Experience in Warsaw, Poland by Minh

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

Life in Warsaw is quiet and peaceful. You might expect more from the capital of Poland, but it really is just that. Except for the very center area of the city, there aren't really any places with a lot of hustle and bustle. That's not a problem if you like it quiet though (like me), so I would definitely recommend it to people who enjoy a nice and slow lifestyle.

What is the student lifestyle like in Warsaw?

The student lifestyle in Warsaw is so-so. There are enough places to go to, but compared to cities like Krakow or Wroclaw it does leave something to be desired. It is rather hard to find a job as a foreigner student as well because in Warsaw English is not spoken as much as, again, in Krakow or Wroclaw.

How much does it cost to live in Warsaw?

The living cost in Warsaw is quite low compared to other cities. You can live on as low as $25 a week for food alone. The housing cost is within $150-$300 a month.

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

Finding accommodation in Warsaw is not difficult, but not easy either. While there is a decent number of places to rent, the owners tend to favor natives instead of foreigners. Your best bet is to go to websites for foreign students like ThinkPoland.org to look for accommodation.

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

I haven't had much chance to try the food in Warsaw because I have a tight budget, but the dishes I have tried are all delicious. Generally though I am pretty indifferent about food so I can't say which dish was my favorite.

What places would you recommend visiting in Warsaw?

The Summer and Winter palaces and the Old Town, first and foremost. They are perhaps the most popular sights Warsaw has to offer, and each of them has enough content to keep you occupied for an entire day.

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

I don't eat out a lot because as was said before I have a tight budget, but the restaurants I have been too all served good food, so if you ever feel like going out to eat in Warsaw, by all means! My favorite spots are the Red Hog restaurant in Grzybowska and the Wok Sushi near the Central Railway Station.

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

Warsaw has its fair share of nightclubs, though if you want to have a nice selection you have to go to Mazowiecka street. Remember to dress elegantly on Saturday nights, or they won't even let you in.

What advice would you give future students heading to Warsaw?

Invest some time learning Polish, because you will need every bit of Polish you have to make your life easier in Warsaw. Having a solid grasp of the language will open up a whole new level of possibilities for you regarding jobs, accommodation, and pretty much everything else.