Communism is a big factor on how the older generation reacts in the Czech Republic and especially Prague.  It has only been 30 years this November since the downfall of communism with the Velvet Revolution so many of the older generations grew up and still act in the way they do because of this.  One of the most noticeable differences in Czech’s is that they are very closed off and to themselves.  Nobody talks on the trams because they are so used to having to be careful of what they are saying and people spying and reporting them to the police.  The trams are definitely not a place that you would want to try your southern hospitality on. 

Even as a whole, Czech people are fairly rude when it comes to grocery store workers or cafe’s that are not in the tourist area and for locals.  The workers will raise their voice and walk away from you even if you are trying to speak Czech.  Don’t worry though after talking to some locals, I learned that they too think that grocery store workers are extremely rude and even got told it is a requirement on your resume to have being rude as a skill. 

There is a big noticeable change between the older generations and those of the younger generations when it comes to style and acceptance.  If you visit towns outside of Prague, they are known to be extremely racist.  This is because during communism, Czech’s were not allowed to travel outside the country and nobody was allowed to come in.  This means that many Czech people especially in small towns have never been exposed to people of color and it is very strange for them.  Prague however is a little better because of all the tourism they have had in the last 30 years. 

Although the older generation may come of as standoffish and not welcoming, you have to take a look back at their history in order to understand where they are coming from.  If you come to Prague, don’t worry, not everyone is like this but be on the lookout for these behaviors and changes between generations.