Czech Republic Vs Turkey

Is it possible to compare two countries that are so dissimilar?

Who am I kidding, of course it is! It is, after all, human nature to compare – even where comparisons are unwarranted. As countries go, Czech Republic could be the yin to Turkey’s yang. While not being far from each other – geographically speaking – the two countries have distinct cultures, different cuisines and very different, not to mention unique, things to offer those who enter their borders.

So, can Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia match up to the Prague Castle? Can Charles Bridge measure up to the Blue Mosque?

Czech Republic

Prague

Very few who have been to Prague once wouldn’t profess the desire to visit again, and again. That is the charm that emanates from this culturally rich, historically profound city that spans 1100 years of Bohemian and Roman history. Its diverse culture stems from a grand profile during both the Gothic and Renaissance eras. Turning corners in Prague brings you face to face with several different ages of culture and architecture, spanning a thousand years of evolving art forms that have gone down in the history books as masterpieces of aesthetics. From the many cathedrals and castles strewn across its lands to sophisticated works such as the Charles Bridge, from modern art homesteads like the Giant Metronome to the reminiscences of Franz Kafka in his home and cemetery – Prague is a city that exudes a delicate fragility, tempered with the anvils of history.

Moravia

A worthier foil to Prague could not be found.

The easternmost province in the Czech Republic, Moravia is the diametric opposite of Prague in several ways. From its glistening vineyards to its Jewish Quarter telling tales of horrors in human history, from the museums of Brno to the fascinating architecture of Olomouc – there’s a reason why Moravia is a UNESCO-protected Heritage Site. Do take some time out to check out the Thaya River Valley, a quaint border town offering spectacular views of the horizon.

How to Get There

Prague is certainly a busy hub for international tourism, so you’d be well advised to book your ticket, if possible, a couple of months in advance. The usual suspects operate between India and Czech Republic and these include: Lufthansa, Aeroflot, Turkish Airlines, Air France, Etihad Airways and British Airways. If you wish to book your ticket, please search here.

Turkey

Istanbul

The only city that spans two continents, Istanbul stretches across a narrow strait connecting Europe with Asia. Cultural influences of both are blended seamlessly – and at times chaotically – into the cityscape of Istanbul. The largest city in Turkey, and among the largest in the world, Istanbul is dotted with imposing Ottoman architecture, historical landmarks that date back to the Turkish heydays – along with cosmopolitan nightlife, dining and recreation options (do try the hamam bathhouses  - it’s a perfected art form there). Step into the Old City quarters and you’re greeted with renowned historical hotspots. Some of the must-visit attractions here include the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and the Topkapi Palace.

Ankara

As the capital of Turkey, Ankara offers a lot by way of commercial hubs, government and diplomatic complexes; allowing one to get a glimpse of the bloodstream that runs Turkish politics. But there’s more to this city than just the accoutrements that come with being a capital city. Popular for its historical and cultural verve, Ankara is strewn with museums such as the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. Bear in mind that most of the museums that Ankara offers are exclusive to this city – you won’t find such relics elsewhere. Besides that, Ankara is an excellent base to explore the rest of the country, being situated at the nerve centre of the transportation chains that run across Turkey.

How to Get There

A number of international airlines operate between India and Turkey – especially considering the increasing tourist interest in visiting places such as Istanbul, Antalya and Cappodocia. Some of the flights that run frequently include Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Jet Airways and Air France. If you wish to book your ticket, please search here.                                                                                                                    

 

Destination	Prague, Czech Republic	Ankara, Turkey
Hotels (centrally located)	Rs. 16941 (per night at the Grandior Hotel Prague) Rs. 13,782 (per night at Art Noveau Palace Hotel Prague) Rs. 11349 (Wellness Hotel Step Prague)	Rs. 4182 (per night at Anemon Ankara Hotel) Rs. 3760 (per night at Radisson Blu Hotel Ankara) Rs. 6709 (per night at Swissotel Ankara Hotel)
Meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner without alcohol)	Rs. 2550 per day	Rs. 2200 per day
Local Transportation (public bus)	Rs. 65 per ticket	Rs 51 per day
Miscellaneous	Rs. 1900 per day	Rs. 1600 per day

*All prices are approximate and subject to change.

Given a choice, I’m sure most of us would rather visit both, since they offer such different experiences – each an affair to remember. But since choices must, sometimes, be made – I’d give a slight edge to Czech Republic over Turkey. Why? Well, for one: Prague. Reason enough. Also, the fact that Czech Republic offers the best of Europe without making you shell out a typically European price certainly works to its favour. Although, the hamam baths of Antalya and the balloon fest at Cappodocia does call out to me…it’s too hard to decide which to choose.

What would your choice be? Would you be able to make a choice in the first place, given the extraordinary experiences on offer?