Unexpected Day Trip

Poland caught me by surprise. This country wasn't in my planned travels at all but due to some changes in my travel dates, I got the chance to spend the day in Warsaw. I said my good byes and got on a direct bus from Belarus to Warsaw, Poland. It took longer than I expected with crossing the border and taking multiple stops along the way. I arrived in Warsaw at a reasonable time and still had almost a full day to myself. I was really tired and hungry from the trip but knew I had no time to waste. I quickly freshened up and hit the road. The Airbnb that I booked wasn’t too close to the main attractions but I didn’t mind the walk. It gave me the opportunity to see everything rather than looking through a bus or car window. Warsaw is very beautiful and filled with many parks and greenery. It has a modern and an old, historic side to it. Most of the street population were residents or students, and not too many tourists. Coming from Ukraine and Belarus, I was very use to being able to understand everyone and everything on the streets, so I was a bit out of my comfort zone not knowing what most of the people were saying or not being able to read any signs or menus.

Walking toward the main streets, all I could think about is food. But I knew I didn’t want just anything, I had to try some authentic Polish food. I found a popular Polish restaurant called Zapiechek and was happy to finally be expected to eat. Traveling alone forces me to do things and experience things on my own. It was my first time eating at a restaurant by myself but surprisingly, I didn’t feel lonely or sad about not having someone there with me. I tried the fried mixed Polish dumpling, some were filled with either meat, spinach, mushrooms, or sweet cheese. They were delectable.

After getting food off my mind, I finally had clear thoughts to enjoy the city. I walked down the main street that was filled with so many restaurants, bakeries, shops, etc. While aimlessly walking, observing everything, and people watching, I reached the Old Town of Warsaw that looks like a square with many restaurants outside. I walked about 6 miles round trip so I was excited to finally get back to my room and just relax and unwind. I had a pleasure spending a few hours talking and getting to know my Airbnb host in the evening before heading to bed to catch an early flight. Thanks for having me for a day Warsaw!