Prague Day #3

 Last Day in Prague 11-5-24

Today is my last solo day in Prague, wrapping up an unforgettable Central European journey that included a scenic Danube River Cruise. I spent the day riding trams around the city and visiting some of Prague’s iconic sites.

My first stop was the Church of the Infant Jesus in the Lesser Town on the castle side of the river. The church is undergoing a year-long reconstruction to add ramps for improved accessibility. Here, they celebrate the Infant Jesus of Prague, adorned in royal blue and gold robes. Below is the prayer Pope Benedict offered to honor this church in 2009.

Next, I climbed up to visit St. Nicholas Church and then walked across the famous Charles Bridge.

The Charles Bridge is truly one of Prague’s most iconic landmarks. Spanning the Vltava River, it connects the Old Town with the Lesser Town (Malá Strana) and Prague Castle. Built in the 14th century by order of King Charles IV, it features stunning Gothic architecture and is adorned with 30 statues of saints, giving it a timeless, historic charm.

Surprisingly, I ran into several groups from our Danube River Cruise while exploring today. Our last big excursion was yesterday morning, but I saw many familiar faces again over breakfast at the hotel this morning.

For a quick coffee break, I stopped at a “world-famous” café nearby: Starbucks.

My final stop was Wenceslas Square, one of Prague’s main city squares and a vibrant cultural hub. It’s a fantastic place for people-watching and shopping, with plenty of historical significance to soak up.

I used my last Czech currency to buy a magnet and dinner.

I returned to my hotel early tonight to prepare for my 6:55 AM flight tomorrow morning.

PRAYER—English

Prayer of the Pope Benedict XVI to the Infant Jesus of Prague he utered during his visit at the Church of Our Lady Victorious in Prague on the 26th September 2009

O my Lord Jesus,we gaze on You as a child and believe that You are the Son of God, who became Man through the working of the Holy Spirit in the womb of the Virgin Mary.

Just as in Bethlehem, we too, adore You, with Mary, Joseph, the angels and the shepherds, and acknowledge You as our only Savior.

You became poor to enrich us with Your poverty.

Grant that we may never forget the poor and all those who suffer.

Protect our families, bless all the children of the world and grant that the love You have brought us may always reign amongst us and lead us to a happier life.

Grant, O Jesus,

that all may recognize the truth of Your birth, so that all may know that You have come

to bring to the whole human family light, joy and peace.

You are God, who live and reign with God the Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

Amen.

Shrine of the Infant Jesus of Prague Karmelitská 9, Praha 1, CZ, EU

www.pragjesu.cr

Here is the prayer in the Czech language:

MODLITBA

Modlitba papeze Benedikta XVI. k Prazskému Jezulátku, kterou pronesl pri své návstévé chrámu Panny Marie Vítezné dne 26. zári 2009

Pane Jezísi, máme Te pred ocima jako díté a véríme, ze jsi Bozi Syn, jenz se stal clovekem skrze Ducha svatého v line Panny Marie.

Podobné jako v Betléme i my spolu s Marií a Josefem, andély a pastýri se Ti klaníme a vyznáváme, Ze jsi nás jediny Spasitel.

Stal ses chudým, abychom my zbohatli z Tvé chudoby; dej, at nikdy nezapomínáme na chudé a na ty, kdo trpí.

Ochrañuj nase rodiny, zehnej vsem détem celého svéta a dej, at nám vzdy vládne láska, kterou jsi prinesl, aby cinila nás zivot stastnejsím.

Doprej vsem lidem, Jezisi, aby porozuméli poselství Bozího narození, aby pochopili, ze jsi prisel darovat celé lidské rodiné svetlo, radost a pokoj.

Nebot Ty jsi Büh a zijes a kralujes s Bohem Otcem v jednotē Ducha svatého po vsechny veky vekủ.

Longest airline flight segments

Have you taken any of these flights? I have flown from Sydney, Australia to Dallas, Texas. It was actually a pleasant experience because the plane was virtually empty and the service was pleasant. I was very fortunate. 

I took a 36-day segment of a world cruise from Miami to Sydney Australia.

First Solo Vacation

 What should I do to help plan my first Solo International vacation?

 

As a seasoned solo world traveler with explorations spanning over 100 nations,  I’ve come to appreciate that the journey of planning can be just as thrilling as the adventure itself.

 

Planning your first solo international vacation can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Here are some steps to help you get started:

 

1. Choose a Destination: Think about the type of experience you want and consider factors such as your interests, budget, safety, and the local culture. Research different destinations to find one that aligns with your preferences and meets your requirements for a solo trip.

 

2. Set a Budget: Determine how much you're willing to spend on your trip, including flights, accommodations, meals, transportation, activities, and any additional expenses. Consider the cost of living in your chosen destination and factor in currency exchange rates.

 

3. Research and Plan: Gather information about your destination, including visa requirements, local customs and traditions, safety considerations, and any necessary vaccinations. Research popular attractions, landmarks, and local experiences to create an itinerary that suits your interests. It might be helpful to join special interest groups on social media to learn from others who share your unique travel interests.

 

4. Book Flights and Accommodations: Look for the best deals on flights and accommodations based on your budget and preferences. Compare prices on various travel websites or use search engines that aggregate multiple options. Consider factors such as location, safety, and guest reviews when choosing accommodations.

 

5. Plan Your Activities: Make a list of attractions, landmarks, museums, and activities you want to experience at your destination. Create a rough itinerary that allows for flexibility and leaves room for spontaneous exploration. Consider guided tours or local experiences to enhance your trip.

 

6. Consider Safety Precautions: Research safety tips specific to your destination and take necessary precautions. Register with your country's embassy or consulate, purchase travel insurance, and keep copies of important documents such as your passport, visa, and travel itinerary.

 

7. Pack Wisely: Create a packing list based on the climate and activities at your destination. Consider the duration of your trip and pack versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched. Don't forget essentials like travel adapters, medications, and necessary documents.

 

8. Learn Basic Phrases: Familiarize yourself with basic phrases and greetings in the local language. This can be helpful for simple interactions, showing respect for the local culture, and navigating your way around.

 

9. Stay Connected: Ensure you have a means of communication while traveling internationally. Consider purchasing a local SIM card, activating an international roaming plan, or using messaging apps that work with Wi-Fi.

 

10. Stay Open-Minded: Embrace the adventure of solo travel and be open to new experiences. Be flexible with your plans, trust your instincts, and be mindful of your safety while enjoying the freedom and independence that solo travel offers.

 

Remember to thoroughly research your destination and make necessary preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Consider joining online travel communities or forums where you can connect with fellow travelers or seek advice from experienced solo travelers.

 

When in Dubai, do Dubai!

 

It’s striking to see how many Americans visiting Dubai tend to gravitate towards luxury resorts, Western dining, private American-style yacht extravaganzas, and shopping in empty malls brimming with familiar American and European brands. Often, their attire doesn’t reflect the conservative Middle Eastern culture, causing much offense. Personally, I’d opt for a $6 traditional Middle Eastern meal over a $260 per person, average “dinner-in-the-sky” experience any time. For some, their trips to Dubai hardly differ from visiting New York or Chicago.

For an authentic taste of Emirates’ culture, be sure to explore the Deira and Bur Dubai districts, which make up Old Dubai. Wander through these neighborhoods, sample local cuisine at restaurants, browse bustling markets, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry. Take an Abra boat right across the Dubai creek and visit the gold and spice markets. Walk around Al Bastakiya Quarter. The historic quarter of Al Bastakiya dates back to the 19th century and is the oldest residential quarter in Dubai. Don’t miss the Dubai museum, where you can delve into the history and traditions of this interesting nation. The museum invites visitors to walk through several models of what Dubai was like in the past – providing an immersive experience for tourists to see how the city has become what it is today. I spent at least an hour and a half in that museum and will do it again if I return.

Instead of having a high tea at a modern hotel for $200 per person, enjoy a typical Arabic lunch in an Arabic tea house in the old quarter.