Unit 2 B2 Reading: Personal Travel Experiences

prague, bridge, crowd

Exploring the Czech Republic: An Unforgettable Adventure

Hi! My name is Jason, and I want to share my amazing travel experience in the Czech Republic. Last summer, I spent two weeks exploring this beautiful country, and I was amazed by its rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking landscapes.

 

Chapter 1: The Magic of Prague

     My adventure began in Prague, the capital city. From the moment I stepped into the Old Town Square, I was surrounded by colorful buildings, Gothic towers, and cobblestone streets. It felt like stepping into a storybook.

     I crossed the Charles Bridge early in the morning when the city was still waking up. The statues lining the bridge cast long shadows in the soft sunlight, and the view of the Vltava River was breathtaking. Later, I visited the Prague Castle, where I explored the magnificent St. Vitus Cathedral and admired the city skyline from the castle grounds.

    But the highlight of my day was the Astronomical Clock. At noon, I joined the crowd in front of the clock and watched the hourly show—a little mechanical performance that’s been running for over 600 years.

     In the evening, I tried svíčková, a traditional Czech dish with marinated beef, creamy sauce, and dumplings. I topped it off with a chimney cake (trdelník) filled with ice cream. Delicious!

 

Chapter 2: A Fairytale Town – Český Krumlov

     After a few days in Prague, I took a train to Český Krumlov, a small town in the south of the country. As I arrived, I felt like I had entered a postcard-perfect world. The castle perched above the Vltava River and the red-tiled rooftops created a scene straight out of a fairy tale.

     I spent hours wandering the narrow medieval streets, discovering hidden courtyards and charming little cafes. At the Český Krumlov Castle, I climbed the castle tower for an unforgettable panoramic view of the town.

     In the afternoon, I joined a group for a rafting trip on the Vltava River. Floating through the peaceful water with the castle as a backdrop was a surreal experience.

     That evening, I dined at a cozy tavern, enjoying a hearty plate of goulash while listening to a local band playing Czech folk music.

 

Chapter 3: Into the Wild – Bohemian Switzerland

     Next on my journey was Bohemian Switzerland National Park, located in the northern part of the country. As someone who loves hiking, this was one of the stops I was most excited about.

     The Pravčická Gate, Europe’s largest natural sandstone arch, was even more impressive in person. Standing beneath it, I felt so small against the towering rock formation. The hike was challenging at times, but every viewpoint rewarded me with stunning landscapes of rolling hills and deep forests.

     Later, I joined a boat ride in the Edmund Gorge, drifting silently through the narrow canyon. The reflections of the cliffs on the water and the sound of nature all around made it feel like I was in another world.

 

Chapter 4: Bustling Brno

     My final stop was Brno, the second-largest city in the Czech Republic. After the peace and quiet of the countryside, Brno felt young, vibrant, and alive.

     I started my day at Špilberk Castle, exploring its historic walls and learning about its dark history as a prison. Then, I visited the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul, one of Brno’s most iconic landmarks, perched on Petrov Hill.

     But the real surprise was hidden underground. I joined a tour of the Brno Underground, a network of mysterious tunnels and cellars beneath the city.

     In the evenings, I explored Náměstí Svobody (Freedom Square), stopping by cozy cafes and sampling local coffee blends. Brno’s youthful energy made it the perfect place to end my trip.

 

Chapter 5: Reflections on the Journey

     As my two weeks in the Czech Republic came to an end, I sat in a café near the Brno train station, reflecting on everything I had experienced.

     From the historic charm of Prague to the storybook magic of Český Krumlov, the natural beauty of Bohemian Switzerland, and the lively streets of Brno, every moment felt special.

     But more than the places, it was the people I met along the way—the friendly café owners, the cheerful tour guides, and fellow travelers—that made this journey unforgettable.

     The Czech Republic is a country of contrasts, where history meets modern life, and nature blends with culture. I left with a heart full of memories and a promise to return one day.

 

Comprehension Questions:

  1. What were Jason’s first impressions of Prague?
  2. Which three landmarks did Jason visit in Prague?
  3. What made Český Krumlov feel like a fairy tale town?
  4. What activity did Jason try on the Vltava River in Český Krumlov?
  5. What is Pravčická Gate, and why is it famous?
  6. Why did Jason enjoy the boat ride in Edmund Gorge?
  7. Which historic site did Jason visit in Brno?
  8. What did Jason explore underground in Brno?
  9. What traditional Czech food did Jason try in Prague?
  10. Why does Jason describe his trip as unforgettable?