Do You Regret Moving to Czechia?

Yes and no…:D

After four to five years of living in Czechia, my experience has led me to reflect on the merits and drawbacks of this move. While there are some things I wish I had done differently, the benefits I’ve found in Prague far outweigh the negatives.

Weather and Climate

One of the most significant aspects of my decision to move to Central Europe was the weather. Although Prague and the Czech Republic are generally beautiful, the climate can be quite challenging. Cold, rainy, and cloudy weather is common for up to six to eight months of the year. The lack of sunshine and warmth often left me longing for the sunnier climates I experienced in southern Europe during my earlier travels in France, Spain, Portugal, and Italy.

This year has been an exception, but even during the ostensibly balmy months of spring and autumn, the weather remained persistently gloomy. The summer months, in particular, can be scorching, making it difficult to find places to cool down.

Cultural Differences and Mindset

A striking cultural difference I have encountered is the mental outlook of many people in Prague. There is a pervasive sense of gloom, sadness, frustration, and pessimism that can be contagious. Many locals tend to take politics too seriously, which can create a tense and often grim atmosphere. This mindset was particularly challenging for my partner and me, as we returned from our long-term stays in more sunny and carefree regions like southern Europe. Although we initially struggled to acclimate, we eventually found that this negative outlook was less prevalent among residents of neighboring regions like Moravia, who retained a more open and warm personality.

However, this gloomy mindset has a way of spreading and even changing people who originally came from more sunny regions. The influence remains, and it’s not uncommon to see even those from Moravia adopting a more pessimistic outlook.

Challenges and Necessities

Several minor inconveniences have certainly impacted my quality of life. Prague lacks lakes and affordable places to cool off during the hot summer months. Additionally, the city can be quite expensive for those working on non-IT basic level jobs. Despite these challenges, there are several positives that make Prague a great place to live and work.

Benefits: A Comprehensive Overview

Step-by-Step Inspection: Prague is a beautiful city with many areas suitable for relaxing and soaking in the atmosphere. Despite being touristy, the crowds are manageable, and the city's charm remains intact.

Cost-Effective Living: Another significant advantage is the affordability of life in Prague. Flat rents are cheaper compared to other comparably beautiful cities in Europe, particularly those in the western parts of the continent.

Comfort Level: The Czech Republic is technologically advanced and early adopter of any innovations. This level of technological development is similar to or surpasses that of some of the most tech-friendly cities in Europe.

IT Paradise: For those working in the tech industry, Prague is a haven. The city offers an ideal environment for IT professionals, with numerous tech and IT companies that offer a supportive and stimulating work environment.

Salary to Expenses Ratio: The salary to expenses ratio in Prague is excellent. For senior IT freelancers and team-leaders, it is even more favorable. For example, a senior freelance developer with the right experience and skills can earn up to 35k-6k Euros net per month, with expenses around 15k-2k Euros/month. Even as an employee, the gross salary is often comparable to that of a freelancer, thanks to the generous paid vacation and sick leave policies.

English Language: English is widely spoken in many tech and IT companies, predominantly in Prague. While I personally do not require it, knowing English can be a great asset for those considering a move to the area, as it is common for the majority of people to understand it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while I might have chosen a different region within Europe, Prague’s many advantages make it a worthy place to call home. Despite the challenges, the city's vibrant culture, affordable lifestyle, and excellent salary-to-expenses ratio make it an ideal destination for both residents and tech professionals. Moving to Czechia has been a journey with both highs and lows, but the overall experience has been positive.