6 Tips for Traveling Poland Like a Local

No matter where you’re traveling, you’re going to want to fit into the local culture. Big tourist destinations can be great to see and spend some time at, but it’s also important to experience where you are like a local. Many cities are much different from how they’re presented to tourists; take time to see what a new place is truly like by experiencing it like a local. While there are some tips you can apply no matter where you go, I’m going to highlight traveling in Poland.

Understand basic facts

One of the best ways to experience a new city or country like a local is to simply familiarize yourself with the place before you go there. Learn how the public transportation works and what type of currency is used (in Poland, they use the zloty, though some establishments accept euros). Know what airports are located where and some basic facts about the culture. Take the time to learn common Polish phrases that can help with communicating while you’re traveling.

Actually talk to locals

When you’re in Poland, actually make an effort to communicate with the locals. Some people may not speak English very well, but many are willing to talk to you and give advice on great places to visit or get food. Do not be shy about talking to locals; even if they aren’t particularly friendly, most people are welcoming!

Try the traditional food

Poland has incredible cuisine. No matter what dietary restrictions you have, there’s bound to be some type of traditional Polish food you can try. Even if it doesn’t sound that appealing, step outside of your comfort zone a little. Perogies are one of the most traditional Polish foods and come in a variety of types; go ahead and give them a try.

Visit other cities

It can be tempting to simply go to the big cities, such as Warsaw or Krakow, but there are many other towns and cities to see in Poland. Find smaller places that have historical significance or beautiful sites. Most cities are known for something interesting, so find a place off the beaten path to visit. It might be more difficult to find people who speak English, but the uniqueness of your trip will more than make up for it.

Check out natural sites

One of the most rewarding experiences of traveling is seeing the natural beauty in new places. Most travelers tend to stick to teeming cities and visit man-made sites. However, no matter where you go, there are natural wonders you can see. In Poland, you can hike (or ski, depending on the time of year) the Karkonosze Mountains. These beautiful peaks run along the border Poland shares with the Czech Republic and offer stunning views.

Utilize technology

Luckily, we now live in the age of technology, which makes travel much easier. Check out online forums or blogs in order to get an idea of local places to visit while traveling. There are plenty of websites and apps that make it even easier to travel as a local; learn as much as you can before your trip!

How to Fight Major Homesickness When Moving Abroad

Whether you’re moving to another country for your job, for a semester abroad, or if you’re going because you think it would be exciting, it can be difficult to adjust to living in a completely new place. Being alone or with a few family members makes for a huge change and adjustment to living in a new country where you’re unfamiliar with many of the customs and possibly even the language. While moving abroad can be a difficult transition, it’s certainly worth it and it’ll be an experience you’ll never forget. If you’re set on moving to another country, here are some tips on how to combat any homesickness you might experience.

Stay in contact

The single most important thing you can do to combat homesickness when you’re living in another country is to keep in regular contact with the people you’re close to back home. Schedule regular calls with your family and close friends; you’ll all have different schedules, but getting on the phone once a week or a few times a month can be managed. Thanks to technology, it’s easier than ever to communicate. Send texts, emails, photos, or even letters regularly.

Plan visits

While this isn’t something you can do every week or month, planning occasional visits to each other is a great idea. Invite friends and family from home to come visit sometime throughout your time abroad. If you’re living in another country for a significant length of time, make plans for when you’ll be able to visit home. Even once a year can be refreshing for you and help with homesickness.

Keep it familiar

A simple step you can take to lessen your homesickness is to create some familiarity in your new home. Hang up pictures that remind you of home or keep some of your same routines. Avoid trying to completely recreate your home in a new country because you’ll realize it’s impossible, but having some familiar items can make you feel better.

Make new connections

In order to help get rid of homesickness, begin creating connections in your new home. Get out to events and meet new people. It might be daunting at first, but once you have friends in your new country, you’ll have a busy social life and miss home a little less. It’ll also help you assimilate into your new culture and really experience what it’s like living in this country.

Create a home for yourself

It can be tempting to hold onto your former home and reminisce about it. Instead of living in the past, begin making a home for yourself in your new country. Like I mentioned above, make new friends. Get involved in the local community and throw yourself into work or a hobby. The more comfortable you feel abroad, the less you’ll experience homesickness.

Go on adventures

A great way to avoid homesickness is by keeping yourself busy; go on some adventures. Explore and get to know your new home. Learn where the locals like to go and gain new experiences. Then, when you feel comfortable, begin traveling around your new country. Plan trips to other nearby places. No matter where you are, there’s always more to see and do.