My Journey Through Prague: Exploring History, Food, and Martial Arts

I enjoyed visiting Prague (Praha) this summer, a city steeped in history, charm, and culture. I was en route to the Meltingpot Forum at Colours of Ostrava, where I was invited to speak. In addition to my role as a speaker, I also managed Yogetsu Akasaka, which was performing at the festival. Before heading to Ostrava, I stopped by Prague to catch up with my good friend, Jan “Johnny” Allister, whom I had met at the previous year's Biohacker Summit in London. Spending a few days in Prague allowed me to experience this incredible city firsthand.

Sightseeing Through Prague’s History

Johnny was an excellent host, showing me around New Town and Old Town. Prague is a city that blends the medieval with the modern, and as we strolled through the streets, I felt as though I had stepped back in time.

At the Old Town Square, I was spellbound by the renowned Astronomical Clock, a marvel that dates back to 1410. It stands as the third-oldest astronomical clock globally and the oldest still in operation. The intricate dance of its hands was a sight to behold, a testament to human ingenuity and the passage of time.

Our journey also took us to Prague Castle, where the sweeping views of the city were nothing short of awe-inspiring. From the castle's vantage point, the red rooftops of Prague unfolded before me, a living testament to the city's rich history. We then crossed the iconic Charles Bridge, a symbol of unity that has withstood the test of time.

During our tour, I couldn't help but notice how affordable the beer is in Prague—a point of pride for Czechs. Sipping a cold beer while soaking in the city’s vibrant summer atmosphere was one of the trip's simple yet memorable pleasures.

A true highlight of my visit was meeting the legendary Czech singer Lucie Bílá. She was incredibly kind and even gifted me a handmade accessory, a keepsake I will treasure from this trip.

Embracing the Local Cuisine

As a biohacker, I typically avoid gluten, but I have a personal philosophy: "When in Rome, do as the Romans do." I consider traveling a special occasion, and during my time in Prague, I indulged in traditional Czech cuisine. One of the standout dishes was svíčková na smetaně, a delicious beef sirloin served in a creamy vegetable sauce. The richness of the flavors and the hearty nature of the meal made it an unforgettable culinary experience. Traveling through a country like the Czech Republic wouldn't be complete without sampling its local food, even if it deviates from my usual diet.

Martial Arts in Prague

In addition to sightseeing and culinary exploration, I also had the opportunity to connect with Prague’s martial arts scene. Johnny is involved in a men's fitness group called Brothers, which incorporates MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) training. I had the honor of joining one of their classes and training under the guidance of Bulletproof BJJ, where Johnny's professor runs classes.

I also hosted a small MMA seminar for the Brothers group during my visit, sharing my experiences and techniques with the participants. It was a humbling experience to be part of such a passionate community of martial artists in Prague. The energy and dedication of the Brothers group left a lasting impression on me, reminding me of the global power of martial arts to bring people together.

Next Stop: Ostrava

After a few days of exploration, training, and enjoying Prague’s unique vibe, it was time to continue my journey. I boarded a long-distance train from Prague Central Station, heading toward Ostrava for the Meltingpot Forum and Colours of Ostrava. My time in Prague was an incredible start to this trip, and I left the city with a renewed appreciation for its history, culture, and the wonderful people I met along the way.

My Time in Ostrava: Melting pot Forum, Colours Festival, and Supporting Yogetsu Akasaka

After my enriching experience in Prague, I arrived in Ostrava for the much-anticipated Meltingpot Forum and the renowned Colours of Ostrava music festival. The event occurred in a stunning and historic venue, the Dolní Vítkovice, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The industrial backdrop provided a unique atmosphere, blending the festival's modern vibrancy with the location's historical significance.

Workshop: Unlocking Movement’s Mysteries

My first engagement at the Meltingpot Forum was a workshop titled "Unlocking Movement’s Mysteries," on the Good Life Stage on July 17th, 2024. This 90-minute workshop explored how movement impacts our well-being, both physically and mentally. I guided participants through a series of exercises aimed at improving mobility, posture, and body awareness. As an MMA fighter and biohacker, I emphasized the importance of functional movement for enhancing overall health.

The workshop focused on practical techniques participants could integrate into their daily routines. Attendees were eager to learn, and the session sparked great conversations about the relationship between movement, biohacking, and optimal health. Seeing the audience engage with these concepts and apply them in real time was incredibly rewarding.

Speaking at the Meltingpot Forum

On July 18th, I took the stage at the Vitesco Gamechangers stage for my talk, “What Does Ultimate Mean?”. This presentation delved into the philosophy behind pushing human limits—whether in sports, personal development, or everyday life. Drawing on my background in MMA and biohacking, I discussed the mental, physical, and emotional components of achieving what we perceive as "ultimate."

The audience was diverse, ranging from fitness enthusiasts to tech innovators, and the atmosphere was electric. The talk sparked deep discussions about how we define success and excellence in a world that constantly demands more from us. I was honored to be part of such an open-minded and dynamic forum that encourages bold ideas and innovation.

Supporting Yogetsu Akasaka at Colours of Ostrava

In addition to my speaking engagements, I was there to support Yogetsu Akasaka, a talented Buddhist priest and beatboxer whose performances were highly anticipated at Colours of Ostrava. Yogetsu performed twice during the festival—first on the Cacao Stage on July 17th and then on the Fresh Stage on July 18th.

Yogetsu’s performances were nothing short of mesmerizing. Combining his Buddhist chants with live beatboxing and looped sounds, he created a unique auditory experience that resonated deeply with the audience. The way he blended spirituality with modern soundscapes fit perfectly within the creative energy of Colours. His performances drew large, captivated crowds, and it was incredible to see his art touch so many people.

A Powerful Fusion of Cultures

The Colours of Ostrava festival, known for its incredible lineup of global musicians, provided the perfect venue for this fusion of ancient and modern art forms. It was an extraordinary experience to support Yogetsu while also participating in the intellectual discourse at the Meltingpot Forum.

The Dolní Vítkovice industrial site, with its towering steel structures and rich history, added an extra dimension to the festival. This fusion of modern art, music, and culture, set against a backdrop of historical significance, made the event truly one-of-a-kind.

A Memorable Journey

My time in Ostrava was an unforgettable chapter in my summer travels. From speaking at the Meltingpot Forum to supporting Yogetsu at Colours of Ostrava, this trip was filled with learning, collaboration, and connection. The energy of the festival, combined with the intellectual depth of the forum, made for an inspiring few days.

Now, as I reflect on this journey, I feel immense gratitude for the opportunity to share my passion for movement, health, and personal growth with such a vibrant audience. I look forward to seeing where these connections take us next—whether in biohacking, martial arts, or beyond.

Stay tuned for more updates on my travels and experiences.

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