Getting there You can reach Prague from almost all the major UK airports, including Bristol, Birmingham, Cardiff, Liverpool, Manchester and London. Budget airlines dominate the schedules, but BA and Czech Airlines also fly.

Where to stay "Design hotel" Yasmin occasionally goes too far—upside-down trees, which unsurprisingly, were dead—but its central location, well-equipped suites and garden terrace more than make up for the artistic overload.

Business climate The Czech Republic's transformation into a market economy has been smoother than most. Its central location, combined with cheap wages and solid infrastructure, have made it an attractive prospect for multinationals seeking a central European base.

Ice breaker The Emperor Charles IV is the city's most famous forefather, lending his name to streets, a square and landmarks-a posthumous reward for his efforts in transforming medieval Prague into "the mother of cities".

Etiquette Negotiation is often straightforward: Czechs rarely counter-offer.

Eat like a local There are plenty of international options in Prague, but for simple, cold-busting Czech cuisine, try the Strahov Monastery Brewery (+420-2-33 35 31 55).