We all have many common and a number of specific requirements that quality design and architecture help address, which is why we want to know yours!

Whether you are part of any group, whether you walk, use public transportation, a car, a bicycle, or combine all options, your feedback will help us incorporate your needs into the emerging wayfinding and make it the best for everyone.

If you are interested in participating in the research, please sign up using the [questionnaire](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdF6Uiz-AWi-WMwzme5lEkeZel375Ueg5VzzEntitsQl8j7-A/viewform).


Currently, we are looking for respondents for the autumn research at the HolKa location near the Štvanická lávka, where we are piloting elements of pedestrian navigation – an obelisk and directional sign. For a 30-minute interview at the location, respondents will be rewarded with a gift package and the opportunity to be among those who help make Prague more legible for everyone.

Source: Czechdesign

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Help your city to navigate better

orientation

#### **General Information**

Granting scholarships to citizens from developing and specific countries listed below for studies at the Czech public higher education institutions is an important part of the foreign development cooperation of the Czech Republic and has a long tradition. From the late 1950s to the present day over 20 000 foreign nationals have completed their studies at Czech universities with a scholarship of the Government of the Czech Republic.

**Eligible Countries and Study Programmes**
Scholarships for the academic year 2024/2025 are offered only to the citizens of the following countries:

**Belarus,
Bosnia and Herzegovina,
Cambodia,
Ethiopia, 
Georgia, 
Moldova, 
Ukraine, 
and Zambia.**

The Government Scholarships are structured to cover the standard duration of study in the following ways:

**Follow-up Master Study Programs**
This includes a one-year preparatory course in the Czech language (integrated with field-specific training). These scholarships are offered to graduates of Bachelor's degree programs. Applicants can only enroll in study programs within select areas where instruction is conducted in Czech. Depending on the subject matter, applicants may be required to pass entrance examinations at the relevant university as a prerequisite for scholarship consideration.


**Follow-up Master and Doctoral Study Programs**
These scholarships are available for graduates of Bachelor or Master study programs, respectively, who enroll in study programs with instruction in the English language.

Each applicant is obliged to fill in an electronic application form at the latest by **30 September 2023**. The successful applicant starts studying in the academic year **2024/2025**.

Detailed information on the terms and conditions of scholarship awards is provided in the binding ["Guidelines for Granting Scholarships of the Government of the Czech Republic"](https://www.msmt.cz/eu-and-international-affairs/government-scholarships-developing-countries-2), issued in Czech and English.



**Source:** Website of the Ministry of Education Youth and Sports




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Deadline for Government Scholarships Approaching

scholarships

Do you already have your **BIO bin**? You can throw away the peelings from your kitchen in the BIO bin instead of the regular bin, and the second chance for your waste is here! Plant waste will be turned into useful **compost**. You will reduce a huge amount of mixed urban waste and benefit the parks, orchards and gardens that improve our air.

#### **Information about the service**

Plant waste makes up to **20% of the contents of normal bins**. A fifth of the rubbish that could still be used to improve the air ends up in an incinerator... But it's a lousy fuel, and it burns badly. The nutrients go up the chimney without any benefit.

#### **About the bio waste bin**

Over 16,000 Prague households already deposit their vegetable waste in the brown BIObin (November 2021). Do you want to be one of them? If you're a property owner, just take a few minutes to fill in a few details in the [form](https://bio.praha.eu/formular/) (unfortunately only in Czech for now) and submit. Members of owners' associations, condominiums, etc. need to agree first. As a regular tenant, you can ask the building owner or someone acting for the owner to order a BIO bin for your building. In addition, a BIObin can reduce your waste removal charges!

#### **What will a BIO bin cost me?**

There is **no charge** for providing a BIO bin and arranging regular collections from 2022.

If the BIO bin will be placed in a public place and/or used by six or more households, it must have a lock on the lid. The container with a lock and two keys is also supplied free of charge to the owner of the premises by the collection company.

Costs may be incurred with the service if more keys are ordered. 

Get more information about the BIO waste bin arrangement here: [https://bioodpad.praha.eu/](https://bioodpad.praha.eu/)

And about the specifics of the BIO waste recycling rules [here](https://portalzp.praha.eu/file/3426189/HMP_012022_bioodpad_A4_AJ_nahled.pdf).

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Separate BIO waste with free of charge bins for vegetation

BIO waste

The Czech government has presented plans for an initiative aimed at facilitating the **voluntary return of refugees to Ukraine**. The plan, which is outlined in the draft sixth amendment to the “lex Ukraine” law, will see the Czech government providing **assistance and partial coverage of associated costs** for those opting to return. 

This move comes as the country seeks to address the recently increasing demand from refugees wishing to return to their homeland. While acknowledging the ongoing challenges faced by Ukraine, the Czech government perceives the provision of assistance to those opting for return as a progressive step.

The voluntary return program will involve the Czech Ministry of the Interior **arranging transportation** (paying for it) and providing **free guidance with regards to paperwork**. 

Eligibility for the program extends to **asylum seekers, individuals with revoked or non-renewed residence permits, as well as those who were previously deported.**

While offering aid to those who wish to return, the government also recognizes the need to ensure that the <u>decision is fully informed</u> and <u>free from undue pressure</u>. This delicate balance between support and individual agency remains at the forefront of the Czech Republic's approach to managing the refugee situation.

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Repatriation travel costs assistance for Ukrainian refugees

Czech government set to cover the repatriation costs

The Program targets **highly skilled digital nomads**, proficient in the IT sector, as a response to the shifting landscape of global workforce mobility and freelancing, notably accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Its main objective is to **streamline the relocation process** of these professionals to the Czech Republic.

Eligibility for the Program extends to citizens from specific countries, namely **Australia, Japan, Canada, South Korea, New Zealand, the UK, the USA, and Taiwan**. It caters specifically to two categories of digital nomads:

**Remote Employees**: This includes foreign employees who continue working for their foreign employer while stationed in the Czech Republic. The work is conducted remotely, facilitated by digital communication tools. The digital nomad remains an employee of their foreign company and does not establish a formal employment relationship with a Czech employer.

**Freelancers (Self-Employed)**: Foreign individuals who possess or plan to acquire a Czech Trade License fall under this category. They engage in self-employment while being a part of the Program.

The Program accommodates **immediate family members** of the digital nomads, such as spouses, registered partners, and children. These family members can apply for residence permits simultaneously.

Enlisted digital nomads gain several advantages under the Program:

1. _Visa/Residence Application_: They can submit their long-term visa or residence permit applications at Czech Republic embassies/consulates abroad. This privilege extends to their immediate family members as well.

2. _Application Processing_: The processing of their visa or residence permit applications is expedited, with a commitment to review within 45 days from submission.


However, it's crucial to note that participation in the Program is **not guaranteed by law**. The Ministry of Industry and Trade is responsible for evaluating applications. Interested individuals must send their applications to the designated email address, _**digitalnomad@mpo.cz**_.

[More information](https://www.mpo.cz/en/foreign-trade/economic-migration/digital-nomad-program--275799/) and forms.

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Czech Republic Launches New Government Program – Digital Nomad

digital nomad program

Prague's dedication to sustainable urban development is evident in its strategic planning and policies, which encompass various aspects of sustainability. **Energy efficiency** stands as a crucial focus area, with the city implementing measures to reduce energy consumption and minimize its carbon footprint. Through investments in green technologies such as solar panels and efficient heating systems, Prague has made significant progress in adopting renewable energy sources and decreasing reliance on fossil fuels.

In addition to energy efficiency, Prague has also prioritized **effective waste management** and recycling programs. The city has implemented comprehensive waste management systems that encourage citizens to separate and recycle their waste responsibly. By doing so, Prague has not only reduced the amount of waste destined for landfills but has also fostered a culture of environmental responsibility among its residents.

Prague's commitment to **sustainable transportation** is evident in its efforts to enhance public transportation systems and promote eco-friendly mobility options. The city boasts a well-developed tram network, extensive bus routes, and a connected metro system, all of which contribute to reducing private car usage. These sustainable transportation initiatives have not only alleviated traffic congestion but have also mitigated air pollution, making Prague a more livable and environmentally friendly city.

One of the defining features of Prague is its abundant **green spaces**, which play a crucial role in the city's sustainability efforts. Parks, gardens, and urban forests are carefully maintained, providing residents with ample opportunities to connect with nature. These green spaces not only enhance the well-being of citizens but also support biodiversity and act as vital habitats for various plant and animal species.

Prague's ranking as the 10th most sustainable city in Europe underscores its commitment to creating a greener and more livable urban environment. The city's relentless pursuit of sustainability serves as an inspiration to other cities striving to implement environmentally conscious practices. As Prague continues to prioritize sustainability in the years to come, it is poised to further enhance its reputation as a model sustainable city, leading the way towards a more sustainable future for all.

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Prague ranks as the 10th most sustainable city in Europe

#### _**A) Social security**_

•	The minimum advances (social security) for 2023 are **CZK 2,944 per month** for the self-employed (if it is your main activity). The advances are changing slightly every year. For the Social Insurance you will be assigned a special number. In the first year of the Trade Licence, everyone starts off by paying the minimum social security contribution. The amount for the next year is calculated according to the business profit in the previous tax year.

•	If the business based on the Trade Licence is your **secondary activity** (possible only if you have other employment and earning more than minimum wage), you do not have to pay any advance payments for the first year. And if your annual income does not exceed the so-called decisive amount (for 2023 it is CZK 96,777), you do not have to pay any advance payments for social insurance next year as well.
•	Also, consider if you want to pay **“sickness insurance”**. It’s not your legal duty. If you want to pay it then the sickness insurance is paid in the amount of 2.1% of the monthly assessment base. The minimum amount is CZK 168 (for 2023) and it is also transferred to the Social Security Office (=OSSZ) account. Sickness insurance makes you eligible for sickness benefits and leave, and for the maternity leave. The sickness insurance starts to be paid only much later after an entrepreneur falls ill (usually even several weeks later), so it rather really covers serious illnesses and many entrepreneurs choose to pay a commercial insurance or put some money aside.
•	For the sake of possible future maternity leave it is very important to start paying the sickness insurance long enough in advance (the whole pregnancy and even sooner) and it definitely pays-off. Precise numbers are to be derived from the income and are worth consulting with specialised social workers.

#### _**B) Health insurance**_

•	The amount paid in contributions depends on your profit (it amounts to about 2.7% of profit), but the minimum is **CZK 2,722 per month** (for 2023). In the first year of their trade licence, everyone starts with the minimum health care contribution.
•	The health insurance company will let you know their account number. You will be sending advance payments for health insurance. The identification number is usually the Birth Number (=rodné číslo, r.č.) which is used as the Variable Symbol. As a foreigner, please ask for the variable symbol.
•	In case you are in a Commercial health insurance system (non-EU), you don’t have to pay monthly advance payments, because you are already prepaying an insurance fee. Having a trade licence is unrelated to Commercial health insurance.

#### _**Flat-rate tax**_

•	**Registration for the Flax-rate tax was possible only until the 10th of January 2023.**
•	Flat-rate tax is a monthly payment made for Self-employed with an annual income of **up to two million crowns**. The flat-rate tax consists of income tax, health insurance and social insurance minimum contribution. The **monthly payment** for the year 2023 is **CZK 6,208**. No tax deductions or tax allowances can be asked.

#### _**!! IMPORTANT !!**_

Once a year, you are obliged to do a **Tax Return for the Self-Employed** and also submit the **Summary of Income and Expenses** to both the social security office and your health insurance office. The deadline is 2nd May. All self-employed persons (except those with flat-rate tax) are obliged to fill in and submit the summary, even those for which there is no minimum assessment base. Please ask your tax advisor for these statements along with Tax Return.

#### _**What if Self-Employment is Only My Secondary Activity?**_

Self-employment can also work as a secondary income, therefore you can have a full time job as well. This is possible only if you have other employment and** earn more than minimum wage**. No matter if you want to have your trade licence as your main or extra income, you still need to visit the Trade Licence Register to get your IČO (Identification Number) and then inform the Financial Administration Office, Social Security Administration Office and Health Insurance Company (see steps [here](https://expat.praha.eu/news/article/becoming-self-employed)).
If the earnings from your trade licence are your secondary income, you do not have to pay any advances in the first year of your business. **Monthly payments will become compulsory for you once the profit of your business exceeds CZK 96,777 per calendar year (2023)**. Even if your business turnover was zero, you are obliged to send a report to the Social Security and Health Insurance Company offices after the end of the year. This can be done by your accountant and included in the annual tax declaration. It is recommended to hire an accountant to help you fill in the forms. Based on the reports and your real income, you might pay some extra premiums to health insurance/social security offices at once.


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Regular payments for trade licence owners

Regular payments for Trade licence owners

So if you want to become self-employed, maybe you have a clear business plan in mind, maybe you are just thinking about leaving your job and working by yourself. In any case, you have to deal with mandatory administration first. There are two ways how to start your own business: one option is to apply for a **Trade Licence** and become a self-employed natural person (=fyzická osoba). The other option is to set up a **company**, e.g. a limited liability company and to become a Legal Person (=PO, právnická osoba). The best source of information is on the [**Ministry of Industry and Trade (MPO) website**](https://www.mpo.cz/en/).

#### _**Trade Licence**_

Before going to the **Trades Licensing Office**, you should have a clear idea in what area you want to do your business. Not all business activities are trades. For example, artists do not need to be authorized to do so, neither do small farmers. However, there are a number of Trades to choose from.
Basically there are two main types of the Licensed Trades, the first of which has three sub-types:

**With Reporting Obligation Only:**

**1.**	Free, or Unqualified Trade (**Volná živnost**) – only the general conditions must be met. These include eg. sales, exports, imports, manufacture of textiles, administrative services, marketing and consulting (with the exception of financial and tax consulting), teaching, etc. You can register/notify several free trades at a time. The administration fee for the first notification of the trades is CZK 1,000 and CZK 500 for any subsequent notification.
**2.**	Professional Trade (=**Vázaná živnost**) – you must prove professional competence for the activity. These include accountants, driving school owners, but also mountain guides or masseurs. If you do not have the right qualifications, you can hire an authorised representative.
**3.**	Vocational Trade (=**Řemeslná živnost**) – you are required to provide an apprenticeship certificate, graduation certificate, diploma or six years’ experience in the field. These include e.g. bakers, blacksmiths and hairdressers.

**With Concession Obligation:**

Permitted Trade, or Special licence/Concession (=**Koncesovaná živnost**) – you must prove your professional competence and gain the permission of the relevant state administration body. These trades include: freight transport, travel agencies or funeral services.

#### _**Getting the Trade Licence**_

What Are the Requirements?
- are older than 18 years,
- have no tax overdues/debts at the tax office and overdues/debts of social and health insurance,
- are eligible for legal acts (evidenced by an identity card*),
- are an impeccable person (documented by an extract from the criminal record),
- meet the qualification requirements for a given type of business (see the types of trade above).
*For EU-citizens: European ID is requested

*For non-EU subjects: long-term visa/residence or permanent residence is required. If you first need the trade license in order to apply for the long-term visa, you can get a temporary trade license for the purpose of the application.

#### _**Where to Apply?**_

Collect all the required documents. Submit all the documents to the closest Trade License authority. Most Trade License offices are only open on Mondays and Wednesdays so plan wisely. The clerk will also offer you advice as to how to proceed with the next steps at the office. The presence of English/German speaking clerks is not always guaranteed, please book an appointment in advance or come along with a Czech-speaking person.

#### _**List of the Required Documents**_

1.	Passport/ID.
2.	“Single Registration Form” (download [here](https://www.mpo.cz/assets/cz/podnikani/zivnostenske-podnikani/crm-jednotny-registracni-formular/2017/9/MPO_PO.pdf)) – there is no need to bring the document as it will be filled by you electronically on the spot.
3.	Criminal record from your home country or the state of the most recent staying (in case you have temporary/permanent residence in the Czech Republic, the criminal record will not be requested). It can be obtained for EU countries (except for HU, PT, NL and FI) via most Czech Post Offices at the CzechPoint counters. Ask for the Criminal Record (= ‘výpis z rejstříku trestů s přílohou’). There is a CzechPoint counter close to the main central entrance to the City Hall. This process may take up to 25 working days and the fee is CZK 100. For non-EU citizens, please, contact your Embassy to get the Criminal Record. More guidance on this topic.
5.	Proof that the owner of the real estate where you want to have the seat of your business agrees with Seat Placement – „Souhlas s umístěním sídla“ (Form: “Consent to the Seat Placement” – Natural person, Legal person). If there are more owners, such as the real estate is owned by a married couple, you have to bring a separately filled in and signed form from each of the owners.
NB: If you are still staying in a hotel or your landlord does not agree that the seat of your Trade Licence activities is at the premises you are renting, you can rent an office in an office building, or make a ‘virtual seat’. The choice is wide covering various services and it is recommended to choose a good address along with a package of services that will influence the price.
5.	Documents proving your professional qualifications (if needed depending on the type of Trade Licence).
6.	Service fee CZK 1,000 (CZK 500 for every subsequent notification/change).

#### _**What to Do After Registering at the Trade Licence Office?**_

1.	You will receive further instructions at the Trade Licence Office. They will send your registration directly to the **Financial Authority** and **Social Security Office** (OSSZ = Okresní správa sociálního zabezpečení). It is also recommended to visit the OSSZ in person, while the **Health Insurance Companies** usually directly require a visit in person to clarify if it is your main or secondary activity. The OSSZ and Health insurance company will then inform you of when and how to pay the advances for the social and health insurance. These are calculated according to whether the business is your main or secondary activity.
2.	After completing all the requirements, the Trade Licence Office will give you your **Identification Number (=Identifikační číslo, IČ, or IČO)** and an **Extract from the Trade Register**. There is actually no fixed “trade licence” in a printed format. The Extract from the Trade Register serves as proof of all your business activities and it can be downloaded from the Trade Register. 
3.	An important further step is to visit a bank and **open a new business bank account** in your name and Identification Number. This should be used only for business purposes and later reported in your tax files. After you have done all the above steps you can start invoicing your first customers.
4.	From January 1st, 2023, all self-employed persons have a duty to communicate with state authorities via electronic **Data Mailboxes**. Establishment of mailbox and communication with the state authorities are free. See more on gov portal.
5.	After notifying the Trade and obtaining the Trade Licence, you will automatically be registered as an income taxpayer using the single registration form. You will then **file a personal income tax return once** a year and at the same time pay the tax: at the latest, by the end of April of the following year. 
6.	You can also volunteer as a VAT payer. If your revenue **exceeds two million crowns in the last 12 months, the VAT registration becomes compulsory**. The tax authority will assign you your unique tax identification number (=DIČ, daňové identifikační číslo) for communication with the tax authority. It usually starts with ‘CZ’.
7.	Self-employment also means that you have 100% liability with all your property including your private property. So an adequate Commercial Insurance of your business activities is vital for some of the Licenced Trades.

Find out more about regular payments [here](https://expat.praha.eu/news/article/regular-payments-for-trade-licence-owners).

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Becoming Self-Employed in the Czech Republic

Becoming Self-Employed

This is the end of a situation that was criticised by almost everyone: ministry officials, politicians and insurance companies.

The monopoly meant that foreigners could only pay for insurance through the VZP insurance company, which is a commercial joint-stock company set up by the General Health Insurance Fund. On Wednesday, MEPs abolished the monopoly.

Some foreigners have to pay for health insurance in the Czech Republic if they stay longer than 90 days. This applies to people from so-called "third countries" - citizens from outside the EU or Switzerland (who are covered by the single European insurance system). This insurance is supposed to cover them both for the common flu and for acute surgery.

Previously, they could choose from the offers of several insurance companies, but after the intervention of ANO MPs, only the VZP insurance company is allowed to offer this service from 2021.


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 Health insurance for foreigners monopoly ends

Insurance for foreigners

[**People in Need**](https://www.peopleinneed.net) is a non-profit organization that focuses on providing **human rights, humanitarian aid, and development cooperation** to people in need globally. They operate in 30 countries worldwide and have been active in the Czech Republic since 1992, supporting marginalized communities, people with disabilities, and vulnerable children, among others.

[**Dobry Andel**](https://www.dobryandel.cz/en/assistance-rules/) works to provide material, financial, and emotional support to **families facing financial distress** due to a severe illness of a child or parent. They help families pay for medical bills, and they also organize events and activities to support and uplift them.

[**Rekola**](https://www.rekola.cz/en/) is an innovative social enterprise that promotes **sustainable urban transportation** by providing shared bikes across Prague. This organization aims to reduce carbon emissions and traffic congestion while also promoting and facilitating healthy lifestyles in the city. Volunteers can help by maintaining the bikes, promoting riding events and supporting marketing campaigns.

[**Pink Crocodile**](https://www.smilingcrocodile.org) is a non-profit organization that **supports the LGBTQ+ community** in Prague by organizing a range of events and campaigns, including their famous annual drag ball event! Volunteers can help in planning, coordinating, and promoting their events.

[**Prague Youth Theatre**](https://www.pyt.cz) provides opportunities for youth interested in the performing arts to develop their skills and shine on stage. They offer programs in **acting, writing, directing, and other aspects of theater**, and volunteers can help in technical support, publicity, and front of house positions.

[**Cool Critters**](https://coolcritters.org) is a **non-profit dog shelter** located in Prague that is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming dogs in need. They provide a safe and loving environment for dogs that have been abandoned, abused, or neglected. The shelter is run by volunteers who are committed to improving the lives of these animals and ensuring they find their forever homes. Visitors can help by volunteering their time or donating funds to support the shelter's ongoing efforts. Additionally, they offer the opportunity to foster dogs, sponsor a dog or adopt a furry friend. 

[**Dobrovolnik.cz**](https://tinyurl.com/bdha9bet) is a place that groups together **offers for volunteering** for non-Czech speakers in Prague. Take a look and maybe you find something tailored to your interests.

There are many non-profits covering an array of social and environmental causes, so joining one that aligns with your skills and values can allow you to make a significant contribution while also gaining deeply rewarding experiences.

_Author: Trinity Reda_

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Looking for a meaninful way to spend your time?

**1.	What drew you to study in Prague? Were you considering other places?**
I had always heard positive things about Prague, so it had been on my radar for a few years already. When I started looking at potential programs, I realized that I wanted to prioritize doing an internship. There were only a few programs that offered an internship and Prague was the only one that assisted me in finding an internship. The other program I was considering was in Utrecht, Netherlands. They also had internships but I would have had to arrange everything myself (paperwork as a foreigner included).

**2.	Did you have any cultural shock moments here?**
Not really! I had been to Europe before and I have traveled quite a bit so nothing really shocked me in a significant way.

**3.	What has been your favourite place you discovered here?**
There was a little place around the corner from my apartment that served authentic Chai tea. It was fantastic. I liked to bring my laptop there to study.

**4.	What did you think of the university you attended? How did it compare to your university in the USA?**
My program was based out of a small building in Vyšehrad. I didn’t attend Charles university or any other big universities while here. In comparison to my experience back home, it was very convenient having all of my classes in one building. UCSD (University of California San Diego) has a very large campus and I have to consider the distance between them when I make my schedule each quarter. My program encouraged field trips in our classes which was an amazing way to discover new things in Prague with our professors who grew up here. I would love to have field trips back home. Other than that, everything else was pretty similar, I think they try to keep it as similar to a U.S. model as possible because all of the students are from the U.S..

**5.	What was your most memorable experience in Prague?**
I could say one of the nights I went clubbing with my friends but I think my most memorable experience was showing my dad the city when he came to visit. It felt so great to show him all of the famous buildings (and actually know something about them). He was very lucky to get his own private tour.
**
6.	What didn’t you like about Prague? Is there anything you struggled with?**
I felt like there were a lot of areas that I tried to avoid because of heavy crowds and over tourism. I wouldn’t say that I struggled with it but it was frustrating at times.
**
7.	You’re a history major, what was your favourite historical landmark to see here?**
I am a big fan of the defenestrations of Prague. I learned about them when I was 16 years old in my history class in high school and I have never forgotten them. Somebody pointed out the sites of one of the defenestrations to me in the first few weeks that I was here, and I was filled with pure joy.

**8.	You’ve been travelling a lot this past year, how do the other large European cities you visited compare to Prague?**
I did travel quite a bit while I was here. I visited Berlin, Munich, Vienna, Bratislava, Istanbul, London, Dresden, and Budapest. I felt like Prague was prettier and had better public transportation than every other city I visited. Some places had better food and some had other exciting things but every time I came back to Prague I became more impressed with how beautiful it is. In my opinion, the architecture just doesn’t compare, it’s the perfect size to walk everywhere or take a short tram ride, it’s affordable, and the nightlife is fantastic.

**9.	If you were to show your friends who have never been to Prague, what would you show them?**
I actually got to do this a couple of times! I had a few people visit. I would start at Vyšehrad where we would appreciate the view, then we would walk up along the river past Dancing House and the National Theater. Then we would cut in to see the Franz Kafka Head. Next, we would walk to Old Town Square and see the Astronomical Clock and maybe walk to the top of the clock tower. After that we would walk across Charles Bridge and see the Lennon Wall. The next day we would go to Prague Castle and then walk around that area to shop in the stores. We would finish the day at Letná Park (probably in the beer garden) for sunset. If we have time, we would also go to Petřín and go to the top of the tower for the view.

**10.	 Are you planning to come back to Prague in the future?**
I would love to come back to Prague in the future. I don’t know when but I will definitely be back!

At the end of our interview, I asked Samantha how she would rate her stay in Prague and what tips she would give to people considering staying in Prague for a longer period of time. Her rating of her stay was 9.5, nearly perfect, as “there’s still a 10/10 in the world that I haven’t come across yet”. When it comes to tips, we both agree that the best way to discover Prague is walking around and exploring as there is always a charming hidden space to discover or new friends to find. 




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Samantha Skorstad: ‘Every time I came back to Prague I became more impressed with how beautiful it is’ 

Samantha Skorstad_interview

[**Pride Counseling**](https://www.praguepride.cz/en/support/coming-out-support-group) is part of the non-profit counseling organization that focuses on providing mental health services to LGBTQ+ individuals. The organization offers confidential sessions with trained therapists, and they make sure to provide services that are culturally aware and attuned to the unique needs of the LGBTQ+ community.

[**Queer Geography**](https://queergeography.cz/en) is a non-profit organization that provides support and care to LGBTQ+ persons in the Czech Republic. They offer a broad spectrum of help, including counseling, legal advice, and other community-centered events to support and connect people.

**Proud** is an organization that advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and promotes understanding and inclusivity. They offer education and training programs for schools, businesses, and other organizations to promote knowledge on the topic and provide support and advice for those who need it.

One of the major events that provides visibility to the LGBTQ+ community in Prague is the [**Prague Pride festival**](https://www.praguepride.cz/en). This annual event typically takes place in August and includes a range of activities and events, such as parties, cultural events, and an equality march. The festival is a celebration of diversity and inclusivity, and it attracts thousands of participants each year!

In addition to Pride, there are many cultural events organized in the community each year. [**Mezipatra Queer Film Festival**](https://www.mezipatra.cz/en/)
is a queer film festival organized by non-profit organizations Mezipatra and STUD Brno. Every year, they introduce around a hundred Czech and foreign films centred around LGBTQ+ issues, and their creators. The films are apprised by a professional jury as a part of a prestigious international competition. Inherent part of the program are the accompanying discussions, lectures, workshops, exhibitions and parties.

[**Trans*Parent**](https://jsmetransparent.cz) provides social and psychological support to transgender individuals. They offer peer-to-peer counseling, support groups, and transgender meetups to help individuals navigate their identity and feel a sense of belonging.

It is also worth mentioning **Queer Expats in Prague**, a private Facebook group where you simply request to join and can find common ground/have discussions with other members of the community living in the city. This is a great place to make friends if you’re new to the city, or just a friendly place to share experiences.

Furthermore, various businesses in Prague have also show their support for the LGBTQ+ community by joining the **We Are Fair initiative**. We Are Fair is a campaign that supports companies in making their workplaces more welcoming and inclusive for LGBTQ+ employees and customers.

As you can see from the few of many mentioned above, Prague now offers a wide variety of support groups and resources to meet the needs of the LGBTQ+ community. These organizations provide a safe and welcoming environment for individuals, and they offer essential services and support towards promoting equality, inclusivity, and acceptance.

_Author: Trinity Reda_

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