Czech Republic is an extremely popular part of Europen, with tourists often visiting for its exceptional night life and historical attractions such as Prague Castle, Old Town Square and Charles Bridge.
Around 300,000 British nationals travel to Czech Republic every year, which can be reached from the United Kingdom by airplane, train or car.
Travelling to Czech Republic
Travelling from Birmingham to Prague, Czech Republic’s capital, will take around four hours, but lengthy stops can see this rise to eight hours.
The duration of this increases to around 15 hours if you are driving through Europen, which will see you take in the sights of Belgium and Germany along the way. Taking the train, meanwhile, will require around 20 hours travel time.
Time zone
The time difference in Czech Republic is one hour ahead of British Summer Time and two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean time, which should not require excessive adjustments to how your medicate your diabetes.
If you are unsure as to how best to manage your diabetes then it is best to discuss a plan with your diabetes team.
Climate
The average climate in Czech Republic is almost identical to that of the UK, which should not necessitate any adjustments to your diabetes management.
Currency
The currency in Czech Republic is the Koruna, or Czech Crown. The Euro is not widely accepted, and establishments that accept Euros will not have good exchange rates.
Vaccinations
There are no mandatory vaccinations required to enter Czech Republic, but it is recommended to receive vaccination for hepatitis A, which can be contracted through contaminated food and water in Czech Republic.
Rabies can be found in bats in Czech Republic. This is not a major risk for travellers, but vaccination is advised for people who will be working or planning activities in remote regions that put them at risk of bat bites.
If you believe you may require these vaccines then you should consult your doctor at least eight weeks before travelling which should allow enough time for you to receive them.
Otherwise, the opportunity should be taken to ensure existing vaccinations such as your yearly flu jab and those against polio and tetanus are also up to date.
UK Global Health Insurance Card
Czech Republic is amongst the European countries that allow you to receive state healthcare either at a reduced cost or sometimes for free.
Apply for a GHIC (UK Global Health Insurance Card) – you can apply online at https://overseas-healthcare.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/get-healthcare-cover-travelling-abroad/start and you can receive free cover in some European countries.
Emergency number
The emergency services number to be called in the Czech Republic is 112.
Insulin
You should note which syringes are available in Czech Republic, with U-40 mostly used, but U-100 syringes are also available
The vast majority of insulin in the UK is U-100 insulin. If you need to take a different strength of insulin, say in an emergency, it’s important that you use the correct device and syringes for that insulin.
For example, you would use a U-40 syringe for U-40 insulin. You will need to work with a doctor getting the right dose if you’re using a different form of insulin.
Diabetes associations
It is important to note the diabetes associations in the country you are travelling to in case of an emergency.
There are two diabetic associations in Czech Republic that can be contacted for information prior to your stay. Their addresses are:
- Ceska Diabetologicka Spolecnost (a member of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) since 1988), Sokolska 31, 12026 Prague2, Czech Republic Tel: +420 222 513 053 Email: [email protected]
- SVAZ Diabetiku Ceske Republiky (a member of the IDF since 1994), Prvniho pluku 174/8, Karli, 186 00 Praha 8, Czech Republic Tel: +420 603 474 294 Email: [email protected]
Questions
- How is blood glucose measured in Czech Republic? Blood glucose levels are measured in mmol/l, as they are in the UK
- What language is spoken in Czech Republic? Czech. Although many people also speak German and English
- Will I need an international driving license when driving in Czech Republic? No
- If I want to hire a vehicle during my visit, will I face any form of discrimination? No
- What sugar free drinks are available in Czech Republic? Diet Coke, Soda water and mineral water
