For the third year in a row, I found myself heading to Prague with my students. At this point, it’s starting to feel like a tradition, one I’m secretly happy to keep. This trip was smooth from start to finish. The students behaved wonderfully, which meant I could actually enjoy the city instead of worrying about logistics and annoyances. The trip itself was traditionally a bit exhausting, since I am never able to sleep in the bus.

We started, as always, in the Old Town. There’s something magical about those narrow streets and colorful façades, especially when you catch them in the early morning before the crowds arrive. On the Charles Bridge, the students alternated between snapping photos and trying to look unimpressed, but I caught a few wide-eyed moments when they thought no one was watching.

Old Town Square, Prague.

The Prague Castle was, as ever, a highlight. It’s not just a castle but a sprawling complex that has seen kings, emperors, and now presidents walk its grounds. Inside, St. Vitus Cathedral feels and truly is just super-massive. The students tilted their heads back, whispering things like “How did they even build this?”, which, for teenagers, is basically the highest form of praise.

St. Vitus Cathedral, Prague.

We also took a bus out to Kutná Hora. Descending into the silver mine was a thrill; narrow tunnels, and that damp, earthy smell that makes you imagine the lives of the miners who once worked there and risked their lives each day. Above ground, the Cathedral of St. Barbara stood in contrast, yet another magnificent Gothic elegance. Built by miners to honor their patron saint, its sheer scale left even some of the more chatty students in silence, at least for a while. Then came the Ossuary in town of Sedlec, where chandeliers and coats of arms made of human bones turned everyone silent and a bit uneasy. A few students couldn’t decide whether to be fascinated or creeped out, which is probably the exact reaction the place inspires.

But of course, no trip is complete without food. To my delight (since I made reservations), the students embraced it wholeheartedly. They loved our meals, especially at Sangam, an Indian restaurant that had even the pickiest eaters declaring they’d had a good food experience. I had the hottest Vindaloo Lamb in my life, even thought the waiter did warn me about it. I did sweat internally, but of course I didn't let my colleagues find out. But it was worth it.

The traditional Czech spot, Havelská Koruna, was another hit with its goulash, dumplings, and hearty portions that made everyone happy. However, the students were also very much preoccupied with joking about next-door venture Hooters.

And then there was trdelník, the sweet pastry sold on almost every corner. Watching the students line up for them, laughing with sugar-dusted smiles, is one of those small but nice memories I’ll keep.

Prague, as always, worked its charm; safe, clean, and full of stories at every turn. It’s a city that seems to offer something new even when you’ve been there before. After three years in a row, I can’t help but wonder: maybe it isn’t a tradition by accident, but because Prague keeps calling us back.

Prague, viewed from the Prague Castle.