Archive for the ‘Poland’ Category

Poland: 10 Compelling Reasons to Visit

Posted in Poland | by admin
January 12th, 2010

1.    Friendly people, Beautiful Surroundings

Poland is a democratic country located in the middle of Europe that boasts a friendly population of hospitable people that are welcoming and genuine, giving travelers a unique look into the culture of this natural beauty.

2.   Natural Beauty Meets City Life

Poland is a tourist hot spot with over a million travelers flocking to their lush forests, beautiful seascapes, and modern metropolis’.

3.   Rich Heritage & Arts

Palace on the Water in Lazienki Park, Warsaw, Poland. Palace on the Water, Warsaw. The summer residence of the Polish King - (credit)

The museums, palaces and art scenes of the historic country are among some of the most amazing in the world with world class exhibits and these are operating year round.

4.    Winter Sport Wonderland

If winter sports are your cup of joy then Poland provides you with the scenic Tatras range or the Carpathians which contain some of the most amazing skiing conditions available.

5.     Summer Activities Galore

During the summer hiking, biking, backpacking, and camping are king with many lakes, forests, and mountains to entertain the most experienced outdoorsman.

6.    Exuberant Night Life

A musician in Warsaw, Poland credit

For those with a more urban liking, the modern cities of Warsaw and Cracow offer world touring concerts, music gigs of all genres and a vibrant night life.

7.    Gothic Architecture & Cathedrals

The Polish people are devoutly religious and there are numerous cathedrals scattered across the nation such as the Basilica of Our Lady of Licheń and the Eastern Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral in Warsaw with its beautiful gothic architecture and rich history.

8.    Cultural & Historical Significance

Poland has been a melting pot of sorts melding eastern and western culture and through history this fact has developed Poland into an advante garde of the arts, sciences, and mathematics producing masters of astronomy Nicolaus Copernicus, and the master composer Frederick Chopin. Poets and writers Jan Kochanowski, Adam Mickiewicz, Bolesław Prus, Juliusz Słowacki, Witold Gombrowicz, Stanisław Lem and, Ryszard Kapuściński all were from Poland.

9.   Unique Cuisine

Polish Cuisinecredit

Poland also boasts a cuisine that has been influenced by surrounding countries and occupations and is truly original of the region. Poles allow themselves a generous amount of time to prepare and enjoy their hearty meals, with some meals, like Christmas Eve or Easter Breakfast, taking days to prepare completely.

10.    Something For Everyone

Poland is the perfect European adventure for a wide variety of interests and likings and should be explored to be truly appreciated.

Whether looking for world class cuisine, an avante garde art scene, a vibrant nightlife, or a rich cultural history, it can be found in the magnificent beauty of Poland and the experience will be one in a lifetime.

Top Sites to Visit in Poland

Posted in Poland | by admin
November 23rd, 2009

For those who are considering visiting the beautiful, historic country of Poland or those who are already planning a trip there are a few places that really stand out above the rest. Here is a guide to the top sites to visit in Poland and what might attract them to visitors and tourists.

The largest city in Poland, Warsaw, is also the most popular. Many visitors and tourists enjoy visiting Warsaw’s historical museums as well as well known places such as the Warsaw library which is open to both locals as well as tourists. Warsaw also offers visitors many great places to shop as well as several different restaurants and cafes’.

Another large city that is growing in popularity is Gdansk. As the sixth largest city, and located on the shores of the Baltic Sea, this city is enriched with history as it is being over 1000 years old. It is also known as the beginning site of World War 2. It is also close to Warsaw, only being four hours away if one travels by train. Gdansk is also home to the Three Crosses Monument which was put up to honor 32 men who were killed in the 1970’s protests by communist authorities. Gdansk also is home to the National Art Museum which features several exhibitions that show a wide variety of different arts. Gdansk is also known for being the home of Mariacka Street. Mariacka Street has a large variety of antique stores, jewellery stores and pubs.

Tourists and visitors who are looking for a peaceful, quiet vacation by the seaside should visit Poland’s city of Sopot. Sopot is located on the Baltic Sea’s southern coast. Visitors and tourists who visit Sopot also enjoy visiting the Puck sea resort.

Skiers will enjoy visiting the Malta Ski Centre in Poznan. Here skiers can take advantage of beautiful white slopes. For those who choose the month of June to visit, can also attend the Malta International Theatre Festival. Visitors can also head over to the Old Town Square. The Old Town Square is full of museums and monuments. Here people are able to get a real taste of Polish culture. They can also see the Prussian castle as well as the Gothic cathedral.

For those who are interested in history, should consider visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau. This location was most well known for largest Nazi concentration camp. Now in its place stands a museum that honors the one million Jews who lost their lives.

Another important site visitors enjoy seeing is the Wawel Cathedral is Krakow. Being over 1000 years old and being home to the Sigismund Bell. The Sigismund Bell is heavier than London’s Big Ben and over 300 years older as well. Krakow is also home to the Wieliczka Salt Mine which is one of the oldest salt mines left in Europe. It has been in operation for over 900 years. When in Krakow visitors can also see the Church of the Virgin Mary. The Church of the Virgin Mary or as it is also known, St. Mary’s Basilica is a beautiful gothic church that has been around since the 14th century.

Visitors who are looking for the ultimate shopping experience while in Poland will enjoy visiting Krupowki Street in Zakopane Poland. Known as the shoppers paradise of Poland, this is a great place for families, friends or those who are looking for a quiet getaway by themselves. Here they will be able to find a large variety of goods to choose from and purchase.

For those wanting the best time to visit Poland should know that the usual tourist season is from May through September. Visiting during the off seasons may result in cooler weather but will also have less people. For those who are looking to visit during ski season should visit during the months of December through March.