Tell us about you!
Where did you study abroad?
Prague, Czech Republic
How did you choose your study abroad location?
Prague is an extremely popular study abroad location at North Carolina State due to its variety of courses offered for all majors and programs, which are semester or week-long. This stood out to me, as did Prague’s location in the heart of Europe, which allows for greater convenience in traveling to nearby countries.
Do you speak the local language?
Did you have any concerns about traveling with food allergies?
Absolutely. I had many concerns about traveling abroad with a peanut and tree-nut allergy. Before arriving, I was unfamiliar with the language, which made me concerned about the language barrier. To ease my mind, I purchased an Equal Eats Allergy Card in my country’s spoken language, researched restaurants on Spokin, and utilized the grocery store. Thankfully, Prague and the countries I traveled to have labeled menus with the EU allergy labels listing which menu items contain nuts. Especially in Prague, most people are fluent in English, making communicating about allergies no issue.
What airline did you fly? How did you handle accommodations and airplane food?
I flew with Delta Airlines and JetBlue. I ate the food on the plane and had no issues. I notified a flight attendant before, ensuring the meals were safe. I enjoyed JetBlue’s free snacks, which included Partake Classic Grahams. Additionally, I brought snacks with me on the flights or would eat at the airport before my flight.
Where did you live and how were meals handled?
I stayed in an apartment with a shared kitchen space for the floor. I would split my time between trying new restaurants and buying my own food at the grocery store.
Were there grocery stores that you felt you could safely shop at?
Yes. I visited the grocery store multiple times weekly, buying snacks, fruit, dinner, and dessert. My favorite grocery store in Prague was Albert. While traveling in other countries, I would always go to the local grocery stores to buy snacks for the weekend.
What are your favorite places to eat in Prague?
Beer Garden Karlin: A great atmosphere to watch sports or enjoy the nice weather in Prague. A smaller menu but the food is wonderful! I’ve tried the cheeseburger and grilled sausage. Both are great options! Great place to watch the sunset.
Las Adelitas: A great spot for mexican food in Prague. The food and drinks are so tasty. I got the Burrito de Tinga which was a great size! The allergen numbers are listed on the menu. The strawberry frozen margarita pitcher is great to split for 3 people. My total meal was a great price!
Cafe Louvre: I recommend visiting for breakfast or lunch! So much history here! Great food and price. The lunch omelette was a very filling portion and the cappuccino was perfect!
Is there any food your study abroad location is known for that you were able to have safely?
Bohemia Restaurace: If you are looking for Czech food while staying near Old Town, stop here. They have an English version of the menu and are understanding of allergies. I’ve tried the burger with fries and the chicken schnitzel. Both were great meals!
What other places did you visit during your trip?
While studying abroad, I traveled to seven different countries! I stayed for multiple days in Budapest, Vienna, Nice, Rhodes, Paris, Krakow, Rome, Florence, Cinque Terre, Amalfi, Positano, and Sorrento. Pino’s Sandwiches in Florence was the most allergy-friendly restaurant I visited, and Gustapizza is now the best pizza I’ve ever eaten. Pierogarnia Krakowiacy is the best if you want to try authentic pierogies!
What were your favorite sweet treats you found while abroad?
Creme de La creme: The best gelato I’ve ever eaten in my life! Must try the cinnamon and coffee flavor. Some flavors contain nuts nearby, but the staff can accommodate if you need a clean scoop. I went multiple times a week while studying abroad in Prague.
Ginos Bakery: One of the best cannolis in Florence! The classic cannolis have no nuts, however many of the other items have lots of nuts on them. If cross-contamination isn’t an issue, I’d definitely stop here!
Melaleuca Bakery: I’ve heard so much about the cinnamon rolls here and they absolutely live up to their expectations! The cinnamon rolls don’t contain nuts, but the other bakery items have nuts on them.
Vivoli: The affogato here is unreal! Worth the visit!
Besides the food, were there any fun experiences or favorite things you did?
What are some tips you have?
My biggest tip is to bring your favorite granola bar or a small snack from home. This saved me on travel days and in the mornings before my classes. Definitely order an Equal Eats card. Also, have Google Translate downloaded on your phone. I used it countless times when translating the menus.
