If they were handing out prizes for ‘most eventful history’, Poland would get a medal. The nation has spent centuries at the pointy end of history, grappling with war and invasion. Nothing, however, has succeeded in suppressing Poles’ strong sense of nationhood and cultural identity. As a result, bustling centres like Warsaw and Kraków exude a sophisticated energy that’s a heady mix of old and new.
Away from the cities, Poland is surprisingly diverse, from its northern beaches to a long chain of mountains on its southern border. In between, towns and cities are dotted with ruined castles, picturesque market squares and historic churches.
Although prices have steadily risen in the postcommunist era, Poland is still good value. As the Poles continue to reconcile their distinctive national identity with their place in Europe, it’s a fascinating time to pay a visit.
COUNTRY FACTS
Area 312,679 sq km
Capital Warsaw
Country Code 48
Currency Złoty (zł)
Emergency ambulance 999, fire 998, police 997
Language Polish
Money ATMs all over; banks open Monday to Friday
Population 38.5 million
Visas Not required for citizens of the EU, US, Canada, New Zealand and Australia
ACCOMMODATION
Polish accommodation runs the gamut from youth hostels, bungalows and mountain cabins to modest hotels and pensions all the way to upmarket boutiques and business-oriented chains.
Youth hostels are divided into 'older-style', where accommodation is offered in university dorms, and modern hostels, geared toward international backpackers. A dorm bed can cost anything from 40zł to 60zł per person per night.
A handy campsite resource is the website of the Polish Federation of Camping and Caravanning (www.pfcc.eu).
Hotel prices vary substantially depending on the day of the week or season. In cities, expect higher rates during the week and weekend discounts. In heavily touristed areas, rates may rise over the weekend.
Two reliable websites for arranging hotel accommodation over the internet are www.poland4u.com and www.hotelspoland.com.
In big cities like Warsaw, Kraków and Gdańsk, private apartments are available for short-term rentals. These can offer an affordable alternative to hotels.
ESSENTIAL FOOD & DRINK
Żurek Hearty, sour rye soup includes sausage and hard-boiled egg.
Barszcz Famous beetroot soup comes in two varieties: red (made from beetroot) and white (with wheat flour and sausage).
Bigos Thick stew with sauerkraut and meat.
Pierogi Flour dumplings, usually stuffed with cheese, mushrooms or meat.
Szarlotka Apple cake with cream; a Polish classic.
Wódka Vodka: try it plain, or ask for myśliwska (flavoured with juniper berries).
VISAS
EU citizens do not need visas to visit Poland and can stay indefinitely.
Citizens of Australia, Canada, Israel, New Zealand, Switzerland and the USA can stay in Poland up to 90 days without a visa.
Other nationals should check the website of the Ministry of Foreign
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