Poland, a nation steep in history throughout the centuries finds itself in the heart of Central Europe. With neighbors like Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine, Lithuania, Belarus, and Kaliningrad Oblast, not to mention the Baltic Sea, Poland’s tale continues in this 21st century.
Poland is the 9th largest country in Europe which more than thirty eight million people call home. Warsaw is its capital. Because of two world wars, the population of this once large country, diminished. It has since bounced back, exhibiting the resiliency of the Polish people. Among the post-communist countries, Poland is recognized as having a thriving economy.
Millions of visitors descend upon Poland every year. Most are there to visit its most popular cities, Warsaw (the capital), Krakow, Wroclaw, Gdansk, Torun, and Poznan. Poland also is where the historic Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp is located, a camp synonymous with the worst of tragedies of the last world war.
Poland experiences a continental climate from the east and ocean induced weather from the west. Most visitors come between May and October. Some of the most popular destinations include the Great Masurian Lakes, the Bialowieza Forest, and Slowinski National Park only to name a few.
Gdansk displays its role in Poland’s historical significance with its architectural wonders; the old town of Torun and its medieval ambiance boasts of being the birthplace of Nicolaus Copernicus, and has been included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List; Warsaw, located along the Vistula River and Poland’s largest city, has also been recognized as the “phoenix city” in recognition of the citizens in rebuilding after World War II; and the hamlet of Malbork, home to the best of Polish fortifications exhibits the largest Gothic castle in Europe and the best of Medieval fortresses.
Other well known names associated with Poland include Frederick Chopin, the composer, Marie Curie, physicist and chemist; Solidarity, and who can forget vodka.
Visitors to Poland can expect to experience unique activities away from the hustle-bustle life of the city. Enjoy the sightseeing tours outside of town, and even within the city walls, go hiking and explore the heaths. Like the Bialowieza Forest, ancient woodland located between Belarus and Poland. It is the largest and one of a few remaining primeval forests on the European plain. It also home to the wild European Bison.
Since joining the EU, Poland is making the transition to adopting the Euro as its currency. Make Poland a stop when you make travel plans for Europe. Immerse yourself in history and discover Poland.
