Czech Stereotypes We Need to Retire—Now

Socks with Sandals ≠ Fashion

This one has long puzzled me. I’ve heard it said, but looking around I can’t say I’ve seen too much evidence of it on the streets. Then it dawned on me. Do people mean the house slippers? In which case, isn’t it more of a custom than a stereotype – a custom I’m partaking in as I write this. 

Today’s Mood, not Necessarily Unhappy

Sure, I’ve met unfriendly Czechs. But I’ve also met some genuinely gregarious, affable people here, too. If the question is the lack of smiles on the streets, I’m not sure if – personally – this is so much of a problem. Do our teeth have to be on permanent display to show contentment?

They’re Awful Service Providers

Which leads me to this one: Customer service in the Czech Republic doesn’t exactly have a stellar reputation, but that doesn’t mean that everyone’s doing it wrong – when you want better customer service it sometimes it pays to be a better customer.

Czechs Lack Vision

It’s a stretch to claim that the country is devoid of vision when it is currently a Central European hub of tech activity, particularly in second-city Brno, long known for its burgeoning start-up scene. Award-winning game-design, 3D-printing innovation, and critical medical research are all taking place here. Czechs have proven time and again that they are thought leaders on a global scale.

Indifference Is Part of the Cultural Identity

On a larger scale, one need only look to the myriad protests that swept the nation this year and last or the anti-government hijinx of Czech guerilla artists Ztohoven to see the importance of speaking out to the Czech national character and history.

Everyone Is an Atheist…

…But Nothing Is More Sacred than Beer

I’m not suggesting that the Czech Republic isn’t a beer drinking nation. At over 150 L per person per year, clearly devotion to the amber fluid remains strong. But it’s ridiculous to assume there aren’t some apostates out there. Among colleagues, family and friends I’ve met quite a few who opt for wine or even cider over beer. And a few, a tiny few, abstain in general. This is not to suggest beer’s position is under threat – just don’t be surprised if beer isn’t everyone’s beverage of choice.

In fact, new research from the Czech Wine Fund says that Czechs are actually drinking more wine than ever before and spending on quality bottles.

Tightfistedness Is a National Trait

This research speaks for itself: Last year, Czechs, including individuals and and domestic firms, gave the largest amount to charity in the history of the nation – over seven billion CZK, according to tax records. 

Czechs Hate Foreigners

Though this point has long been debated here, new research has emerged that delves into how Czechs feel about foreigners in their midst. And the results might surprise you: The majority of Czechs approved of immigrants who arrive to their country for a number of reasons, including religious persecution, family reunification, and study.