Getting around...

These feet were made for walking. Especially on cobblestone of all shapes and sizes. After a long day, your feet sure take a beating. The most important item on my agenda is usually: comfortable shoes. Conventionally, that means socks and tennis shoes. But I say nay, for two reasons. Wear a pair of Nikes and you scream American, not to mention that your feet get incredibly hot and sweaty. Instead, I say Rainbows. They are the most comfortable, and SUPPORTIVE flip-flops out there and can defintely handle the terrain. But, as with any shoes, make sure you break them in first.


Also, get a dependable guide with an awesome map. I always have a Lonely Planet stashed in an easy to grab pocket at all times.
Littered with post it notes, I whip it out inconspiculously at parks to orient myself (http://www.lonelyplanet.com). Rick Steve's is also great for anywhere is Europe (I've heard--http://www.ricksteves.com), and I have a couple books from DK and Frommers to supplement. One of the most important items to have and be comfortable with, in my opinion, is a guide book with/and a trusty map. Coupled with a notebook, you are set for the day.

Here is where I get into my love of maps. (they really are amazing) From backpacking on project wildcat and travelling in general--the best way to orient yourself is to really immerse yourself in your surroundings...and keep the map secondary. You can keep your head in a map all day, but unless you first familarize yourself with what is around you, it is difficult to truly have a command on navigation. But at the same time, having the map to consult with is central in fully understanding the layout of it all. I generally have several checkpoints in my head, then I try to see the relationships between them. As with everything, it all boils down to relationships.

I am a huge dork. :)

If you want to follow along on a map, I reccomend this interactive one. Beware, it is a german site.
http://www.hot-maps.de/europe/czech_republic/prague/homeen.html