Experience in Warsaw, Poland by Barbara

What is it like to live in Warsaw? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

It is written in the guidebooks that Polish people that have their roots in Warsaw complain about the city and are not in love with it. This seems to be true. I will try, nevertheless, to be positive about Wawa to help you to enjoy it. Living here means that you have the access to a very broad variety of culture events. What I love about this city are Roma Musical Theatre and National Opera House. The life is hasty and chaotic so if someone wants to escape a dull little town life it is a good shot. If you are new in here and don't know already almost all the faces going to the clubs can be a fun experience. Foreigners often point out that prices generally, and that of drinks, are often lower than in other countries, so it is perceived as a plus as well. Generally big cities lives across Europe are not drastically different from each other. Polish people might be shy to speak English sometimes but many of them know English and will try to help you.

What is the student lifestyle like in Warsaw?

Students enjoy a lot parties at home ("domówki") because these allow them to get a more intimate atmo and to be able to talk without music roaring in the background. They are spending also less cash on drinks.

How much does it cost to live in Warsaw?

It depends on the standard of life that you are expecting. I did my erasmus in Lisbon and the living cost is generally comparable. Still, there are many products or services that are far less expensive than in Portugal.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Warsaw? Is there any advice you can give?

Yes, it is very difficult, because the apts disappear from the market within hours after the advert was published, so you need to be a very fast decision maker and be ready to put instantly money on the table if you really like the place.
No, because there is a continuous stream of new adverts coming.
Yes, because it is hard to find good standard.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

I like "pierogi", "gołąbki", "kopytka", "bigos" and many other dishes, Polish food was one of the very few things that I miss when I m abroad. However, Polish dishes can be perceived sometimes as heavy and sour. You just need to find sth you d enjoy out of this all.

What places would you recommend visiting in Warsaw?

Centrum Kopernik and Warsaw Rising Museum

Is it good to eat out in Warsaw? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

I have always had problems to find good plcs to eat, but I think that many new restaurants have been opened and that gives hope. I am in the process of exploring so I can't say now yet.

Is the nightlife good in Warsaw? Where is good to go?

It can be very good, It is a complex question. Where to go, what time to enter and how to be dressed - all matters. You have no guarantee that you ll enter to a good club after standing in a long line.

What advice would you give future students heading to Warsaw?

To understand the city you need to immerse a bit in history because it is all about history here. Try to find a buddy to translate for you or help you understand why things work in a certain way. Travel across Europe because you are close to many destinations. Hope you will enjoy this experience!