Soar with the White Eagle!

The question is; does anyone out there challenge the soul, courage, heart, honour or perseverance of the Polish people? The history of Poland is plagued with occupations, partitions, coups, annexes and the desolation of its homeland. It is haunted by the imposition of foreign censorship and the persecution of its people for generations.
For 123 years, Poland suffered under the rule of other sovereign nations — in some cases, with their aim purely being the facilitation of the country’s destruction. Yet like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Poles have prospered through their resilience, hope and resolve.
Take a glance at just one of Poland’s darkest hours to see the character and indomitable spirit the nation possesses. Despite being abandoned in their time of need, the Polish bravely fought against the brutal occupations of Nazi Germany and Soviet Russia in 1939.
There should be no doubt that at times like these, a nation is brought to its knees. However, it was invigorated. Renewed with a grand sense of self-purpose and patriotism, Poland fought back with such intensity. From resistance soldiers on the frontlines to ordinary people protecting that evil itself was attempting to eradicate, the bravery was inspirational.
If this doesn’t sound like the soaring of a White Eagle high up in the sky, Poland’s national animal, then I simply do not know what does.
It is a marvel of humanity.
So, in light of recent Polish Independence Day, I encourage you to visit the sites of Poland that harbour so much antiquity and history. Not only is it of great national importance, but it holds significance for us all. It teaches us the wonders of what humanity can achieve and the horrors of what it is capable of. It shows us many marvels of ancient architecture as well as the toils of the working men and women who rebuilt Poland after much devastation.
Here are a few recommendations that I can suggest from my time in Poland:
1) Wawel Castle
A long time ago, this castle served to house Polish royalty. These days it’s an impressive museum available for the general public to visit. Although split into six different exhibitions, the main spectacle is its State Rooms. Here you can see true Renaissance architecture, tapestries and many other works of art!
2) Wieliczka Salt Mine
Just outside of the centre of Kraków, the Wieliczka Salt Mine is a mysteriously sinister yet beautiful labyrinth of caves, underground lakes, chapels and natural sculptures. It was used for over 900 years until mining eventually ceased — check it out for a unique experience.
3) Wilanow Palace
Another fantastic palace built right in the heart of Warsaw. It has fantastic architecture which has been inspired by designers from around the world. Once home to King Jan III Sobieski, it has a great display of artwork and stunning palatial gardens.
4) Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp
Travel further outside of Kraków to reach the town of Oświęcim. There you will discover an extremely infamous camp — Auschwitz. This was a site constructed by the Nazi Party during their occupation of Poland, in which they brutally murdered millions of innocent people during WW2. It is a place where one should go to reflect and pay respects for a more salient trip.
Regarding your trip to Poland, there are a few things to bear in mind. It’s important to note that unless you’re lucky enough to understand or speak some Polish already, much of the population doesn’t speak English well. It may be advisable to bring a Polish phrasebook with you or a list of common Polish sayings to help yourself get around. Furthermore, whilst Poland is generally quite safe, certain areas in major cities can be dangerous.
In Warsaw, for example, I would suggest avoiding the Praga district as this is a high-crime area — this can also go for roads surrounding Lazienkowski Park, the old town and the downtown areas too. In truth, it is best to try to avoid those areas you feel are dodgy and make sure you’ve done your homework online before your trip!

For more information about travelling to Poland, please visit: www.travelaware.gov.uk
For minute-by-minute updates, please visit the FCO’s site: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/poland
Zycze ci milej I bezpiecznej podrozy!
