Trip to Karlovy Vary

The new academic year brought us freshers and the warmth of an Indian summer. As the sun began to turn the leaves brown the languages department organised a trip to the nearby Karlsbad Spa or better known as Karlovy Vary. Unfortunately, the gorgeous weather decided to attend the journey, so under a murky sky a handful of trekkers set off from Florenc bus station.
 
Located a 2 hour coach ride in North West Bohemia, a stone's throw away from the German border, Karlovy Vary is a delightfully charming city, famously known for its numerous hot springs that are scattered around the city in little fountains and a small geyser.
 
The spring water holds special healing properties to those who drink it, supposedly helping with anything from minor ailments to diabetes. Indeed, the river upon which the city is located is named Teplá, Czech for warm.
 
Karlovy Vary gives off an air of peace and tranquillity which goes hand in hand with that it is the largest spa city in the Czech Republic. Many famous people have stayed in the numerous baroque and art nouveau buildings from Czech composer Dvořák to Beethoven, adding touch of class and elegance to the city.

 
It is also home to the International Film Festival; the oldest in the world. In keeping with the film theme, James Bond movie Casino Royale starring Daniel Craig was filmed there.
 
At the one end of the city is a cable car ride up to Diana's Outlook Tower, a dizzying 547 metres above sea level, which provides a glorious view of the surroundings. On a good day one can see up to 70 km.
 
After returning back to the city, the heavens opened in a torrential downpour and a dash for the Becherovka museum was made. Becherovka is a major export of this quaint little city, a herbal liquor that has some kick to it. On the museum tour one can sample all four types of Becherovka and have the opportunity to purchase various Becherovka souvenirs.
 
All in all a thoroughly enjoyable day it's a shame the sun didn't come too!
 

Devan Patel
 

Submitted by for posting on the web 12. 10. 2009.