Dobry Den!
My name is Tommy Houser, and I am from Chicago, Illinois. I am a sophomore accounting student, and my program is an affiliate program in Prague called “USAC Czech Republic: Prague – Politics, Culture, and the Arts”, and it is at the historic Charles University.
I just arrived in Prague a few days ago on August 29th, so I still have a lot to take in. Travel was extremely easy, but also very tiresome. I had never flown internationally before so I was a bit nervous. I flew from Chicago directly to Lisbon on Air Portugal. The flight was delayed a bit, but overall a good experience. After a brief layover, which was extended by another delay, I flew to Prague.
Upon arriving in Prague, I took public transportation to my apartment downtown. The public transportation available in Prague is extensive and you can genuinely get anywhere and everywhere. The best part is for students it is only 400 CZK (about $20) for unlimited access for the entire semester. The card was given to me when I arrived by my program director. They have underground metro lines, buses, and streetcars that work together to connect the entire city. I have found the best way to get around has been to use Apple Maps to navigate public transportation. In the time I’ve been here, I have not had any issues getting around.
My first impression of the city has been amazing. The architecture is absolutely stunning and the views from every direction are breathtaking. My first day here I went to Old Town Square, which is home to the Tyn Church and the Astronomical Clock Tower. The Astronomical Clock Tower is a beautiful piece of architecture that is incredibly detailed. It goes off every hour and puts on a show that lasts about 1 minute. I also visited the Charles Bridge which is a widely popular tourist attraction. It was very crowded, but also very intriguing. The entire bridge is lined with religious statues. Across the Charles Bridge is the Prague Castle. The Castle was closed for tours on the day I went there, so unfortunately I could not go inside, but looking in from the outside was still a wonderful experience. 
Across the road from there was a Starbucks that had a terrace which overlooked the entire city. I have only been to a Starbucks here once, but the only difference I noticed was the size of the drinks. I ordered a large coffee, and it was similar in size to an American medium. Starbucks is extremely popular here which is why it seems there is one on every corner.
Overall, my first two days in Prague have been very eventful, and I cannot wait for the weeks to come!
More about USAC Czech Republic: Prague – Politics, Culture, and the Arts >