Poland's Week at E Europe Russia

Posted by Amanda Kendle Nov 16, 2006

Last weekend's Polish Independence Day triggered me to think about the time I've spent in Poland. Many parts left a lasting impression on me, from the camps at Auschwitz to the ironically green beauty at Hitler's camp in the north; from the regal atmosphere of Krakow to the Soviet-style Palace of Culture and Science in Warsaw.

I spent almost a week in Warsaw a couple of summers ago. But it was a very rainy week, and I remember almost running from museum to museum (and sometimes to a cafe in between) to stay warm. My budget had me staying in a small wooden cabin in a camping ground about 20 minutes' bus ride from the center, and I got lots of sleep - the cabin's light bulb was too dim to read by, and I always wanted to get under the blankets to stay warm.

Maybe your budget will stretch a little further, or you won't encounter such a cold spell in the middle of summer. But despite the chill I thoroughly recommend Warsaw as a destination. This week's article on the sights of the Old Town gives you a taste of what you can find there.