Each country has its own particular dos and don’ts
What should you be aware of when going to Poland ?
Pickpocktes – Generally Krakow is safe place but it is better to be safe than sorry. However in bigger cities you should take precautions to avoid pickpocketing. Remeber to wear your documents ( pasports, id, etc ) and money in safe place. Use a money belt or secure inside pocket. Be careful when walking in a large crowds especially in buses, and when entering trains or trams. It takes a few second to lose your money. And remeber to carry only as much money as you need for the day. Do not take to much if you don’t need it,
Currency Exchange - always check if you have received correct amonut of money. Check the currency rate. Don't exchange money at the airport. Most travelers are surprised to learn that the worst currency conversion rates are often at the airport counters;. Remember to never convert money with someone on the street. In this way. You will avoid being swindled.The most secure places are always in a bank or hotel.
Taxis and car rental and public transport - always use taxis, which can be contacted by telephone, with name of the company. You will know your fare and you will avoid nervous situations.
Carry small change. In some taxis however, travelers have been taken for big tips because drivers don't carry change. If carry small change it will help you to avoid a traditional scam.
When renting the car always ask for the total price of renting a car when you reserve a car. Ask if the price include insurance, tax, gas or it cover all extra expenses. Request a car without stickers or other marks that distinguish the car as a rental because you will look like a city dweller.
Remember to lock your car before you leave it. When you are leaving your car take all your belongings with you. It can provoke someone to get your things. The Polish are a great people but like all societies they have their troublemakers because it may happen anywhere.
There is one thing you should remeber about public transport. If you are partying or coming back to the hotel note last tram and last bus time. Public transportation cease by around mid-night. When you check it you will be able to make a schedule of your day and avoid chasing the last bus.
Accomodation
Always book rooms in advance. First of all you will get the best rate possible and secondly you will be not left without place to stay. Place all your valuables in the hotel safe and get a written receipt for what you store. Be sure to confirm that the hotel's insurance will cover your items if stolen.
Think before you book the room. Do you need small or big room ? Make sure if you have tha access to TV and wireless internet if you have laptop with you. If you are non smoker ask for non-smoking room. Make sure about the services the hotel offer before you make the final decision. Once you have booked your room ask for confirmation by fax or e-mail.
Public holidays in Poland
January 1: New Year's Day
Easter Sunday and Monday (first Sunday after the first spring full moon)
May 1: May Day
May 3: National Day (on the anniversary of May 3, 1791 Constitution proclamation)
Corpus Christi: (Thursday of the ninth week after Easter)
August 15: Assumption of Virgin Mary, Polish Army Day (on the anniversary of the victorious battle of 1920 against Russian army fought on the outskirts of Warsaw)
November 1: All Saints' Day
November 11: National Independence Day (Poland regained its independence in 1918 after almost 150 years of partitions)
December 25, 26: Christmas
Language:
When you are in Poland it is not easy to get around without basic knowlege of Polish language. If are buying in the supermarket there is no problem. Unfortunatelly for things like souvenirs, tickets in can be "mission imposible" to get through. The best thing is to buy phrase book and even better is to get it before you go to Poland. When you have a chance to get the CD with book it will help you learn basic expressions. It will make your life much easier. You will feel confident and this is also great ice brake. Have fun learnig Polish.
Which toilet to use ?
Last but not least - ;) The toilets are mostly not free so keep small change just in case. Of course in restaurants they are free. Mens toilets are marked with a triangle and womens toilets are marked with a circle –remeber about to avoid embarrasing situations.