Ahoj, Monday! 5 tips for surviving the week ahead in Czechia

For those families about to embark in a the journey to secondary school applications, criteria for eight-year, six-year, and four-year gymnasium programs as well as specialized high schools and vocational programs, should already be available on individual school websites this week. Meanwhile open door days are here with many schools offering tours and programs for potential students and their families from this month throughout February.

Love Nordic cinema? Don’t miss the SCANDI festival from Jan. 15–22, showcasing 11 new films across 30 Czech cities. Prague's Edison Filmhub is the central hub, with English-friendly screenings and special programs. Highlights include Danish actor Ulrich Thomsen presenting The Immense. Explore films on politics, history, and taboos, plus genres from sci-fi to thrillers. Gala opening at Lucerna Cinema on Jan. 15 at 6 p.m.

Dispose of your Christmas tree responsibly in Prague. Strip it of decorations, then bring it to a public recycling container or designated collection point—not next to trash bins or on sidewalks. Use the city’s online map to find the nearest location. From Jan. 7 to Feb. 28, waste crews will process over 400,000 trees for compost or energy.

Planning a UK trip? Starting Jan. 8, 2025, non-European travelers will need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). European travelers have until April 2, 2025, with applications opening March 5. Apply online via the official UK government site to avoid delays. You can read about other legislation changes that will affect daily life in Czechia this year in our annual overview.

Start 2025 on a positive note with New Year’s resolutions tailored to life in Prague. Whether you want to get healthy, master Czech, or eat better, our newly released guide of useful services for expats will help you explore fitness studios, language schools, or wellness centers to help you achieve your goals. Haven’t set resolutions yet? Draw inspiration from this guide and make 2025 your year of growth and self-improvement.