Goin' Solo in Krakow Polska

It's intimidating, at first. Upon leaving Ukraine, driving away from the bus stop, I watched my family and friends wave as I set out on my own. I had a hard time sleeping on the bus and passing through customs in the middle of the night made me nervous as they collected our passports for checks. We arrived at dawn to Krakow to an almost empty bus station. As I was trying to figure out where to go and what to do, I found it rather ironic that three different people asked me for directions. Maybe I seem to fit in naturally in Polska?

After a fresh cup of coffee, an overpriced breakfast sandwich accompanied by a complicated city map, I pieced together the route to my hostel. Trudging my over-packed backpack and a bag of food, I finally got the the hostel to settled in.

Soon thereafter, feelings of intimidation turned to feelings of liberation. I was free to wander and explore. Strolling through the charming city, you automatically feel relaxed, yet curious. So many quaint cafe shops and gorgeous artwork on display all over the city. I loved being a tourist here! One of my favorite spots was the the Wieliczka Salt Mine.


A great unexpected surprise: Jakub, a dear friend from high school who I haven't seen in years happened to be in Krakow at the same time. I guess it's a small world after all. We spent a day wandering through the Wawel Castle examining old tombs, climbing bell towers, and exploring cathedrals. Building up an appetite, we headed to the Jewish quarters for their famous Zapiekanki, and then finished the day with a couple of beers on the river.

Artwork in Krakow

Polish folk musicians

Beer on the river

Zapiekanka, mmmm!