Poland is not the place most people think of when traveling to Europe, and that is a tremendous benefit. If you’re like me, you enjoy going to places where the locals are kind and helpful, a place where tourists are few, a place where you can relive the history of a great and glorious nation.

Conquered and partitioned time and again, the Polish people have an innate sense of themselves and their heritage. The country was devastated by the Germans during World War II and then further by the Soviets during the Communist era, but the pride and pleasure the Poles take in their homeland is very evident.

Take the time to visit Krakow, in the southern part of the country. In times of old, cities contained a large market square where merchants could sell their wares to local people. The Market Square in Krakow dates back to the 14th century, one of the only market squares remaining in Europe. (Hitler had intended to level Krakow as he had Warsaw at the end of the War, but the Red Army forced him to retreat, leaving Krakow intact) Listen to Chopin piano music played by a professional musician (Chopin was Poland-born-and-bred) in a 16th century drawing room, and enjoy the street musicians, who are plentiful.

Another lovely destination is Zakopane in the Tatra Mountains, south of Krakow. Known as the “Polish Alps,” this is where the Poles go to “get out of the city.” Downhill skiing and other winter sports abound, but even in the warm weather months the views are breathtaking.

Polish people are inherently kind and eager to help. Don’t worry if you can’t speak the language. Most young people are learning English in school and can help you, and of course, if you can pick up a few Polish words or phrases, you’ll be rewarded with smiles and appreciation. Dzien dobry (sounds like “jean dough-brie”) meaning “Good Day” and Dziekuje (“jean coo-yeah”) meaning “Thank you” are good starters.

We experienced firsthand the kindness of the Poles when we were looking for the mall in Warsaw. We stopped some young people who were about 15 years old and asked them. They told us that we had to take the train to get there, but they were going that way and would show us. These three kids led the way to the subway, helped us buy the tickets, and then got on the train to show us which stop was ours. On another occasion, a man who spoke no English helped us to find the bus stop we needed. Another man helped us to explain what we needed to a postal worker. See what I mean?

The country is still on their monetary system, the zloty. Currently the exchange is about 3 zlotys to $1 US, which makes it an inexpensive destination. Dinner with a bowl of soup as appetizer, entree complete with meat, vegetable and potato plus dessert will run anywhere from $4 to $10 US. Quite reasonable, and delicious, too! What is particularly noticeable is that McDonald’s are few and far between but fresh fruit stands abound. It is rare to find a fat Pole – they walk everywhere, and their meals include large quantities of fruits and vegetables.

If you’d like to experience the beauty and ambiance of Europe without the crowds and “touristy” atmosphere, consider Poland. It’s well worth your visit!