Welcome to OUT Adventures
Gay owned OUT Adventures and Intrepid Travel have partnered together to provide a comfortable travel environment for not only for gay and lesbian travellers,
but also their friends and family who want to experience the world at the grassroots level with like-minded people. Go on, Get OUT and experience the real world.
Be enchanted by Europe's bohemian capital and learn why locals lovingly refer to their city as maticka Praha. From your base in the Old Town experience everything from jazz bars to castles, town markets to museums and from Kafka's birthplace to delicious dumplings. Encounter an eclectic mix of Gothic, baroque and Art Nouveau architecture in one of the few European cities to survive WWII relatively unscathed. This is the ultimate way to experience the Prague that locals know and love - from the comfort of your own centrally located apartment.
Style
Trip Map
Itinerary
Culture Shock Rating
Physical Rating
Gay Rating
Included Activities
Optional Activities
Spending Money
Important Notes
Accommodation
You are free to arrive at any time on day 1 as there are no activities planned. The accommodation agency staff will show you to your apartment. See our joining point instructions.
The office is open Mondays to Fridays from 09:00 to 13:00 and 14:00 to 18:00. Please arrive between these times. If arriving outside of these times please notify us and we can make arrangements to show you to your apartment.
Your apartment will be allocated on arrival however as a general rule they can be described as the following:
~ centrally located within about 400m of the main town square of Prague - you can not get any hotel in this location the a reasonable price
~ they are located in the Jewish Quarter of Prague
~ ensuite bathrooms in each apartment
~ will include a room (or 2 depending on the size of your party) and a sitting area
~ will include a self catering kitchen (no supplies or groceries are included)
~ there is no reception or 24 hour contact
~ there is no daily cleaning service
~ apartments are usually in building with multiple other apartments in large buildings up to 6 stories high- there is not always a lift available
~ there are supermarkets and internet cafes nearby
Explore the city on foot, bicycle, by tram or even ferry, all of which are located close to your accommodation.
This is a fantastic opportunity to see behind the facades of those wonderful old building in central Prague and live like the locals.
The rest of your time is free time to enjoy Prague. The city escaped WWII relatively unscathed, and the eclectic architecture reflects this - you'll find Gothic, Renaissance, baroque, neoclassical, Art Nouveau and cubist in the mix.
There are many places and sights worth seeing in Prague. Josefov is the old Jewish quarter of Prague, with the Jewish cemetery and several synagogues, and one of older parts of Central Prague. Walk by the 15th century Old Jewish cemetery en route where if you are interested, you could look at the multi-storeyed graveyard. The oldest grave dates back to 1439.
If you are feeling energetic, you could walk up the hill on the Mala Strana side of the river and climb the 'mini Eiffel Tower' for an amazing view or catch a tram to Vysehrad Castle and the National Cemetery.
Make sure you take time to sample some Czech food and local brews for which the Czech Republic is famous.
See the Astronomical Clock perform its hourly ritual, and take a walk around the Old Town. This provides you with a glimpse of this magical place.
Continuing with your tour, cross the Vltava River on your way to Mala Strana and the foot of the Prague Castle. The famous Charles Bridge named after Bohemia's favourite King, Charles IV, is a Prague icon. Lined with Baroque statues, artisans selling their products, buskers and tourists, the bridge is alive with colourful characters and interesting legends.
After your walk, head up to the 9th century Prague Castle, the world's oldest castle in use. You can scale the Great Tower of St Vitus Cathedral for an unparalleled view of the city and the river or visit quaint Golden Lane to see the old workers houses. Franz Kafka is reputed to have lived in number 22. You might also want to see the Royal Apartments and head back via Mala Strana's gardens and palaces.
Prague Castle is best viewed at night from Charles Bridge so be sure to take an evening stroll across the bridge. A classical music concert in one of Prague's many churches is also a recommended night-time activity, as is a visit to Municipal House where you can see a dazzling array of Alphonse Mucha's best Art Nouveau works. Alternatively, you could check out some Czech jazz in one of Prague's smoky jazz clubs.
If you want to head further afield there are some day trips that are possible. Depart Prague on a local morning bus (approx. 3.5 hours) to the South Bohemian hamlet of Cesky Krumlov ('Chess-kee Krum-lov'). This picturesque medieval town dates back to the 13th century and is straight out of a fairytale. The town's name means 'crooked meadow' and it is nestled in the bend of the Vltava River, with a hilltop castle overlooking it.
You could visit the castle and learn about the Rosenbergs and their five-petalled emblem, discover the reason for the curious bear pits, or climb the tower for spectacular views of the old town and its surroundings. There are many inviting restaurants and cafes along the river to entice you to sit and ruminate on why Cesky Krumlov is fast becoming one of the key attractions of the Czech Republic.
Another day trip is Kutna Hora (approx. 1 hour) by train, once one of the richest and most significant towns of medieval Bohemia due to its rich deposits of silver. Here, you can visit the World Heritage-listed Sedlec Ossuary (also known as the Bone Church) and have time to wander the streets and visit the Gothic church of St Barbara (built by local miner long ago as a rival to St Vitus) before you head back to Prague.
Be sure to try staroprazska posvicenska misa. A modest Bohemian "party dish" of smoked pork, roast pork, duck, sausage, red cabbage, sauerkraut, potato and onion pancakes and two kinds of dumplings. The enormous, fluffy bread dumplings alone are pure Bohemian rhapsody.
Day 5 is departure day. Please depart your apartment by 10:00am. You can store your luggage at the agency if your flight departs later in the afternoon.
The itinerary attached is correct at time of printing. Please note: occasionally our itineraries are updated during the year to incorporate improvements stemming from past travelers' comments and our own research. Our brochure is usually released in November each year. As such the information given in this itinerary may be slightly different to that in the brochure. It is VERY IMPORTANT that you print and review a final copy of your Trip Notes a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans. For the latest updated Trip Notes please visit our website: www.out-adventures.com
This is the least confronting of Intrepid's product range. You have the ease of 'Western-style' accommodation and the support of local English speaking guides when sightseeing is included.
These trips are a relaxing break. You don't have to worry about being able to do anything physically demanding unless you want to.
This is a list of included activities on this trip. All other activities are optional and at your own expense.
For a list of optional activities and sightseeing available on this trip, see the optional activities section below.
If you choose not to participate in the included activities on this itinerary, the cost will not be refunded.
Arrival transfer
Departure transfer
Centrally located private apartment
All optional activities are entirely your choice and are not included in price of this trip. The following is not an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only.
Mucha Museum (Prague) - CZK130
Jewish Museum and Cemetery (Prague) - CZK600
Clock Tower (Prague) - CZK50
St Barbara Cathedral (Kutna Hotra) - CZK20
Float trip (Cesky Krumlov) - CZK1200CZK (for up to 6 people)
Canoe trip (Cesky Krumlov) - CZK700 (for 2 people)
Audio walking tour (Cesky Krumlov) - CZK180
Brewery tour (Cesky Krumlov) - CZK150
Every traveler is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travelers may drink more than others while other travelers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping, participating in optional activities and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
All the information given in this itinerary is intended as a guide only. Intrepid Travel or their agent cannot be held responsible for any changes that may occur due to local conditions or circumstances beyond their control. This includes festivals and public holidays that may effect the itinerary. NO REFUND IS AVAILABLE ON ANY UNUSED PART OF THIS ITINERARY.
Insurance in Czech Republic:
As of the 25th November 2005 all non-EU visitors entering the Czech Republic will have to be in possession of valid health insurance with a minimum coverage of 30,000EUR. Visitors may be required to show proof of insurance to immigration officers at the entry point into the Czech Republic. This new regulation applies to all non-EU foreign visitors irrespective of the length of stay and insurance will have to be valid for the entire period of stay in the Czech Republic.
Vegetarians:
Vegetarians might find the menu selection less varied than they would see at home. Vegetarianism is not as common in Europe and generally the choices are basic, involving vegetables and fried cheese (Vegans will find it even more challenging).
Arrival transfers:
You are met on arrival at Prague airport and transferred to our starting point location. Complimentary transfers are only applicable if you arrive on day 1 of your Intrepid trip or if going to pre tour accommodation booked through Intrepid. Please advise flight arrival details (flight number and time) at least 14 days prior to departure if you wish to have this transfer provided.
Additional accommodation:
If you have purchased pre or post trip accommodation (if available), you may be required to change apartments from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.
Travelling in Europe:
Europe is a region which may be very different to anything you have experienced before. Expense, crowds, differing cultures can result in initial culture shock but should be seen as an exciting new challenge. During our time here we have come to love this region but we know that we should always expect to encounter some difficulties along the way. In some parts of Europe there are very different attitudes to time keeping and service. Buses and trains will sometimes be late, plumbing can sometimes be temperamental and waiters may not seem as keen to serve you as you may be used to. If you are able to travel with a lot of patience and a sense of humour, then we know that you - like all of us - will be captivated by every part of Europe.
Museums:
Please note that some museums are closed on Mondays or Tuesdays.
Maximum of 4 travellers per group
Centrally located private apartment (4 nts)
Please keep in mind that accommodation as shown in the itinerary is subject to availability at time of booking. The closest available alternative will be substituted if our first choice hotels are not available. Deductions or supplements may be applied to the trip price as a result.
While travelling with us you will experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Generally, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where and what to eat, not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. Please check the 'meal inclusions' section below for details of meals included.
Allow EUR €125 for meals not included.
No meals included
Return airport transfers
This is an independent itinerary which comprises transfers and accommodaiton only. This tour is not escorted by an Intrepid leader.
Accommodation Service Prague- Apartment 4 Rent Agency
Hastalska 7
Prague
1
Czech Republic
Phone: +420 224 813 022
Fax: +420 222 316 640
Your accommodation is allocated on arrival by our local agent who will show you to your apartment.
The office is open Mondays to Fridays from 09:00 to 13:00 and 14:00 to 18:00. Please arrive between these times. If arriving outside of these times please notify us and we can make arrangements to show you to your apartment.
Arrival Transfers:
You are met on arrival at Prague airport and transferred to our starting point location. Complimentary transfers are only applicable if you arrive on day 1 of your Intrepid trip or if going to pre tour accommodation booked through Intrepid. Please advise flight arrival details (flight number and time) at least 14 days prior to departure if you wish to have this transfer provided.
We will be using centrally located apartments, within walking distance to all the main sights of Prague. These apartments give you an insight into what it is like to live behind the facades of the colorful and decorated building of the Jewish Quarter. They are clean and comfortable, and usually comprise of 2 separate rooms which you will share with other members of your group. Bathrooms are shared. To accommodate our passengers in Prague, we have several separate apartments located near the centre therefore you may be a short walk away from your other group members. Please note that we have been informed by our agent that they do not have long-term luggage storage facilities. If you arrive early on arrival day, the agency will store luggage till check-in time. Please note that if you choose to arrange additional accommodation at this location you may be required to change rooms for the nights which are not included as part of your Intrepid itinerary. Internet: www.apartment4rent.cz
We don't expect any problems (and nor should you!) but if for any reason you are unable to commence your group trip as scheduled, please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your trip leader.
If you have pre-booked an airport transfer (where available) and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions in the Trip Notes. Should this occur, please apply to your travel agent for a refund of the transfer cost on your return.
No refund is available on missed transfers or portions of your trip owing to a different flight arrival or delayed flight arrival. Any additional cost incurred in order to meet up with your group is at your own expense.
Accommodation Service Prague- Apartment 4 Rent Agency
Hastalska 7
Prague
1
Czech Republic
Phone: +420 224 813 022
Fax: +420 222 316 640
We will be using centrally located apartments, within walking distance to all the main sights of Prague. These apartments give you an insight into what it is like to live behind the facades of the colorful and decorated building of the Jewish Quarter. They are clean and comfortable, and usually comprise of 2 separate rooms which you will share with other members of your group. Bathrooms are shared. To accommodate our passengers in Prague, we have several separate apartments located near the centre therefore you may be a short walk away from your other group members.
Please note that we have been informed by our agent that they do not have long-term luggage storage facilities. If you arrive early on arrival day, the agency will store luggage till check-in time.
Please note that if you choose to arrange additional accommodation at this location you may be required to change rooms for the nights which are not included as part of your Intrepid itinerary.
Internet: www.apartment4rent.cz
Departure Transfers:
A departure transfer is included in this package if you are departing directly from the Intrepid accommodation at the completion of your stay in Prague. Please advise your flight details to your agent at the time of booking.
In the case of a genuine crisis or emergency, Intrepid's Morocco/Europe Office can be reached on Tel: +212 (0) 66192 2693. For further contact details please use the following page: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/ourtrips/contact/.
Please also make sure you have access to an additional USD$400, to be used when unforeseen incidents or circumstances outside our control (eg. a natural disaster, civil unrest or an outbreak of bird flu) necessitate a change to our planned route.
Please note that visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change.
It is important that you check for yourself.
EU nationals and citizens of Australia, USA, Canada, Japan and New Zealand do not need visas to enter Czech Repiblic. Citizens of other countries should check with the relevant consulates as to whether a visa is required.
Your passport should be valid for 6 months after the duration of your trip.
Some hotels offer a laundry service however this can be expensive. Self-service laundries are available in most bigger cities although not always conveniently located. Consider bringing some bio-degradable laundry soap when travelling.
What you need to bring will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. Generally speaking you should pack as lightly as possible. On the vast majority of our trips you are expected to carry your own luggage and although you will not be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes) we recommend keeping the weight under 10kg/22lb.
Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for daytrips.
The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. In addition to the water in bottles, the production of a 1 litre plastic bottle takes 2 litres of water and 200ml of oil. A large proportion end up in limited landfill or discarded in waterways and natural environments. Please avoid the purchase of bottled water by refilling from the tap or from drinking water dispensers which are provided at some of our accommodation.
The following checklist is to be used as a guide only and is not intended to be a complete packing list. Any other items that you wish to pack are at your own discretion however you should attempt to comply with the suggested luggage weight limit.
Passport
Any Visas required for this trip
Travel insurance including insurer details, 24 hr emergency contact telephone number and policy number
Flight Tickets
Intrepid trip confirmation voucher
Photocopies of important documents to be kept separately (we recommend you keep a copy at home as well)
Latest trip notes (this information)
Money (cash/credit cards)
Travellers' cheques- keep a note of the serial numbers of your Travellers cheques and also the emergency contact numbers. Keep these details separately from the cheques.
Money belt or pouch (to be worn under clothes)
First aid kit
Personal Medication/prescriptions
Prescripotion glasses
Contact lens solution
High protection sunscreen
Lip balm
Hat / wide brim hat
Sunglasses
Insect repellent
Antihistamine / insect bite cream
Antibacterial gel / wipes
Eye mask
Ear plugs
Alarm clock
Torch/flashlight and spare batteries
Night clothes/sleepwear
Comfortable walking shoes with good grip
Refillable water bottle
Camera
Film, memory cards
Spare batteries
Comfortable daypack to carry your personal needs during the day
Local language phrase book
Raincoat
Umbrella
Luggage lock (and keys)
Smarter clothes for nights out
Warm clothes particularly if travelling outside of the summer months
Waterproof jacket
Waterproof bags for rain protection while walking
Thermal Underwear (for departures from October to March)
Gloves (for departures from October to March)
Beanie / wooly hat (for departures from October to March)
Long trousers with the zip off (are the most recommendable ones for hikes)
Toiletries
Travel plug / international adapter
Mobile phone- check you have international roaming access
Pack of cards/books/guide book/music
Currency exchange rates often fluctuate. For the most up to date rates please refer to the following website: www.oanda.com.
The most convenient and cheapest way to acquire money is via an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) or Bancomat as they are often referred to in Europe . This allows you to draw funds from your personal account at a superior exchange rate. Most ATM's will also give you a cash advance on your credit card but be wary of high fees imposed by banks for this service. Bank fees for these withdrawals can be either a flat rate or a percentage of the amount withdrawn. Check with your bank for information in their international fees. You can obtain local currencies at the airport or train station when ATMs are available, but be sure to bring 1200CZK (50EUR) emergency cash. When leaving home don't forget your PIN and make sure you know the telephone number for cancelling your card if it is stolen. Keep this in a safe place. Credit cards are widely accepted in European stores however some shops will only accept them for purchases greater than 400CZK (16EUR). While travelling we recommend you carry some cash to pay for restaurant bills and other services. Change can be difficult to obtain so throughout the day, try to gain as many small denominations as you can.
You may wish to take some of your money as travellers' cheques from a major financial institute. All major currencies should be fine (USD, GBP, AUD, NZD and EUR ). Travellers' cheques have security advantages, although please be aware that the exchange rates may not be favourable and that it is difficult to change Travellers' cheques on weekends and public holidays. Be particularly aware that after hours money exchanges and hotel receptions carry high commissions- sometimes up to 10%.
The Czech Republic Koruny (CZK) is the official currency- not the Euro (EUR).
For more information on exchange rates refer to www.oanda.com prior to travel.
For money safety we recommend that you carry your cash and credit cards in a secure money belt or pouch concealed under your clothes.
All departure taxes should be included in your international flight ticket.
If you need to be contacted while travelling we recommend email. Email cafes are generally available throughout the regions we visit, although it is possible you may be without email contact for several days on some itineraries. If someone wishes to contact you in an emergency while you are on one of our trips we recommend that they contact your local booking agent, or refer to our emergency contact details. We don't recommend that family and friends try to contact you through hotels, as they are subject to change and the reception staff may not speak English.
While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or our local partner straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip.
We recognise that there may be times when your group leader/local partner may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case please ask the leader if you may speak to their direct manager.
You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip but we do ask you to be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is complete.
All OUT Adventures travelers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully in the group travel experience.
If, in the opinion of our group leader, any traveler is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or
the rest of the group, OUT Adventures reserves the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. We therefore
ask that you read the itinerary in these Trip Notes thoroughly and then realistically self-assess your physical ability to complete
the trip as described. Please consult with your doctor if you have any doubts.
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Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel.
We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure.
Please refer to our website's Safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues
affecting our trips: www.out-adventures.com/safety.
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport,
air tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelry at home - you won't need it while travelling.
Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables.
A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. Your leader will accompany you on all included activities however
during your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure.
While your group leader will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional
activities you undertake are not part of your OUT Adventures itinerary, and OUT Adventures makes no representations
about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when
selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel
any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. For more details on the type of conditions
and safety standards you can expect on your trip, please refer to OUT Adventures' operational safety policy at
www.out-adventures.com/safety.
We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any
feedback on how well it is being implemented in the field.
Please be aware that while travelling in Europe there is the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on the metro and other public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.
There are some common scams operating in Europe as well. Please ensure that you always travel with a validated ticket on transport systems (this often means stamping your ticket) and that if you are encouraged to enter the metro system without a ticket be warned that this is a ploy to get you fined. Another common scam is used by children who distract you with a map or a newspaper and while you are attending to them, your valuables are stolen.
Be aware, walk in pairs, stay in well lit places after dark and keep your valuables safe at all times.
With the exception of our Comfort and In Style trips, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers share with people of the same sex for the duration of the trip, in accommodation ranging from twin to multi-share. Please note some of our itineraries have accommodation booked on a mixed gender share basis - where applicable this will be specified in our Trip Notes. On our Comfort & In Style trips you have the choice of sharing or paying a single supplement. Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour. Pre- and post-trip accommodation will be booked on a single room basis.
We believe strongly in low impact, or rather, positive impact tourism. Broadly speaking this means that we try to minimize the negative aspects of tourism on the local cultures and environments that we visit and highlight the positive aspects. Please refer to our website at www.out-adventures.com/responsibletravel for further details and suggestions on how you can be a responsible traveler.
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for OUT Adventures travelers. OUT Adventures' philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make our destinations such special places. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
All OUT Adventures travelers are required to sign a Participation Form on day 1 of the trip. Please note that signing the form is a prerequisite of travelling with OUT Adventures. The wording of this form follows: "I understand that travelling with OUT Adventures may involve risks (and rewards) above and beyond those encountered on a more conventional holiday, and that I am undertaking an adventure trip with inherent dangers. I understand that I am travelling to geographical areas where, amongst other things, the standard of accommodation, transport, safety, hygiene, cleanliness, medical facilities, telecommunications and infrastructure development may not be of the standard I am used to at home or would find on a conventional holiday. I have read and understood the OUT Adventures Trip Notes for the trip I am undertaking and have provided details of any pre-existing medical conditions I have to OUT Adventures' representatives.
I accept these risks and obligations and I fully assume the risks of travel. I release OUT Adventures from any liabilities connected to these risks to the maximum extent permitted by law."
After your travels, we want to hear from you! This is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 4 weeks of finishing your trip. Go to: www.out-adventures.com/feedback
Thanks
Do you want to see your travel photos published? To celebrate all that is travel photography,
OUT Adventures holds an annual photography competition. For more information, prize details, entry form and competition conditions,
please visit www.out-adventures.com/photocomp.
Send entries to The Editor,
OUT Adventures,
PO Box 98026, 970 Queen St E
Toronto, ON
Canada, M4M 3L9
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