Czech Crown Hits Record High, Boosting Buying Power Abroad

The Czech currency closed the year at its strongest level on record, surprising both analysts and the central bank. In December, the average exchange rate reached 24.26 crowns per euro, a level the koruna had never achieved before.

The steady rise continued for most of the year without major swings, despite earlier forecasts from the Czech National Bank that had predicted a weaker performance. The stronger crown has had a clear effect on daily life: imports, foreign travel, and online purchases from abroad have become cheaper for Czech residents.

Fake VZP Emails Promise Refunds, Aim to Steal Bank Details

Authorities are warning the public about a new wave of scam emails pretending to come from the state health insurance company, VZP. The messages claim that recipients have overpaid their insurance contributions and are entitled to a refund, sometimes promising amounts in the tens of thousands of crowns.

The real goal is to obtain bank details and drain accounts. VZP has stressed that it never sends refund notices by email. Any overpayment can only be checked through the official mobile app, by phone, or in person at a branch office.

Avalanche Warning Issued for Krkonoše Mountains After Heavy Snow

Rescue services have raised concerns over conditions in the Krkonoše Mountains, where heavy snowfall and strong winds have created a high avalanche risk. The danger is greatest on the northern slopes of the range.

Experts are advising skiers, hikers, and snowboarders to stay alert and check local safety updates before heading into the mountains. With freezing temperatures and more snow expected in the coming days, the unstable snowpack is likely to remain a serious risk.

Prague’s Matějská Pouť Fair to Open on February 22

One of the city’s most popular spring attractions has now confirmed its dates. The Matějská Pouť fair, the largest amusement park in the Czech Republic, will open on February 22 at the Výstaviště grounds in Holešovice.

The fair will run until April 21, bringing back its traditional mix of rides, games, and food stalls. Each year, it attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors from Prague and beyond, marking the informal start of the outdoor entertainment season.

Czech foreign minister to visit Ukraine soon

Czech Foreign Minister Petr Macinka says he will visit Ukraine in the near future. He made the announcement on Tuesday after a phone call with his Ukrainian counterpart, Andrii Sybiha.

The two ministers discussed future cooperation and public attitudes toward Ukrainians in the Czech Republic, agreeing that improving those relations is a shared responsibility. Macinka said the talks would continue during his upcoming visit to Kyiv.