Wednesday, November 27, 2024
With Donald Trump back in the White House, the Czech Republic is preparing for a potential shift in U.S.-Czech relations.
Czech politicians and experts are weighing the likely economic, political, and security impacts of Trump’s return, with particular concerns over the U.S.’s support for Ukraine and the implications of Trump’s protectionist trade policies.
Political Concerns: U.S.-Czech Ties and Ukraine Support
Czech politicians have voiced apprehensions that Trump’s presidency may bring uncertainty to Czech-American relations. Key figures, such as Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský, are raising questions about how Trump’s approach could influence America’s stance on Ukraine amidst Russian aggression. While Lipavský concedes that certain aspects of Trump’s policy might align with Czech interests, there is significant concern about a potential reduction in U.S. support for Ukraine, which could have ripple effects across Europe.
Trump’s view of Europe has often been blunt, once likening it to a “little China.” This phrase hints at a possible shift in America’s relationship with Europe, including the Czech Republic, with many across the continent left wondering how his foreign policy choices might impact their nations.
Push for European Independence in Defense
Member of the European Parliament Ondřej Kolář believes that Trump’s victory could serve as a wake-up call for Europe, encouraging the European Union to become more independent, particularly in matters of defense. Kolář describes Trump’s win as “shock therapy” for the EU, suggesting that the region may need to invest more heavily in its own security.
“The era of relying entirely on the United States is ending,” Kolář explained. This push for self-reliance might compel the Czech Republic, along with other EU nations, to strengthen their defense budgets and security policies, a move that could reshape the region’s strategic landscape.
Economic Impacts and Czech Currency Fluctuations
In the immediate aftermath of Trump’s victory, the Czech koruna fell almost three percent against the U.S. dollar, underscoring the market’s unease. According to economist Petr Bartoň, Trump’s leadership could lead to prolonged effects on the Czech economy, particularly if U.S. interest rates decline and borrowing costs drop.
These shifts in the American economy may reverberate through the Czech market, affecting trade and currency values, with indirect implications for Czech exports and foreign investment.
Potential U.S. Tariffs Could Strain Czech Economy
Trump’s past advocacy for tariffs—up to 20 percent on European imports and 60 percent on Chinese goods—also looms as a potential economic threat. Economist Lukáš Kovanda warns that should Trump reintroduce such tariffs, they could force Czech policymakers to reevaluate the national budget and economic forecasts.
Since the Czech economy is closely tied to Chinese trade, any deceleration in China’s economic growth could also impact Czech businesses. Kovanda estimates that a 2.5 percentage point drop in China’s growth could result in a 0.75 percentage point decline for the Czech Republic—a significant blow given the nation’s trade relationships.
Differing Views on Tariff Risks for Europe
While some fear the economic fallout of U.S. tariffs, Cyril Svoboda, former Czech Foreign Minister, suggests Trump’s tough rhetoric might not always lead to concrete actions. “Trump is often more assertive in his statements than in follow-through,” Svoboda observed, indicating that Trump may focus on trade disputes closer to home, such as those with Mexico, rather than initiating tariffs against Europe.
Still, Svoboda acknowledged that Trump’s unpredictable style could introduce sudden shifts in economic policy if he feels American interests are threatened.
Security Relations: Strengthening or Straining Ties?
Despite Trump’s sometimes turbulent relations with European allies, Jan Macháček, a security advisor to Czech President Petr Pavel, remains cautiously optimistic. Macháček believes Trump is unlikely to sever long-standing alliances with Europe, given the mutual need for cooperation on global issues such as China’s rise and broader security threats.
Macháček commented that any drastic distancing from Europe would likely occur only under “chaotic or irrational” decisions by Trump, noting the enduring importance of European markets to the U.S. Nevertheless, Macháček warns that the Czech Republic and its neighbors must be prepared for policy shifts that could require faster, independent responses.
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As Donald Trump secures his return to the White House, the global financial markets are bracing for impact.
His victory has already sent economic ripples across the world, with the Czech crown emerging as one of the hardest-hit currencies globally.
The Czech currency ranks among today’s biggest losers, joining the Mexican peso and Hungarian forint in significant declines. On the flip side, the Russian ruble has defied the trend, strengthening amidst the Trump-driven market shifts.
For some world currencies, Trump’s presidency would spell even more turbulence. The Hungarian forint, for instance, stands particularly vulnerable.
Hungary’s economy depends heavily on China for electric battery production and Germany for its automotive industry—two sectors likely to feel the strain of Trump’s trade policies. Tariffs could place Hungary in a squeeze, damaging the forint further.
Ironically, the biggest challenge to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s re-election bid in 2026 might not be domestic politics but Trump’s foreign policy.
The Czech crown faces a similarly uncertain future. Much like Hungary, the Czech Republic relies on open international trade, which may face hurdles under Trump’s tariff-heavy agenda.
Any barriers to this flow could directly undermine the Czech economy, with the crown likely to continue its downward trajectory.
Interestingly, stocks are defying expectations by trending upwards, even as forecasts suggest a “red wave” in the U.S., with Republicans expected to win not only the presidency but also gain control over both the Senate and House of Representatives.
Typically, markets favor a balance of power in the U.S., where political gridlock can temper policy extremes.
A Republican-controlled government may therefore unsettle markets looking for this stability.
Yet, contrary to conventional wisdom, investors seem unperturbed and continue buying, suggesting a more complex financial outlook ahead.
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The Czech nationalist movement “Czech Republic First” (Česká republika na 1. místě) has announced a rally in Prague to demand the removal of the Ukrainian flag from the National Museum.
The group claims the flag, displayed since early 2022 as a symbol of solidarity with Ukraine, does not belong on a Czech national monument.
The demonstration is scheduled for Sunday, November 17, at 1:00 PM on Wenceslas Square, coinciding with the Day of the Fight for Freedom and Democracy, a significant Czech national holiday.
“Is the National Museum on Wenceslas Square Czech or Ukrainian?” asked Ladislav Vrabel, the movement’s leader, in a public statement.
“If we don’t act now, our national identity is at risk. The National Museum is a Czech heritage site, and the only flag worthy of it is the Czech flag. On November 17, I’ll be there to demand the immediate removal of the Ukrainian flag and pursue legal action against the museum’s management and the Ministry of Culture.”
Vrabel, who has led several high-profile rallies in Prague, is known for his anti-government and pro-Russian views. In late 2022, he organized multiple protests that drew thousands of participants and effectively shut down Wenceslas Square, sending shockwaves through the Czech government and society.
In March 2023, an anti-government rally organized by the Právo Respekt Odbornost party escalated when demonstrators attempted to remove the Ukrainian flag. Police successfully contained the situation and later charged several protestors with criminal offenses.
The National Museum traditionally holds an Open Day on November 17. However, due to the expected protest and associated security concerns, the museum’s management has rescheduled this event to November 24.
The Ukrainian flag was first displayed on the museum’s facade in the early days of the Russian invasion of Ukraine as a symbol of support and solidarity.
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This holiday season, a unique mobile carillon will make its way through the streets of Prague, filling the city with the joyful sounds of Christmas.
Mounted on a truck, this impressive carillon features 57 bells and weighs nearly five tons, creating an unforgettable musical experience that promises to lift the holiday spirit across the city.
The Prague public is invited to these free outdoor concerts to enjoy beloved Christmas melodies. Below is the schedule for the carillon’s performances, covering various locations throughout Prague.
Event Highlights and Schedule
One of the most anticipated stops will be Jiřího z Poděbrad Square, where the carillon will perform on Sunday, December 1, at 5:00 PM.
Below is the full schedule of the carillon’s stops around Prague:
November 23, 2024
Time: 17:00-18:00
Place: Veleň, at the municipal office
November 30, 2024
Time: 18:00
Place: Děčínský Sněžník,
December 1, 2024
Time: 14:00
Place: Prague 3 – Habrová ul.2
December 1, 2024
Time: 17:00
Place: Prague 3, nám. Jiřího z Poděbrad
December 7, 2024
Time: 17:30
Place: Hostivice u Prahy
December 7, 2024
Time: 19:30
Place: Hostivice u Prahy
December 10, 2024
Time: 18:00
Place: Litoměřice
December 13, 2024
Time: 18:00
Place: Prague 11, Chodovská tvrz
December 14, 2024
Time: 12:00
Place: Řevnice u Prahy
December 14, 2024
Time: 17:00
Place: Prague 5 Zbraslav
December 17, 2024
Time: 18:00
Place: Prague 4 – Újezd, Formanská ul.
December 20, 2024
Time: 15:00-18:00
Place: Prague 5-Slivenec
December 21, 2024
Time: 18:00
Place: Prague 5-Lipence
December 22, 2024
Time: 15:00
Place: Karlštejn
December 23, 2024
Place: Říčany, Masarykovo nám
December 26, 2024
Time: 16:00
Place: Prague 5-Radotín
Each stop provides a unique opportunity for residents and visitors alike to gather, celebrate, and experience the holiday season with the timeless charm of carillon music.
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The National Gallery in Prague is set to unveil a remarkable new exhibition, École de Paris – Artists from Bohemia and the Interwar School of Paris, starting November 8.
This unique showcase will spotlight Czech artists who thrived in Paris’s artistic circles during the interwar years, including František Kupka, Toyen, Josef Šíma, and Jindřich Štyrský.
Alongside these Czech visionaries, works by notable French contemporaries like George Kars, Othon Kubín, and Maurice Françoise Eberl will also be featured.
These artists were key figures in the cosmopolitan Parisian art scene, gathering in the creative hubs of Montmartre and Montparnasse, where their art became a staple in prominent galleries and publications.
Running until March 2, 2025, the exhibition promises a rare view of previously unknown works by the Czech artists of this era, emphasizing their artistic contributions and influence.
Adding a global dimension to the exhibition, pieces by other famed École de Paris artists, such as Amedeo Modigliani, Chaim Soutine, and Jules Pascin, will also be on display.
Among the highlights is Modigliani’s Woman with Blue Eyes, loaned from the Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris—a testament to the strength of international gallery collaboration and the deep interconnectedness of European art in the 1920s and ’30s.
To enrich the exhibition experience, the National Gallery has organized an extensive program of related events, featuring guided tours, educational workshops for schools, lectures, and expert-led discussions.
Through these programs, visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the interwar period and the cultural exchange that allowed Czech artists to become central to Parisian art and society.
For more information, visit the National Gallery’s website.
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The American fast-food chain Popeyes has unveiled plans to establish 60 new restaurants across the Czech Republic by 2033, aiming to strengthen its presence in Central Europe.
Popeyes operates three locations in Prague and the Central Bohemian Region, with new branches set to open soon in Brno. The company’s first restaurant in Czechia opened just last year in Wenceslas Square.
Popeyes’ ambitious expansion strategy includes opening branches in key regional cities, shopping centers, and along major highways.
“Opening a new restaurant can take several months or even up to two years, especially when we target prime locations,” explained Marko Blaževič, Popeyes’ director for Central and Eastern Europe.
Popeyes faces strong competition from fast-food heavyweights already established in the Czech market. McDonald’s operates 124 restaurants across the country, while KFC, part of the AmRest group, runs 128 locations as of last year.
Another AmRest brand, Burger King, operates 33 outlets, while Pizza Hut has a presence in 16 locations.
Five Guys and Wendy’s Enter the Czech Market
The competitive landscape of American fast food in Czechia is intensifying as Five Guys prepares to open its first branch this autumn in the recently renovated Máj department store in Prague. Additionally, Wendy’s announced plans to open its initial Czech restaurant, marking its entry into the market.
According to Jan Kotrbáček, head of retail leasing for Central and Eastern Europe at Cushman & Wakefield, the Czech fast-food sector remains far from saturated.
“The market for fast food in Czechia still offers room for growth, and international brands are performing exceptionally well,” Kotrbáček said.
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Prague City plans to introduce 900 climate-resilient trees to its streets over the coming years.
By planting species unfamiliar to Czech landscapes, the city hopes to combat rising urban temperatures and prepare for more intense heat waves and droughts. Officials will monitor these species closely to determine which are best suited for long-term urban cooling.
The pilot program will plant 900 new trees across the city—many from Asia, North America, and Southern Europe. This innovative program aims to identify species that can withstand high temperatures and dry conditions, ultimately helping to cool the city and improve air quality.
“Climate change is relentless in urban settings,” states Jana Komrsková, Prague’s Deputy Mayor for the Environment and Climate Plan. “Our city needs trees that thrive in tougher climates. It’s not just about planting; it’s about making sure these green spaces flourish to act as a ‘natural air conditioner’ for Prague.”
Traditional Czech street trees like maples, ash, lindens, and hawthorns have struggled to survive due to drought, temperature fluctuations, and new pests that have emerged with climate change. These species often cannot endure prolonged summer heat waves and fluctuating weather patterns.
In response, Prague is now planting more adaptable species such as the variable oak (Quercus variabilis), which has origins in warmer climates. Experts will monitor the trees’ health and resilience, selecting those that prove most capable of thriving in Prague’s changing climate.
Accelerating Tree Adaptation by Up to 20 Years
The pilot project is expected to advance tree species selection by 15-20 years, bypassing the slower process of responding to market demand and nursery availability. A team of experts will track 90 test sites with ten trees of each species, observing growth, resilience, and other factors like allergen levels and aesthetic qualities.
Initial results are anticipated within six to eight years, with the project scheduled to last a decade. Species that excel in Prague’s conditions will be prioritized for wider planting, based on their cooling potential and compatibility with the urban landscape.
A Model for Other Czech Cities
According to Štěpán Kyjovský, Director of the Environmental Protection Department of Prague Municipality, “This project offers Prague the chance to lead in climate adaptation. The results could guide other Czech cities in choosing climate-resistant tree species.”
Key participants include the Technical Administration of Communications, Forests of the City of Prague, Environmental Protection Department, and the Institute of Planning and Development.
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Starting January 6, 2025, Prague’s Pankrác metro station on Line C will shut down to passengers for a full year.
This major closure is required to facilitate the construction of a new station on the upcoming automated Line “D” and to build a transfer passage between the two lines.
During this period, construction crews will also take the opportunity to modernize Pankrác station, updating its tiles, upgrading lighting, and adding a new public restroom to enhance passenger amenities.
A replacement bus service will be launched to ease travel for commuters. Additionally, certain tram routes will be extended to help offset the disruption. Details on these alternative routes will be provided by the transport authority as the closure date approaches.
The New Line “D”: Prague’s First Fully Automated Metro
The construction of the new Line “D”—Prague’s first fully automated, driverless metro line—began in April 2022. Line D will feature 10 stations with state-of-the-art safety partitions and automatic platform doors. This safety system, already tested at Zličín station, is designed to ensure safe and smooth passenger boarding.
The first phase of Line D will stretch from the existing Pankrác station (which will become a transfer hub) to the new Olbrachtova station. In later phases, Line D will extend southward to Nové Dvory before expanding north toward Náměstí Bratří Synků and Náměstí Míru. The final stage will complete the line to Libuš and Depo Písnice.
A Futuristic Vision for Pankrác Station by Architect Jakub Neprash
The redesigned Pankrác station is expected to become a futuristic landmark, with architect Jakub Neprash leading its visual transformation. His vision incorporates video installations inspired by microscopic nanoparticles, evoking an interconnected “super-organism” theme. According to Neprash, “The design will shift with the day. In the evening, colors will grow warmer, and animations will slow. When a train arrives, the station will brighten and become more dynamic.”
This innovative design concept aligns with Prague’s ambition to integrate art and technology across its transport infrastructure, enhancing the commuter experience through aesthetic and functional upgrades.
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Prague Shakespeare Company, the Czech Republic’s premier English-language theatre, is celebrating its 17th year and 10-year anniversary of collaborating with Národní divadlo.
This season, PSC is thrilled to announce the return of their SMASH-HIT one-man show, Dracula: The Journal of Jonathan Harker, adapted from Bram Stoker’s classic by Jim Helsinger.
Starring Jared Doreck in a tour-de-force performance, the show will take place at Divadlo Na Pradle on 6 November and 22 December, 2024.
Directed by Jared Doreck and Eric Sammons, with original direction by Jim Helsinger, this performance is a unique opportunity for audiences to experience the chilling tale of Dracula in English.
Interview with Jared Doreck
We had a chance to sit down with Jared Doreck to discuss this one-of-a-kind production and the challenges of performing all roles in Dracula.
PRAGUE MORNING: Your solo performance of Dracula has become a fan favorite since you premiered the show in 2015. What are the joys and challenges of performing a solo show?
Jared Doreck: It’s a joyful challenge to find ways to embrace the difficulties. So many little things can go wrong (a misplaced prop, a muscle strain), but if you approach each challenge with joy, it becomes part of the creative journey. In a solo show, it can feel like a balancing act between staying in the moment and adapting to any small or big changes in the show. Although it’s technically a solo performance, Eric Sammons, my co-director, and the audience feel like scene partners on stage, helping bring each character to life. Rest assured, though, the audience can relax and enjoy the experience without any uncomfortable direct interactions.
PRAGUE MORNING: You play multiple characters in Dracula. Do you have a favorite character?
Jared Doreck: All of them! Each character brings a unique wave of energy and emotion. Getting to surf through different characters keeps every performance fresh and fun.
PRAGUE MORNING: You’ve been with PSC for years and recently performed in The Merchant of Venice at the Estates Theatre. What have been some of your favorite roles?
Jared Doreck: I’d have to say my favorite role is always the one I’m currently playing. It’s a cathartic experience to dive into the emotional extremes required in performance art, and each role is part of that journey.
PRAGUE MORNING: After spending years in the Czech Republic, what’s your favorite place in Prague, and your favorite Czech food?
Jared Doreck: Prague is like a crown jewel in the heart of Europe. I love wandering through its charming, medieval streets. When it comes to food, I enjoy the local twist on cabbage, especially purple cabbage, and root vegetables. And while Texas might claim barbecue, the Czech barbecue here is top-notch.
PRAGUE MORNING: What Can Audiences Expect?
Jared Doreck: A compelling, creative retelling of a classic tale. And yes, you can pay by card at the bar!
Show Details
Dracula: The Journal of Jonathan Harker
Adapted from Bram Stoker by Jim Helsinger
Directed by Guy Roberts
Performed in English
Divadlo Na Pradle
6 November & 22 December, 2024
For more information, visit www.pragueshakespeare.cz
Email: [email protected]
Tickets are available through GOOUT.CZ:
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The popular Letná ice rink is set to return, welcoming skaters from Saturday, November 16, 2024, and running daily until February 23, 2025.
This extended season means skaters can enjoy the outdoor rink near Prague Castle for three weeks longer than last year.
Thanks to funding from Prague’s 7 district, children up to age 15 who live or study in the district can skate for free.
Parents should provide a document verifying their child’s eligibility—such as a school ID, ISIC card, or student book—especially if not accompanying their child to the rink.
To enhance the experience, visitors will find a heated tent for changing clothes and relaxing, along with outdoor seating, restrooms, skate rentals, and a sharpening station. Light snacks will also be available on-site.
No reservations are needed for general skating, but schools are encouraged to reserve in advance via the operator’s website. An online webcam will also let visitors check rink occupancy in real time, helping them avoid busy hours.
Daily ice maintenance occurs at 12:00–12:30, 15:00–15:45, and 18:00–18:30, during which the rink will be closed.
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We’ve compiled a list of must-visit saunas in Prague and nearby areas. As temperatures drop, sauna bathing becomes an ideal way to boost immunity and unwind.
Whether you’re a fan of tranquil retreats or social sauna rituals, Prague offers a diverse range of sauna experiences.
1. Národní Sauna – A Hidden Gem in the National Theater
Address: Ostrovní 225/1, Prague 1
Located within the National Theater, the National Sauna offers a serene escape with minimalist charm. This exclusive club operates on a private membership basis, but for just 350 CZK, you can experience it without a membership by making a phone reservation. Though closed in July and August, this peaceful urban sanctuary reopens in the fall. Once you try it, you might find yourself returning regularly.
2. Vltava Saunas – Sauna with a Scenic Riverside View
Address: Podolské nábřeží 1108, Prague 4
Set on the banks of the Vltava River, Vltava Saunas boasts the largest sauna in the Czech Republic, accommodating up to 100 guests. Its diverse facilities include herbal, Nordic, and African saunas, along with a spacious outdoor sauna for rituals. Cooling options include an outdoor pool and direct access to the Vltava for a refreshing dip. An outdoor teepee with an open fire adds a unique relaxation area to this riverside retreat.
3. Sauna Spot Dvorce – Modern Comforts with a View
Address: Podolské nábřeží 1110, Prague 4
Built on the site of a 1970s sauna, Sauna Spot Dvorce combines modern design with a cozy ambiance, offering four Finnish saunas, several relaxation zones, and cooling pools. The highlight here is the Niké sauna, which overlooks the Vltava River. The venue frequently hosts sauna rituals, offering a rich program of wellness activities.
4. AXA Spa – Retro Sauna with a City-Center Pool
Address: Na Poříčí 40, Prague 1
If you appreciate a vintage vibe, AXA Spa is a great choice. Located in the city center, this sauna also features a swimming pool and a women-only section. With its retro charm, it’s ideal for a solo visit or a relaxing day with a friend. Be sure to bring cash, as AXA sticks to its roots by keeping the experience nostalgic.
5. Wellness Hotel Step – Sport and Sauna in Vysočany
Address: Malletova 1141/4, Prague 9
In industrial Vysočany, Wellness Hotel Step offers a full day of activities. The complex includes a 25-meter pool and a world of saunas featuring salt, Finnish, honey, herbal, and silent saunas. For those looking for more than relaxation, the hotel also houses a fitness center, allowing you to combine a workout with a sauna session for a well-rounded wellness day.
6. Congress & Wellness Hotel Olšanka – For Active Relaxation
Address: Táboritská 23, Prague 3
More than just a sauna spot, Hotel Olšanka combines relaxation with active options. Besides five different saunas, you’ll find a sports center with a 25-meter pool, aqua aerobics classes, and four indoor badminton courts. The hotel also offers table tennis and a gym, making it a great choice for those who want to mix fitness with relaxation.
7. Saunia – Expanding Sauna Worlds Across Prague
Multiple Locations: Butovice, Bohnice, Černý Most, Hostivař
Saunia’s expanding chain of sauna worlds can be found in several Prague districts, each providing a full sauna experience. Their extensive steam baths, reminiscent of Turkish baths, create a humid atmosphere perfect for soothing respiratory passages. Aromatic essences add to the experience, and you can purchase exfoliating scrubs at the bar for a spa-like skin treatment. Saunia’s steam-infused saunas are a popular draw for locals.
8. Infinit Sen at Hotel Sen Senohraby – A Perfect Weekend Retreat
Address: Malostranská 344, Senohraby
Hotel Sen Senohraby offers a blissful escape from city life, ideal for anyone looking for a weekend of pampering. Whether you choose to stay overnight or enjoy a rejuvenating day trip, Infinit Sen in Senohraby is worth the journey. Located about 30 minutes by train from Prague, the wellness center even provides a shuttle from the train station to the spa complex.
The outdoor thermal pool, kept at an inviting 35°C, is a highlight, and the extensive sauna options are equally impressive. The panoramic Finnish sauna overlooks the pool, while the ceremonial sauna can seat up to 150 people. For something unique, try the orchard sauna, a spacious steam room scented with fruit essences, which evokes the feeling of being beneath blooming trees. Just close your eyes and let the tranquility wash over you.
9. Panorama Hotel Spa and Fitness – Romance with a View
Address: Milevská 7, Prague 4
If you’re looking for a romantic wellness destination with a view, the Panorama Hotel Spa is an excellent choice. Perched on the top floor of Vyšehrad’s iconic tower block, this wellness center offers a poolside relaxation area with sweeping views of Prague, creating an atmosphere that’s perfect for couples. Beyond the pool, you can enjoy a full range of amenities, including a gym, massages, a jacuzzi, and a sauna.
10. OREA Hotel Pyramida – A Hidden Gem with Cultural Flair
Address: Bělohorská 24, Prague 6
OREA Hotel Pyramida, a striking building at the foot of Břevnov, offers a unique wellness experience. On its ground floor, you’ll find the Dlabačov cinema and a cozy café, allowing you to add a cultural experience to your spa day. The hotel features an 11-meter pool with city views, a sauna, massage services, and a compact fitness center.
