Following a Czechoslovakian ‘velvet divorce’, the Czech Republic has created a proud identity brimming with national character. The number of serviced apartments and corporate guests is growing here too. This is thanks to a rising economic status and commendable preservation of the medieval past.
The Czech Republic is a landlocked country in Central Europe. Its surrounding states include Germany, Poland, Slovakia and Austria. The historic ‘Bohemian’ lands, which are mountainous and highly plateaued, occupy around two-thirds of the Republic in the west, whilst Moravia makes up the east. Ten million Czechs inhabit the whole thirty thousand miles landmass, and over a tenth of them reside in the capital and largest city, Prague. Around thirty million foreigners visit the Czech Republic each year, and over seven million of them travel to Prague. Travellers love the preservations of ornate architecture, rich history, and of course its native beers. It is not all about Prague though. Visitors can also opt to stay in serviced accommodation in other culturally expressive and economically impressive major cities such as Ostrava, Brno and Plzen.
Czech history is one of great fluctuation and instability. It all began with the first recorded inhabitants, a Celtic tribe around 50BC. Later empires belonging to the likes of the Romans, Franks and Moravians then flooded into the region through to the tenth century. Then the Kingdom of Bohemia arose. The pinnacle of Bohemia (now known as the Czech Republic) came in the mid-fourteenth century. Its king, Charles VI, also became the leader of the Holy Roman Empire, which was immensely dominant for over four centuries. Bohemia was powerful, but the arrival of the Habsburg Empire and World Wars diminished any past Czech authority. Czech Republic foundation finally came in 1993, with Czechoslovakian (Czech and Slovaks) peacefully dividing into separate states. Unfazed by the past though, the Czech Republic became one of the ten most developed countries of the world.
Nowadays, the Czech Republic is a tourist magnet and industrialized powerhouse. The Czech’s major industries are in mechanical engineering, machinery and automotive, all supported by a low-cost, skilled labour force. As a central state in a flourishing Eastern European economy, the Czech Republic has been a strong, economic performer in comparison to the rest of the European Union. This is evident when looking at the successes of the national currency, the Czech Koruna (CZK). For live Koruna exchange rates, visit www.xe.com. Overall though, long-term economic prosperity is the priority. This means improving upon one of the highest GDP growth rates and lowest unemployment levels in the European Union.
The Czech Republic ranks amongst the top thirty-five countries worldwide regarding ease of business and economic freedom. A strong economic framework is already in place in the Czech Republic. What is most encouraging though for corporate travellers is the Czech bid to constantly try improving its business climate. Incentives for business travel here include Special Industrial Zones. These are popular due to their high level of support within already profitable business conditions and offered tax reliefs or cash grants. The approval process is also straightforward and a welcoming attitude towards foreign expats features in Czech society. This is all topped off by an ideal, landlocked geographic location in a blossoming Eastern Europe. Taking advantage of this promising climate can be simple too when staying Situ’s own affordable, comfortable corporate accommodation in the Czech Republic.
Schengen visa requirements apply to those wishing to stay in the Czech Republic. Residents of North American, the US, and EU countries do not require a visa when staying for up to 90 days. For more information regarding other nationalities and periods of stay visit the Schengen Visa website.
Local law in the Czech Republic is not particularly abnormal in comparison to anywhere else in Europe. Minor fines could be issued for crossing pedestrian crossings when the lights indicate you shouldn’t, or if you attempt to cross a road within 50 metres of a designated crossing point. Otherwise, the only thing we can recommend is that you always carry your passport with you. Visitors can expect to enjoy a happy and safe visit too. The Czech Republic actually ranks seventh in the world according to the Global Peace Index of 2018.
Driving is relatively straightforward as well if you stay vigilant. Czech’s drive on the right like the rest of Europe. You will need an International Driving Permit though if you are staying in the country for over two months. Visitors should also research requirements for driving through the different borders of the Czech Republic. An alternative though is travelling via taxis or Ubers. Both services charge reasonably, and the drivers are typically fluent in multiple languages.
Staying in Prague city apartment grants visitors’ access to the Czech Republic’s most iconic attractions, such as Prague Castle and Old Town. The Castle is the President’s official office but was once also the seat of power for Bohemia kings, Holy Roman Emperors and Czechoslovakian Presidents. It’s the largest coherent castle complex worldwide, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, and our serviced apartments are no further than a short car journey away. However, the heart of Prague belongs to the Old Town Square The famous astronomical clock, the Church of St. Nicholas and exquisite town hall tower make the Square a deserved Czech landmark. Prague has something for everyone, boasting sights and events to keep you constantly occupied.
Although most arrivals into the Czech Republic choose to stay in Prague serviced accommodation, there is also much more to explore outside of the capital. Many make the mistake of not visiting the ‘Bohemian Paradise’. Now a UNESCO Geopark, the Český ráj of Eastern Bohemia glows with natural beauty, and sightseers love the spectacular greenery. In contrast, expats could indulge themselves like Europe’s former elite in the spa town Karlovy Vary. The town was enjoyed by European royalty, but nowadays attractive art galleries, relaxing spas and fascinating museums make a stop here incredibly worthwhile. Often going unnoticed, with similar authenticity, are the likes of Kutná Hora and the beautiful Brno.
Overall, the Czech Republic undoubtedly boasts exclusive characteristics, including economic escalation and beautiful attractions unlike anywhere else worldwide. There’s no wonder that the country and its capital has become a popular destination for business travel and serviced apartment living.
Officially known as the Václav Havel Airport Prague after the former Czech president, this is the international airport of Czech Republic. All international flights arrive here, therefore reinstating Prague's significance as the business centre.
Taxi or bus journeys from the airport typically take no longer than half an hour to the city centre.
All trains are operated by Czech Railways, RegioJet and Leo Express in the Czech Republic. Together, they collectively ensure residents and visitors are well interconnected to all Czech cities, towns, villages and their serviced accommodation.
Czech Railways was the only train operator until 2011 when RegioJet arrived and offered a slightly more expensive, but a higher level of service.
Eurolines Czech Republic, FlixBus and RegioJet provide its passengers with a range of long distance and regional daily services to and from Czech cities for reasonable prices.
In Prague, the Florenc bus station is the main departure and arrival point.
Founded in 1974, Prague Metro now serves sixty-one stations across three lines (A, B & C), over forty miles of track.
The lines run from location to location as follows;
Line A (Green) - Depo Hostivař to Nemocnice Motol from east to west.
Line B (Yellow) - Černý most to Zličín from east to west.
Line C (Red) - Letňany to Háje from north to south.
Line D (Blue) – This line is under construction, but does not have plans to be ready before 2020.
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