How to Make the Best Out of Life in Prague with Maria Repova

Prague is a city that attracts people from all over the world, including Maria Repova. Born with Swedish and Czech nationality, Maria arrived in Prague in 2008 without speaking the language. After a long career as an English teacher, she’s now taking her skills in a new direction as a positive communication consultant. 

“I train staff in companies to communicate with one another for optimal outcomes. We create better work relations, any relations really, if we know how to communicate,” Manka explains while stressing that positive communication is not about eliminating negative thoughts and emotions from our everyday experiences. “It is about knowing how to handle the negative and enhance the positive ones.”

As a single mom, she doesn’t have a lot of free time, but she manages to squeeze in her biggest interest – workout training. “It’s my therapy!” she says. Manka is also a perpetual learner, “I am always studying something!”

If you’re looking for tips on how to navigate life in Prague, who better to ask than someone who has been living here for over a decade? In this interview, Manka offers her insights into her life and the lessons learned in Prague.

Making Friends and Finding Community in Prague

Making living as a freelancer can be challenging, and Manka knows this firsthand. “I don’t have colleagues to hang out with, and as a single mom, it’s a little bit difficult. I quite often find myself feeling lonely,” she shares. 

Luckily, Manka has found ways to connect with others in Prague, starting with the traveling community Couchsurfing, where she made some of her first friends in the city. Recently, she has turned to Meetup as a way to expand her social circle. 

“It seems like it’s somewhat the same vibe as Couchsurfing,” Manka says. “I go to free events, and networking events. I try to manage a mix of culture and fun when I spend time with people,” she explains. 

Her advice to others looking to make friends in Prague? “Join different meetup apps or look at Facebook. It is sometimes a little bit hard, as you seem that you don’t get deeply involved, and it is the same revolving questions.”

“Start in an art class or writing class – there are so many of these here. Be intentional with what you ask people around you to create a connection. If we go to things we like, we instantly have something in common with the people there.”

Balancing Life and Money in Prague

Despite spending a significant amount on training, with two gym memberships and regular pool visits, Manka is careful with her money, choosing to thrift shop for clothes. “Even though it is harder now than back in the day when it was dirt cheap!”

To save money, she also opts to cook her own meals. “I don’t eat out actually, OK sometimes but very rarely,” she says. The other advantage of making her own meals is that she knows exactly what’s in them. 

But that doesn’t mean she had to sacrifice enjoying life in Prague. From geocaching with friends to attending free events on Facebook or Meetup, Manka takes advantage of the many ways of having fun without breaking the bank. “To enjoy does not necessarily mean that you go out to eat and drink. I think it is important to shift that mindset,” she says. 

Finding Purpose and Fulfillment in Prague

Prague offers plenty of opportunities to find purpose and fulfillment, and for Manka, spending quality time with her daughter tops the list. “I spend a lot of time with her and anything that we do feels meaningful. We go geocaching or for coffee and hot chocolate,” she shares.

“I always have had a feeling that I want to go to more cultural events, but I just don’t seem to have the time.” While cultural events are something Manka would like to attend more frequently, she finds solace in hiking and being in nature. “It brings me clarity and peace of mind. I think we forget to connect with nature, and for me, it is so important. It is also free!”

For those seeking a fulfilling activity in Prague, Manka recommends going on a hike. Prague’s surroundings offer an abundance of opportunities to explore and connect with nature, which can be a transformative experience. “It might take some time to get used to; I was not the biggest fan at first, but go on a few before you discard it!”

Exploring Prague: Manka Recommends

If you’re looking to explore the beauty of Prague, Manka Repova recommends a visit to Divoka Sarka. Located in the city, it’s easy to reach by taking tram 26. The park is breathtaking, with stunning natural scenery that will leave you in awe. 

“The park is amazing and then there is a place to eat at well in the park, so you don’t feel you are too far away from civilization :D”, Manka adds. So if you’re in the mood for a nature escape without venturing too far from the city, be sure to add Divoka Sarka to your itinerary.

Making the Most of Life in Prague

Feeling inspired to explore Prague like a local? The city has much to offer for those seeking happiness, purpose, and belonging. Manka’s advice is sure to help fellow Praguers find their way to a more fulfilling life. Take her lead and try out some of her recommendations for an authentic Prague experience. Whether it’s geocaching or hiking in Divoka Sarka, there’s something for everyone.

As a Prague-based copywriter and brand consultant ✍️, I specialize in crafting meaningful stories like Manka’s, helping organizations and individuals connect with their audience in an authentic way and leave a lasting impression. 

If you’re ready to share your story or elevate your brand, get in touch and let’s create something amazing together 🤩. 

Don’t forget to explore more of the city’s wonders in our previous interview with Scott. And if you’re eager to uncover more of Prague’s secret corners, I’ve personally crafted a guide that will support your journey. Grab your copy here 👇

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