Okay, I absolutely didn’t mean to disappear for a solid week, but here we are. I just got back from spending 5 days in the Czech Republic, and I’m finally in one time zone again. If there’s one thing that people don’t talk much about, it’s how absolutely chaotic it is traveling anywhere from Alaska – and specifically interior Alaska. We are so far removed from everything that travels become exponentially longer and more taxing. But, nevertheless, I had a getaway, and now I’m back and ready to enjoy our final months here in Alaska!

5 Days in the Czech Republic

First and foremost, no, I’ve never been to the Czech Republic before, but yes, it’s always been on my bucket list…somewhere down the line. I’d originally planned to meet up with a couple friends of mine, but life/military/OCONUS things threw a wrench into things, and I ended up on a solo adventure in Europe. It’s not what I’d counted on, but it was honestly kind of neat and empowering to explore a new country solo.

I don’t know what I really expected from the Czech Republic, but it was such a unique maze of complexities. First, it was so incredible historical, which I knew of course, but it was a mix of historical and modern with a touch of Cold War-esque atmosphere that really surprised me. In Prague, you’d see ultra-modern buildings juxtaposed with ancient cathedrals, and it was kind of just a mind warp.

Off to Olomouc, Czech Republic

In all our reading, Olomouc stood out to us for a number of reasons. It’s the sixth biggest city in the country, and it’s hailed for visitors looking for that “Prague-like” atmosphere without the crowds. Since I was solo, that was the absolute perfect cup of tea. I hopped on a train from Prague city center to Olomouc, which is two hours south of the city and found myself in a quaint town that seems somewhat trapped in time.

It was gorgeous. The cobblestone streets, the towering Gothic cathedrals, the ancient town squares – all of it added up to this atmosphere that I’ve never quite experienced anywhere else. I’ve been to old Germany and the Netherlands and, honestly, this was just so entirely unique. I did so much walking, tasting my way through the city, and sleeping because, yes, jetlag from Alaska is a different beast.

Here’s a quick YouTube short I shared on our YouTube channel about what it was like in Olomouc.

What it Was Like Traveling Solo

Honestly, I thought I was going to be more nervous traveling solo, but I think living abroad in South Korea has altered my tolerance for discomfort whilst traveling in a foreign country. I wasn’t afraid to ask for help navigating the train system because, yes, it was tricky, and I wasn’t afraid to use translating apps when needed. Most of the younger generation spoke English, which definitely helped.

Public transit there felt safe and, while I’ve felt unsafe in other European countries in the past, I felt incredibly comfortable in Czech. While I’m in a phase of my life where I actually prefer the chaos of traveling with my people, it was so fun, and I can’t wait to share more. But, for now, I’m back!