Czech Republic - 2019
If you’ve never been to Prague before, you’re missing out! It is beautiful, walkable, and full of history both old and new. I learned so much about the Nazi occupation and the valorous operation known as Operation Anthropoid, where Czech citizens and soldiers rose up to kill Hitler’s chief of the Reich Main Security Office (which included the Gestapo), Reinhard Heydrich. You can see the spirit of freedom remains in the city, especially in places like the Lennon Wall, named in honor of John Lennon, although he never actually was there in person.
As fascinating and yet heavy-hearted as learning about Operation Anthropoid is, Prague and the rest of the Czech Republic has so much more to offer. The food there is delicious—loads of dumplings and potatoes with savory meats—and the landscapes are delightful. Going there alone aside from my 10 month old was also easier than I expected, everyone was helpful and kind when I needed assistance, and Prague is not hard to get around. I mainly wore my son, though, as the streets are cobbled and uneven and a stroller may have been difficult to push.