Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Christmas Day
25 December
St Stephen's Day
26 December
Taxes & Refunds
Czech prices, including at shops, restaurants and hotels, normally include the
value added tax (VAT), so the price you see is the price you pay. Only rarely
will this not be the case and it will be clearly marked or stated in advance.
Non-EU residents can qualify for a tax refund on large purchases (over
2000Kč), subject to certain conditions. Look for retailers displaying a 'Tax Free
Shopping' sign and then inform the clerk you intend to get a refund. You'll
need to save the sales receipt and ensure the goods are not used. Normally
you collect the tax at the airport on departure or by mail once you return
Telephone
Most Czech telephone numbers, both landline and mobile (cellphone) num-
bers, have nine digits. There are no city or area codes in the Czech Republic,
so to call any Czech number, simply dial the nine-digit number. To call abroad
from the Czech Republic, dial the international access code ( 00), then the
country code, then the area code (minus any initial zero) and the number. To
dial the Czech Republic from abroad, dial your country's international access
code, then 420 (the Czech Republic country code) and then the unique nine-
digit local number.
Mobile Phones
The Czech Republic uses the GSM 900/1800 system, the same system in use
around Europe, as well as in Australia and New Zealand. It's not compatible
with most mobile phones in North America or Japan (though many mobiles
have multiband GSM 1900/900 phones that will work in the Czech Republic).
If you have a GSM phone, check with your service provider about using it in
the Czech Republic, and beware of calls being routed internationally (very ex-
pensive for a 'local' call).
