The Czech government is evaluating whether the country is ready to adopt the euro, following an assessment prepared by the National Economic Council of the Government (NERV).

This unpublished analysis, obtained by the Czech media outlet E15, explores the potential benefits, drawbacks, and risks of transitioning to the European currency.

However, economists have not yet endorsed entry into the European Exchange Rate Mechanism (ERM II)—a necessary precursor to adopting the euro. The decision will likely be left to the next administration.

A Strategic Review of Readiness

In February, Prime Minister Petr Fiala’s cabinet reviewed a report from the Ministry of Finance and the Czech National Bank assessing the fulfillment of the Maastricht criteria and the Czech Republic’s economic alignment with the eurozone. Subsequently, NERV was tasked with delivering a detailed analysis tailored to the country’s specific economic conditions.

Economist Mojmír Hampl, a member of NERV and one of the report’s authors, said to E15: “This wasn’t about whether to adopt the euro, but whether we should enter the ‘anteroom’—ERM II. The consensus was that the government must first set a concrete adoption date. You don’t enter the anteroom without intending to step into the living room.”

No Immediate Steps Expected

Despite receiving the analysis earlier this year, the government does not plan to act on its recommendations before the next election cycle.

According to Ministry of Finance spokesperson Petr Habáň, “The current government’s task is to ensure the Czech Republic is as prepared as possible for a serious political debate on euro adoption at the end of its term. The final decision should rest with the government formed after the next elections.”

Finance Minister Zbyněk Stanjura emphasized the priority of stabilizing public finances to create a path toward euro adoption. Although progress has been made, challenges remain.

Meeting the Maastricht Criteria: Progress and Challenges

While the Czech Republic fulfills some Maastricht criteria, others remain unmet. For instance:

• Long-term interest rates align with the eurozone’s requirements.
• Price stability, however, remains a hurdle. May’s inflation rate of 6.5% exceeded the threshold but is gradually decreasing.

Hampl and Stanjura agree that the Czech Republic is close to meeting these standards.

The primary barrier is the absence of ERM II membership. “Joining ERM II should be part of a credible political strategy, ensuring the transition to the eurozone is as swift as possible,” Habáň stated.

Public Opinion: A Key Challenge

The government must address the significant public skepticism toward the euro. Surveys conducted in early summer reveal that only 20% of Czechs currently support the switch. However, trends indicate gradual growth in public approval.

Economists urge the government to focus on targeted communication, especially with low-income households.

These groups are likely to feel the most immediate impact of euro adoption and often have lower financial literacy, making them more susceptible to misconceptions about the currency change.

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One of the world’s most celebrated musicals, The Phantom of the Opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber, is making its Prague debut in the iconic Broadway production with its original cast.

The show will take place from March 19 to April 6, 2025, at the Prague Congress Center.

Due to overwhelming demand, the initially planned 10 performances have been expanded to a total of 23. Originally scheduled to run until March 27, the show’s Prague engagement has been extended by 11 days, offering 13 additional performances.

Performances will be held every weekday except Monday at 8:00 p.m., with weekend double shows at 2:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., making it accessible for families.

The lead role of the Phantom will be performed by Nadim Naaman, an accomplished British actor, singer, and playwright. Sharing the spotlight as Christine are Georgia Wilkinson, an Australian soprano, and her alternate, Bridget Costello, a celebrated New Zealand soprano who has captivated London’s theatre audiences.

Tickets here

A Full-Scale Broadway Spectacle

The production arrives in Prague with its entire ensemble of 100 cast and crew members, an orchestra, sets, costumes, and effects.

Audiences can expect over 230 intricately designed costumes, special effects, and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s most beloved compositions, including “The Music of the Night”, “Think of Me”, and the title track, “The Phantom of the Opera”.

The Phantom of the Opera is based on Gaston Leroux’s novel Le Fantôme de l’Opéra.

Since its debut, the musical has enchanted 160 million viewers across 193 cities in 46 countries and won over 70 prestigious awards, including seven Tony Awards and four Olivier Awards, solidifying its status as one of the most successful musicals in history.

Event Details

• Dates: March 19 – April 6, 2025
• Location: Prague Congress Center
• Performance Times:
  • Weekdays (except Monday): 8:00 p.m.
  • Weekends: 2:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
• Language: English with Czech subtitles

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During Christmas and New Year’s, Prague sees a surge of visitors, particularly from Germany, Poland, the UK, the US, and Italy.

Interest in accommodations is also rising among Czech tourists, according to Václav Stárek, president of the Association of Hotels and Restaurants of the Czech Republic.

Hotel prices in the capital are increasing by 10–15% during this period, with establishments like Czech Inn Hotels and the Palace Hotel reporting nearly full bookings.

Czech Inn Hotels anticipates 95–100% occupancy for Advent weekends and Christmas, with full capacity on New Year’s Eve.

“Available rooms are disappearing quickly, mirroring last year’s trends,” said Vice President Petr Chábera. To enhance the guest experience, the chain plans festive holiday banquets and New Year’s Eve entertainment featuring live music, magicians, and more.

Similarly, the Palace Hotel expects 90% occupancy during Christmas and 80% for New Year’s Eve, according to manager Martin Koťátko.

The Mandarin Oriental Hotel also forecasts strong winter bookings. “Even the historically quieter period between Christmas and New Year is filling up fast,” said Štěpán Malý, the hotel’s sales and marketing director. He noted growing interest from tourists in Latin America and Asia, alongside Europeans.

Prague Hotels Close in on Pre-Covid Levels

The average hotel occupancy rate in Prague increased to 70.9% last year, an 11.9 percentage point rise compared to 2021.

Although still 8.1 percentage points shy of 2019’s pre-pandemic levels, Prague outpaced cities like Vienna, Budapest, Bratislava, and Munich in year-on-year growth. According to the Czech Statistical Office, 7.4 million tourists stayed in Prague in 2022, a 25% annual increase.

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Meteorologists predict a rise in temperatures across the Czech Republic, but this warming trend will come with rain, cloudiness, and even some snowfall in certain regions.

On Monday, a mix of clear skies and low clouds will dominate, with fog likely in some areas. Occasional drizzle, which could freeze, may occur during the morning. By evening, western Bohemia is expected to see increasing cloud cover as another weather front approaches.

Daytime temperatures will range from 4 to 9°C, occasionally climbing to 13°C in sunnier areas, though regions with persistent cloud cover may remain colder, at around 2°C.

Tuesday will start bright in the mountains and eastern parts of the country, with clear to partly cloudy skies, but conditions will deteriorate as rain spreads from the west. At higher altitudes above 1,000 meters, the rain will turn to snow. Precipitation and cloudiness will taper off later in the day. Temperatures will range from 6 to 11°C, though parts of Moravia and northeastern Bohemia may see highs closer to 4°C.

Wednesday’s forecast brings cloudy to overcast skies with intermittent rain or showers. Snowfall is expected in mountainous areas above 900 meters. Highs will be slightly cooler, reaching 4 to 8°C.

On Thursday, similar conditions will persist, with mostly cloudy skies and periods of rain, turning to snow at altitudes above 700 meters. A moderate southwest wind will strengthen throughout the day, with gusts of up to 15 m/s. By evening, the wind will shift to the northwest and begin to weaken. Temperatures will remain mild, peaking at 5 to 9°C.

As we move toward the weekend, the weather will continue to vary. From Friday to Sunday, the forecast predicts cloudy skies, scattered rain showers, and snowfall at mid-level elevations.

There is a chance of clearer weather by Sunday, with some regions experiencing partly sunny skies. Daytime temperatures will range from 2 to 7°C, and could climb to 10°C in sunnier locations. However, areas with low clouds or fog—some of which may freeze—will remain cooler.

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Chotkovy Sady, Prague’s first public park, is set to undergo a major renovation aimed at enhancing its accessibility, creating a more inviting atmosphere for visitors.

The project, led by the Institute of Planning and Development of Prague (IPR), seeks public input through both online platforms and on-site events to ensure the revitalization meets community expectations.

Established in 1832, Chotkovy Sady holds a special place in the heart of Prague’s history. Situated between Letná Gardens and Petřín Hill, the park is a prime example of English-style landscaping.

Despite its historical significance and natural charm, the park has seen years of neglect, leaving its pathways, greenery, and facilities in need of attention.

“Chotkovy Sady is one of Prague’s most stunning parks, but it requires consistent care to preserve its character and appeal,” says Kateřina Špičáková, development coordinator at Prague Castle.

“We aim to maintain its historical essence while improving infrastructure and amenities to create a seamless connection between Letná and Petřín. This park can become a natural green bridge linking these iconic areas.”

Public Participation: Your Voice Matters

One of the most exciting aspects of the project is the active involvement of Prague residents. From November 2024 to January 2025, the city is collecting feedback through online surveys and on-site activities.

Guided tours of Chotkovy Sady are scheduled for Sunday, November 24, and Thursday, November 28. These walks offer participants insights into the park’s history and current condition while providing an opportunity to share ideas for its future.

“The public plays a crucial role in shaping spaces like Chotkovy Sady,” explains Ondřej Boháč, director of the IPR. “Our field research has already gathered valuable insights, but the perspectives of residents and visitors are essential to making this project truly successful.”

Feedback gathered during this phase will inform an architectural competition to determine the final design for the park’s transformation.

A Glimpse into the Past and Future

Chotkovy Sady, named after its founder Count Karel Chotek, was created as part of the construction of Chotek Road. Renowned garden architect František Thomayer designed the park, blending elegance with natural beauty.

Over the years, the park has served various purposes, from hosting knightly tournaments to acting as a logistical hub for Prague Castle.

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The last illegal trdelník stand on Na Příkopě Street has been removed.

The operation, carried out by Prague City Hall in cooperation with the Prague 1 District, saw city police overseeing the removal.

The long-standing dispute concluded after six years of litigation, as confirmed by Karolína Šnejdarová, spokesperson for Prague 1.

The unauthorized stand, located between Můstek and Náměstí Republiky, had its lease terminated in July 2018. However, the operator refused to vacate the space, prompting the city to file a lawsuit.

“This action demonstrates our commitment to maintaining order and transparency in the city center,” said Giancarlo Lamberti, chairman of the Prague 1 financial committee. He added, “Respect for rules—including rent and fee payments—is non-negotiable. We want a fair approach to public space usage.”

Prague 1 continues to implement measures to enhance the city’s aesthetic and functional appeal.

According to Šnejdarová, further removals of unauthorized stands and installations are planned. “We are actively working to address similar violations elsewhere in the city center. These actions are vital to preserving the integrity of our public spaces,” she concluded.

 

Photos: Giancarlo Lamberti

 

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Black Friday has arrived in the Czech Republic, with retailers across the country offering significant discounts.

While Black Friday sales in Czechia offer an array of discounts, buyers should exercise caution. Many retailers use the event to clear out unsold inventory or offer only a handful of discounted items, making some of the advertised 50-80% discounts feel more like marketing tactics.

Despite this, many stores feature genuine offers, typically ranging between 15-30% off, making the sales worthwhile for careful shoppers.

Although Black Friday 2024 officially falls on November 29, many stores began their sales earlier and are extending them over several weeks. This provides plenty of time to hunt for the best bargains.

Here’s a comprehensive list of stores and what you can expect during Black Friday 2024:

Alza.cz

The largest online retailer in Czechia is leading the Black Friday charge with discounts ranging from 10% to 70%. Popular items include televisions, smartphones, kitchen appliances, and sports equipment. Alza’s sale began early and runs until November 30. Make sure to check daily updates for flash deals.

Mall.cz

Another giant in Czech e-commerce, Mall.cz, offers similar deals to Alza, with discounts across a wide range of products. Electronics, home goods, and fashion are among the highlighted categories. The promotion runs through the end of November, making it a solid choice for bargain hunters.

T.S.Bohemia

Known for its focus on electronics, T.S.Bohemia is offering discounts on over 1,000 items during its Black Friday campaign. Laptops, smart home devices, and gaming accessories are some of the featured categories. The retailer also provides free delivery, adding extra value to your purchases.

DATART

This electronics and appliance retailer is offering discounts updated daily, making it a great place to return to throughout the sale period. Deals include kitchen gadgets, home appliances, and entertainment systems. Free delivery applies for orders over 500 CZK, and the sale lasts until the end of November.

Pilulka

Pilulka, a major pharmacy chain, is offering discounts of up to 50% on a broad selection of health and wellness products. From skincare to over-the-counter medications, shoppers can find significant savings. The sale runs until November 30.

Benu

Another pharmacy chain, Benu, offers similar discounts of up to 50% on a variety of products. Free shipping is available for purchases above 300 CZK, making it an attractive option for stocking up on health essentials. The sale ends on November 30.

ECCO

The premium shoe brand ECCO is offering up to 40% off footwear for men, women, and children. Shoppers can enjoy free shipping on all orders. The sale is valid in both physical and online stores, ending December 3 online and December 2 in-store.

LUXOR

Book lovers can rejoice as LUXOR, one of Czechia’s largest bookstores, is offering a 20% discount on a significant portion of its catalog. From bestsellers to niche genres, this deal runs until November 25, making it a perfect opportunity to stock up on reading material.

Notino

A favorite among cosmetics and fragrance enthusiasts, Notino is providing discounts of up to 40% on select products. The discounted items are updated weekly, so it’s worth checking back regularly. This sale extends through the end of November.

Tescoma

Tescoma, a renowned Czech household goods brand, has reduced prices by up to 35% on a range of kitchenware and home accessories. The sale runs until November 30, making it a must-visit for home chefs and organizers.

Pompo

Pompo, the go-to store for toys and games, is offering discounts of up to 67%. Products include construction sets, dolls, board games, and other items perfect for holiday gifting. The sale lasts until December 1.

Lindt

The Swiss chocolate brand Lindt has announced a 30% discount on select products. Starting next week, the discount will expand to the entire product range, excluding Christmas-themed items. Sweet deals are available throughout November.

JRC

Gamers can find excellent discounts at JRC, Czechia’s largest retailer of video games and consoles. Discounts of up to 50% are available on gaming accessories and software. The promotion ends on December 1.

Smarty.cz

Smarty.cz specializes in smartphones and their accessories, offering discounts of up to 50% during Black Friday. The sale runs until December 1, making it an ideal stop for tech enthusiasts.

Philips

The well-known electronics manufacturer Philips is offering up to 35% off on personal care devices and household appliances. Deals are available exclusively on the brand’s official Czech online store throughout the sales period.

Siko

The plumbing and bathroom specialist Siko has discounted select items by up to 60%. Shoppers can browse tiles, sinks, and fixtures during this promotion, which ends on November 29.

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After a three-year hiatus, TEDxPrague is making a much-anticipated return!

This year’s theme, “Metamorphosis”, invites you to explore the endless possibilities of transformation—both personal and societal.

Mark your calendar for November 23, and join the innovative 360-degree Nová Spirála Theater in Holešovice, for a day filled with inspiration, creativity, and groundbreaking ideas.

What to Expect: A Lineup of Visionary Minds

This year’s TEDxPrague promises an extraordinary program featuring renowned speakers, unique performances, and innovative collaborations. Highlights include:

• Carmen Rizzo, two-time Grammy-nominated music producer
• Professor Tomáš Jungwirth, a leading Czech physicist
• Matt Field, British Ambassador to the Czech Republic
• Barbara Paldus, visionary scientist and investor
• Radka Salmannová, a celebrated visual artist
• Amálie Kosová, a rising star in modeling and academia
• Robert Rosenberg, entrepreneur and athlete
• Daniela Špinar, acclaimed theater director, actress, and writer

World-Class Performances

Experience breathtaking live performances that complement the theme of transformation:

• Terezie Kovalová, a multi-talented cellist, singer, and model
• Fraser Roach, choreographer, filmmaker, and dancer
• Jakub Raška, demi-soloist from the National Theatre Ballet
• Romina Contreras, first soloist of the National Theatre Ballet

Adding a unique touch, the event will feature an exclusive choreography, “Boys a Bug”, designed by a choreographer from the Czech National Theatre.

Tickets are available now via GOOUT. For more details, visit the official TEDxPrague website.

About TEDxPrague

Since its founding in 2009, TEDxPrague has been a non-profit initiative fueled by volunteers. Following the global TEDx mission of “ideas worth spreading”, the event aims to inspire positive change by sharing ideas and stories that matter.

Unlike conventional conferences, TEDxPrague focuses on amplifying transformative concepts, giving voice to groundbreaking ideas, and fostering a community of curiosity and innovation.

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For the first time since records began, the Czech Republic’s average annual temperature is expected to surpass 10 degrees Celsius.

If November and December maintain average conditions, the annual average will reach 10.3°C—0.6°C higher than 2023.

This historic milestone was reported by Jáchym Brzezina, a meteorologist from the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute in Brno, on the X social network. The country’s temperature records date back to 1775 in Prague’s Klementinum and to 1800 in Brno.

A Year of Unbroken Records

Every month in 2024 has been above the 1991–2020 average, making this year exceptional compared to previous warm years. February, in particular, stood out with a record-breaking temperature increase of more than 6°C above average.

March was nearly 4°C warmer, while August and September exceeded average temperatures by at least 2°C. The last month to record below-average temperatures was May 2023.

Meteorologist Brzezina predicts that November will also be above average based on current trends, further solidifying this year’s record-breaking status.

Comparing Historical Trends

Recent years highlight the rapid warming of the Czech climate. In 2023, the country was 1.4°C warmer than the 1991–2020 average, and 2.2°C warmer than the 1961–1990 baseline. If 2024’s predicted annual temperature of 10.3°C holds, it will represent an increase of 2.8°C compared to 1961–1990, or almost 3°C higher.

Central Europe is warming at twice the global average rate, according to climatologists. While global warming values are approaching 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels (1.48°C in 2023), the Czech Republic’s increase is closer to 3°C.

Global Implications and Unanswered Questions

Experts predict that 2024 will not only be the warmest year in Czech history but also the warmest globally. Scientists have long anticipated gradual warming over the coming decades, but 2023’s unexpected temperature surge in the second half of the year has prompted further investigation. Multiple hypotheses have been proposed, but no definitive explanation has been found.

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Oliviers&Co – a company whose mission is to help you discover the richness and diversity of Mediterranean olive oils –  has made its long-anticipated debut in central Prague (Dlouhá 708/24).

The humble origins of this company date back to 1996 in the Mane, Alpes de Haute-Provence in France, where their oils are still packaged and tested with organoleptic superiority today.

The Rigorous Selection Process: A Commitment to Quality

Oliviers&Co oil is selected with only the purest regional tradition and agricultural sustainability in mind. The selection of oils undergoes a rigorous process during the prime olivade months between October and early February.

This process includes sensory analysis by a tasting committee that is headed by Alexandra Gauquelin-Roché, a renowned oleologist and graded byEric Verdier, who has been with the company since the beginning and has over 25 years of experience selecting award-winning olive oils.

However, these oils are not just selected based on their sensory satisfaction, they must meet a strict 200-point specification before they are added to the company’s diverse selection.

Transparency and Traceability: Know Your Olive Oil

Amongst their selection, Oliviers&Co showcases some of the world’s most renowned hand-picked, cold-pressed, award-winning olive oils. Amongst these is the Domaine Salvator Organic Olive Oil. This French olive oil, also harvested on the 1st of October 2023, produced by Sophie and Frederic Pinatel is known for its aromatic intensity due to the crops’ terroir, settled in a climate which is both Alpine and Mediterranean.

An additional distinct olive oil is their Finca Cortijo, harvested by the Vaño family in Spain on November 1st of 2023 as a part of a sacred family tradition since 1780 that leaves this oil bursting with the flavors of sun-ripened tomatoes and freshly cut grass. 

A Collection of Mediterranean Delicacies

Oliviers&Co offers a wide variety of vinegars and vinegar condiments ranging from their sweet and sour Classic Balsamic Vinegar of Modena to their fruity specialty Christmas Vinegar – Recipe with Champagne. 

You can also find a selection of white and black truffle products in the shop, such as their Mustard With Black Truffle.

Their products are available in an assortment of gift boxes quintessential for the upcoming holiday season to celebrate with friends and family.

The company offers a range of cosmetic products, including their bestselling Hands Balm With Organic Olive Oil made in Provence with shea butter and Aloe Vera. 

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On November 30, 2024, the Prague Transport Company will unveil its “Christmas fleet” – trams and buses decorated in the festive spirit.

A tram-lighting ceremony will take place in the courtyard of the Střešovice tram depot at 16:30, with the director of Prague Public Transport Authority DPP overseeing the grand inauguration.

From 16:45 p.m., the specially decorated trams and buses will embark on a 30-minute parade through the heart of Prague.

Where to Catch the Magic

The illuminated fleet’s journey will pass through iconic Prague locations, making it easy for residents and tourists to experience the glowing vehicles.

The parade will commence at the Střešovice Depot and continue through Hradčanská, Sparta, Strossmayerovo náměstí, Vltavská, Štvanice, Těšnov, Bílá Labuť, Náměstí Republiky, Dlouhá třída, nab. E. Beneše, and Malostranská.

The vehicles will stop on the Mánes Bridge for a photo op as they head back into Old Town before officially concluding at Staroměstská at around 6:00 p.m.

DPP has announced that the Christmas trams and buses will remain in operation through January 6, giving Prague residents and visitors plenty of time to see the holiday-themed vehicles across the city throughout the season.

Prague boasts the most extensively decorated public transport fleet in the Czech Republic this year, with five trams and two buses participating in the Christmas festivities.

The DPP Christmas fleet in 2024 consists of:

• tram 14T
• tram 15T
• Mazačka Lubrication (Maintenance) Tram
• bus SOR NB 12
• bus SOR NB 18
• 2 x two-axle motor car + Krasin towing car
• pair of T3 trams

 

 

 

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Opatovická Street in Prague 1 was the site of a gas leak emergency on Thursday evening, which prompted the evacuation of six buildings and affected around 150 people. 

Some residents were temporarily moved to an evacuation bus, while others found alternative accommodations for the evening. Meanwhile, police cordoned off the affected area to ensure safety and prevent unauthorized access.

“The area affected by the leak is being guarded to stop anyone from entering,” said one firefighter.

Around 7:15 p.m., a gas emergency service team reached the site and began restricting the gas flow to prevent further leaks. Current reports indicate that the leak was isolated to a single building, with no issues detected in neighboring properties.

The evacuation was carried out as a preventive measure, according to officials. After the gas supply is cut and proper ventilation conducted, evacuees may be allowed to return.

Both the Mayor of Prague 1, Terezie Radoměřská (TOP 09), and the city’s crisis management team were informed of the situation. “The mayor was kept updated throughout the operation,” confirmed a press spokesperson for Prague’s firefighters.

While the scene appeared dramatic due to flashing lights and the presence of emergency vehicles, the situation was largely under control.

Clear communication from the rescue teams and the absence of further gas leaks helped to maintain calm among the evacuees and onlookers.

Curious passers-by occasionally asked if they could proceed through the area or use their mobile phones, but most complied with the safety measures in place.

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