Enchanting Wilderness: Podyji National Park

• HelloAhoj
  [ahoy]
• GoodbyeNa shledanou
  [na shledanou]
• YesAno
  [ah-no]
• NoNe
  [neh]
• Please/You're welcomeProsím
  [pro-seem]
• Thank youDěkuji
  [dyeh-koo-yi]
• Excuse me/SorryPromiňte
  [pro-meen-teh]
• How are you?Jak se máš?
  [yak seh mash]
• Fine. And you?Dobře. A ty?
  [doh-breh. ah tee]
• Do you speak English?Mluvíte anglicky?
  [mloo-vee-teh ahng-leets-kee]
• I don't understandNerozumím
  [neh-roh-zoo-meem]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseRád bych viděl menu, prosím
  [rahd bikh vee-dehl meh-noo pro-seem]
• I don't eat meatNemám rád maso
  [neh-mahm raad mah-so]
• Cheers!Na zdraví!
  [na zdra-vee]
• I would like to pay, pleaseChtěl bych zaplatit, prosím
  [khtyel bikh zap-la-teet pro-seem]

• Help!Pomoc!
  [poh-mohts]
• Go away!Jdi pryč!
  [ydee preets]
• Call the Police!Zavolejte policii!
  [za-vo-ley-teh po-lee-tsee]
• Call a doctor!Zavolejte doktora!
  [za-vo-ley-teh dohk-toh-rah]
• I'm lostJsem ztracený
  [ysem ztra-chen-ee]
• I'm illJsem nemocný
  [ysem neh-mohts-nee]

• I'd like to buy...Chtěl bych koupit...
  [khtyel bikh koh-peeht]
• I'm just lookingJen se dívám
  [yehn seh dee-vaam]
• How much is it?Kolik to stojí?
  [koh-leek toh stoh-yee]
• That's too expensiveTo je příliš drahé
  [toh yeh preelish drah-heh]
• Can you lower the price?Můžete snížit cenu?
  [moo-zheh-teh snee-zheet tseh-noo]

• What time is it?Kolik je hodin?
  [koh-leek yeh ho-deen]
• It's one o'clockJe jedna hodina
  [yeh yed-nah ho-dee-nah]
• Half past (10)Půl desáté
  [pool de-saah-teh]
• MorningRáno
  [rah-noh]
• AfternoonOdpoledne
  [od-po-led-neh]
• EveningVečer
  [veh-chair]
• YesterdayVčera
  [v-cheh-rah]
• TodayDnes
  [dnes]
• TomorrowZítra
  [zee-tra]
• 1Jedna
  [yed-nah]
• 2Dva
  [dvah]
• 3Tři
  [tree]
• 4Čtyři
  [cteer-zhee]
• 5Pět
  [pyet]
• 6Šest
  [shest]
• 7Sedm
  [sedm]
• 8Osm
  [osm]
• 9Devět
  [deh-vyet]
• 10Deset
  [deh-set]

• Where's a/the...?Kde je...
  [kdeh yeh]
• What's the address?Jaká je adresa?
  [yah-kah yeh ah-dreh-sah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Můžete mi to ukázat (na mapě)?
  [moo-zheh-teh mee toh oo-kah-zat nah mah-peh]
• When's the next (bus)?Kdy jede další (autobus)?
  [kdee yeh-deh dahl-shee ow-toh-boos]
• A ticket (to ....)Jedno jízdenka (do ...)
  [yed-noh yeez-dehn-kah doh]

The area now known as Podyji National Park has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Archaeological finds, such as stone tools and pottery shards, indicate that early human settlers took advantage of the fertile lands and abundant natural resources. Evidence suggests that the region was a hub for trade and cultural exchange among various ancient tribes.

During the medieval period, the strategic significance of the Podyji region led to the construction of numerous fortifications. The most notable is the ruins of Nový Hrádek, a 14th-century castle built to protect the land from invaders. It served as a defensive stronghold and a residence for local nobility. The remnants of these fortifications provide a glimpse into the medieval military architecture and the turbulent history of the region.

The influence of Christianity in the Podyji region is evident from the numerous chapels, churches, and monasteries scattered throughout the park. The Louka Monastery, established in the 12th century by the Premonstratensian order, played a significant role in the religious and cultural life of the area. The monastery was a center for spiritual contemplation, education, and the arts, contributing to the cultural development of the region.

The Podyji region was not immune to the upheavals of the Napoleonic Wars. The area saw troop movements and skirmishes as various armies traversed the landscape. The local population often found itself caught in the crossfire, leading to periods of hardship and resilience. The remnants of military camps and battlefields serve as silent witnesses to this turbulent chapter in history.

World War II brought significant changes to the Podyji region. The area was occupied by Nazi forces, and the local population endured the hardships of war. Following the war, the establishment of the Iron Curtain between Eastern and Western Europe had a profound impact on the region. Podyji National Park, lying on the border, became a restricted area with limited access. The Iron Curtain's presence preserved much of the natural landscape, which later contributed to the establishment of the national park.

Podyji National Park was officially established in 1991, following the fall of the Iron Curtain and the political changes in Eastern Europe. The park was created to protect the unique natural and cultural heritage of the region. It spans over 63 square kilometers and features a diverse range of flora and fauna, as well as significant historical sites. The establishment of the park marked a new era of conservation and tourism, allowing visitors to explore and appreciate the rich history and natural beauty of the area.

The Podyji region is rich in cultural heritage and traditions, reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped its history. Local festivals, traditional crafts, and culinary specialties offer a glimpse into the vibrant cultural life of the area. The preservation of folk traditions, such as the annual grape harvest festival, highlights the enduring connection between the people and the land. These cultural practices continue to attract visitors and contribute to the region's unique identity.

Podyji National Park is located in the South Moravian Region of Czechia. The closest major city is Znojmo, which is approximately 12 kilometers away. The nearest international airport is Václav Havel Airport in Prague, about 200 kilometers from the park. From Prague, you can take a train or bus to Znojmo, and then a local bus or taxi to the park's entrance. The journey from Prague to Znojmo takes around 3 hours by train or bus.

Once in Znojmo, local buses and taxis are available to reach Podyji National Park. Within the park, the best way to explore is on foot or by bicycle, as the area is crisscrossed with well-marked trails. Bicycle rentals are available in Znojmo and at some entrances to the park. For those preferring guided tours, several companies offer hiking and cycling tours with local guides.

The official currency in Czechia is the Czech Koruna (CZK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Znojmo and the surrounding areas. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for use within the park, as smaller vendors and rural establishments might not accept cards. ATMs are available in Znojmo for cash withdrawals.

Podyji National Park is generally a very safe destination for tourists. However, standard travel precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded spots. There are no specific areas with high crime rates targeting tourists, but it's always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the European emergency number. The nearest medical facilities are located in Znojmo, where you can find a hospital and several clinics. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies in Znojmo can provide over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear for hiking. Don't wear high heels or overly casual attire when dining in finer establishments in Znojmo. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions when visiting religious sites, such as churches. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding trains and buses. Don't be loud or disruptive on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Dobrý den' (Good day) and a handshake. Don't forget to say 'Děkuji' (Thank you) when receiving help or service. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Znojmo pickles and Moravian wines. Don't rush your meals; dining is often a leisurely activity.

To experience Podyji National Park like a local, visit during the off-peak seasons of spring and autumn when the park is less crowded and the landscape is particularly beautiful. Engage with locals in Znojmo to learn about hidden trails and viewpoints. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Šobes vineyard, one of the oldest and most renowned in Moravia, for a wine tasting experience. Also, consider joining local events and festivals in Znojmo to immerse yourself in the regional culture.