Going to the Czech Republic is discovering a country in the heart of Europe. In this very small European state you will find unexpected aspects of its culture and nature. It’s also a country of traditions. The Czech Christain dinner, for example, is connected with a great number of different customs, rules and superstitions. If you aren’t lucky enough to attend the preparation of such a dinner, you can take the challenge to put the dinner together sending some little gifts with original ingredients...

BUSINESS GIFT GIVING IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC

Czechs are formal and reserved. They are private people until they get to know you.
That is one of reasons why generosity and giving presents in business associates are not standard practice in Czech business culture.
But they certainly appreciate a thank you gift, like a gourmet gift with chocolates and biscuits, or a bottle of French wine.
Czechs are non-confrontational and often take an indirect approach to business dealings.
It will take several meetings for your Czech business associates to become familiar with you and appear comfortable and friendly.
When sending a gift, be willing to accept that the parcel may arrive one or two days later than you intended (not all destinations are served daily by shippers)

PERSONAL GIFT GIVING IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC

If you want to send a special gift to a Czech friend, a box of good quality chocolates, or a bottle of white wine will always be appreciated.
Add a handwrite note to give a personal touch to your present.
The family is the centre of the social structure in the Czech Republic. If you are thinking about surprising your Czech grandparents, it would be a good idea to choose gourmet basket with goodies or a chocolate box.
In general, you should be cautious about giving flowers, since people over the age of 35 often see flowers as having a romantic connotation.
Gifts are usually opened when received.
Sending a romantic relaxation set to your darling could relieve the pain of a long distance relationship.

Links to helpful sites About the Czech Republic:

Holiday dates in the Czech Republic
http://www.czech.cz/
http://www.lonelyplanet.com/worldguide/destinations/europe/czech-republic/
http://www.myczechrepublic.com/czech_culture/czech_holidays/christmas_superstitions.html

Czech Taxes and Customs to Send a Gift to the Czech Republic
http://www.people.fas.harvard.edu/~sever/CZECH_FAQ/Czech.about.html#money

Czech Personal White Pages for Addresses & Postal Codes
http://www.cpost.cz/jetspeed/portal/media-type/html/user/anon/page/default.psml/js_pane/produkty?show_title=1&ksid=26012&docid=26162
http://www.zlatestranky.cz/