I'm thrilled to hear that someone is heading to Prague! Prague was my home for two years. If you want any tips on cafes, restaurants, sights- ANYTHING- I'd love to share it all with you!

If I were you, I would definitely find accommodation in Mala Strana, near Staromestske Namesti (Old Town Square), or (maybe) near the National Theater. That way you will be within walking distance of everything - and that is the BEST (and in my mind the only) way to see the city.

My family stayed in the Nosticova Residence in Mala Strana, and it was excellent! These apartments are beautiful, clean, and in one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Prague (http://www.nosticova.com/). I have heard rave reviews over the more economical Penzion Dientzenhofer nearby (tel: 531 672/538 896/fax: 5732 0888).

Tom's Travel (tel: 293 972/290 696/299 349/fax: 291 866/ email: toms@t...) has some very nice apartments to rent, so you might want to try contacting them, too. Although I never rented through them, it is a popular agency for tourists. They can also book accommodation for you in other Czech cities and towns. I have never heard of Mary's, but AVE I would stay away from. Their service is terrible.

Keep in mind that if you are required to put down a credit card to secure a reservation that you may have to pay a surcharge. When I was there last, a percent was added on to MasterCard charges only, but not Visa and Diner's Club. Be sure to ask about this surcharge in advance of paying.

I don't want to make it more difficult for you to plan your itinerary, but you should SERIOUSLY consider heading down to Cesky Krumlov! You would be missing out on one of the most beautiful villages in the Czech Republic if you didn't! If you want a hotel there, I can tell you exactly where to stay.

I hope some of this is helpful.

Sandy Washington, DC http://www.globaleventspartners.com