The scenarists decided to set the story in 2002, the year of the most destructive floods in modern Czech history. The treasure hunters are in this case three curious children, a trio of daring historians who consider themselves Czech Indiana Joneses, and one policeman. Indeed, a diverse group whose interactions yield unexpected humor.

Director Pavel Jandourek brings to life the Rudolphine Renaissance, a period of intellectual awakening and artistic brilliance. Rudolf II, known for his love of art, passion for science, and involvement in occultism, moved his seat to Prague, where he surrounded himself with eminent scientists, artists, and alchemists like Johannes Kepler, Tycho de Brahe, and Magister Kelly.

This era, marked by the rise of the Habsburg dynasty, is often hailed as the golden age of Jewish Prague. This all is depicted in the movie, where amidst the shadows of ancient synagogues, the figure of Rabbi Löw, known as the Maharal of Prague, renowned scholar, philosopher, mystic, and creator of the legendary Golem, looms large.

The thrilling movie full of unexpected twists is going to be screened with English subtitles and an enlightening introduction to contextualize the era. What is a legend, what is true, what is false, and what remains a mystery? Come find out on the 17th of April to cinema Aero and join “Some Like It Czech” on a quest where history and legend converge, and the secrets of the past await discovery. Buy your tickets here.

If you want to know more about the event and the project itself, follow Some like it Czech on Instagram (@some_like_it_czech) or Facebook (@Somelikeitczech).

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The 7th edition of Prague’s Metronome Festival promises an unforgettable weekend of music, entertainment, and good vibes.

Taking place from June 20th to 22nd, 2024, the festival boasts a diverse lineup catering to fans of progressive, electronic, and live music.

Headline Acts:

Michael Kiwanuka: This soulful British singer-songwriter will captivate audiences with his gentle folk sounds and keyboard melodies. Don’t miss him on Thursday, June 20th.

Milky Chance: The German duo brings their signature electronic-infused rock to the festival, showcasing their latest album “Living In a Haze.”

The Blaze: Prepare for a mesmerizing audio-visual experience with the French electronic dance music duo known for their captivating live shows.

Raye: The pop singer, who won a record six Brit Awards this year, will perform in Czechia for the first time.

Beyond the Headliners:

The festival offers an exciting mix of international and local acts. Catch the legendary shoegaze band Ride presenting their recent album “Interplay,” or experience the innovative electronic sounds of Kosheen. Czech music fans can enjoy the sounds of Bert & Friends and the legendary Michal Kocáb, along with many other talented artists.

More Than Just Music:

Metronome Festival truly lives up to its motto “BEYOND MUSIC.” The festival offers a variety of activities for the whole family, including workshops, theatrical performances, and live podcasts. Foodies can indulge in a vast selection of local and international cuisine, with vegetarian and vegan options available.

Convenience and Sustainability:

The festival prioritizes comfort and sustainability. Attendees can expect a clean environment with minimal queuing, thanks to the spacious festival grounds. The venue is easily accessible by public transport, and organizers strive for eco-friendly practices.

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Prague is seeing a surge in Airbnb prices, prompting the government to plan new regulations.

This year, tourists are expected to return to the Czech Republic in droves, with many using short-term rental platforms for their accommodation. This is confirmed by data from Seven Keys, a company managing 85 apartments in central Prague for Airbnb rentals.

“Thanks to the high seasonal demand, we were able to raise prices by about 25%. We also had to increase cleaning fees due to rising costs,” says Zuzana Benešová, founder of Seven Keys.

Despite the price hikes, tourists remain undeterred. “Over the past two years, we’ve reached 80% occupancy in April and May, which is 20% higher than pre-pandemic levels,” Benešová says. “Bookings for spring and summer are already strong, suggesting this will be our peak season since the pandemic.”

Market Analysis Shows Price Rise

Published statistics by AirDNA, a market research firm, confirm the rising cost of vacation rentals on short-term accommodation platforms.

According to their data, the average daily rate in Prague alone has increased by about a third over the past two years. In April 2022, the average daily price for accommodation in Prague was CZK 2,500. This April, the average daily rate has already climbed to CZK 3,200. This translates to an annual revenue increase of roughly CZK 250,000 per average rental property.

However, Gosia Kacprzyková, Airbnb’s Public Policy Manager for Central and Eastern Europe, suggests a shift in travel trends post-pandemic, with tourists favoring less crowded destinations.

“We’ve seen a significant increase in stays outside traditional city centers,” Kacprzyková told SZ Byznys. “Airbnb is expanding from Prague to other regions in the Czech Republic.”

AirDNA data shows the largest year-on-year growth in the number of listings occurring in Brno, where supply increased by 46% to 562 units. Vacation rental availability also saw significant growth (tens of percent) in Karlovy Vary, Špindlerův Mlýn, and Ostrava.

Prague Landlords Rejoin the Market

Following the pandemic’s significant impact on the sector due to travel restrictions, more landlords in Prague are showing renewed interest. According to a study by the Prague Institute of Planning and Development (IPR), around 8,000 apartments were offered in the capital last year, with 70% actively listed. These apartments could accommodate over 21,000 guests per day.

While the number of listings offered through rental platforms has grown since the pandemic’s end, it still falls short of pre-pandemic levels. The IPR study attributes this “slowed by the shift” to some units transitioning to long-term rentals during the pandemic. However, they expect supply to eventually return to pre-pandemic levels.

The study also reveals that the availability of apartments rented through Airbnb remains concentrated in the historic center, where over 80% of listings are located.

Local Concerns and Regulations

Short-term rentals, particularly in the city center, have long been criticized by residents, districts, and the city council. They argue that a high proportion of residential buildings are being converted into de facto hotels. This, critics say, disrupts the quality of life for permanent residents and disrupts the tranquility of apartment buildings.

Furthermore, the state and individual cities lack sufficient information regarding subletting through short-term rental platforms. This makes it difficult to oversee the business activities of individual landlords. Petr Městecký, an expert consultant on vacation rentals, highlights that income from such rentals can be three to five times higher than traditional long-term rentals.

A New Regulatory Effort

The Czech Republic is preparing another attempt to regulate short-term rentals. This time, they will leverage a European regulation introduced by the European Commission at the end of last year to improve the provider registration system.

“The adaptation will not only be part of the Czech amendment to the Tourism Act but will also gradually unify short-term accommodation regulations across the EU,” says Veronika Hešíková, spokesperson for the Ministry of Regional Development (MMR).

According to the regulation, each published offer will include a registration number for each vacation rental unit, allocated by the MMR through a newly developed electronic system.

“Online platforms will provide regular information to the system,” adds an MMR spokesperson. “This will provide the state with data on the location and extent of short-term rentals.”

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* LOCAL NEWS:

Seven people, including children, were injured when a car ran into them outside a supermarket in the town of Police nad Metují, East Bohemia just before 4 pm on Tuesday afternoon. One of the children hurt in the incident was taken to hospital by helicopter but none of the victims had life-threatening injuries.

* POLITICS:

ANO would now come first in Czechia’s elections to the European Parliament with 27.5 percent of the vote, suggests a new poll published by the STEM/MARK agency on Tuesday. The Together alliance of the Civic Democrats, TOP 09 and the Christian Democrats would come second on 20 percent, the survey indicates.

* WEATHER:

It should be mainly overcast in Czechia on Wednesday, with an average high temperature of 12 degrees Celsius. Higher temperatures are expected on the following days.

* ZOO:

Prague Zoo has become the first such institution in the world to breed a Pel’s fishing owl. The chick hatched at the beginning of the year and was later thrown out of the nest by the mother, before breeders at the zoo saved it, a spokesperson said. The bird was initially reluctant to feed and saw weight fluctuations. However, it is now thriving.

* BUSINESS:

In Karlovy Vary, Pepsi, the global beverage giant, unveiled its first design overhaul in 14 years, impacting products bottled by Mattoni 1873 in Prague and Kyselka plants. Changes include a logo update and rebranding Pepsi MAX to Pepsi Zero Sugar.

Czech regional airports are spreading their wings! In a historic first, Ostrava will offer direct flights to both Phuket, Thailand, and the idyllic island of Mauritius.

Sun-seekers in Brno will also rejoice, as they’ll gain access to these same tropical paradises. While Brno already boasted direct Thailand flights last season, Mauritius is a brand new adventure for both airports.

These exciting new routes will be operated as charter flights in collaboration with travel agency Čedok and Italian carrier Neos.

“This winter season marks a new chapter not only for Čedok, but also for Ostrava and Brno airports,” says Čedok CEO Stanislav Zeman. “We’re committed to bringing the world closer to our clients, offering comfortable travel experiences that allow them to explore new horizons.”

Zeman highlights Thailand’s enduring popularity as a top exotic destination for Čedok. This motivated the agency to offer direct flights to Phuket from both Brno and Ostrava during the winter months.

For those seeking the allure of Mauritius, Čedok provides a convenient option with a short stopover. Both routes will utilize Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners operated by Neos.

Looking back, Zeman expressed ambitious expansion plans for Ostrava Airport in 2024. This summer, Čedok will fly passengers from the Moravian-Silesian capital to seventeen destinations. Over a third of these routes are brand new, including Albania, Calabria (Italy), the Greek island of Thassos, Chania in Crete, Tunisia, and the up-and-coming Egyptian destination of Marsa Matrouh.

Phuket proved to be a Czech favorite last season. Following their partnership with Čedok, Neos successfully transported over six thousand passengers from the Czech Republic to Thailand within a few months.

Travelers can choose from three classes, with the basic option including a free 23 kg checked suitcase. Upcharges for premium cabins (Business Light and Economy Plus) start at CZK 19,990 and CZK 4,990 per person for return flights, respectively.

Departures to Mauritius will be on Wednesdays, while Phuket flights take off on Thursdays. Pre-sales for tours in the 2024/2025 winter season kick off in April.

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Franz Kafka fans rejoice! A special tram decorated with a portrait of the author and quotes from his works is now cruising through the streets of Prague.

This unique initiative aims to attract visitors to the Czech capital throughout 2024, marking the centenary of Kafka’s passing in June, 1924.

The commemorative tram, which will run on various routes, displays illustrations of Kafka with philosophical quotes – both in English and Czech – scattered along its exterior. “A book must be the axe for the frozen sea within us,” reads along one side of the tram. “Do not waste time looking for an obstacle – maybe there is none,” reads another. “He who sees does not need to ask,” is also displayed in Czech.

The inside of the tram comes with more quotes and information about Kafka’s life.

The tram isn’t the only tribute planned. Prague, along with the Ministry of Culture, has lined up an exciting program of events to commemorate this literary giant.

Art enthusiasts will be captivated by “Franz Kafka-Elevation,” a captivating illustration by Magdalena Jetelová gracing the New Mill Water Tower. Furthermore, the city is supporting 14 additional projects with a total investment of CZK 1.4 million. These include the theatrical productions “Kafka Has Left the Building” at the Na zábradlí Theatre and “Kafka’s Cause” by the Prague Chamber Ballet.

Exhibitions and publications also form part of the rich program. Collaborations are underway with institutions like the Jewish Museum, the Jewish Community, the Prague Literary House of the German Language, Revolver Revue, and the Architecture Association.

“The diverse activities planned for this anniversary year highlight Franz Kafka’s enduring influence as one of the most significant writers of the 20th century,” remarked Culture Minister Martin Baxa (ODS).

The celebration of Kafka’s life and work has already begun at the DOX Centre for Contemporary Art with an exhibition of contemporary artistic interpretations inspired by the author, running until September.

“Several events will be held in June at the Prague Municipal Library itself,” announced Tomáš Řehák, the library’s head. “The Na zábradlí Theatre will stage a production titled ‘Franz and Kavka,’ and the theme will also be explored at the 29th International Book Fair and the World of Books literary festival.”

So, if you’re a Kafka aficionado or simply appreciate exceptional literature, Prague beckons in 2024! Immerse yourself in the world of this celebrated author through this unique program of events.

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Cocktail enthusiasts in Prague rejoice! Prague Cocktail Week is taking place from May 6th to 13th.

The event offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s vibrant cocktail scene and discover a world of new flavors.

Participating bars, representing the crème de la crème of Prague’s cocktail scene, will be offering specially priced drinks at just 155 CZK throughout the week. This is your chance to indulge in expertly crafted cocktails at a discounted rate.

Bit of History First…

Organizers decided to host the Prague Cocktail Week from May 6th to 13th because the first documented definition of the word “cocktail” was in the May 6, 1806 issue of The Balance and Columbian Repository, in a reader’s letter that asked the publication to define the word.

On May 13, 1806, the paper’s editor responded that it was a concoction of spirits, bitters, water, and sugar — essentially, the recipe for an Old Fashioned. The name was inspired by drinkers who refused to change with the times and ordered their drinks the old fashioned way: a brown spirit, sugar, water, and bitters.

Beyond the Drinks

The week promises an immersive experience beyond just delicious drinks. A rich program of workshops, tastings, and guest bartending sessions will be led by industry experts, allowing you to delve deeper into the world of mixology and unlock the secrets behind your favorite cocktails.

A Grand Finale

The festivities culminate on May 13th, which also happens to be World Cocktail Day. This special day features a grand closing event, showcasing the talents of the Czech cocktail scene through exciting bartending competitions. Witness the best bartenders battle it out in both classic and flamboyant “Flair” styles, creating stunning and innovative cocktails.

A Celebration of Passion

“Prague is renowned for its rich cocktail culture and exceptional hospitality,” says Filip Stránský, co-organizer of the event. “Prague Cocktail Week is a fantastic platform to showcase our city’s talent and dedication to bar gastronomy. We’re thrilled to welcome cocktail lovers from across the globe to experience this unforgettable week with us.”

For more information and the complete event schedule, visit the official website.

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The breathtaking Pilsner Urquell Beer Hall underwent a revitalization, and it is about time to enter the culinary wonderland.

Prague’s Municipal House (Obecní dům) has seen it all and still stands triumphant on Náměstí Republiky. A sight for sore eyes from the outside, it is advocated to see all the treasures hidden behind those walls.

Since 1912, historical and cultural events have taken place inside and the tradition continues as the House keeps hosting events such as catering, exhibitions, banqueting, cocktail refreshments, and coffee breaks.

In 2022, the Pilsner Urquell Beer Hall got all dolled up with a little help from Vyšehrad 2000, a local catering company known for its culinary creativity that offered the place a chance to live a second youth.

A new bar (výčep) has been added to the pleasure of gourmet eyes of the guests who can now witness their dreams come true while liters of the well-known golden liquid (Pilsner Urquell) are flowing beside their tables. Beer is enough in most cases, but not when the opportunity to taste local Czech cuisine presents itself.

 

The menu has been meticulously selected to satisfy the most sensitive palates: the grand Czech classic starters including beef tartar are leading to the outstanding main dishes such as Pilsner Beef goulash or “svíčková”.

All the ingredients are local and fresh, so taking the opportunity to elevate your taste buds and let the waltz of flavors dance in your mouth with a Czech soup and a delicious dessert is highly recommended. Vegetarian options are on the menu, and fried cheese (smažak), presented as one of the most refined dishes, steals the show.

Meat eaters are well treated as the quality sausages and smoked meats are sourced from Bio Farma Dráb, and they can attend the traditional “zabijačka” (butcher’s feast) every February in the Beer Hall, one of multiple themed events organized here. Guests loyalty is valued and can be rewarded as the house offers a membership with a 15% discount on everything.

The whole dining experience would not be complete if it was not enhanced by a touch of Czech Art Nouveau, surrounding the entire room just like the rest of the Municipal House, whose interiors have been designed by artists like Alfons Mucha, Jan Preisler and Ladislav Šaloun.

Plenty of wonders are held within the halls, lounges and rooms, hence the need for a guided tour of the House captivating its affluent past and covering all its quarters, offered in many languages and for all ages. The visits can be customized and privatized.

The route usually starts at the Smetana Hall, cultural heart of the house and architectural beauty, a concert venue with a capacity of 1200 which takes its name from the Czech music legend Bedřich Smetana.

A virtual tour is available online for those willing to be taken to another dimension.

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The Czech government is investing in nuclear energy as a means to decarbonization.

The Czech government wants the new units to gradually go into service between 2029 and 2040, and fully phase out from Coal and Lignite by 2033.

The goal is for oil and gas to be phased out by 2050, according to the ambitious National Energy and Climate Plan.

The Czech Republic is traditionally a carbon energy exporter, yet its government is seemingly ready to cut ties.

In a speech made in March at a nuclear energy summit in Brussels, Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala said, “From the Czech perspective, nuclear is a cost-effective way to decarbonization. It brings grid stability and security of supply. It is the only way to reach our energy independence.”

According to an exclusive IPSOS and Euronews poll, the Czech people are the least concerned EU electors, after the Poles, by climate change. 34% agree that climate is a priority, whilst 21% do not.

Industry and Trade Minister Jozef Sikela said an assessment of the bids should be completed by the end of May.

The Czech Republic already relies on six nuclear reactors to generate more than a third of its electricity.

Besides four in Dukovany, state-controlled power company CEZ operates two 1,000-megawatt reactors at the Temelin plant.

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From 9 July 2024, Václav Havel Airport Prague will, once again, handle direct flights to Cairo.

The national carrier of Egypt, EGYPTAIR, will operate the connection to the Egyptian capital three times a week, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.

The route will also offer interesting options for catching connecting flights to another 75 destinations within EGYPTAIR’s network, including cities in Egypt and the whole of Africa, China, and India.

Direct regular flights to Cairo will land in Prague for the first time since 2011 when Czech Airlines ceased its operation of the route.

To service the connection, the carrier will deploy Boeing 737-800 aircraft with capacity for 154 passengers divided into 16 Business Class seats and 138 Economy Class seats.

With a population of ten million, Cairo is the second most populous city in Africa after Lagos. The capital of Egypt is located on the right bank of the River Nile.

Its dominant features are modern skyscrapers and luxury hotels, which are in a juxtaposition to the ancient pyramids located on the left bank in Giza. Cairo’s most visited sights include a number of important museums, the world-famous Khan al-Khalili market, and the 186-metre-high Burj al-Cairo tower, which in good weather offers wonderful views from the observation platform at a height of 140 meters.

The new operation to Prague is part of the expansion plan adopted by EGYPTAIR, Amr Adawy, VP commercial of EGYPTAIR said and added.

The airline has recently added more destinations to its extensive network, serving more than 70 destinations worldwide, like Zurich and Manchester in Europe, Taif and Tabuk in the Middle East and Shanghai, Tokyo, Delhi and Jakarta in Asia offering various connections to passengers from Prague to explore the world with EGYPTAIR.

EGYPTAIR was established in 1932, the airline has taken the lead to be the first airline in the Middle East and Africa and the seventh in the world to join IATA.

It flies to more than 70 destinations worldwide in Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Far East and North America and over 67 more destinations through codeshare agreements and more than 1200 destinations globally thanks to our membership in Star Alliance.

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* LEGILSLATION:

Today MPs will discuss amendments to drafts in the second reading, which will cover various topics such as redefining rape. A bipartisan agreement has been reached to redefine rape as non-consensual sexual intercourse, highlighting the importance of legal protections, especially for sexual practices involving children under 12.

* POLITICS:

More than two-thirds of economically active refugees from Ukraine have jobs in Czechia, suggests a survey published on Monday by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). There are currently about 339,000 refugees from Ukraine with temporary protection, which allows access to public health insurance, education and the labour market. Some 77 percent of them are economically active and 69 percent of them have a job.

* WEATHER:

Tuesday will be mostly sunny with day temperatures ranging between 23 and 27 degrees Celsius.

* HEALTH:

Some 1,100 new cases of whooping cough were registered in Czechia in the past week, the State Health Institute said on Monday. It is the second highest weekly increase this year. Doctors have recorded a total of 6,397 whooping cough infections since the start of 2024.

* BUSINESS:

In Karlovy Vary, Pepsi, the global beverage giant, unveiled its first design overhaul in 14 years, impacting products bottled by Mattoni 1873 in Prague and Kyselka plants. Changes include a logo update and rebranding Pepsi MAX to Pepsi Zero Sugar.

Get ready to explore Prague like never before! The 10th-anniversary edition of the Open House Praha takes place from May 13th to 19th, 2024.

During the week, a variety of exciting events will be held. But the real highlight arrives on the weekend (May 18th & 19th) when over 115 buildings and spaces across the city will open their doors to the public – completely free of charge!

A full list of participating locations can be found on the official website

This year, Open House Praha will pay tribute to several important Czech architects whose anniversaries fall in 2024. Visitors can expect to explore buildings designed by the likes of Josef Fuchs, Oldřich Tyl, Adolf Benš, Josef Fanta, Jan Gillar, and Karel Hubáček.

The festival features over 35 new buildings in the program across 13 districts.

The list includes the former restaurant of the Štvanice Winter Stadium by Josef Fuchs, the Bílá Elementary School and Nursery School, the Fanta Building at the main railway station, the Škoda Works Palace, now the seat of the Prague City Hall, the Neo-Renaissance Old Town Market Hall on Rytířská Street, the palace of the Municipal Insurance Company on Old Town Square and many more.

You can find the full list here.

Tours in English

While tours in most buildings take place only in Czech, there are a number of buildings that offer tours in English.

These include for example the Great Strahov Stadium, one of the biggest stadiums in the world; ARA Palace, a gem of functionalist architecture from 1931 where visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from the terrace; Sokol Gymnasium in Vinohrady, the biggest Sokol gym in the world that went through many hardships in the 20th century; Laichter House, designed by famous Czech architect Jan Kotěra for Jan Laichter, the owner of a publishing house; or the Clubhouse of the Autoclub of the Czech Republic, the seat of the first Czech automobile club with spectacular interiors.

More buildings that offer English tours include for example the Old Town Market Hall, Škoda Works Palace, or Terminal 4 at Václav Havel Airport. English tours take place throughout the weekend at fixed hours.

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