Life in a foreign country can definitely be challenging and sometimes complicated. If you are still hesitating whether to live and study in the Czech Republic or if you are already here and you just need to hear the perspective of students who are in the same situation, you can read the thoughts of our two students from the Faculty of Management and Economics.
Elvira, Ukraine
For me, living in Czech Republic feels right. Since I’m from Ukraine, which is also a Slavic country, integrating in a Czech society was pretty easy, since the languages, cultures and mentality are similar. However, I would say that Czech people are very welcoming and friendly, so it’s not gonna be a problem to make new friends. As a student in a Czech uni I’ll say that Czech people LOVE to party, so you’re not gonna get bored. I’m a huge fan of Czech architecture with its little houses and unique style. Sometimes I go for my “mental health walk” just to enjoy the beauty of the city. Also living in Czech Republic has a huge advantage for me as a person who loves to travel – you can get to Vienna or Bratislava from Zlín in less then two hours, which also means that you can catch a (low cost) flight to any European country with no stress. One thing that stresses me out though is the fact that the trains here are often late, so you should really be careful with your timings. Overall, I would say that living in a Czech Republic is a great experience that I’m happy to live through.
Anastasiya, Belarus
Stepping into the heart of Europe, I embarked on a journey filled with uncertainty and excitement, as a foreigner venturing into the charming land of the Czech Republic. From its picturesque landscapes to its rich history and vibrant culture, every corner of this country seemed to beckon with the promise of adventure and discovery. Yet, amidst the allure, there lay the challenge of adaptation, of navigating through the unfamiliarity and finding my place in this new world. This is the story of my life in the Czech Republic, seen through the eyes of a foreigner, from the initial struggles of adaptation to the eventual embrace of its warmth and beauty. As I arrived in the Czech Republic, I found myself confronted with a mix of emotions—excitement, apprehension, and a tinge of homesickness. The language, with its intricate grammar and unfamiliar sounds, posed a formidable barrier initially. Simple tasks like grocery shopping or asking for directions felt like daunting challenges. However, what eased this transition was the warm and welcoming nature of the Czech people. Despite the language barrier, I found Czechs to be incredibly friendly and accommodating. Whether it was a smile exchanged on the tram or a helpful gesture from a stranger, these small acts of kindness bridged the gap and made me feel at home in this foreign land.
Making friends in the Czech Republic is easy! Whether you’re hanging out with other foreigners like yourself or getting to know locals, there’s a diverse community here ready to connect. You can meet people at language exchange meetups, cultural events, or even just by chatting at a café. Czech people are really welcoming and open, which makes forming genuine connections a breeze. Thanks to these friendships, I not only learned a lot about Czech life and culture but also found a support system that made settling in much easier. Exploring the Czech Republic’s cultural treasures, from medieval castles to quaint streets, was like stepping into a rich tapestry of history. Prague, with its iconic landmarks, introduced me to the country’s cultural splendor, while the vibrant arts scene, from classical concerts to underground music venues, left a lasting impression on me.
For fellow foreigners embarking on their own Czech adventure, here are some tips gleaned from my own experience
Learn the Language: While many Czechs speak English, making an effort to learn the local language can go a long way in fostering connections and integrating into the community.
Embrace the Culture: Immerse yourself in Czech culture by attending cultural events, trying traditional cuisine, and exploring the country’s historical landmarks.
Build Connections: Don’t be afraid to reach out and make new friends, both among fellow expats and locals. Join social groups, attend meetups, and engage with the community to build meaningful connections that enrich your experience in the Czech Republic.
Embrace the Seasons: From the festive atmosphere of Christmas markets to the lush beauty of springtime blossoms, each season in the Czech Republic offers its own unique charm. Embrace the changing seasons and take advantage of outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and cycling.
If you find it difficult to adapt in the Czech Republic, you can read an article about how to deal with homesickness, check it out here.
Also don’t forget to follow us on instagram to see more tips for living in the Czech republic.
