In Love With Prague
Ahoj, my name is Jeroen, I am a Dutch guy living near Amsterdam in the Netherlands with my girlfriend and together we have two wonderful sons. Prague has had a strong appeal for me since 1993, when I first visited Prague. From June 2020, I can say that I am in love with this magical city. So in love that I used that feeling to start a Dutch website, Verliefd op Praag. After fours years in which I reached out to more than 225,000 people, it was time to go international and make an English website.
Prague gives me an ultimate sense of freedom, tranquility, and timelessness. In Prague, you truly live in the moment. Even on a busy Charles Bridge, I experience a serene atmosphere and feel completely zen, as if I am alone on the bridge. This feeling overwhelms me everywhere in Prague and is beyond words.
Touched by the beauty of the city, the culture, the people, and the delicious beer, I have delved deeper into the history, architecture, and art of the Czech Republic, especially Prague, since 2020. In early 2021, I even started a Czech language course for beginners. I can tell you, it is a tough language.
Since my first visit to Prague in 1993, I have been returning to the city of a hundred towers... and beers!
What do I do in Daily Life?
After finishing the Academy of Physical Education in Amsterdam in 1997, I started to work as a (group) fitness instructor in one of the largest gyms in the Netherlands.
Since 2011, I have been working as a self-employed Personal Trainer at the same the gym where I have happily worked for over 25 years.
In daily life, I train my client's, train four to five times a week for my own fitness, teach indoor cycling classes, walk and photograph regularly, and serve as a football referee for the local football club. Besides that I am a caring father, loving partner and not to lazy to do the household.
But my biggest passion is Prague...
When in Prague...
Backpack and Go
My Prague getaway starts the moment my feet hit the ground. I love to travel light, so I pack just a backpack, allowing me to bypass the baggage claim and dive straight into the adventure.
At Prague Airport, I grab a public transport ticket, validate it, and jump on bus 59, heading towards my ever-changing Airbnb apartment. Once I’ve settled in, I stock up the fridge with fresh groceries from the local market. Then, with excitement building, I head out to explore the city’s vibrant streets.
Only the authentic experiences
I have a passion for affordable quality that prioritises value over unnecessary luxury. As a Dutchman, I see the hunt for great deals as a sport - it's all about finding hidden gems that deliver a fantastic experience without the hefty price tag.
That’s why you won’t often find me writing about five-star restaurants or hotels, unless there’s something truly remarkable about the building's architecture that catches my eye.
No Tourist traps, please
Like the Honest Guide, I steer clear of non-cultural attractions and tourist traps, focusing instead on the authentic experiences that truly represent the heart and soul of a destination.
I might make an exception - when I can write about how awful it was. Like the time I tried Trdelník, arguably Prague's best tourist trap.
I dislike selfies
Prague Retreat
Since 2020, Prague has become my personal sanctuary, with at least four visits a year dedicated to what I call my "Prague retreat."
It’s a city where I truly disconnect, immersing myself in its magic from dawn to dusk, discovering the best it has to offer at every turn.
Taken from the Mala Strana Bridge Tower, a not so hidden gem
Uncovering Hidden Gems
Each visit is an opportunity to unearth new treasures I may have missed before. I purposely stay in different districts, allowing myself to soak in the distinctive character and charm of each neighbourhood, uncovering secrets that make Prague so captivating.
The streets of Prague are filled with precious moments: august 2024
Capturing Moments on Foot
There’s no better way to experience Prague than by walking its picturesque streets.
With my camera in hand, I cover fifteen to twenty miles a day, constantly in search of fresh perspectives and new memories to capture.
And yes, despite all the miles and countless visits,
there’s always something new to discover.
So no, I haven't seen it all... and that's the beauty of this city!
You Love Prague