http://www.europeupclose.com/prague-reconsidered/ A Europe Travel Blog and Community Packed With Tips and Advice From Experts Fri, 09 Jan 2009 15:08:51 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.6.3 http://www.europeupclose.com/prague-reconsidered/#comment-2819 Shari Fri, 29 Feb 2008 14:52:38 +0000 http://www.europeupclose.com/prague-reconsidered/#comment-2819 I read your assessment of Prague with interest. No one should expect any of the former soviet countries to be like Western European areas. These countries are struggling. The people don't have money which leads to many low level crimes. Prague is far ahead of Romania, Montenegro and other former East block areas. Another important fact all American travelers to other parts of the world need to be aware of is this: The dollar is very weak againest the Euro and other currency. Americans have always traveled abroad with good or GREAT exchange rates. That made out of pocket expenditures low. With the current low position of the dollar all out of pocket spending will be at least 50% higher. Another point, In eastern Europe and potential EU countries there are many people on the streets trying to exchange worthless local currency or grab your bag. This is not new but is always something travelers must know in advance. I have traveled extensively in these areas. Clients should be told what to expect. I find the differences interesting and a key part of my travel experience. I read your assessment of Prague with interest. No one should expect any of the former soviet countries to be like Western European areas. These countries are struggling. The people don’t have money which leads to many low level crimes. Prague is far ahead of Romania, Montenegro and other former East block areas. Another important fact all American travelers to other parts of the world need to be aware of is this: The dollar is very weak againest the Euro and other currency. Americans have always traveled abroad with good or GREAT exchange rates. That made out of pocket expenditures low. With the current low position of the dollar all out of pocket spending will be at least 50% higher. Another point, In eastern Europe and potential EU countries there are many people on the streets trying to exchange worthless local currency or grab your bag. This is not new but is always something travelers must know in advance. I have traveled extensively in these areas. Clients should be told what to expect. I find the differences interesting and a key part of my travel experience.

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