Prague

Like much of Europe, the Czech Republic has a long and distinguished history.  Originally part of both the Holy Roman Empire and, the until the end of WWI, the Austria-Hungry empire.  After WWI, the Czech and Slovak lands formed Czechoslovakia.  Due to its location, being west of Berlin, its fate was tied to the Soviet Union and "guided" into communism.  Shortly after the fall of the Soviet Union, Czechoslovakia dissolved into the two separate nations of Slovakia and the Czech Republic.  In 2004 the Czech Republic became part of the European Union, but has not yet accepted the Euro as its currency.  More information can be found on http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Czech_Republic.

As for the touristy aspect, a visit to Prague is worth it.  One of the top destinations in Europe, Prague is 5th most visited city in Europe.  Due to its reputation, it can be crowded, but it also means that people who work in some form of a public service (waiter, tour guide, street vender) speak English.  However, if you want to get a good picture of St. Charles Bridge without people, try it at 6 am.

St. Charles Bridge at dawn.

Prague Castle at dusk.

Prague boasts one of Europe's largest castles, the St. Charles Bridge, and an active town square.  It also has a sufficient Jewish quarter, Lennon's Wall, and their own version of the eiffel tower (which is highly recommended since it offers a magnificent view of the castle and Prague).  For all of you history lovers out there, Prague has a large collection of Medieval torture weapons in a museum near the bridge.

View from the "eiffel tower".

You will be well fed in Prague.  Its food is heavy and the portion sizes are consistent with those of the United States.  Prague's specialties consist of dumplings, meat kabobs, and goulash.  What really makes Prague special, in the culinary department that is, is its beer.  A large number of restaurants in Prague brew their own beer.  

Visit Prague if you like getting your moneys worth, filling your belly, and rich Bohemian architecture.

Don't visit Prague if you don't like walking, you want to take pictures without people in them, or you don't want to gain some extra weight. 

Lennon's Wall.

$1=18CK

I hope this is helpful in deciding whether or not to visit Prague.  Stay tuned...