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05/26/2017 – Gdansk Poland

Friday 26th – Monday 29th May – Gdansk, Poland

There were heaps of roadworks on the new motorways so took us a little longer than expected to get to Gdansk.  The countryside changed from farm houses and lush green paddocks to more sandy soils and more industrial and commercial buildings popping up everywhere.  The towns were getting larger so we certainly knew we were heading for a tourist destination.

Another perfect day of sunshine when we arrived at Przy Wydmach campground.  A beautifully set out campground amongst tall trees and spring flowers in full bloom.  A massive campground with cabins and tons of room for everybody.  We had a bit of a heart start when we arrived and the gates were locked but within a minute or so they opened.   Reception staff spoke English and they were so helpful – so the rest was easy.

Located about 20 minutes by tram from Gadansk Old Town and the trams ran every twenty minutes and for around $4 each we had a 24 hour ticket to get on and off as many times as we wanted.  The campsite is also located about 150 metres from the beach (and the Baltic Sea) so that was a plus that we would explore later.

We followed the directions given to us and after crossing a bridge over the river Motlawa – there we were at the gates to Old Town.  Wow, Wow and double wow.  We thought Old Town in Kraków was just the best but this place was more than special.  It was Friday late afternoon and the place was alive.  The whole area of Old Town runs about six blocks in all directions.  The old buildings were unbelievable.  Each at least three storeys high and everyone a different colour and each with statues carved into stone and some high above the roof lines.  Hundreds of gargoyles are featured in Dluga Street (the Main Street) and all other streets.

Gdansk Old Town
Gdansk Old Town
Gdansk Old Town
Gdansk Old Town
Gdansk Old Town

Buskers were scattered all down Dluga Street.  From three piece rock groups to a string quartet, pan flutes and saxophones, clowns, snake men, painters – you name it – they were all there.  Both sides of Dluga Street offered every kind of restaurant and food you could want.    In the middle of the street is Neptune’s Fountain a favourite background for tourists to pose for photos.  We sat in a restaurant just opposite to Neptune’s Fountain and were entertained by people and buskers for hours while we had dinner.  Sadly there was also a gentlemen’s club opposite as well and we watched the ladies trying to entice men into the club.  Quite amusing to watch.

Part of the lunch time entertainment in Old Town Gdansk
My Navigator enjoying lunch in Old Town Gdansk

We headed back to the tram stop after dinner and went to check out the beach before heading back to camp.  Although it was around 9pm it was still light for a short while and there were still some people on the beach.

Next day we set off again as there was so much to see.

We walked along the boardwalk of the river where there were all sorts of water craft including rowers, speed boats, day cruise boats and of course a couple of pirate ships.  Again restaurants and shops all along the way and of course the mandatory ice cream shops.

Mariacka Street Gdansk – “Amber City”

Today we spent more time exploring all the streets – so many wonderful buildings to see some including the Main Town Hall (built before mid 16th century) .  The Crane (on the boardwalk of the Motlawa River – is the largest medieval port crane in Europe).   St Mary’s Basilica  (a Gothic building which is the largest European church).  Mariacka Street (richly decorated tenement houses and famous for its Amber collections and paintings).   I was so lucky to receive a beautiful gift from Barbara and Piotr before leaving Biala Podlaska, which included an amber bracelet and necklace.    It is so beautiful, I wanted to share it with everybody.  Thank you so much, it is really special.

Amber bracelet and necklace gift from Barbara and Piotr
Neptune’s Fountain Old Town Gdansk
The famous Crane (Rope pulley) in Gdansk Old Town

We had heard about the new and controversial museum “the World War II Muzeum” and walked about fifteen minutes outside of Old Town to see it.  Like everything else we have tried to book in Poland, it is virtually impossible to get into some place special immediately.  We were told that we could get in in about 4 hours time.  We were already tired from all the walking – think we have worn out the tread on one pair of shoes so decided to stay on in Gdansk for another day and see the Muzeum.  We booked in for 10am Sunday.

World War 2 Museum Gdansk

Sunday was solely planned to see the Muzeum only as we had heard it can take several hours to see everything.

One of our prime reasons for this trip was to find out more about my parents lives during the war years as they refused to speak of it to us.  I now understand why.  Those years were horrific and it is only now through some of the museums we have visited and the information given to us by my family here, that we understand how badly Polish people were treated during those years. 

It took us 5 hours plus to go through the museum and we didn’t see everything.  Really worth visiting by all who are interested in the history of this era.

So much to see in Gdansk, we didn’t have time to see everything but strongly recommend a visit of at least three days.  We have really enjoyed our stay and will leave reluctantly.

The travel bug has really hit us now and we are really looking forward to getting to Scandanavia in the next few days.

Tuesday 30th May  Mielno, Poland

It was a long but easy drive and Ziggy and her driver were very grateful for the smooth roads.  We picked Mielno because it was on the Baltic Sea.   It is a town that has tried to become a tourist destination but has not made it.    Maybe when the summer holidays in July and August arrive, it may become alive but now not much is open – even the WC’s in town (if you could call it that) were closed.  Couldn’t even find one that you had to pay for, let alone one that was free.

The beach itself is really great and there are a couple of nice restaurants on the waterfront.

Camping Rodzinny itself was set at the back of a house and was quite okay, though I did not take to the owners at all.  Money hungry and everything was a problem.  Bathrooms were good, though the showers turned off about every minute which was an inconvenience.

Think we were a bit spoiled at Gdansk so we’re not looking through rose coloured glasses here.

 

05/24/2017 – Wolfschanze – Hitlers Bunker – Gierloz Forest Poland

Wednesday 24th May – Gierloz, Poland (aka “The Wolfs Lair (Wolfschanze) or Hitlers Bunker”

Set off after breakfast on our bikes to further explore Suwalki.  The bikeways are shared by both pedestrians and bikers but unlike back home, bikers have one lane and pedestrians have the other.  Much more civilised as there is no competition for space.

Suwalki Town Centre

There are several beautiful parks in the centre of town and as we rode through them, we came across some kindy aged kids marching through the park.  They had a long pink rope which they had to hold onto with one hand but they still managed to be able to wave to us with their other hand.  We tried to take a photo of this gorgeous sight but the teachers asked us not to.   Reminded us of Setinne and Eli (our grandkids) so stopped for a while to take this in.

Suwalki Parks

Had a great ride around the man-made lake, parks and gardens, then town and back to Ziggy about two hours later.

Roads are getting busier now and we are seeing motor homes on the road – have only seen a handful over the last three months.  The warmer weather is bringing them out.  We have been wanting company along the way, but soon we are sure we will be complaining about competing with them for parking spots.

Arrived at Gierloz and were greeted by guards at a security gate.  There were already 8 or so giant Tourist buses parked in the grounds.  We were directed to a motorhome area which we shared with about 5 motor homes and 8 German motor-bikers who were erecting tents.  We were a little amused because when they took off their helmets and leathers, they were just like us, old folk out on a group get together.   Thought we might have a sleepless night but they were so quiet we didn’t even know they were there.

For a mere 40zl around $14 you got to camp under a canopy of beautiful rain forest trees, have electricity and water and a huge bathroom facility (to be shared with the large numbers of tourists here during the day but very quiet after dark. This price also includes admission for 2 to the Museum.

Hitler – assassination attempt

Groups of school children were everywhere.  History is very important to Polish people and it is drummed into their children from a very early age.

There were no brochures available and when we went into the information centre, we were advised they were closed (in the middle of the day?!!!). There was a very large map of the area so we took a photo of it and ventured out on our own.  We won’t go over everything here but if you want more info there are many websites under “wolf’s lair”, Poland” – one link is http://www.thirdreichruins.com/wolfschanze.htm

Hitlers Bunker – by far the biggest, thickest and best camouflaged

Bunker 13 is Hitler’s bunker where a failed assignation attempt was made on his life by one of his top advisors.

Inside one of the bunkers
The bunker walls were really thick

Hidden under a canopy of forest trees and over many acres, we found old buildings and bunkers in ruins.  Very well camouflaged under the trees, they would have been impossible to see from the air.  Truly amazing to see the depth of the walls, some concrete walls would be nearly 3 metres thick.

There are still a few toys to go for a ride in

The gates are locked at 8pm so we had a very peaceful night amongst the trees.

Thursday 25th May- Elblag, Poland

What’s that noise?  Woke up with a start!  Just the phone ringing –  so in a dazed stupor climbed down from the dizzy heights of the second floor and greeted the caller in a sleepy voice.  Hi Sis said my little brother, what are you doing still asleep at 8am in the morning.  Only answer I could give is “benefits of being retired and loving it”.

Good to hear from home at any time so after a lengthy conversation and a relaxed breakfast headed out of the forest and the Wolf’s Lair to our next destination.

There was a U Boat museum only 19 Klms away so with the advice of the guard at the gates we headed in the direction he described.   Our first mistake for the day!  The road got narrower and narrower (down to one lane wide) and bumpier and lumpier, and the fuel tank was looking a little low so after about 10km we decided to head back to civilisation and a Fuel station as we had no idea where we were and what lay ahead in the direction we had been going.

Arrived in Ketrzyn about 20kms later, filled up with fuel and as time was getting on, headed for Elblag. 

The sat nav was obviously sabotaged in the forest (spies I think) and went haywire.  It did everything in its power to take us along the worst Polish roads we had been on – 70kms of potholes – some were so big you could take a holiday in there and in some places the road got down to not much more than one lane.   Really glad we filled up with fuel.

Got to say though, we went through some of the prettiest countryside.  Huge trees on both sides of the road created an arch of foliage over the road for 30kms or so.  Being spring time the leaves were young and so green.  Shame my driver couldn’t take the time to appreciate it.

By the time we arrived at Elblag, Rob was truly spent and sat and relaxed with a few beers for the rest of the day.  No exploring today.  Think we may give up sightseeing in the countryside for a few days and head for Gdansk along the motorway provided the sat nav behaves itself.

We stayed in Camping Elblag.  Great central camp spot and top class.  Very secure and safe and about 15 motor homes here – mostly German couples.  Brought out the BBQ and after a movie and a bottle of red wine – turned the phone off and slept soundly.

 

05/16/2017 Kazimierz, Poland

Tuesday 16th May – Kazimierz Dolny, Poland

Not a great looking day to begin with but in no time at all, the sun peeked through the heavy cloud cover and remained there for the rest of the day.

The 100 km trip was relatively easy with only a short part of it hair raising for the driver.  Seems that roadworks happen in the tightest of situations and when you are driving a bus (almost), can prove to be very difficult.

We travelled again through acres and acres of orchards, not sure what kind the trees were but expect they were predominantly Apple.  It was very sad to see so many old people in some very poor looking farming areas of the country.

We arrived at the old historic town of Kazimierz Dolny and soon found our camp for the night.  Strange my dad’s name was Kazimierz and so far we have found a couple of towns with that name.  Will check with my niece Barbara in a couple of days as I can’t find a translation for it.

Lovely little camp spot run by a husband and wife team (Grzegorz Pielak) who do not speak anything but Polish but we didn’t take long to settle in.  It is right across the road from the river with a great bike track running forever along the riverfront.  It only took about 15 minutes to get to the centre of town but again the town square was alive with tourists and bus loads of school kids – shouldn’t they be in school?

Again lots of dust collectors on sale – souvenirs I mean!   Restaurants everywhere.  Seems like every place that has an “old town” takes advantage of this and sets up mega restaurants everywhere.

Being on a river is an added attraction as there are several passenger carrying vessels (including one that could be in included in a “pirate movie”) sitting on the docks.

The village included an old castle and church and so many old but renovated buildings from the 14th century.

Back in our little bus, we settled down under the fruit trees and enjoyed the remainder of a warm spring day.

A tip – be sure to check the price of your campsite when you arrive (and pay when you arrive).  We took the rate in our “NKC Parkings” book to be gospel but found on checkout – a different story.  Couldn’t argue with the folks as they didn’t speak any English so left feeling a little unhappy at the cost.

Wednesday 17 May – Serniki, Poland

We travelled again through farms and orchards.  So beautiful here, so lush and green.  Canola was growing everywhere – there were fields of yellow canola flowers mixed with fields of green – looked like a patchwork quilt. 

We travelled over some very rough roads again, and reached our destination only to find the gates locked.  We are getting a little annoyed now because this has happened several times. 

Our proposed destination  was a resort in the middle of nowhere which was supposed to be open from 1 May but we found out from a local, they decided to delay their opening to 1 June – ….!!…ugh!!! – signage would have been good as we drove a long way over very rough roads and then had to turn around and go back out the same way.

We travelled another 20-30 Klms to the next destination along some woeful roads.  Everything shook, rattled and rolled but we were happy to find Ranczo Arka open and again we were the only ones there.

A ranch turned zoo of some kind which has some very interesting and exotic animals and is open to the public at a small cost.  Only takes 4 motor homes.  They have emus, peacocks, ostrich, moose, kangaroos, naserbar, birds and of course the regular types of farm animals.  They also have a small lake which is the home to some beaver and swans.

Haven’t seen a black rabbit before

It is quite busy during the day but very peaceful at night.  Little animals run around at dusk including families of rabbits everywhere – very cute to watch.

Facilities not much to speak of but we didn’t need these anyhow.  No wi-fi.

Thursday 17th – Sunday 20th May – Biala Podlaska, Poland

We arrived back at Biala late Thursday evening and spent an enjoyable evening with my niece Barbara.

Friday we ventured back to Town Hall to collect my PESEL card (Polish ID Card).  With this card I can now travel freely within the Schengen Zone as a Polish Citizen, without having to leave every 90 days and have full rights as a European Union Citizen. 

By law, Australian citizens can only stay three months in the Schengen Zone and then have to exit for three months before being able to return.   Rob as my spouse can travel with me and remain in the Schengen Zone under the same terms and conditions (we believe – yet to be confirmed).

We then filed my application for a passport which should be ready for collection within 2-4 weeks).   We have now decided to continue our travels in the interim and then collect my passport at a later date.

This whole process has taken over 12 months beginning in Australia and then with the help of Barbara and Kornelia in Poland – another five weeks – after filing many documents in Poland, I have dual citizenship with my passport only a few weeks away.  This would not have been possible without Barbara and I can never thank her enough.  This also now makes it easier for either of my girls to get Polish Citizenship in the future, should they so desire – we believe having European Citizenship could be handy for Renee and Shannon in the future as it would allow them access to currently around 30 European countries and who knows how the geo-political situation may change in the future.

Stadnina Koni Grand Entrance

The next two days were spent celebrating and once again seeing some more local attractions including Stadnina Koni, an Arabian horse farm only 30 Klms from Biala.  These horses are magnificent and the auctions held in mid August draw buyers from all over the world. 

Barbara and Krys – feeding time

We topped off the day with a coffee at Zaborek a really special place in the countryside next door to the horse stud. 

Barbara and Krys selecting afternoon tea
Interesting architecture at Zaborek Coffee House

This was followed by a thank you dinner for Barbara and Piotr and after many many vodkas and Black Russians, came home and laughed and talked until the wee hours (with the help of Mr Google, who has been our translator over the last few weeks).

Sadly we left on Monday morning, but we will be back again in the next few months,

Monday 22nd May – Bialowieza Bison Forest, Poland

With the help of Piotr and Barbara and their local knowledge, we set off on Monday morning and headed for Bialowieza Forest.   This forest is one of Poland’s most special primeval forests and has some of the largest and most beautiful trees in Europe. 

On Monday afternoon, we were lucky enough to be able to take a 4 hour tour with an English Speaking Guide, Jerome from Portugal leading the way and a Dutch couple.   It is very difficult to get on to a tour on the same day and sometimes you have to wait a couple of days before you can book one.  Very wise to book this on line before you come.  Normally the tour accommodates 12 in the group but as we agreed to share the total costs between just the four of us, we headed off as scheduled at 2pm. 

The forest extends from Poland to Belarus with the majority of the forest in Belarus.  We were so close to Belarus that my Iphone beeped a message which said “Welcome to Belarus”.

We were lucky enough to go through some very restricted parts of the forest.  Just an amazing place, so beautiful, so quiet, so green and lots of singing birds.  Mosquitos were rampant but with the help of our mossie cream we were left relatively untouched.

Unfortunately the photos do not do the place justice

 We discovered a field of “bear garlic”or “wild garlic” – really pretty white flowers.   This herb is used locally in salads and cooking.  We tasted by eating the whole plant, stalk and flowers which tasted a little like horseradish with garlic.  We will definitely look at growing this when we get home.

Bear garlic growing wild

There are about 3500 different species of mushrooms growing wild and our guide told us they can all be eaten – except about 3470 species can only be eaten once!!!

Tired after a really special and long day, we stayed in the Forest’s car park for the night with another couple who were waiting for a phone call the next day confirming if they could get on a tour.

At dusk, we went for a walk around the lake where fishermen were trying to catch fish and then watched people head off on twilight tours with night binoculars.

This area is “Polish Bison” country and many of the tours include 4-6 day safaris to try to find them.  Sadly we didn’t see any on our tour but we have seen many man made statues of these everywhere in this area.

About 140,000 people visited this Park last year whereas over 2,5000,000 people visited Auschwitz – so what does that say about us???

Tuesday 23rd May – Suwalki, Poland

Woke up after a great night’s sleep only to find that when my feet hit the ground Ouch!  We did walk for 4 hours plus the walk around the lake yesterday didn’t we?  We might take it a little easier today.

Quite a long drive to Suwalki today and found a great camp site called Eurocamping Osir.  Highly recommended close to town and a great camp spot.  Cost was only 40zl which is around $14.  Beautiful everything.  Level large grassed spots with hedges between each spot, each with water and power (at extra cost if you want it).    The amenities block are just beautifully new and clean.  Security lights everywhere and high fences surround the camping area.  Gates are locked at 10pm.  Wi-fi is excellent.

Eurocamping Osir with Stadium in the background

We set off to explore the town (by foot) and found a bikeway starting at the front gates which went for miles and miles – around a beautiful man made lake and right through town.   There is also a fantastic Aqua park here but for us a little too cold yet to consider.

Suwalki Town Hall

Forget to mention that in the last 5-6 days – Spring has sprung- and we are now wearing those most missed shorts and short sleeve shirts we have brought with us.   Still cool at night though.

Hope the weather holds tomorrow as we are planning a long bike ride in the morning before we head off.

 

 

05/12/2017 Haligovce, Slovakia

Friday 12th May – Haligovce, Slovakia

Goralsky Dvor Restaurant

Goralsky Dvor – Another beautiful place just waiting for the summer holidays to start.  No other mobile homes here yet.  A farm style holiday camp with sheep, goats, chickens and one very loud snorting pig- though he did quieten down when we gave him some fresh grass to eat. They have cabins and caravans for hire.  Bathroom facilities are great.  They are located on a beautiful waterway (ideal for rafting and swimming in warmer months) and even have fire pits ready to go.  They have a beautiful country restaurant here decorated with old wares and statues of angels, animals, birds  etc carved out of  tree stumps.  Each timber chair in the restaurant has a face carved on the back of it.

First chance we have had to put out the tables and chairs for a long time.  My best friend took advantage of the sunshine and took off his flanno shirt and exposed the chest to some much needed vitamin D.  Think the sunshine only lasted for about ten minutes before the chest had to go back into hibernation for the day. 

My driver – enjoying the sunshine and a 12% beer – no he is not driving today

We explored the property which didn’t take long and then sat down and enjoyed the peaceful surroundings for the rest of the day.  No exercise today.

Was going to have chicken on the BBQ for dinner but the storm clouds wre brewing so decided to test the chef in the restaurant. 

Had 4 x half litre beers, entree, main, sweets, 2 coffees and two vodka shots while the storm raged outside.   Cost a staggering $25 in total.  Can’t believe how little things cost in both Poland and Slovakia.

We checked our emails and received word from Barbara (my Niece) in Biala Podlaska that my Polish ID PESEL doc was ready to be picked up so now we are going back for a short visit before heading north to Scandanavia for Part II of our adventure.

Saturday 13th May – Tarnow, Poland

Miserable day weather wise so was good to be travelling – we headed across the Slovakian/Polish border north and into Poland – once again no checks at the border.

Arrived at Camping Pod Jablonaimi.  Not much to see here as it is still raining.  Lovely campsite set at the back of a hotel.  Again we are alone in the campsite.  Camping spots are set amongst apple trees on grass but given the amount of rain, decided to park on the bitumen.  Very safe and secure here but a little expensive for what it is.

Sunday – Monday 14-15 May – Sandomierz, Poland

Wow!!!   Blue skies with not a cloud in sight.  Temperature inside Ziggy was a warm 15 degrees – we were in for a warm day (for a change).

Again we travelled through some amazing countryside, though now things were changing.  The alpine chalets and pine trees were replaced by small towns with farm houses and acres and acres of fruit trees.   We had time to research a little before we headed off and selected Sandomierz because it had an “old town” and an underground and quite a lot of places of interest to explore.

Another one of those “hard to find spots” – just when the Sat Nav told you that you had reached your destination, you looked around and you were in the middle of new earthworks and new roads under construction – no campsite in view.

We saw the entrance only 50 metres away but there was no way to get to it without going down the wrong side of the highway.

Mothers Day (Australia) in Sandomierz

Eventually we found a way around and arrived at the most amazing destination.  Situated between the river and just below the historic town, Camping Browarny again was so beautiful.  Set amongst beautiful lush green trees with birds chirping.  Everything was well maintained and with the sun shining and the temperature warm for a change, we put on some summer clothes and ventured through the back gate up the hill.  89 steps (not that we were counting) and then more hill to climb, we turned the corner and there we were in the middle of the square in historic Sandomierz.  Being a Sunday afternoon, the square was alive – people everywhere, restaurants and entertainment and the old historic buildings and churches to explore.   

They had the changing of the guards every half hour which was a spectacle by itself.  They were clad in full armour and were happy to pose for photos.

Nearly time for changing of the guards

Everyone was eating these amazing ice creams and nearly every second person had one.  All types and colours and they were enormous.  Had to have one, so dropped in to a shop just behind someone who was walking away with a soft serve chocolate and vanilla, ice cream standing about six inches above the cone.  I pointed and said “one like that please”.    Rob didn’t want one as he was wanting a beer – but managed to eat half of mine anyway!   I think it cost just over $2 and was so thick and creamy.

Lovely street scenes in Sandomierz

We eventually rested in one of the cafes and sampled the local beer and of course some local Pierogis and watched the passing parade.

The modern Sailing Club in Sandomierz

We returned just before dark and after a light dinner and some reading hit the hay.

Woke up Monday morning to another beautiful day.  Hoping this is the beginning of summer here – certainly has taken it’s time coming.

For the first time we have other motor homes here.  Mostly Dutch people who all speak excellent English.  Enjoyed some conversation with them before we took the bikes off the rack (first time for six weeks) and hit the streets. There are great bikeways here though they are not as long as we hoped.  We followed the river as far as we could and came back through the local markets.  Streets and streets of stalls with clothes, shoes, handbags and fruit and veggies of course.  Bought some and then headed back home for lunch.

After lunch we headed back up the 89 steps (though we were not counting!) back to the square to explore the many heritage buildings here.  The square was not as exciting today as the locals had gone and were replaced with bus loads of school children. 

Spent the rest of the afternoon there and headed back down the hill for the night.

 

05/07/2015 – High Tatras, Slovakia

Sunday 7th May – Mosovce, Slovakia

Woke to rain, wind and cold so stayed put for a short while to see if it was going to change.  Not happening today so at around lunchtime we opted to move from Zakopane to Slovakia and back to Euros as a currency.

Hard to believe we have only been away two months today.  Feels like we have been away a lifetime – seen so much already and still have 22 months to go (maybe, or maybe longer).

It was so noticeable when we crossed the border in to Slovakai.  It was like someone put a line on the road which went from being reasonably good on the Polish side to absolutely woeful on the Slovakian side.   Fortunately after a few kilometres it improved, somewhat.

Slovakia is only a small country with  80% of it being farmland.  Once on the other side of the Tratras Mountains, the sun appeared and the countryside with its beautiful hills and valleys took on a kaleidoscope of greens.  From Autumn shades to pale lime green, rich lime green, luscious green green to emerald – so many shades of green all together.  Tried to capture this in photos but none I think could do this sight justice.

Had a couple of hiccups trying to find our camp for the night.  Firstly the sat nav took us off the main road and up some unbelievably narrow dirt roads.  We stopped at the first opportunity and checked our co ordinates – nothing like we had keyed in.  We started again and had to backtrack 30 or so Klms.  Then, I am sure, other fellow travellers have experienced the next moment when we arrived at our destination to find a notice on the gate advising it was closed due to reconstruction.  My driver remained calm (on the exterior only, I think) while we looked for the closest camp for the night.  Time was moving on and it was around 6pm at this stage.

Our Polish SIM cards do not work in Slovakia so this made researching an alternate site for the night more difficult – thank heavens we have purchased a couple of Ipad Apps which incorporate off line mapping

Ziggy in the ex Soviet Camp in Mosovce

We arrived at our alternate site, Autokemp Drienok, Mosovce at around 7pm.  It was still light but the cold was setting in quickly.  Yeah!  The gates were open but no one was anywhere to be seen – no campsite attendants or no fellow travellers.   We parked and had a shot or two of our new found drink to warm up – vodka with dash of raspberry juice and a half dozen or so drops of Tabasco – warms up the belly in no time.Monday 8th May – Mosovce, Slovakia

This place would have been amazing in its hay day.  A massive ground with 50 or so cabins and grassy spots for around 100 or so campers and motor homes.  We opted to park on the bitumen – less chance of getting bogged.  The grass was overgrown, the cabins were very run down, the pool was empty and growing shrubs in the middle of it.  Looked like the place had not been occupied for a very long time.

You want me to connect 240 volts from that rusting hulk?

We found out later that it was a left over camp from the Soviet era – when the Soviets completely controlled their workers – across the road from the camp there were a couple of buildings – one a factory and one an office block of 4 levels with about 40 rooms/level.  Apparently the workers worked in the 2 buildings and the families were housed in the cabins.

The further east we have travelled the more evidence there still is of the remnants of the soviet era – the drab bare grey concrete buildings and poor construction methods, atrocious roads and rusting relics in paddocks – farmers driving 40 year old tractors down the roads at 10klm/hour – and Russian is either the first language or definitely the second.

We ventured into the small but quaint village only 200 metres away and found pretty much the same story.  A couple of kids on bikes, a stray dog and an old lady.   The pizza place was closed on Mondays so no luck there.

We found out that the restaurant on the other side of the entry gates to the camp site was where you had to pay for camping.  We dropped in on the way back – walked right into the middle of a bikies meeting – about 30 bikies stopped their meeting and stared at us – they didn’t say a word and neither did we – time to go for us!!!  so we headed out the door at quite an alarming pace. 

The camp site bordered on a national park, so after lunch we hiked off into the rolling hills and through the beautiful trees to the top of a very large hill.   The view was breath taking.   Still a sunny day but still very cold.   Saw some horses and riders enjoying the countryside.

Headed down the hill back in time for dinner.

Tuesday 9th May – Brezno, Slovakia

About 7km outside Brezno we found this amazingly beautiful farm – Sedliacky Dvor (web:  www.sedliackydvor.com).   So vastly different to the last place we stayed.   We were met by chickens at the entry followed by sheep with new little babies and a goat or two.   Thought we were at the wrong place at first but were met by a lovely young man who spoke excellent English.  This place is first class with beautiful bathroom facilities, washing machine, camp kitchen and gardens and wi-fi.  Everything is so well maintained and the hosts Monique and Deon, were just delightful.  For the first time we had other campers to talk to – both couples were Dutch (as were the owners).

Ziggy at Sedliacky Dvor – snugly in the orchard for the night

They have a community library housing books and tourist information including walking tracks in the area.  The sun was still shining and with no rain in sight (has been two or three days now) we decided to take advantage of the weather (though still cold) and go exploring.

The track we selected took us by farm houses and chalets through the beautiful hills.  Some parts of the track were quite steep and rugged and in some places, we had to cross little steams. 

We came upon a small house on the side of a hill where we saw a woman about 40 metres up the hill at a sink washing dishes.   The house was some 5 metres away from where she was, but there she was washing dishes in the open countryside.  Strange sight to see.  We waved- she waved back and said something we could not understand.  Next thing her husband popped his head out of the house and spoke to us in German.  Now my German speaking husband driver, flew into gear and the next 15 minutes were spent talking about everything and nothing.   They invited us to have coffee with them on our way back.

We dropped in about a half an hour later and headed up the hillside to a little three sided hut with table and chairs which overlooked the mountains and valleys below.  The dish washing tub was about 5 metres away.  Simon and his wife Margareta made some traditional strong coffee and after an hour or so, opened up a bottle of champagne.  Margareta, was a Czech and spoke Czech only, and so Simon had to translate for her.  She sat quietly and asked questions through Simon.

Krys with Margareta and Simon

Simon (who was 68) had lived in the area all his life and he gave us his version of life in the area pre during and post Soviet rule – very interesting indeed.

As the afternoon moved on, it became quite cold on the hill in a hut exposed to the elements, so we said our good byes with hugs and photos and headed back to Ziggy on dusk.  The temperature tonight was predicted to be minus 6 degrees so we fired up the heater and sat and reflected on the wonderful day and people we had met.

Wednesday 10th May – Tatranska Lomnica near Vysoke Tatry, Slovakia

We shopped at Poprad on the way and this was the sight that greeted us as we exited the Tesco Store

As we travelled higher and higher into the mountains, we could see the snow capped mountains of the High Tratras.  There are 24 or so mountains here above 2500 metres.  We arrived around lunchtime and settled in at the back of the Pension Slnecny Dom which is right in the heart of the village.  Only 4 spots here but again we were the only travellers.   Again a sunny day but can’t say a “warm”sunny day.   After lunch we headed into the village to find out some information on what is still open here as were we hoping to take a chairlift or gondola up the mountain.   Sadly we found out all lifts are not open now.  One MIGHT be open on the weekend – no guarantees – depends on the weather, she said.  We are only here for another night.  No internet at this campsite so we dropped in for a local beer at the Pension where we are staying and then back to Ziggy for a quiet night.

Thursday 11th May, Tatranska Lomica near Vysoke Tatry, Slovakia

Bought a pack of 40 eggs at the supermarket for around $4 yesterday so had a feast of scrambled eggs with Uncle Mirek’s home made Polish Sausage this morning.  Why 40 eggs you might ask?  Because they came in a pack of 40 and were on special!!!  Not much of this sausage left now, have frozen this so should last a little while longer.   We are really enjoying the different foods, even have my driver eating sauerkraut now.

Everything here is so cheap compared to Australia – have been buying 500ml stubbies of beer some as high as 10% or 12 % alcohol content for around $0.60AUD for a single bottle buy – beautiful bottles of white wine for around $4/bottle.

Spent the morning catching up on writing the blog – was 4 days behind so if left any longer this grey haired old lady would forget things.

Caught the bus almost at the front door to Stary Smokovec (beautiful little ski town) and from there took the cable car (funicular – cog wheel train) to Hrebienok.  Very touristy here and people everywhere. 

The track was pretty easy going
Krys at the first waterfall on the track

There are some beautiful walks from here through the forest and we so ventured on one that took us down a steep rocky track and came across some beautiful waterfalls. 

A Pension/Restaurant on the track

Then trekked back to the top.  There is a magic palace made of ice here but didn’t have time to see this as the last cable car was about to leave.

Headed home by cable car with some 100 school kids and then back to Ziggy by bus – interesting negotiating 2 bus tickets from a Slovakian bus driver who doesn’t speak any English and we are not sure where the bus is going anyway – hopefully in the direction we are wanting to go – about the last bus of the afternoon so don’t want to get caught out in the freezing cold air.

 

05/05/2017 Zakopane, Poland

Friday 5th May, Zakopane, Poland

Woke up to a foggy morning with very little visibility so decided to stay until it lifted a little.  Sadly we left Kraków – such a beautiful city and so much to see. We only saw a little but what we saw will stay with us forever.

Coming in to Zakopane

Heading south, the countryside and the houses took on more of an alpine look.  After only a half hour or so we turned a corner and there in front of us were the Tatras Mountains still covered with heaps of snow.  Skiing has been a passion of ours and our kids have grown up with the same love of snow and skiing.  The sight of the snow really was special and we look forward to the time when we can spend some time in the snow before heading back to Oz.

We stocked up with supplies and found our next camp spot.  Camping Ustup, about 4kms from the main ski village in Zakopane.  Though a little more expensive than other places we have stayed at in Poland, it has the best and newest shower and bathroom facilities.  Ideally located right next to a river, pizza restaurant, supermarket and service station, and for fast food junkies MacDonalds is right next door.  The bus stop to go uptown to the village is just across the road and costs about $1.00.  We have been told that transport is free if you are over 65.  Haven’t taken advantage of that yet !!!

Bit late to head to the village today, so decided to take a long walk instead.  The walk was just delightful.  So many beautiful ski lodges along the way.  We were told that it was only a couple of weeks ago that the snow was around 2 ft deep here in this village.

Saturday 6th May, Zakopane, Poland

A bit of sunshine today, so decided to hand wash some clothes and take advantage of the clothes lines provided here – rare to find these anywhere.  After we had hung out the clothes the manager advised us that we could have used the washing machine in his house – expect there would be a cost but would have taken advantage of this if we had known.

Packed all the winter woolies in the backpack and headed for the bus stop.  We had just missed a bus and it was another 45 minutes to the next one – ugh!!   Just as we were considering our options – along came a horse and carriage.  We had seen these the day before on our walk, so we hailed the driver.  He didn’t speak English but when we asked him what the cost was to take us up the 4kms to the village he showed us a 50 Zt note (about $17AUD).  Given that it was only 6 Zt for the two of us by bus – I said “no”.  He then pulled out a 20 Zt note – yep that was better so we climbed in and played Tommy tourist”.  It was just so cool riding in the horse and buggy – really enjoyed the whole ride.  Still can’t believe he reduced his price to less than half.

Our horse and cart taxi ride in to Zakopane Village

He dropped us in the centre of the village and pointed in the direction we should go.  Through Fashion Lane we went and at the end it opened onto Krupowki Street.  This street boasts as being one of the most famous streets in Poland.   A tourist Mecca of restaurants and shops that stretch for 1200 metres.  Lots of winter clothing sales were on with some going at up to 80% off.    Needed some winter clothes so found a bargain or two.

Krupowki Street Zakopane – a really great mall

At the end of this street we found the markets.  Hundreds of stalls going in every direction.  Lots of souvenirs, shoes, clothes etc and of course food stalls.  We looked in amazement at all the food items we have never seen before and cannot even fathom a guess as to what they are.

Next we headed to the northern part of the street where the cable cars go to the top of Kasprowy Wierch Peak – at 1987 metres.   Not very expensive to take a return trip up in the cable car around 27 Zt ($9) but less for over 65’s.  We were just about to book our tickets when we heard the thunder.  We looked up the mountain and the sky was black and the rain was on its way.

A quick sprint back to the main square where we took cover in a restaurant and spent the next hour or so watching people getting absolutely drenched.  Time to head home and maybe, weather depending, come back tomorrow to venture up the mountain.

Bus trip back was not as exciting as the horse and buggy but a lot drier I think.

Arrived home and found that the manager had taken my clothes off the line – you little beauty- what a mighty mighty man. 

 

05/01/2017 Auschwitz & Wieliczka

Monday 1st May – Auschwitz & Wieliczka – Poland

Woke up to a glorious sun filled day – not a single cloud in the sky.  We parked directly opposite the gates to Auschwitz.   Decided on a really early start because we were sure that given it was a long weekend it would be packed.  Arrived at the ticket office at 7:30 am and joined the long queue.  The gates opened at 7.30 and already there were a dozen coaches parked and people piling in from every direction.

Krys at the entry gate – “Arbeit Macht Frei”

We had tried to purchase tickets the evening before but were told we could only buy them on the day of visitation – so much for trying to avoid queues.

I would have thought Auschwitz could have handled ticket sales and crowd control better, given they have been running this Museum for around 65 years but they have no idea on this and the signage is appalling – still we are visitors to this country so just have to take it as it is.

Auschwitz queue at 07:45

We had been to Dachau near Munich Germany on a previous visit to Europe and thought we knew what to expect – wrong – again we walked around in silence from block to block and again were utterly shocked at the stories and vivid pictures displayed here.  Can really understand why my parents, my Dad in particular, having been in a Nazi prison work labour camp, would not talk about those years.

We only lasted a couple of hours before we both decided we just didn’t want to see anymore.  Didn’t take any pictures whilst inside – just didn’t have the heart and wanted to show a little respect.

Packed up Ziggy and headed for Wieliczka near Kraków only 90 minutes away.

Found a great spot only 100 metres from the entrance to the Wieliczka Salt Mine.  Again a spot with mixed parking so by the time we arrived late afternoon, there were very few spots left but we managed to just squeeze Ziggy in.

We went to the ticket office to buy tickets for the next day but once again were told we could only buy tickets on the day of visitation.

Looking down the stairwell to where we are going underground – about 10 stairs to each flight

The tour through this amazing place which is one of Poland’s National Monuments (and a UNESCO listed site) takes three hours to complete and goes down, down, down with around 400 steps to the bottom.   A bit like a spiral staircase to begin with and then about two thirds of the way down it opens up to numerous miner’s passages and caves where statues are formed out of rock salt.

Part of what is holding it all up – hundreds of metres underground

Four massive cathedrals with magnificent statues have been carved out of the rock salt and at special times of the year (Easter and Xmas) they hold mass down there.  You can even hire the main cathedral for your wedding – around AUD$2000.

One of the Cathedrals hundreds of metres underground

Gratefully the way up is much easier via lift.  Definitely put this on your list to see.  They provide an English speaking guide and cost is around $AUD30.  When we returned to Ziggy it was going on dusk and we found the car park empty- all alone again with the whole place to ourselves.

Tuesday 2nd May – Kraków, Poland

Didn’t want to stay in the Wieliczka Salt Mine carapark another night and found another place closer to Kraków that sounded much safer and secure.   Caravanning Elcamp Is a motorhome dealership and service centre (closed today because of May Day holiday) with a high fence and fully locked security gates.  There is a security guard here who is absolutely delightful – doesn’t speak English but again with sign language and a little help from Mr Google he was able to give us enough information about bus timetables.  Buses leave directly from across the road every 20 minutes. 

We hailed the bus and showed him our piece of paper with Kraków Old Town written (in Polish of course) on it.  He nodded and then later told us when to get off as we needed to link up with a tram from there to the centre of Old Town. 

We couldn’t believe what we were seeing.   We were stunned as we stood in the square.  Words couldn’t describe it.  A fairytale square lined with beautiful old churches, buildings and towers.  Restaurant after restaurant set along the boundary, each with colourful flower boxes acting as borders and huge colourful umbrellas.  Heaters under the umbrellas to keep you warm.  Hundreds and hundreds of people enjoying a holiday day in the square which is 200 metres by 200 metres.

A very small part of Krakow Old Town Square

Entertainers in colourful costumes were trying to lure you into shops or to take guided tours of the square.  Beautiful horses adorned with plumes and braids and wearing colourful outfits of gold and silver took tourists around the square in fairytale white carriages.

There was so much more to see even in the streets outside the square that we decided we would come back in the morning.  We sat in one of the many restaurants in the square to enjoy a late lunch/early dinner and just watch the crowds go by.   Really looking forward to tomorrow as Kraków has so many things to see.

Took a taxi home as it was beginning to rain and then settled in for a quiet but safe night.  Three motor homes had come in while we were away so for a change we have some most welcome company tonight.

Wednesday 3rd May – Kraków, Poland

Today is Commemoration Day.  All Polish flags are flying and from the web we discover that all attractions are closed today.  We decided to catch up on some Web home work and then set off for a big walk.  Had read on the blog sites there was a great bar/restaurant called Czarci Grill nearby so tried to find it. 

A couple of hours later we came back with no Czarci Grill in sight.  We headed past our camping spot and in the opposite direction and only a hundred or so metres we found it.  The building looked like the witches house in Hansel & Gretel – a small wooden cottage with a doorway that only a dwarf could fit through.  It was past lunchtime so decided to treat ourselves to a lunch/dinner so ventured inside. 

All I can say is wow, wow!!!!  Inside it was just as impressive with a log fire burning, low ceilings, dim lights and the smell of delicious food cooking.   They have a parrot inside in a huge cage and it wolf whistles the girls when they come in and sings and talks all day – even makes sounds like coughing and a phone ringing.  We spent a couple of hours there and after the best family size pizza we have had in yonks and three beers (cost less than $20) we headed home with a doggy bag of leftovers for breakfast next morning.

Czarci Grill

Thursday 4th May – Kraków Poland

It rained quite heavily all night but woke up to an overcast day (no rain) so headed into Old Town by bus and then tram.   There was nowhere near the number of people in Old Town as Tuesday so the atmosphere was not as great.  We booked our tickets for the Kraków Underground and then headed up the hill to Wawel Castle.  The Underground can be booked in advance and usually requires booking several days in advance but we were lucky to get a cancellation on the day we were there.

The Krakow Underground (Rynek Underground) is not a rail network but is an underground museum covering 4000square metres with interactive displays of the history of Krakow dating back to the 14th century. So the square is really 200 metres by 200 metres above ground plus the 4000 square metres underground.

Wawel Castle

Wawel Castle is an unbelievable castle set around its own huge square.  Tall cathedral spires, turrets and domes of gold were only a part of the structures within the castle walls.    From inside the walls, there were spectacular views of Kraków and the river it stands on.

Wawel Castle

Just as we were leaving the castle, the rain came bucketing down.  We took shelter in a little old pub and after a few vodka shots (vodka, raspberry juice and Tabasco) braved the rain and headed back to Old Town square for a 2 o’clock booking to see Kraków Underground. 

Once again rain has been following us unfortunately

Really interesting tour showing that under Old Town Square, they discovered in 2006 an old city that was built underground.  They carefully excavated the whole square and turned it into a tourist attraction keeping the original walls and sculptures of the old city in tact.

Photo of underground excavations around 2006

We took a taxi home and then had another delightful dinner at Czaci Grill.

 

04/28/2017 Checiny, Poland

Friday – 28 April , Checiny, Poland

Sadly we left family and friends in Biala Podlaska.  We were sent on our way with a bag of Polish goodies including home made Polish sausage and honey from Uncle Mirek (he currently has a couple of hundred bee hives on his farm), Pierogi (Polish dumplings) fresh farm eggs and lots of other delicious items – too many to mention.

Krys’ niece Barbara, Barbara’s daughter Kornelia and Barbara’s  Mother-In-Law,  Jadwiga – the best cooks in Poland

Thank you Barbara once again for spoiling us.  We will be back in a couple of weeks to pick up my Polish PESEL or ID card.  This is now the last step before I can apply for my passport. It truly has been an unbelievable exercise. 

A bee hive inspection – Kornelia, Uncle Mirek, Krys in protective gear and Mireks son, Marek
Kornelia and Krys on Grandma Jadwiga’s Farm

We left Biala Podlaska on a wet, cold overcast day.  It is hard to believe we have had so many days where the temperature has not reached double figures.  There have been a couple of days during our stay where we have had sun, wind, ice and snow all in the one day.  We sadly look at our summer clothes in Ziggy and wonder if we will ever get to wear them.

With our internet problems well and truly sorted out, we are really enjoying being able to do research for our trip.  We have our internet dongle now so the only challenge will be to get a SIM card in each country we visit as in our haste to leave the UK we missed out on getting the “3 Multi Country Sim Card” which would have covered us for around 20 countries.  We can only re-iterate to everyone embarking on a trip like ours – make sure you get a dongle and Sim Card BEFORE you leave the UK.

We stocked up on fresh supplies and of course the mandatory wine for me and beer for Rob at Lidl and drove on to a town called Checiny.  We struck an unbelievable amount of new roadworks and moved at a snails pace for nearly an hour.  Finally we arrived around 6pm.  What a find. 

Checiny has provided a fantastic area just below the entrance to the Royal Castle.  Whilst our area is shared by cars and buses as well, we have views from our windows of the castle up on the hill and the green valley below.  Tomorrow we are looking forward to exploring further.  After a well deserved beer for the driver and a cold white wine for the passenger and a sumptuous dinner of Pierogi and other Polish goodies we hit the hay.

Saturday – 29 April – Checiny, Poland

We headed up the hill to explore the Royal Castle.  First real exercise we have had for a couple of weeks.  The castle was constructed in 13th and 14th century.  Re-construction of the castle was done in 2013-2015.  It only costs around $4.00 AUD entry fee.  It is a tourist attraction now but is really worth visiting.  During the day they have displays of Polish folk dancing and knights jousting – spent an hour or so exploring and then headed down to the village. 

Polish Folk Dancing – Checiny Royal Castle
Checiny Royal Castle

It is the May long weekend here so many people have a five day holiday here – bit like Easter back home.  The village square is a buzz of activity so we are expecting today is the start of lots of festivities.  We bought some fresh bread rolls and headed back to Ziggy to make some lunch and rest and read before we hit the village later in the afternoon.

There is a new restaurant right on the boundary of the parking area called Poziom Smaku – it looks really interesting.  They put out deck chairs in the sunshine and provided a singer/guitarist (I forgot to mention today we had a little sunshine).  The restaurant guests sat basking in the sunshine while being entertained – some fell asleep in the deck chairs.

Later we ventured down to the village square which was now was set up with a stage and seating.  People were dressed in traditional Polish folk costumes.  We watched several displays of folk dancing, Knights jousting again, canon and Muscat fire, followed by a visit from the official party and then modern music.  Time to head back up the hill now.  We hear canon fire from the castle as we head up the hill – think that might be the finale for the night.

We met up with the restaurant owner Marcin as he was closing the restaurant for the night.  Though Polish, his second home is Scotland, having worked and lived there for 6 years.  He spoke excellent English and after a very short but interesting conversation, Marcin invited us to join him for breakfast on Sunday morning.

Sunday 30th April Checiny, Poland

Woke up this morning to beautiful blue skies so put on hiking shoes and headed for a long walk up the mountain before breakfast. 

Marcin’s Restaurant – Poziom Smaku with Ziggy in her overnight spot

Spotted a deer crossing the track only a few metres from us.  First one we had seen so we were pretty excited.  We headed back down to meet with Marcin for breakfast. 

What a wonderful person- just one of the many wonderful Polish people we have met over the last few weeks.  His restaurant provides only fresh local produce and everything is made freshly from scratch starting with the local fresh eggs, Polish sausages, herbs grown on the his land right beside where Ziggy is parked, apple and pear juice, home made jams etc etc etc.  You can buy home made everything.  The menu is extensive and everything no more than around 16zl – just over $5.00 for the best food ever.

During breakfast Marcin said he would show us some places to visit in the local area. We thought he meant on a map but no he took us out in his car and showed us the places we should visit during the day.  It was going to be one of his busiest days of the year (May day public holiday) yet he took the time to show us around.  A must do for all visitors to Poland – come to Checiny and stay here and have a meal or two with Marcin – Marcin’s restaurant is www.poziomsmaku.pl

Marcin is a real entrepreneur as apart from the restaurant he also has a business that makes fantastic plates for restaurants out of slate and oak – that business is www.kookserve.com and he exports them worldwide.

We packed up Ziggy and headed to the University of Geological Science.  We tried the front door – locked but within seconds we were greeted by the security guard who told us to come back another day as the Uni was closed.  Marcin told us the view was to die for so we headed up a very steep hill at the rear of the Uni to the top and wow- he was right.  We walked along the ridge line and the view was spectacular.

Two other places highly recommended to visit whilst here are the Vivid Historical Town and the Regional centre for Science and technology.  Both places were excellent and totally packed because of the May Day holiday weekend.

After a wonderful day touring and sightseeing we headed toward Auschwitz.

 

 

04/18/2017 Biala Podlaska & Surrounding Villages

Tuesday 18th April – Tuesday 25th April – Biala Podlaska, Poland and surrounding villages

Tuesday was our last day with Piotr as he was leaving Wednesday for around ten days.  Piotr drives a coach and is currently taking a group of Russian tourists throughout Europe.

We headed off for some more sightseeing. 

Below are some of the many places in the local area that we visited over the next week or so.  There has been little time to write notes for each day as each day is packed with so much.  Will try to provide information on some of the sites visited below.

Shrine of the Podlaskie Uniates in Kostomloty:  a Church with a valuable and beautiful iconostasis and relics of the blessed Uniate Marty’s from Pratulin.  The parish in Kostomloty (south of Terespol, close to the River Bug) was founded in 1631.

Kostomloty

 

Greek Orthodox Church – Kostomloty, Poland

St Anne’s Basilica – Kodena truly beautiful church with a lot of history and really worth a visit.  Its setting is on acres of beautiful manicured lawns and gardens with small chapels scattered throughout.

St Anne’s Basilica – Koden
St Anne’s Basilica – Koden

The Lublin Open Air Village Museum was established in 1970.  Set in 60 acres of picturesque land it is one of the largest open air museums in Poland.  The area is composed of several parts reflecting geographical units of Lublin region.  The museum preserves the historic images of villages, manors and provincial towns with their regional characteristic features of buildings and settlement layouts.

Lublin Old Town:  – again another beautiful old town which was levelled to the ground during World War II and reconstructed to its original glory.  Whilst Warsaw Old Town was very special, Lublin Old Town has been our favourite to date. 

Barbara, Kornelia & Krys – Old Lublin Town
Old Lublin Town street scene
Old Lublin Town

We were in awe as we walked down each street.  They have plaques on almost all the buildings with each telling a story about what happened there during the war.  We have always been interested in history but nothing can describe how awful it would have been for my parents and their families during those horrible years.  My father never spoke about those times and now I certainly can understand why.

Krys weaving g a rug at Roskosz

Roskosz – Biala Podlaska –  a Government initiative involving educational activities including a bakery, wood making, masonry, weaving, sewing and metal work.

Set in what was a beautiful old farm dating back to the 17th century.  The site now has a hotel, restaurant and function centre, the funds from which support the Roskosz initiative.

Rob with a rock cutter at Roskosz

The main objective of The Roskosz initiative was the search for causes of low physical activity among children and young people and overcoming the tendency of excessive use of screen media and the Internet.   Groups of young people 14-18 years age come here and are encouraged to not only learn to enjoy sporting activities outside but also to learn skills from yesteryear.

The area to the east of here is very close to the border with Belarus.

We saw so much of the beautiful countryside.  Farms are everywhere as the soil is so rich.  We can understand why throughout history, Poland has been fought for and taken over by so many countries.

Progress with my Polish Passport is proceeding.  Wheels turn very slowly here. 

My Polish Citizenship has been confirmed in writing now but to proceed to being granted a Passport I need to register my birth certificate and marriage certificate again as two other government departments have not accepted what has already been submitted to get my citizenship. 

So it has been time consuming trips once again doing the rounds of the government offices, official NAATI translators and Notary Offices.

It would have been impossible to get this far without my family here helping me.  They have been so patient and we thank them very much. 

Hope by the end of this week to have these documents registered and a Polish ID card which should allow both of us unlimited time in the Schengen Area.  Time will tell. 

Our lack of speaking Polish would have been a real barrier.

Some of the street signs make driving a little challenging
Sign in a Polish Government office – this one in Russian – makes it even harder to get things done

 

 

04/11/2017 Biala Podlaska – Poland

Tuesday 11th April – Warsaw

Reluctantly after two beautiful relaxing days, we left this beautiful rural setting, all batteries (ours and Ziggy’s fully recharged) and headed for the Big Smoke – Warsaw here we come. 

We didn’t see much of the countryside over the next 100kms as we travelled only on the motorway which took us into the centre of Warsaw.  The new motorways have walls 3-4 metres high on both sides so  we didn’t see much of the scenery but it was an easy drive. 

We settled in at Camping Majawa around lunchtime (only a couple of places in Warsaw to choose from).  Very expensive compared to everywhere else we have stayed in – around $42AUD per night. 

It would have been beautiful when it opened many many years ago but now it is very run down and old and as it did not officially open until 1st May, very little had been done to it since last season – very badly maintained. 

Its location is very central to the centre of Warsaw so excellent position for sightseeing but nothing else.  Power boxes were very rusty and looked unsafe.  Bathrooms were very antiquated with no hot water most of the time – so we showered in Ziggy

We received good news – an SMS from my relatives advising that I have been verbally granted Polish Citizenship – yeah!!! – 12 months down the track and now I have my first piece of paper (yet to arrive in the mail).  Now to find out the next steps to get the end result – my passport.

Kornelia (my Niece’s daughter) and her partner Kamil met us at Camping Majawa mid Tuesday afternoon and from there we walked a short distance to the tram station which in only a few stops took us into the centre of Warsaw.  The tram and subway systems are amazing.

First a visit to Warsaw Old Town whose history goes back over 700 years.  This was bombed to the ground during World War II and has now been reconstructed from scratch using old photos and drawings. 

Symbol of Polish Patriotism – child with weapon same size as child

UNESCO has included it on its list of World Cultural Heritage.  The Royal Castle is one of the most visited attractions here.  The square is filled with cafes though today has been bitterly cold, overcast and some rain so not many people are outside.   The King Zygmunt column towers over the square – it is the oldest and highest monument in Warsaw.  The statue fell during World War II and was reconstructed in 1945.

Warsaw Old Town Square

We walked along beautiful cobbled streets and saw so many beautiful buildings – exact replicas of the old buildings and statues including the Mermaid Statue – a guardian and symbol of Warsaw.

Copernicus Monument – Warsaw Old Town
Old Warsaw Town
Ols Warsaw Town

Wednesday morning Kornelia took us to the Warsaw Rising Up Museum which is located in a former trams power station, a historical monument of industrial architecture from the early 20th century.

An amazing building by itself and the exhibits that are spread out over three floors are the best we have ever seen anywhere.   We spent nearly four hours there and learned so much about Polish history and the persecution of the Polish people, not only by Germany but Russia towards the end of World War 2.  Both Germany and Russia wanted the valuable farming land for themselves and Poland suffered and lost so many lives (around 9 million people) and their land and country because of this.

We headed back to Ziggy to tackle the traffic getting out of Warsaw to Biala Podlaska.  By train it takes less than two hours but by Ziggy we spent nearly 40 minutes travelling less than 1km. 

Four hours later we arrived in Biala where we met Barbara, Piotr and Lily (their dog or probably their second child by the way she is treated) and sat down to a traditional Polish meal – the first of so many banquets over the next week.

Thursday 13th – through Monday 17th April – Biala Podlaska

The next day was still a working day so Piotr was unable to be with us today but after a sumptuous breakfast (again traditional polish food) Barbara and Kornelia drove us to the cemetery where my grandparents were laid to rest. 

The polish people in Eastern Poland are very religious and true Catholics.  Easter is their holy time and looking after the grave sites is paramount to them.  The cemetery is located in a beautiful green rural setting in Lipinki.  Every grave has flowers and lanterns and beautiful headstones.  It was truly moving to see how well they look after their families after death. 

We drove on to the town where my father was born, Kryzwowolka, a very small farming area of only a few houses and then on to other places where he and his parents lived. 

I am a bit lost with the sequence of every day but we have twice had beautiful meals with grandma Jadwiga (Piotr’s mother).  The meals continue over many hours with visitors coming and going all day.  It is a truly beautiful time where families spend their time going from one house to another. 

They go to several daily masses starting from Easter Thursday and some of the masses go for 3-4 hours.  There is standing room only in the church.  Easter Friday and Easter Saturday are days with no meat or alcohol consumed.  We attended resurrection mass on Sunday morning with the family.  A beautiful ceremony of the resurrection of Christ followed by mass.  Once mass is over the party begins!!!

A huge meal of a dozen varieties of meat and polish dishes hit the table and so does the vodka.   A procession of family members come and go all day.  We eat and drink non stop – exhausted we went to bed in readiness of more eating and drinking and meeting new people on Monday.  I learned lots of bits and pieces about my dad and the things he did when he re-visited Poland many years ago.

Sunday afternoon at 4:50 pm it started to snow and is expected to be minus 4 degrees overnight with a max of 8 degrees tomorrow – thank heavens it is nearly summer

All shops are closed on Easter Sunday and Monday.

Cakes of all kind are a tradition here and are eaten with nearly every meal.  Barbara and Kornelia baked three massive cakes including black Forrest cake with home made black currant jam, another with jelly and berries and meringue and cream and the last, a traditional baked cheese cake.

We love the SWEET tradition but not good for the waistline.

Tomorrow we can continue with the epic struggle of getting a little further down  the track to get my Polish Passport.

Meeting my family in Poland

To Barbara Chilczuk (my wonderful and beautiful niece), Piotr (her husband) and Kornelia (their beautiful daughter and our English translator) I want to thank you so very very much for the warmth and friendship you have given Rob and myself, firstly during the last 9 months through emails and Skype calls and now for everything you have done for us and we have shared over many days.

Thank you Kamil, Magda and Margaret (Goosha) for helping with translations.  We find it difficult and embarrassing that we cannot speak many words in Polish but my mother (born in Austria) and father (born in Poland) only spoke German at home.  My mother could not speak Polish and so I didn’t learn much Polish at home.

We have met so many beautiful people, grandma Jadwiga (Piotr’s mum and the best cook in Poland except from Barbara) uncle Mirek and their children and grand children, and many more people have accepted us as family here.

Many do not remember or were too young to remember my father and it has been very difficult to get much more information about his life here in particular during World War II and the years when he met my mother in Germany where I was born.

It has been one of my main goals for our trip to find out more information about those years as my mother and father refused to talk about the war years.  After discussions with family members here and visits to Polish Museums we now understand why.