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Karlovy Vary is probably the best known spa town in the Bohemia region of the western Czech Republic. Over the past 100 years it has become a haven for many people with minor ailments who flock to the hot springs and beautiful countryside.

The King of Bohemia, Charles IV, founded Karlovy Vary, also known as Karlsbad or Carlsbad, in 1370. It started to become a famous tourist destination during the 19th century, when hordes of people started to flock to its hot springs. When other arthritis remedies stopped working, the spas of Carlsbad always promised to provide welcome relief from arthritis.

The town has become the preferred retiring destination not only for many people form nearby Prague, but also for people from all over Europe. It has acquired a notably Bohemian atmosphere and many artists nowadays live there. It also plays host to the annual Eastern European film festival. Accommodation during this even is hard to come by, so book in advance.

The town also plays host to numerous other musical and artistic events. To attend an open air concert in Karlovy where the orchestra plays the music of the classical masters is an experience to cherish for many days to come. And if you are more interested in rock music: I watched a performer playing an Ibanez electric guitar there last year in a way that had the audience going absolutely wild.

Just outside town you will find a cog-wheel railway which takes you to the top of the highest hill in the area. From the lookout point you have amazing views of the green Bohemian hills disappearing into the distance and the two rivers meeting in Karlovy Vary, the Tepla and the Ohre. And at your feet the stunning baroque town of Carlsbad.

The town has been the location for quite a number of international films. Including the James Bond movie Casino Royal and the 2006 film Last Holiday starring Whoopi Goldberg. Taking into account the numerous spas, historical hotels and beautiful countryside this is no surprise. There are also a number of smaller towns in the surrounding hills with similar beauty which could be visited during a day trip from Karlovy Vary.

Karlovy Vary has also developed into a mini-center for students who want to study English. There are a number of English language schools in town and also quite a few in the surrounding smaller towns. Its proximity to Prague (130km) and the German border places it in a very strategic position. It’s well worth a weekend visit if you happen to visit Prague.