Krakow Poland

This is the first city where verbal language skills are minimal. I speak several languages but do not cover the Eastern Block countries. Thank goodness for Google translate. I find that it makes a big difference if you learn to say “thank you” in the relevant language. Some people speak a little English, not always enough to assist without Google translate. But, I felt safe in Krakow. People do try to help regardless. After my trip to Auschwitz Birkenau and the Salt Mines, I did a Macabre walking tour, a Jewish Ghetto walking tour and today I went to a few places I had accumulated. I am disappointed I didn’t get to Pope John Paul II’s birth place but that might be for another trip. I went to Schindler’s Factory, which is a very informative and fascinating museum. If you have watched the movie “Schindler’s List” you will understand some of what this factory was for. It is one of the good stories of the Holocaust. It is one of the best museums I have been to. There are windows set up with film of what you would have experienced looking out your window during that horrific time. Much more which is best experienced.

I then walked to the Jewish Square of Heroes to the empty chairs of Krakow.The Eros Bendato sculpture which symbolises how you can lose your head over love.

A walk along the Vistula River, through the main square of Old Town, Rynek Glowny Plaza, Stare Miasto, St Mary’s Basilica, Wawel Royal Castle and Planty. There are lots of restaurants and places to people watch and you an also have a horse and cart ride around the town.