Observatory and Planetarium, Brno

When was the last time you took your kids to a planetarium? In fact, when was the last time YOU went to one? Probably in your primary school days...With the new Star Trek movie running in cinemas and the increasing popularity of The Bing Bang Theory sitcom, perhaps now is the right time to brush up on your astronomy knowledge. And what better place to hide from the uncertain European summer weather than under the roof of a planetarium!

The Brno observatory is certainly proof that planetariums can be cool. This particular observatory was extensively renovated in 2010 and boasts of beautiful modern interiors and captivating video projection shows. Below a few images to serve as teasers, for more don't hesitate to head down to Brno to see it for yourself.

Photos courtesy of the Observatory and Planetarium, Brno

Bistro Franz, Brno

Opened since December last year, Bistro Franz has been pleasing the palates of Brno food lovers for only a few months. Despite this, the bistro has already gained a remarkable reputation, which it continues to build with its fresh seasonal dishes, as well as its unique interior. Bistro Franz also serves as evidence that the tradition of bistros is not only returning to the capital Prague but is also becoming a trend in the regions.

Photos courtesy of Bistro Franz.

Café Tungsram, Brno

Tungsram is not only the Hungarian manufacturer of light bulbs but also an intimate non-smoking café in Brno. Café Tungsram opened its doors in November 2008 and till this day attracts visitors with its unique design and original event marketing.   

The theme of the café is film, from which it also takes its name - after all light bulbs are an essential part of the industry. The interior reflects this obsession with film artifacts nicely; you'll be surprised to see what one can do with as simple an object as a light bulb.

Photos courtesy of kiva.cz (2009) 

Masaryk University campus, Brno

 Today Brno was witness to the official opening of the new Masaryk University campus.

The project comprises a total of 28 buildings and took six years to complete. The campus opened its doors to the public in a number of phases and can now, in its full capacity, house 5,000 students and 1,000 faculty members.  

Photos courtesy of Masaryk University.

Výtopna restaurant, Prague - Brno - Orlová

Imagine a bar interlinked with railroad tracks, where your beer and food is delivered on a tiny choo choo train! Sound like a crazy idea to you? Try visiting one of the Výtopna restaurants, now opened in Prague, Brno and Orlová. The concept was founded by Petr Fridrich, who opened the first restaurant of its kind in Brno in 2009.

Photos courtesy of Výtopna.

Hostel Fléda, Brno

Given that the summer holiday season is in full swing, it's time we revisited the designer hostel concept and satisfied the taste buds of all you hip travellers out there. Take a look at Hostel Fléda in Brno, Czech Republic's second largest city.  

 

The hostel is opened all year round and will grab your attention with its colorful interior.

If the characteristic atmosphere of the rooms didn't lure you in, its original cafe design will.

Photos courtesy of Hostel Fléda.

Comsa Brno Palace Hotel, Brno

In June 2009 Brno, the second largest city in the Czech Republic, saw the opening of the four star hotel Comsa Brno Palace Hotel.

The building of the hotel dates back to the 19th century, its design attributed to the architect Franz Fröhlich. The original concept of the house was designed for residential living. In 2006 the derelict building was sold by the Brno municipality to the Spanish investor Comsa International.

Comsa International renovated the building into a four star superior luxury hotel, giving it its current look & feel.

Photos courtesy of Comsa Brno Palace Hotel.