Job Discussion Forums

[sussy]

I am moving to Prague this summer. In preparation for my move (and out of excitement and curiosity), I have been researching the cost and quality of living in the various neighbourhoods in Prague. I am a bit confused on how the zones are divided. From what I can tell Prague 10 is right next to Prague 2. Is this assumption correct? How are the zones assigned?

Also, I would also like some recommendations as to areas that are charming, nice and reasonably priced. Any suggestions?

Lastly, what is the going rate for a studio or 1 Bedroom versus a 2 or 3 Bedroom per person? (ie: Studio in Vinohrady for 9,000kc vs. 2 Bedroom for 8,000kc per person) Can I expect to pay a drastically different price if I choose to live in a studio/1Bed rather than with roommates in a 2/3Bed or is it relatively comparable?

Thanks so much!

[jitkasan]

hi, sounds like we're in the same position and have much the same questions. I've been asking around online and seems, Vinohrady is a nice place. Someone warned me to stay away from Prague 8, 9 and 10. Otherwise I'm also waiting for replies to your questions!

Jitka

ps. it does seem like you can get MUCH nicer places if you get a 2 bedroom and then share with someone, but that's always a tricky equation. For example: 2+1, 2 beds, 19000 CZK/month, utilities extra, 75 m2, 4th floor, Prague 1, part - Nove Mesto, Ostrovni street, art nouveau building, modern flat, fully furnished, standard furniture, one bathroom, one toilet, parquet floor, lift, two separate rooms, balcony, sunny, telephone, stove with oven, fridge, refridgerator, dishwasher, dishes, washing machine, bathtub, shower, linen.
Pics here: http://www.happyhouserentals.com/pics.php?id=4744&pic=http://www.happyhouserentals.com/photos/4744_1.jpg

[sussy]

Oh yes, I've spent many hours looking at happyhouserentals.com. They have some fantastic places for rent. I am wondering if their prices are fair or if there are better letting agencies to go to for something comparable. I was told to expect to pay approximately 7,000-8,000kc/month, however, I haven't been able to find anything all that impressive in that price range. Is there an up and coming area or hidden "gem" that anyone can recommend?

Also, Jitkasan, you mentioned that you were told to stay away from 8,9,10. what was the reason to stay away from those particular areas?

[spiral78]

That 7 to 8.000 figure will be either for a shared flat or a tiny studio in a very distant/undesirable location. I was paying 10,000 per month back in 1998 for a one-bedroom studio flat in a decent (not central) location. The general scoop is that teaching doesn't pay enough to finance living alone in a nice neighborhood. Obviously, that's why so many people share!! Basically, you have a much better chance of finding something really cool when you are there, know some people, and have a chance to look around on your own. It's NOT an easy task - housing's always been tight in Prague.
My suggestion is not to worry too much before you are there about finding housing. The flats on offer from abroad are generally the ones where the owners are hoping to rent to 'rich' foreigners - which you will not be, teaching English in Prague! Wait until you're there to try to land something. If you're taking TEFL training in the city, the school you are training in can put you in touch with estate agents. Likewise, when you land a job, the school that employs you can give you some leads.
Also, don't worry too much about neighborhoods. There is extremely little violent crime in the CR overall. I lived in Zizkov for two years, which is a neighborhood many people try to avoid - and it was all beautiful and safe. You can't really label the districts of Prague as 'good' or 'bad.'

[jitkasan]

I found the reply: I would personally avoid Prague 8, 9 and 10 only because I don't like the areas of 8 and 9, and Prague 10 does not have much of a night tram service.

I thought it was interesting the advice someone gave me about avoiding a place right on the tram line, since you'll have that noise going all night.

I initially thought that I'd like to live alone, since that's what I've been doing here in Japan. But am starting to warm to the idea of sharing with someone! The advantages being a better location and a nicer apartment, safety of someone else being there and it is nice to have someone to talk to sometimes. Also when you first arrive it's probably better to share I guess, until you get the feel of the city. I can't imagine commiting to a long-term lease in a city I don't really know, when fresh off the plane.

Does this sound right? Also any ideas on where to find people to share with? I now can't do the TEFL course because of the timing and so am on my own in Prague come Sept 22.

Jitka

[stephabee]

I'll be staying in Prague 9 during August for my TEFL course (TEFL Worldwide Prague). I haven't heard anything bad about it - hopefully it's okay.

I had originally planned on going to Poland after getting my certificate but have started looking into Prague. I hope to share a place with someone if I do stay there - you can get something nicer for a lot less money.

[spiral78]

Prague 9 was one of 'my' neighborhoods when I lived in the city.
TEFLW's located in a convenient location for both trams and metro, so you can be in the centre reliably within 30 minutes, even if you are unlucky with the wait times. The architecture is not the most stunning in the city, though there are some nice buildings, and there is also a very interesting park nearby the training centre. You'll find some decent restaurants and bakery/coffee shops too.
Jitka, I still think you can/should try to meet some of the TEFL trainees at one of the training centres. They'll be in the same situation as you, only with certification! I'm sure they'll be friendly - you've got the advantage of language. You could probably make some housing contacts this way too.