Do Czechs Hate Foreigners? Part 1

So do the Czechs really hate us?

It’s a vast topic that begs to be explored in depth – which is why Expats.cz plans to make it a three-part series. In future articles I’ll tackle xenophobia and expat (non-)integration. First though, I’d like to begin with first impressions.

“It has not. She just looks like that. While members of other ethnicities need to have a serious reason to being sullen, the Czechs need none.”

So here it is: confirmation then that Czechs do, by their own admission, come across as a cantankerous and grouchy bunch – and regrettably, this is the first thing newcomers notice about them. 

That’s just it though: Czechs are democratic with their dour glares and sour expressions. A piece of advice for any recent arrivals, especially those hailing from that country where the pursuit of happiness is a constitutional right: don’t mistake poor customer service for xenophobia.

“Ah,” says that irritating self-appointed expert Mr. Smug Expat. “But what you have to remember of course that this is all part of the Communist legacy.”

Let’s replace that moody Czech girl with a perky American one. The reason for her super sunny demeanour isn’t better manners but a desire to top up her wages with tips. As “Halfman Halfbiscuit” points out on that epic thread, “American service is NEVER sincere. It’s an act. Always has been, always will be.” Some natives of the Land of the Free have told me they find the Slav grumpiness a relief after a lifetime of exposure to a chronically positive perspective. Better a sincere frown than a fake grin – or so the theory goes anyway.

Those amongst you who hanker after a long lost age of chivalry needn’t despair. There are some places where you can experience old-fashioned courtesy here in Prague. If you don’t believe me, just try shoving a pillow up your sweater, hopping on a tram, and then counting how many people leap out of their seat so you can take the weight off your pregnancy-induced swollen ankles. Unless you happen to be a man – in which case everyone will assume you’re obese.

I’d like to conclude by cordially inviting you to share your views in the comments section. So go on, share your opinion – but don’t forget to mind your manners.

Oh, and have a nice day.

As the sarcasm font is yet to be invented, you’ll never know if I really meant that.

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