Throughout the Czech Republic, the vestiges of Bohemian glory and communist rule can be found on the same block. More recently, the ’90s sparked the transformation of this country into an alternative, electrifying country. Döner kebabs, bockwurst, and Czech cheeses are peddled side by side. Freewheeling youth and a relentless drive toward the modern mean endless streets of hip hangouts and vehemently chill attitudes, making Czech cities, especially Prague, some of the best student destinations in Europe. And even though the locals might be too cool for school they do appreciate a tenacity to learn, evident from all the Czechs who cheer your blatantly wrong attempts at their language. Whether they’re dishing heapings of local cuisine onto your plate, sharing beers with you at a low-key Prague pub, or inviting you to a local party, the citizens will open their arms to you.