Submitted by Martina Esparza the 2024 Spring program in Czech Republic…
In the Czech Republic, especially in Prague, I’m still adjusting to local customs even after eight weeks. Firstly, people here are notably less outwardly friendly to strangers. In the States, I’m accustomed to exchanging smiles with my local barista or the checkout person at Trader Joe’s. However, here, such interactions are considered abnormal. When ordering at a restaurant or paying at Zara, there are no emotions exchanged. Czechs are stereotypically known as serious people who seldom smile at strangers. They lead their lives with stern facial expressions, a habit which I’ve gradually adopted myself.
Additionally, Prague residents tend to be very quiet, and as a loud American surrounded by even louder Americans, breaking this habit has been challenging. On most public transportation here, people often sit in silence, either gazing out the window, engrossed in their phones, or reading a book. It’s quite conspicuous when exchange students board, as they often engage in loud discussions, contrasting sharply with the subdued atmosphere. While our exchange group sincerely tries to adapt, it’s still perplexing to comprehend why everyone else is so quiet.
The abundance of whispering and lack of conversation make Prague feel less like a bustling city compared to New York or Boston. Apart from the main tourist areas, much of the city exudes a suburban ambiance.
Despite these differences and others, Prague has been a fantastic city to temporarily reside in. (Submitted on April 15,2024)