James Fitzpatrick is very good at giving these "traveltalk" shorts that highlight the history, landmarks and traditions of various tourist destinations. Here we see some of the architectural highlights and history of Czechoslovakia and its magnificent capital of Prague, as well as a costume parade with men and women in a dazzling array of colours and fashions. We hear about the breakup of the Austro-Hungarian Empire which gave rise to this new nation in the post World War I era.
It seems ironic that this country, shortly after this film was made, would be invaded by Nazi Germany. World War II would follow and this country would become a satellite of Russia along with other countries of Eastern Europe for almost another half century. Czechoslovakia would then become Czechia and Slovakia.
This example shows the shortcomings of these traveltalk shows. As entertaining as they are for a few short minutes, they do seem to cater to a tourism that likes to be dazzled by the novelty of travel while failing to be aware of the problems that lie underneath the facade. The purpose of travel is not just to entertain but also to raise our awareness about the realities of life elsewhere on this ever changing planet.
It seems ironic that this country, shortly after this film was made, would be invaded by Nazi Germany. World War II would follow and this country would become a satellite of Russia along with other countries of Eastern Europe for almost another half century. Czechoslovakia would then become Czechia and Slovakia.
This example shows the shortcomings of these traveltalk shows. As entertaining as they are for a few short minutes, they do seem to cater to a tourism that likes to be dazzled by the novelty of travel while failing to be aware of the problems that lie underneath the facade. The purpose of travel is not just to entertain but also to raise our awareness about the realities of life elsewhere on this ever changing planet.