I use Czech glass beads in my jewelry designs, and I looked high and low for a jewelry tour where I could actually see the beads being made, not just visit bead shops. Blanka is a jewelry designer, too, and she created a fabulous tour for me! Up to four people can be on the tour, but I went alone. We journeyed up into the mountains about 1.5 hours outside Prague, to see the small crafters at work. We visited two bead-making operations (one small, one larger) and a lamp-working studio. I was able to watch the process as well as purchase beads made onsite.
I wanted to see the Bead Museum, which we did. It's under renovation at the moment, but still well worth the trip. The Czech glass items (in addition to the beads and jewelry) were spectacular!
We finished our day with a few more good bead stores, including another factory store. I found both basic beads and many that I've never seen in the States. We lunched in one of the villages, and I had the most delicious local produce!
Blanka is knowledgeable, knows her crafters, and is totally entertaining! Many of the crafters speak little English, so this tour wouldn't be possible without her interpretation skills. She was easy to travel with - I felt I'd known her for years.
This tour is designed for those who really love beads! While the scenery is lovely, it's not a sightseeing tour. We were on a mission! I was on "bead overload" at the end of the day - but a very, very happy camper! (BTW - bring an extra suitcase or stop at a local post office to ship home!)
I was in Europe for two weeks, and this very special day was a highlight I will always remember. If there could be a higher rating than "excellent" - this day deserved it!