Crime and Anti-Semitism in the Czech Republic

I will be going to Brno and perhaps Prague in a couple of weeks and I wonder about some of the stories I have heard about Anti-Semitism and the prevalence of pickpockets and theft from automobiles.

I have heard that there is quite a bit of Anti-Semitism there since the fall of the communist regime and the subsequent freedom of expression which has ensued.

Do I need to be extra careful and are there areas I should avoid altogether? Since I will have no clue what people around me are saying I wonder about physical safety in unfamiliar surroundings.

Any comments or pointers would be appreciated.

Steve

 

Well, Jewish community in the Czech Republic is quite large and well adjusted. I never noticed any antisemitism. But then again, I'm not jewish.
The first time I was in Prague, our tour guide warned us about pick-pocketing, so the first few days we were extra carefull about our wallets and stuff. But only the first few days - later on you losen up. I never heard about anyone who's wallet has been stolen from him/here while gazing at, I donno, some statue, or a cute Italian guy. :wink:
While in Prauge this summer, I noticed there's a police van at almost every corner, and there's alot of police officers patroling on the streets. In some other circumstances I would've found that disturbing, but with the current situation in the world, it made me feel safe.

 

always beware of gypsy pickpocketers while travelling in the MHD (tramway, bus and such)

 

I know nothing about anti-semitism in CR. Pickpokets are another story. Be especially alert on the so-called "tourist tram" (#22) that goes fron National Theatre to the Hradcany Castle. If you are a woman, keep your purse close to you. Last time I was in Prague my sister warned me against a gang of Bulgarian purse-cutters - they slice purses open with a blade. Also be aware of dark-skined unkept individuals (the gypsies). Don't let them nowhere near you. I know it sounds terribly racist but many of them are petty criminals.

 

heh if you dont go dressed like an orthodox one and start practicing some cabalistic rituals on public square then i think the people will accept you well