Poland

Travellers to Poland will be enchanted by its remarkable history of heroic resilience and tragedy, and delight in the charming character of its cities and in the natural beauty of the countryside. From romantic tales of medieval knights and battles, kings and splendid castles, to the horrors and destruction of World War II, from its determined stand against communism to today's modern outlook and booming economy, the country abounds with evidence both of a historically turbulent past and a bright future to come.

It was the country most devastated by World War II in Eastern Europe, losing about a quarter of its population and almost its entire Jewish community. The aftermath of the war greatly influenced the character of the country. Former Jewish centres in the cities and the stark concentration camps where the Nazis carried out their extermination atrocities remain as the most stirring reminders of the nation's tragedies. Cities destroyed by the war had to be rebuilt from scratch and the many meticulously restored buildings and historic old towns are testimony to the pride and determination of a strong and durable nation.

Warsaw, the capital, was almost totally destroyed by the war and now presents an unusual mix of beautifully restored historic buildings, communist-era concrete structures, and modern fashion and consumerism. The maritime city of Gdañsk, home to the historic garrison at Westerplatte and the legendary Lenin shipyards, was the stage for both the beginnings of the Second World War and the disintegration of Eastern European communism. But it is Krakow, the ancient royal capital, that draws the crowds, rivalling the elegance of cities like Prague and Vienna. Having largely escaped the destruction of the war it retains its charming medieval character: the Royal Castle, the grand Market Square, the old Jewish quarter and the nearby Nazi death camps of Auschwitz are all steeped in historical importance.

The unspoilt Baltic coastline and the splendour of the rugged mountain ranges of the Tatras will impress outdoor enthusiasts, with a variety of activities and scenery to provide a peaceful and relaxing break from the intensity of the country's history. Along with the legendary hospitality of Polish people, a sense of nationhood to which the Catholic Church is fundamental, and a strong musical and cultural sense of identity, its tourist infrastructure is flourishing and the country is experiencing a remarkable increase in the number of visitors to its shores.

Climate

Poland has a temperate climate characterised by cold winters and warm summers. Winters become increasingly severe inland from the Baltic coast, with January temperatures in Warsaw averaging 23°F (-5°C). In summer it is hotter inland; with July temperatures in Warsaw averaging 66°F (19°C). Rain can be expected throughout the year, particularly in the southern mountains.

Money

The official currency is Zloty (PLN), divided into 100 groszy. Poland is essentially a 'cash country', and it is difficult to negotiate credit cards and travellers cheques in the cities, and well nigh impossible in rural areas. American Express, Diners Club, Visa and MasterCard are, however, accepted in places frequented by tourists. ATMs are also beginning to proliferate in Polish cities, where the sign 'Bankomat' indicates them. Money (preferably US$ or Euros) can be exchanged in the cities and larger towns at banks, hotels or bureaux called 'kantors', which offer the best rates. Banks are open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and some are open on Saturday till 1pm.

Passport Visa

A passport valid for at least six months after arrival is needed for those who require a visa. Visa exempt nationals must have a passport valid for period of intended stay (other than EEA nationals). The borderless region known as the Schengen area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option that allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all.

Entry Requirements

• US nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Passports must be valid for period of intended stay.
• UK nationals with a passport endorsed British Citizen do not require a visa. If their passport is endorsed British National (Overseas), British Overseas Territories Citizen or British Subject with the right of abode in the UK a visa is not required for a stay of up to 90 days. Other passport holders require a visa.
• Canadian nationals do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Passports must be valid for period of intended stay.
• Australians require a passport valid for at least the period of intended stay to enter Poland and may stay for up to 90 days without a visa.
• South African passport holders require a visa for travel to Poland. Passports must be valid for at least six months after arrival.
• Irish nationals require a passport, but no visa is necessary.
• New Zealand nationals require a passport valid for at least the period of intended stay. A visa is not needed for up to 90 days.

Health

There are few health risks associated with travel to Poland. Those visiting forested areas are advised to seek medical advice about inoculations for tick borne encephalitis, and tick bite prevention measures due to the presence of Lyme disease. Bird flu was first discovered in northern Poland in March 2006; there is little risk to travellers, but close contact with live birds should be avoided and all egg and poultry dishes well cooked as a precaution. It is safest to drink bottled water to avoid stomach upsets. There is a reciprocal health agreement with the UK and most EU countries, whose citizens are entitled to low-cost emergency medical treatment on presentation of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), but full health insurance cover is still advised. Medical facilities and standards of health care are good, but not many nurses or doctors speak English.

Embassy Consulates

• Polish Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 234 3800.
• Polish Embassy, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)870 774 2700.
• Polish Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 789 0468.
• Polish Embassy, Sydney, Australia: +61 (0)2 6272 1000 .
• Polish Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 430 2631.
• Polish Embassy, Dublin, Ireland: +353 (0)1 283 0855.
• Polish Embassy, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 (0)4 475 9453.

Foreign Embassies

• United States Embassy, Warsaw: +48 (0)22 504 2000.
• British Embassy, Warsaw: +48 (0)22 311 0000.
• Canadian Embassy, Warsaw: +48 (0)22 584 3100.
• Australian Embassy, Warsaw: +48 (0)22 521 3444.
• South African Embassy, Warsaw: +48 (0)22 625 6228.
• Irish Embassy, Warsaw: +48 (0)22 849 6633.
• New Zealand Embassy, Warsaw: +48 (0)22 521 0500.