Local culture in the Czech Republic

Expats may take a while to adjust to the local culture in the Czech Republic. Although the country has one of the most open and Westernised cultures in Central Europe, it also has practices and traditions that new arrivals may need time to get used to.

Studying some nuances of the culture can make the first few months in the Czech Republic not only more tolerable but also more enjoyable. Keeping an open mind will certainly help new arrivals accept certain realities and ease the culture shock.

For the most part, expats are won over by the arts and culture that the country has to offer, as well as the relatively low cost of living. That said, genuine friendships (achieved with a little persistence and patience) and dependability in business are also qualities that endear foreigners to the Czech Republic.

Language barrier in the Czech Republic

The vast majority of people in the Czech Republic speak Czech, and many, particularly the older generation or those outside major urban centres, don't speak English at all. This means that someone who is moving to the country and doesn't speak the language or have any Czech friends or relatives can have difficulty adjusting. Before moving to the Czech Republic, expats should learn a few basic phrases or key Czech words to help them get around. Road signs are also generally in Czech.

When looking for employment in the Czech Republic, knowing the language is a great advantage and may even be essential in some cases. Most public offices only offer forms and instructions in Czech. Additionally, television shows, movies and radio broadcasts are all either in Czech or dubbed in Czech.

Meeting and greeting in the Czech Republic

On a personal level, it can be quite difficult to make friends with Czech locals. The usual greeting is a handshake with eye contact, and it may take some time before an expat gets on a first-name basis with a local. When meeting a local for the first time, they may seem cold and unwelcoming because Czechs don’t typically smile or make small talk. In time, they may open up but still aren't likely to openly express emotion in the way some expats may be used to.

Dining in the Czech Republic

When dining at a restaurant or in a social setting, it isn't unusual for complete strangers to say 'dobrou chuť' (enjoy your meal) to others at a table. The appropriate response would be to say 'dobrou chuť' if the other party is also about to enjoy their meal or 'děkuji' (thank you) if they are not eating.

Religion in the Czech Republic

There is no single predominant religion in the Czech Republic, and in fact, most of the population is not religious. That said, the influence of its predominantly Catholic culture during the early part of its history can be seen in its historical architecture, sculptures and other art pieces.  

In general, Czechs are very tolerant of different religions and lifestyles. As a result, expats living in the Czech Republic should find it easy to practise and embrace their faith without fear of being criticised.

Communication in the Czech Republic

Czechs are usually straightforward in the way they communicate. When doing business, it is important to put everything on paper. Czechs often do business through verbal communication and make deals with a handshake. This is mostly due to the non-confrontational manner typical of the Czech people. When things go wrong, though, this makes it difficult to determine who is at fault. Thus, if it's a matter of great importance or involves a lot of money, getting a contract in place is essential.

Bureaucracy in the Czech Republic

Although most private firms now conduct their business online, the Czech Republic is still a country of paperwork. Whether opening a bank account, buying property or sorting out a legal matter, an overwhelming number of documents and signatures are still required. 

Family in the Czech Republic

Family is a significant part of Czech culture. Gatherings with loved ones are a common practice on weekends or on special holidays and are typically the centre of the social lives of locals.  

When a child reaches adulthood, they customarily move out of their parents’ homes, but it's still common for children to live in the same town as their parents. Thus, the closeness between grandparents and grandchildren is maintained.