So, why Czech?

nionSo, for my first proper post, I thought the obvious topic would be, why Czech? Well, my reason was pretty straightforward, I study at Bristol University and they offer modern language courses in several languages. But, why not Italian or Spanish? Because I already do French and figured there's no point in paying one and a half grand a year to learn a language I could easily do on my own. German, you generally need the corresponding A-level to do. As for Russian, that was just me being pragmatic, it's more expensive and inconvenient to spend the year abroad there.
However, beyond university course options, there are many reasons I have come across that make Czech a great language to learn. First and foremost: PRAGUE! That mysterious European destination that enchants millions a year. I haven’t been yet But I’m definitely planning on going soon, and the fact I’m studying Czech is really going to add to what I take from the experience. Being able to speak the language of a foreign country really does add to the thrill of being there.

Throughout my studies of Czech at university my tutor has recommended a ton of modern Czech films to watch, and they’re a highlight of the language, no other country of only 10 million people has such a rich and varied cinema history, winning 3 Oscars for the Best Foreign Language Film category including those from the former Czechoslovakia, and it shows in the massive variety of styles, stories and budgets. I’ll post more about some of these films later, but for those who are curious, the film Kolya is the latest to win the Oscar and is definitely one of the most accessible Czech films and also introduces a period of massive change in Czech history.
Czech is also a difficult language and so knowing even enough to hold a simple conversation in it is a definite way to impress people. It is a HARD language and achieving even an intermediate level of skill in it will be difficult, but the culture and the language itself is enchanting enough to inspire you to success!