Kings Court Prague ★★★★★

Prague promises a lot, from the iconic 14th century Charles Bridge which criss-crosses the Vltava River, the medieval ramparts of Cesky Krumlov, to the great bastions of architecture that provide a fairytale backdrop. My expectations were high as I researched my trip to this bewitching capital, my mind full of Kafka-inspired quotes and pictures of nights spent languishing in Bohemian bars. Prague just oozes with that rich, shabby charm – a heady concoction of old and new, grandiose and gritty. They say a day in Prague is never wasted, a comment that piqued my curiosity.

It was with this intrigue in mind that I checked into the King’s Court Prague Deluxe Hotel, a sumptuous building that rises, proud and impressive, out of the Republic Square. My journey to the hotel itself was an exciting adventure. An adventure edged with huge, intricate architecture, jutting spires, and the buzz of lively lifestyle.

Inside, I ventured even further into the promise of Prague when I was greeted by sumptuous design that seemed to have stepped straight out of a royal storybook. Defined by high-ceilings, wide staircases, and glitzy chandeliers, the King’s Court exceeded my expectations of the bohemian capital. But the eclectic mishmash of patterned carpets and colourful furniture kept the quirky fire of Prague alive.

My room was the same: a sophisticated, luxurious affair with a splash of Prague’s persistent personality. Flanked by swirling rugs, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a bed to die for (they have them specially made for guests’ comfort!), it was the perfect place to flop after a day of delving into the plotlines of the city.

Mornings were my favourite time of day in Prague. The city streets were quiet, the sunlight a hazy glow on the horizon, the endless possibilities flaunting themselves with every step I took. Just a few moments from the hotel I became a part of the major landmarks – the Old Town Square with its Gothic churches and fantastical clock, the rustic roads of the Jewish Quarter and its collection of cosy cafes and galleries, and the Charles Bridge, which cast a surreal silhouette across the backdrop of Prague.

As darkness fell, the atmosphere in Prague came a live; an electric buzz that penetrated every street. Revellers spilled out from underground absinthe bars, outdoor cafes sprawled out into the roads, and locals gathered in jubilant groups for a stroll around the squares. As for me? I delved right back into the wonder of the King’s Court, indulging in the sauna and massage services before grabbing a drink at the Vodka Lobby Bar and dining at the on-site restaurant –the hearty Czech cuisine was ideal fuel after a hard day’s exploring! For that last lick of Prague’s personality I dipped into the King’s Court casino and had a flutter – the perfect way to end a rich and surreal day.

Prague certainly promised a lot and it pulled through in every aspect. The King’s Court offered the ideal combination of sumptuous style and quirkiness hidden away behind the grandeur of its jaw-dropping architectural shell – a five star way to explore the city. And I have to agree with what they say: a day in Prague is never wasted!