AmyHuang
Poland: Post-Communism Warsaw
Poland took a giant step into its post-communist politics in 2004 when they were officially inducted into the European Union. This once grey and tragic city with memories of WWII still lingering in the air, Warsaw is turning into the most vibrant and cosmopolitan city in Poland.
An iconic landmark is the Palace of Culture and Science. From the times of Stalin, built as a 'gift of friendship' from Soviet Union to Poland, and in a typical form of the wedding cake architecture of the socialist era, this massive structure is now used for functions, events, concerts and part office space. It houses three theatres, two museums and a large cinema. A viewing platform on the 30th floor gives you a great view of the city. This type of soviet style buildings and icons are everywhere to be seen in the city centre. There would be walls with carvings of workmen and women, the soviet star, and block after block of the old people's housing.
The Łazienki Park is popular with the locals. It is the summer residence of the last King of Poland and its park grounds are lined with statues and an 18th Century theatre. In the summer months, piano recitals and chamber orchestral performances are held in the rose garden for all who enjoy a nice and relaxing Sunday afternoon.
Warsaw old town is bustling with restaurants, cafes and second-hand bookshops. You'll be able to find all Polish gourmet specialties here but if you just duck away from the main streets (away from tourist areas) you can get them for less the cost.
For those into a bit of history, a visit to the old Jewish District can bring text books to life. Get a free guide called 'Jewish Warsaw' from the tourist offices to point you to the right places.
Just outside Warsaw is a town named Zelazowa Wola. Normall small and insignificant, it's call to fame is being the birth place of Frédéric Chopin. The house and garden grounds which the Chopin family lived is now a museum dedicated to the composer. The beautiful white one story house is decorated and furnished just as the family would have furnished it at the time, with the piano Chopin learnt his music on when he was young. Nearby you can visit the town's church where Chopin was said to have been baptised in.
An east European city trying to hold its head up high and put its past behind, Warsaw is out there to impress.
Centre of attention: Palace of Culture and Science
An iconic landmark is the Palace of Culture and Science. From the times of Stalin, built as a 'gift of friendship' from Soviet Union to Poland, and in a typical form of the wedding cake architecture of the socialist era, this massive structure is now used for functions, events, concerts and part office space. It houses three theatres, two museums and a large cinema. A viewing platform on the 30th floor gives you a great view of the city. This type of soviet style buildings and icons are everywhere to be seen in the city centre. There would be walls with carvings of workmen and women, the soviet star, and block after block of the old people's housing.
Modern trams and traffic roam in and out of the old city gates
The Łazienki Park is popular with the locals. It is the summer residence of the last King of Poland and its park grounds are lined with statues and an 18th Century theatre. In the summer months, piano recitals and chamber orchestral performances are held in the rose garden for all who enjoy a nice and relaxing Sunday afternoon.
The bustling old town of Warsaw
Warsaw old town is bustling with restaurants, cafes and second-hand bookshops. You'll be able to find all Polish gourmet specialties here but if you just duck away from the main streets (away from tourist areas) you can get them for less the cost.
For those into a bit of history, a visit to the old Jewish District can bring text books to life. Get a free guide called 'Jewish Warsaw' from the tourist offices to point you to the right places.
A Jewish Monument
Just outside Warsaw is a town named Zelazowa Wola. Normall small and insignificant, it's call to fame is being the birth place of Frédéric Chopin. The house and garden grounds which the Chopin family lived is now a museum dedicated to the composer. The beautiful white one story house is decorated and furnished just as the family would have furnished it at the time, with the piano Chopin learnt his music on when he was young. Nearby you can visit the town's church where Chopin was said to have been baptised in.
Chopin's birth house at Zelazowa Wola
An east European city trying to hold its head up high and put its past behind, Warsaw is out there to impress.
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Great post, Amy!
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Keep up the good work
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Looks like we all love Chopin - his music really is rich and full of emotions.
Sonya - go during Easter. The place is full of festivities!!!
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