Poland

‘Cześć’, hello in Polish and welcome to Poland. Situated in Eastern Europe, Poland is located at geographic crossroads that link the forested lands of north-western Europe to the sea lanes of the Atlantic Ocean and the incredible fertile plains of the Eurasian frontier. It’s a country with much on offer.

Warsaw is the capital, and no matter where you visit around the country, the nightlife is vivid. Drinking is part of Polish culture, and the shots offered will soon warm any sole. Krupnik is a traditional sweet alcoholic drink like a liqueur, based on grain spirit which is usually vodka.

And they know their Wódka, in English vodka, pure alcohol, having its origins in Poland, Russia and Ukraine. Some may even sample along the route through the 'Vodka belt countries'.

Buildings, ruins and cathedrals date back hundreds of years with Kraków a pure gem displaying Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque structures. Kraków was Poland’s former capital city and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Think Prague, but less busy.

Two of the most popular tours from Krakow is a sobering trip to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum and the Wieliczka Salt Mine. Nature lovers check out the J-shaped trees in the Crooked Forest. Then there is the weird walls and ceiling of Kaplica Czaszek: The Chapel of Skulls and Rynek Underground below Kraków’s historic market square is a 4,000-square-meter archaeological site. Quaint, country towns that lie inland from the coast to craggy mountains, wooded forests, and wondrous waterways.

Throughout the country the cuisine, wines and beer are fantastic. The food is generally heavy (think Goulash and Paprika) and includes various kinds of meat from pork, chicken, beef with vegetarian options available. Also famous for its excellent bread and delicious sausages – perfect when on the go from street-side vendors. Pierogi (Polish dumplings) can be filled with meat, fruits like blueberries, cherries – whatever is in season – and are divine.

Best time to visit Poland

Poland has a typical European continental climate with four clearly distinguishable seasons. Summers are generally hot and wet, while winters are cold and usually grey. Spring and autumn are the two most popular seasons to visit Poland, and each is equally pretty. The only thing consistent about Polish weather is that its impossible to predict, so be prepared for four seasons in one day!