Poland

INTRODUCTION

Poland is the site of much 20th century history. Visitors can take a trip to the capital of Warsaw, where the pre- and post- World War II cultures come together. Tourists can also walk around Auschwitz, one of the worst Nazi concentration camps. Krakow is the country's second largest city, and many argue it is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. If looking for beaches, one can go to the 14th century town of Gdansk which offers access to the Mediterranean sea or if looking for mountains, Zakopane, bordering Slovenia is the best place to go.

Warsaw

Krakow

HISTORY

Poland was formed in the 10th century under the Piast dynasty. Poland became a center for the migration of people especially since it wasn't touched by the Black Death which hit Europe from 1347-1351. The 16th century gave rise to the golden age of Poland when it formed the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and became the largest country in Europe. Constant attacks from inside and outside the empire lead to the division of Poland in 1791 to the countries of Russia, Prussia, and Austria. It wasn't reformed until after WW1. However, it was again split in WW2 when it was divided under German and Soviet control. The Soviets instituted a communist government in Poland until 1989 when a Parliamentary government was set up.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Climate: Poland is a very cold country in the winter so make sure you take plenty of warm clothes. Summers have been known to be quite sunny and warm so pack accordingly.

Capital: Warsaw

Languages: Polish

Currency: Zloty - Currently 1 PLN = 0.2983 USD

Power: 230 V, 50 Hz

ATTRACTIONS

Czartoryski Museum

Here you will have the pleasure of seeing works from 2 of the great masters - see Leonardo Da Vinci's Lady with the Ermine and Rembrandt's Landscape with the Good Samaritan (1638).

Great Masurian Lakes

The main lakes in Poland are linked by rivers and canals to form an extensive system of waterways. Its no wonder that watersports are huge in Poland as there is approx 15% of the country underwater, this makes for a great place to holiday if yachting and canoing is your thing.

Malbork Castle

The largest Gothic castle in Europe's was once known as Marienburg This Castle is indeed a wonderful reminder of the classic medieval fortress, with huge defensive walls and an absolute maze of rooms and chambers.

The Malbork Castle was built by the Knights in 1276 and became the seat of their Grand Master in 1309. Damage sustained in WWII has been repaired since the wars end, and it was placed on the Unesco World Heritage List in 1997.

Biaowieźa National Park

Once a thriving hunting and timber-felling region this enormous park is now Poland's oldest national park. This National park is Heritage listed and a pleasure to visit. The forest contains 120 species of birds, along with elk, wild boars and wolves. Here you will also find the magnificent European bison, which was once extinct outside zoos, but has been successfully reintroduced to its ancient home.

RESTAURANTS

LODGING

Hotel Chopin - This 3 star Hotel is located in the city center and within an easy walk to shopping, dining and attractions.

Hotel Matejko This 3 Star Hotel is located in the heart of Krakow and very close to shopping, markets and attractions, the Hotel also has its own restaurant.

Grand Hotel - This 5 Star hotel has everything you would expect from its in house restaurant and bar to its charming location in the historic heart of old Krakow.

PERSONAL STORIES

Destinations

Other

Poland