Prague Rock

I gave a talk about scam-baiting at an IT conference in Prague, on the grounds of the lovely Prague Castle. The unexpected treat was a performance by a Czech string band, Poutnici (Pilgrims). They did a terrific cover of Telegraph Road. The CzechR seems to be a hotbed of string, jazz & bluegrass music. Maybe this used to be a political choice? Or maybe it's just like that. I am slowly learning more about Czech culture, and how the Czechs have navigated the rough waters of politics over the centuries.

The good soul on the program committee who translated my paper told me he had a hard time finding an exact translation for 'scam-baiter'. Everyone was familiar with the subject, though, if only because of the tragic incident in which a Czech scam victim shot the Nigerian consul in Prague. Prague must have seemed like a pretty sweet post too.

I enjoy this country every time. Of course my view has been colored by the wonderful treatment I've received. But it really is a great place.