A Winter Wonderland

Samalova Chata: the perfect lunch spot in Jizersky Hory!

The Czech Republic's rolling hills go on, and on, and on. So, when it snows here, the hills transform into a winter wonderland, perfect for cross country skiing. Most of the hilly regions convert their summer hiking & biking trails into cross country skiing trails. Usually, these trails are "public access" so they're well maintained and free (awesome!). It's a classic way to explore the countryside and with so many trail options, cross country skiing is very popular. Jizerske Hory and Vysocina are two picturesque regions with great trails.

Get in the Birthday Line!

Birthday line in the Czech Republic

Birthdays in the Czech Republic are taken very seriously. During a birthday celebration, all of the guests will line up and wish you well. One by one, they will shake your hand, look you directly in the eye, and then kindly wish you good health and happiness. So, if you're ever invited to a Czech birthday party, you'll know what to do. And don't forget, you must bring flowers if the birthday belongs to a lady (only bring odd numbers 1, 3, 5, 7...even numbers are for funerals).