TripOut Gay Travel:
Prague

Mystical Praha (Prague) in the Czech Republic has come a long way since its style-less communist days when citizens begged Western visitors for the Levi’s off their backside.

Of all the cities once trapped behind the Iron Curtain, Prague has most-convincingly raised its status to must-see European destination. The stunning architecture, intellectual atmosphere and fierce bar and cafe scene has helped it develop into a favorite among LGBT travelers worldwide.

Despite Prague native Martina Navratilova’s recent claim that President Vaclav Klaus “does not consider homosexuals to be 100% human beings,” and that city police are not known to be overly helpful in the gay community, the Czech Republic is the first post-communist country to legalize same-sex partnership, thus setting a precedent for a more liberal and gay-friendly future.

Prague boasts endless amounts of picturesque locations, including the Charles Bridge crossing the Vltava river, Prague Castle, Old Town Square’s Astronomical Clock and crazy Gothic architecture– not to mention the breathtaking views of endless Church spires. The sights have also become a popular Hollywood backdrop, helping to saturate the city with plenty of eye-candy and creative-types.

Don’t forget the centuries of fascinating and often disturbing history. Plan to wander around the Jewish town (Josefov) for a chilling reminder of how Nazis tried to wipe out all Jews, Gays and other minorities across Europe.

The summer crowds in Prague can be overwhelming. The magnificent Staré Mesto (Old Town) once dominated by attractive locals is now packed with tacky (but fun) souvenir stands and restaurants specifically for the tour bus crowd. Visiting off-season is a wise idea.

With bags of Old World charm and a hip party vibe, despite being “discovered” by tourists, Prague is still *the* place to send postcards from in Eastern Europe that say “wish you were here.”

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