Capital: Warsaw

Poland shares borders with the Baltic Sea, the Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, Lithuania, the Czech Republic, the Slovak Republic and Germany. Warsaw, the capital, was completely destroyed during World War II, but the Old Town has been completely rebuilt. The reconstructed Royal Castle is well worth seeing. The Lazienki Palace is set in a lovely park with an open-air Greek theatre and a monument to Chopin. Krakow, Poland’s second city, still retains its charming medieval air, having largely escaped destruction during the War. In the center is the Cloth Hall built in the 14th century. Opposite is St Mary’s Church, famous for its wooden altar. Gdansk was also destroyed in World War II, but has also been restored to its former beauty. Sights include the Town Hall, the 17th-century Golden Gate and the largest Gothic church in Poland. Poland has strong theatrical and musical traditions. Warsaw and the main cities have theatres and opera companies that put on a whole range of musical and cultural programs for both locals and visitors.

Language: Polish is the official language. English and Russian are also spoken.

Electricity: 220 volts AC, 50Hz; continental sockets.

Climate: Temperate with warm summers, crisp, sunny autumns and cold winters. Snow covers the mountainous area in the south of Poland (mid-December to April). Rain falls throughout the year.