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 Warsaw FAQ1. What shall I expect, what is the city like?General info In a few words – It is a modern city that struggled through the centuries to keep its identity especially while being strongly experienced by the recent history and slowly recovered through the different political systems, to form what we now know as the capital of Poland. Centrum – downtown is actually quite a unique and live example of social realism mixed with modern style architecture, capitalist tenants and colourful advertisement. Otherwise it could be recognized as “architecturally messy”. During the cloudy day it may seem grey and unattractive – but just wait for the sun – and you will be able to see a huge change. The heart of Warsaw is definitely created by people. You will see plenty of coffee shops and small cosy bars, typically filled with people. Since Warsaw will host you in the winter months, those places will very often serve a drink called “grzaniec” – try it! It is a type of mulled wine or beer with added spices – it warms you up immediately! There are a few must-see places – depending on your preferences or interest - please check out the provided links for more information. 2. What will the weather be like?Well, even though you may see in the streets beautiful long-legged Polish girls walking around in mini skirts – do not expect to be able to do it yourself! They have years of practice, and usally January and February are the coldest months of the year. Be rather prepared for snow and ice; however, with the global climate changes, it may be a “melt down” season as well. A monthly average high temperature is said to be 6’C (42’F) and monthly low is given at -4’C ( 24’F). It may be sunny, or cloudy, it may snow or rain. Quite diverse, so please check the weather forecast before arrival. This, of course, applies only to outside conditions, in any place that you walk in, it will be nice and warm. Also, over the year Polish people have developed many ways to warm up, we are sure you will find your favorite. 3. What are the exchange rate and prices?The official Polish currency is called “Złoty polski” (PLN). 1 PLN ~ 0.3 € As the exchange rate fluctuates recently, to see the actual bills go to: 4. What are the convenient modes of transportation around the city?We proudly ride our North-South bound Underground line (so called Metro) which is the fastest. (note: you can not get lost there, as Metro has only one line until now!) Then there are trams, which are fast enough and convenient, as the network is well developed. Last come buses – which may get stuck in the traffic. Obviously, you may find public transportation quite crowded in the rush hours. Other than that it works great (very often this way you are commuting faster than by car – and a parking space might be hard to find, especially downtown) Metro, trams and busses use the same type of the ticket. There is a variety of them - see: http://www.ztm.waw.pl/taryfa/en/tar.php/ The most useful are “one day” or “three days” tickets. To be able to have a student 50% discount you will need to be less than 26 years old, and have valid ISIC card (International Student Identity Card) There are plenty of cab services as well. Ask about them at the hotel reception. 5. What are the must-see places?Quick answer – depends what your interests are. Check out the Wikipedia site: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Warsaw for general information. You may find there info regarding history, architecture, gardens, museums, galleries, theaters, operas etc. Links are provided to their sites; however, not all of the sites are offered in other languages than Polish. Please contact us if you have any questions. For finding more information about current social events, concerts, or just trying to find some interesting restaurants or bars - check these out: These also provide highlights of the most popular tourists’ spots. 6. How do I find hotspot / internet access locations?The hotel is providing free high-speed internet access. Around the City – look for the universities (check out the maps) they typically have open access hot spots, however the connection might not be too fast. Also, there are plenty of the internet cafés spread throughout. 7. Other useful linksWeb-cams: Some articles from the past: |
 
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