Poland flights and travel guide

Language

The national language is Polish. English is widely understood in tourist areas.

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Money

The official currency is Zloty (PLN), divided into 100 groszy. Poland is essentially a "cash country", and it is difficult to negotiate credit cards and travellers cheques in the cities, and well nigh impossible in rural areas. American Express, Diners Club, Visa and MasterCard are, however, accepted in places frequented by tourists. ATMs are also beginning to proliferate in Polish cities, where they are designated by the sign "Bankomat". Money (preferably US$ or Euros) can be exchanged in the cities and larger towns at banks, hotels or bureaux called "kantors", which offer the best rates.

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Communications

The international access code for Poland is +48. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)22 for Warsaw and (0)12 for Krakow. Cheap rate is between 4pm and 6am, and weekends. Mobile phones work throughout the country, localoperators use GSM networks, which may not be compatible with some US cell phones. Internet cafes are available in most towns.

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Tipping

Tipping is not customary in Poland, but small gratuities can be offered for excellent service. 10 to 15 per cent is customary in restaurants.

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Safety

Tourists should be alert to the risk of robbery in tourist areas in large cities, particularly in the vicinity of hotels, markets and banks. Vigilance against theft should also be exercised at central railway stations in Poland, as well as on overnight long distance trains, and when travelling on public transport between Warsaw's Frederic Chopin Airport and central Warsaw.

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Health

There are few health risks associated with travel to Poland. Those visiting forested areas are advised to seek medical advice about inoculations for tick-borne encephalitis. Bird flu was discovered in swans in northern Poland in March 2006; there is little risk to travellers, but close contact with live birds shouldbe avoided and all egg and poultry dishes well cooked as a precaution. It is safest to drink bottled water to avoid stomach upsets. There is a reciprocal health agreement with the UK and most EU countries, whose citizens are entitled to free emergency medical treatment on presentation of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Full health insurance cover is advised.

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Electricity

Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. The standard two-pin European style plugs are used.

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