I knew nothing about Poland or Warsaw prior to this visit. The city’s architecture felt bland, while the people were vibrant. Later on, I learned about the difficult history involving World War 2. 95% of Warsaw was destroyed (rebuilt with a communist style) and the most Jews were killed in this city. I stayed at a church building and enjoyed some wonderful time with other Christians my age. I consider Warsaw historically rich and architecturally okay.
Duration
3 days
Accommodation
Believers house (2 nights)
Favorite Food
Fried dumplings with bacon gravy
Favorite Site
The Jews in Poland museum
Cool Person I Met
Ronny. Ronny is originally from India but studied the past two years in New Zealand. We met on a free walking tour and he shared about his four month tour through Europe, which comes to an end next week. He really enjoyed the last five days partying in Krakow.
Highlight
Walking past four different free speech advocates at night in the city center with some new friends
Big Takeaway
Communism left its mark on Eastern Europe. I felt a different energy among the people in Hungary, Czech, Slovakia, and Poland. To illustrate, my fiancée and I sometimes frown at each other jokingly to imitate what we call the “Czech face”. Someone told me Americans are very noticeable in this region because they “smile too much”. The iron curtain fell in 1989, only 28 years ago. Many people, especially older ones feel the impact of a strict Soviet ruling. Anyone who seeks cultural sensitivity, must understand how communism impacted they way many people think and behave. It will prevent us from casting quick judgments allowing us to seek empathy and connectedness.
Your Turn
What is your impression of Eastern Europe?
Share an example of how you lacked or possessed cultural sensitivity.
Please note: I reserve the right to delete comments that are offensive or off-topic.