PLZEN, CZECH REPUBLIC

Czech Republic is the very first country that I visited outside Asia. I vividly remember that day of September 2011. There I was, nervous and all because I was not sure what's waiting for me on the other side of the world. That particular trip only lasted for months but it was all worth it. I lived in Prague for a bit (and it was actually the reason why I decided to set up a blog). I fell in love with Europe ever since. Plzen is located west of Czech Republic. It is very different from Prague. Prague is often busy and cosmopolitan. Plzen, on the other hand, is quaint and very cultural. Both places are very pretty and picturesque.

It was for a business trip that I went back and forth to Plzen. It is about 1.5 hours from Vaclav Airport (Prague) and it's a home to Pilsner Urquell Brewery (one of the world's most famous breweries). I stayed on three different hotels during my entire trip but I should say Mariott (Vnitřní Město, Plzeň) is my favourite. It has been my home during those months and whist it gets lonely (I'm often onsite alone), I find comfort from people watching, sight seeing or going to the hotel gym.

Here we were trying the dégustation experience. Dégustation is the careful, appreciative tasting of various foods, focusing on the gustatory system, the senses, high culinary art and good company. Dégustation is more likely to involve sampling small portions of all of a chef's signature dishes in one sitting. (Thanks Wiki!). I can't even begin to tell you how amazing all these dishes were but what I've enjoyed the most are those laughs and small talks we had whilst eating.

These potato balls are insanely good! I'm not a huge fan of beef but if you're going to go all out and have some meat, this is the answer!

Nikola & Kristine.

Honey crepe with orange slices.

In the middle of the restaurant, there's a real well! They covered the hole in glass that's why people can stand up and take some photos. I was a bit paranoid that the glass won't hold me up and I'll fall on the well but no, I've arrested the thought just in time!

Spring has sprung!

Colourful buildings surrounding the plaza.

We have climbed a tower and oh boy, I was exhausted after. The view from the top was magnificent though. I am glad I said yes to our client's kind offer to tour us around.

What a luxury to sit in the park and just pause for a while...

Jewish Church.

Cheers!

As Natalie Dormer puts... "Travel is so important in its capacity to expand the mind. It's exciting to start as young as possible - you get to see how other cultures live, challenge your senses, and try different cuisines." - CMK