Poland is a wonderful country in Eastern Europe filled with scenic countrysides, lively cities and great shopping. Yet, for a country that is roughly the size of of Georgia and Florida combined, it is so sadly unappreciated. Until now at least...Here is a list of 7 things that make Poland well worth a visit:
ICE CREAM
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| Mmm...Swiderki |
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| St. Mary's Basilica |
ST. MARY'S BASILICA
Standing 262 feet tall, this Gothic church in the middle of the Old Town in Krakow, is absolutely mind blowing. Much to my husband's disdain, I feel the need to enter every single church that I stumble upon. That being said, I would argue that St. Mary's rivals St. Peter's at the Vatican. How did I not know that this extraordinary church existed before? Oh ya, Poland...it is unappreciated and often overlooked...even by me.
SHOE SHOPPING
Despite having a astronomical unemployment rate of 9%, retail analysts indicates that the clothing and shoe industry in Poland is expected to grow by 6% this year. In other words...Polish women like to shop, and the number of stores lining the downtown streets are clear evidence of this. As a woman, I know how important the perfect pair of shoes is, and as a former retail employee, I love to see how other stores do it. Needless to say, I spent ample time roaming the streets of Krakow and Warsaw scouting the stores. Not only did I find a range of shops, from luxury to inexpensive, but the favorable currency conversion made my husband much happier, too. So, if you like to shop, I would suggest converting some of those American dollars into Polish Zloty and heading out for a fun girls trip to Eastern Europe.
STREET FOOD
As the wife of a Chef, food is always an important part of our day. Actually, that last sentence was a gross understatement. Food is often how we PLAN our day. So trying local cuisine is always first priority when entering a new city, and the easiest way to do that is stop at a stand and indulge in some down right delicious street food. Luckily, the Polish street food did not disappoint. It is comforting, filling, and it makes you long for the winter time. When in Poland, join the locals in standing alongside a concrete building while eating your spicy beef kebab. Yumm....
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| Mort eating a kebab in Krakow |
NOWY SWIAT
This cobblestone pedestrian street (and it's off-shoots) is far and away the best part of Warsaw. Although the Old Town is beautiful, it is chock full of tourists and tourist traps. Nowy Swiat, meaning "New World" is a charming street full of shops, restaurants and far less tourists. Better yet, Nowy Swiat, also has Poles! If visiting Warsaw, search for your lodging near this street. You will still be able to walk to the Old Town when you want to, but you will have a far better chance of interacting with the locals in this area. And, although I hate to admit it, there is still a Starbuck's close by if you are feeling homesick.
This cobblestone pedestrian street (and it's off-shoots) is far and away the best part of Warsaw. Although the Old Town is beautiful, it is chock full of tourists and tourist traps. Nowy Swiat, meaning "New World" is a charming street full of shops, restaurants and far less tourists. Better yet, Nowy Swiat, also has Poles! If visiting Warsaw, search for your lodging near this street. You will still be able to walk to the Old Town when you want to, but you will have a far better chance of interacting with the locals in this area. And, although I hate to admit it, there is still a Starbuck's close by if you are feeling homesick.
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| Lazienki Palace, Warsaw |
About a twenty minute walk south from the Old Town in Warsaw lies Lazienki Park, one of the most picturesque parks that I have ever laid eyes on. From lush green nature trails to perfectly manicured lawns, this park is well worth devoting a full day of travel to. The park is the largest in Warsaw, covering 188 acres and oddly enough, is home to many wild peacocks. Housed in the park are many sculptures, beautiful marble buildings, and lakes. Most famously, the 17th century Lazienki Palace is located here. The former royal palace is truly a sight to behold as it seems as if it is floating atop of the river. If you forgot your picnic, there is at least one charming restaurant inside the park.
NOT A MCDONALD'S IN SIGHT
There are over 31,000 McDonald's worldwide, and frankly, I am sick of looking at them. According to internet research McDonald's does exist in Poland, however, I was absolutely delighted that I did not come across one of them. For comparison, there are roughly 1,200 McDonald's in France and only about 250 in Poland. I consider this an amazing triumph for this country. Thank you Poles, for offering something else on my plate.
There are over 31,000 McDonald's worldwide, and frankly, I am sick of looking at them. According to internet research McDonald's does exist in Poland, however, I was absolutely delighted that I did not come across one of them. For comparison, there are roughly 1,200 McDonald's in France and only about 250 in Poland. I consider this an amazing triumph for this country. Thank you Poles, for offering something else on my plate.
For more information on visiting Poland check out these sites:
