Traveling to Poland
Poland became a significant part of my life when I moved here for work at Google in 2020. With a population of around 38 million, Poland is Central Europe's largest country and has become a major tech hub in recent years.
Fun fact: Poland has 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and its Old Towns in Kraków and Warsaw are among the most beautifully restored in Europe.
What I Experienced
Living in Poland for an extended period gave me a chance to explore far beyond the typical tourist spots. Warsaw, where I was based, is a city of contrasts - the meticulously reconstructed Old Town alongside modern skyscrapers tells the story of the country's remarkable resilience.
The drone captured Warsaw's skyline at night in a dramatic aerial panorama. The Palace of Culture and Science - Stalin's "gift" to Poland and still the country's tallest building - glows red against the modern glass towers behind it. Heart symbols light up neighboring buildings, and the city pulses with energy below.
Kraków quickly became one of my favorite European cities. The massive Main Market Square (Rynek Główny), Wawel Castle, and the charming Jewish quarter of Kazimierz offer endless exploration. The nearby Wieliczka Salt Mine is genuinely impressive.
I also discovered Poland's natural beauty - the Tatra Mountains in the south offer amazing hiking, and the Masurian Lakes in the north provide a peaceful escape. Polish national parks are surprisingly uncrowded.
Practical Notes
- Very affordable compared to Western Europe
- Food is hearty and delicious - try pierogi, żurek (sour rye soup), and oscypek (smoked cheese)
- Public transport is excellent, with modern trains connecting major cities
- Summer (June-August) is ideal for outdoor activities
- Poles are incredibly hospitable - don't refuse a vodka toast!
These high-resolution aerial panoramas of Poland are available for purchase with commercial license - perfect for Central European travel content, urban skyline displays, or dramatic cityscape wall art.