CT Feature
Disturbing in that it still speaks volumes about the evil that is unleashed when man loses his humanity. It is horrifying to think of what can happen when good men and women do not speak out against evil; a stark reminder that, albeit it on a lesser scale and in a different way, similar atrocities are still happening today. It is a truly thought-provoking place that should be visited by anyone visiting this area of Poland.
Another visit we organised was a half-day trip to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, which was wonderful. Salt has been mined in Poland over many centuries, and this mine, which is no longer active, has been turned into a very interesting visitor attraction. As well as the old salt workings and tram ways, it houses a huge, cavernous chamber that is now used as a venue for concerts and official diners, as well as the smaller, but equally impressive church, used by the miners before each shift.
The Christmas Market held in the large central square, a mixture of craft shops and stalls selling all kinds of freshly-cooked food, was something like the Christmas market stalls springing up in Cardiff, but with a somewhat more festive atmosphere. We had a great time there doing some shopping for our grandchildren. The square is surrounded on all four sides by an arcade of shops, hotels and restaurants, many with outdoor dining areas boasting glass walls heated by gas flames enclosed in safety tubes. Diners were even supplied with bright red fleece blankets to put over their legs. It really gave us the feeling of being fully immersed in the whole of the hustle and bustle of the market festivities.
As with all holidays, not everything was perfect. As I said earlier, our 4.00pm flight from Bristol meant that we didn't arrive at our hotel until nearly 9.30pm, too late for us to find our way to the restaurants we had hoped
to visit. So after a quick wash and brush up at our (very nice) hotel, we were pleased to find a number of these cosy outside dining areas nearby. We ordered some Polish beer (lovely) while we looked at the menu. I ordered Beef Goulash, just the job on a bitterly cold night. But alas: Sorry, I was told, not on the menu tonight. Instead I opted for Weiner Schnitzel, which was excellent. The next evening, while my wife was shopping in the Christmas Market, I went to look for the restaurant my son had recommended and, after an hour or so, eventually found it, only to find that it was closed until the New Year. So we found somewhere else to eat and again I ordered Goulash, Sorry sir, we have sold out. Such disappointment! The next day, however, at the restaurant in the Salt Mine, I was able to have that long awaited bowl of goulash.
Despite a few irritating mishaps, I will say to you, “If you ever get the chance you must visit Krakow”. I can thoroughly recommend it as a lovely destination for a short break, especially in the lead up to Christmas and I hope that one day we shall return. My final piece of advice is that you check your favourite meal is still on the menu before ordering the drinks!
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