On our last full day of the trip, we went to Český Krumlov, a town with a 13th-century castle. We toured the castle and noticed glamorous dance halls, bear rugs, and ornate artwork. People back then lived very luxuriously, but also had some of the worst sanitation of the time.
It was nice to walk around the city—it felt like it was designed for strolling, with a very simple layout. I also liked how there were random steep side roads to explore. Český Krumlov also knows how to make a good burger. My friend and I used our Czech at the restaurant, and I think the waiter appreciated it.
I think I felt most like a global citizen when we had free time to explore the town on our own, visit shops, and walk around the historic streets. It was interesting to learn that the castle had a moat filled with bears for protection, and that the town still carries on the tradition today. The guide mentioned that the bears would be gone by 2030, since public opinion on the practice has changed—another example of an old city adjusting its traditions to fit a more modern perspective.
I think the U.S. could use more cobblestone pathways and should prioritize historic preservation more. Pennsylvania does a pretty good job with preservation, but most states seem to do whatever they want. I like how the Czech Republic focuses on uniformity in certain areas. By requiring buildings to follow a similar style, you create a strong sense of cohesion, and a town that flows as you walk through.
Swanson School of Engineering 