central europe: part I.

there are two kinds of adventures. the first kind is long and drawn out. you settle down, explore nooks and crannies, dive in so deep you can almost trick yourself into thinking you know a place. the second unfolds more like a whirlwind. it’s a pavement-pounding, train-hopping, sight-seeing kind of adventure that leaves you breathless and tired as much as energized and inspired. this last trip definitely falls into the latter category. 4 cities in 8 days. first up: PRAGUE
view into malá strana | an organ grinder on the charles bridge karlův most 
vine gone to seed on the hike up to prague castle pražský hrad | st. vitus cathedral katedrála svatého víta
the view from petřín hill
tram | streetlight and building on ujzed street
metal door | view crossing jiráskův most
trdelník terracotta roof in the jewish quarter josefov
sweet treats at chococafe on liliova street | vintage czech postcards sidewalk stones train platform | glimpse at the old station

highlights: 
*mala strana: it’s czech for “lesser town,” but don’t let the translation fool you into thinking it’s not worth a visit. we liked tooling through the streets in the evening after dark. and the walk back over the charles bridge was delightful.
*petřín hill observation tower: i’m seriously afraid of heights, but the view of the city from the top was breathtaking and definitely worth the emotional energy.
*the municipal house obecní dům: gorgeous to look at and host to a fancy cafe. next time, we’d skip the breakfast and dive head-first into the dessert cart.
confessions:
prague was a little bit tough for vegetarians. we ate our weight in pastries and staropramen and are not ashamed to admit we found solace in vegetarian and italian restaurants. goulash is not for everyone.
where we stayed:
jurys inn: simple, clean. what it lacks in charm it makes up for in proximity to city-center and foamy cappuccinos.
czechinn: clean, modern, affordable. we stayed here just one night. highly recommended, if slightly far afield.

special thanks to olivia and to rachel and d. for fantastic suggestions. you guys are good.