Government

Poland is a democratic republic. The government structure centres on the Council of Ministers, led by a prime minister. The president appoints the cabinet according to the proposals of the prime minister. The president, elected by popular vote every 5 years, serves as the head of state. The current president is Aleksander Kwasniewski.

Culture

Poland is a multifaceted country, a bridge between the East and West. People are hospitable and welcome visitors. It has developed into a modern, vibrant and progressive state, yet at the same time it maintains its traditional culture.

Infrastructure

Currently much of Poland's infrastructure is undergoing necessary modernization and refurbishment. Roads, rail and bus services reach all parts of the country.

Communications

The local telecom infrastructure is up to world standards and access to fixed line telephones is only problematic in some rural areas. The three GSM (mobile phone) operators have already achieved nearly 100 per cent geographic coverage of the country.

Currency

The unit of currency in Poland is the Zloty (Zl) = 100 groszy. Notes are in denominations of Zl200, 100, 50, 20 and 10. The coins are in denominations of Zl5, 2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 groszy.. Current exchange rates: USD 1 = PLN 2.95

Business Hours

Businesses are usually open between 9.00am to 5.00pm, Monday to Friday with most government offices from 9.00am to 4.00pm, weekdays. Shops are open between 11.00am to 7.00pm or some to 8.00pm, Monday to Friday. Larger supermarkets are open between 9.00am-9.00pm, seven days a week. Banking hours are 8.00am to 4.00pm Monday to Friday and 9.00am to 1.00pm Saturday in main cities.

Airport

Frederic Chopin International Airport, Warsaw

Tax Free Shopping

Within Warsaw Frederic Chopin Airport there is Duty Free Zone with retail shops selling duty free goods to travellers on international flights departing from Poland.

Transport

Most major Polish cities have airports with connecting services with the in Warsaw. For travelling in Poland the PKP's intercity or eurocity train, PKS's overland bus service are both comfortable options. Alternative options include slower PKP longdistance or local trains or numerous coach services. Since the fall of communism roads in Poland are slowly improving. There is acceptable tourist infrastructure, especially in larger cities and in major tourist resorts.

Accommodation

A breadth of accommodation is available from 5 star hotels in major cities to budget hostels and rooms.

Amenities

There are few health risks associated with travel to Poland. If you work in Poland, you can easily become part of their Public Health Care system, by making deductions from your salary. Of course, you must have your work permit in order to become eligible. Health Insurance is advised.