Goodbyes to the Czech

There are sometimes in life, when you just have no clue what to say. Our last days in Prague were absolutely incredible and to an extent it was part of those experiences that are just so hard to put into words. Starting with Friday, we all knew we had to do something big for the first game of the World Cup. Mexico vs. South Africa was the starting game, and what better place to watch it from within the HardRock Café of downtown Prague. Between the foreigners, plethora of Americans and the tables of supporting Mexicans, it was a rather interesting game….full of chants, cheers, and boos. Who can been the chandelier to linger over us as we watched the match.

To make the evening even more enjoyable, many of us knew that our adventure to Prague would be incomplete without hitting up the largest nightclub in Central Europe. 5 full floors of pure fun and dancing. Four hours later, sore calves and a splitting headache, I can officially say we did it…or at least survived. Class all day and curiosity in the evening makes from some incredible long days, but hey…this is IBI….an academically rigorous program….one needs to work hard to play hard. Needless to say, we had a blast in the dance club and it was an experience of a life time.

It was Friday that led to one of the most extraordinary nights thus far on IBI. The night we have all been waiting for….USA vs. England in the World Cup. Luckily, in the center of old city, Hyundai had sponsored a huge (10 x 15) game viewing station with food vendors and so much more. Being inside the little town center, surrounded by historical relics and castles was incredible. Luckily, a lot of the guys were wearing USA jerseys so it didn’t take long (30 seconds) for a crowd to come flocking. First, we met 3 US army guys who drove 2 hrs since they knew there would be a concentration of Americans and Brits. Before we knew it, we were surrounded by fellow Americans and eyed by large pockets of Brits. The game was intense as England scored first and the US tied up the game. I have never felt so patriotic in my life. From US chants to the National Anthem, I was even fine with being sprayed with beer as with the entire crowd when the US team scored. It was definitely a night to remember.

All in all, Prague was rather enjoyable and we truly had a blast. The late night 45 minute walks home were calming and peaceful as the cobble stone streets lay empty and shop owners closed up. It was almost like something you would see in the movies. As always…we are up and out….early Sunday morning for a ride to Innsbruck, which I hear is incredible.