Nowy Sacz, Poland, July 2023

The summer of 2023 was a special time for me, marking the end of my deployment in Panama and preparing for my upcoming mission in Venezuela. I spent nearly a month traveling through Europe and Africa, taking the opportunity to reconnect with family, friends, and explore new places.

Exploring Poland – A Return to My Roots

I began my trip in Poland, where I spent much of my time revisiting my hometown of Nowy Sącz with my mum. The trip was an opportunity to recharge before the next chapter.
• Hrusztyn (Slovakia): Together with Mum, we took a side trip to Hrusztyn, a quaint town in Slovakia, just across the border. We enjoyed the quiet charm of the area and the peaceful countryside views.
• Krynica Zdrój: Known for its amazing wooden architecture, Krynica Zdrój was a favorite stop. The town’s wooden houses and traditional spa culture made it a beautiful and relaxing place to visit. The stunning landscapes and fresh air provided the perfect escape.
• Łódź: The highlight of my trip was undoubtedly Łódź. Łódź, long considered an industrial city with a tarnished reputation, surprised me completely. Known for being the center of Poland’s once-booming textile industry, the city has gone through a remarkable transformation in recent years. Łódź is now a vibrant city of culture, with a thriving arts scene, stunning modern architecture, and a reinvention of its historical spaces.

Walking through Piotrkowska Street, one of the longest commercial streets in Europe, was a revelation. This pedestrian-friendly avenue is lined with neo-renaissance buildings, art galleries, and local boutiques. The street is dotted with street art, creating an exciting blend of history and modernity. What once was a working-class street with gritty industrial buildings has now been reimagined into a cultural hotspot.

Łódź has gone to great lengths to restore many of its historic factories and warehouses, transforming them into creative spaces for art exhibitions, museums, cinemas, and even luxury apartments. This transformation is most visible in places like the Manufaktura Complex, which used to house a huge textile factory and is now a stunning shopping mall and cultural hub, featuring everything from contemporary art galleries to boutiques and restaurants. The architecture of Łódź is truly something special, with grand 19th-century buildings, loft spaces, and modernist structures standing side-by-side.

The Post-Industrial Revolution vibe in the city gives Łódź a unique identity. It’s not a typical Polish city; it is raw, with a sophisticated edge, and feels like an exciting work in progress. The city’s revitalization has turned Łódź into a magnet for creative professionals—from filmmakers and artists to designers and startups.

One of the highlights of visiting Łódź was meeting Marysia, a neighbour from Nowy Sącz, who had moved to the city years ago. She’s made Łódź her home and introduced me to her life there. We enjoyed catching up and discussing how much the city has changed since she arrived. Her stories gave me a deep appreciation for Łódź’s transformation and how it continues to attract people seeking new beginnings and creative opportunities.

Visiting Warsaw – Always Wonderful

Next, we headed to Warsaw, where we spent some time exploring the city. Warsaw is always a joy to visit, with its blend of history and modernity. Despite the heat, the city’s energy and beauty were incredible. Walking through the Old Town, Łazienki Park, and enjoying the vibrant local cafes was a great way to experience the city’s dynamic atmosphere.

A Day Trip to Slovakia

In a highlight of the trip, Mum, Agnieszka (our neighbour), and her mum, along with Pani Kurzejowa (Mum’s friend), took a day trip to Slovakia. The places we visited were full of natural beauty and history:
• Poprad: This town was a lovely spot in the Tatra Mountains, known for its thermal spas and scenic views.
• Vysná Boca and Nízná Boca: Both places were nestled in the mountains, and we spent the day walking through picturesque villages, surrounded by beautiful nature.
• Banská Štiavnica: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Banská Štiavnica is a historic town that is a hidden gem. With its well-preserved architecture and charming streets, it was one of the most stunning stops on our trip.

Wysowa Zdrój – Relaxation in the Mountains

We also spent some time in Wysowa Zdrój, a small spa town in the Beskidy Mountains. Known for its mineral springs and health resorts, it was the perfect place to relax and recharge. We enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere, taking in the fresh mountain air, and exploring the nature trails.

Saying Goodbye to Poland – Last Visits Before Venezuela

Finally, it was time to leave Poland and head to Lisbon for my flight to Venezuela. Before I left, I spent time in Krakow, where I met with Julian and his partner, colleagues from ECHO, who were visiting Krakow for their holiday. It was wonderful to see them before my departure to Venezuela. It felt like the perfect way to say goodbye to Poland before embarking on my new adventure.

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