If and when I ever get to Europe from the States, I would likely visit Western Slovakia and Moravia since it is close to where my ancestors came from. How is Moravia different from Bohemia in its culture, religion, customs or are there no major differences? What are the best things to see and do in Moravia? How easy or difficult is it to travel between Slovakia and Moravia for someone from the USA? I hear that 2 things that one should not miss are the university, medieval town of Olomouc and the folk festival at Straznice. Any advice on these? Dekuju, Dan
Hi Dan, it is difficult to name differences between "czech" and "moravian"; it is usually said, that people in Moravia are more friendly and optimistic, but also that they are a bit slow In my opinion there are some language differences (moravian people use more literary language), but customs, culture and other things are very similar. Since I am from Olomouc, like a patriot I have to recomend you to visit this beautiful city! It is not very big (100.000 people), which gives it special romantic atmosphere. You do not have to move on crowded streets and even though you can see many historic jewels. When you are interested, you can find more on http://www.olomouc-tourism.cz . Palacky University in Olomouc is the second oldest one in CR (founded 1573, http://www.upol.cz ) and especially newly reconstructed building of the former Jesuit College is surely worth seeing. I am qiute proud on my Alma Mater Thanks for your interest, Iva
Thanks, Iva/Avi?? Apparently there aren't that many differences or they are difficult to describe as there have been many views on this topic but you are the first to respond. Also, thank you for the web sites, I will definitely spend time visiting them until I can afford to visit the actual places in Moravia and Slovakia that I intend to. Gosh airline prices are expensive this summer. From several sources I have heard that Olomouc is one of the undiscovered jewels of Central Europe....kind of like visiting Prague without the hassle and high prices. I will have to visit Prague one of these days, also, though. If anyone would want to comment on Brno, I would appreciate that also. I have this feeling that perhaps one of the best things to do in Moravia would be to visit the smaller towns and villages, though. Best regards, Dan
