It’s important to note that most of the happening clubs in Prague are filled to the brim with foreigners. To find a good Czech crowd, try and find a local pub that’s open as late as the clubs. It’s not uncommon to spend any weeknight nursing a couple drinks in one of Prague’s underground bars rather than getting blackout drunk and dancing until your feet fall off.

In fact, I’ve realized over time that the idea of getting “super hammered” seems to be extremely American. Since the drinking age in the US is 21, many teenagers feel they’re missing out and start drinking as early as 16. 21st birthdays are an excuse to get so drunk that you forget how you even celebrated, and alcohol is seen as this unreachable and therefore desirable evil potion. I feel the European approach to alcohol is far safer. Since the drinking ages are lower, ranging from 16-18, no teenager is in an inexplicably mad rush to drink frequently in an effort to get drunk. It’s more of a social activity done to enjoy exquisitely made cocktails or meals better accompanied with certain wines - not take X amount of shots until you can’t walk straight. It’s because of this culture that drinking in Prague has become a learning experience in itself. The alcohol is plentiful and cheap, yet we don’t take advantage of it in a way that leaves us regretting our decisions the next morning. Instead, we’ve taken the time to do beer tastings, attend wine festivals, and enjoy handmade alcoholic beverages like fresh sangria. Even our professors have suggested we enjoy a glass of cider or wine while

reading through our assignments so that we better enjoy them.  

All in all, it's important we respect the law when we're in America. But don't be afraid to branch out when you're out of the country - there's something about foreign drinking culture that is definitely worth experiencing. 

Originally written for and published on www.pinkpangea.com