View our Blog
Follow the party
Afro
The Final Days – Farewell to Krakow
The Final Days – Farewell to Krakow Hello fellow travelers! Ben here, just thought I would share my final reflections as I conclude an extraordinary month in Krakow. This city has been an exhilarating whirlwind of experiences. It's tough to say goodbye so I thought instead of packing my things I write one final blog. Can always pack tomorrow. First Night Out When I arrived in Krakow I had no idea what to expect. I knew about the city's rich history, had been told about all the delicious types of pierogi and the countries famous vodka. But nothing prepared me for the crazy vibrant nightlife. My first night started out a bit overwhelming. Then I discovered a group called The Krakow Party Animals. They completely changed my experience. So If you're looking for best pub crawls in Krakow, they're the ones to check out. We visited some amazing bars and clubs in Old Town. Soon enough I was drunk and having the best of times with people from all over the world. The energy was incredible. I realised my time in Krakow would be unforgettable. Forming a New Crew One of the greatest aspects of traveling is the people you meet, and Krakow did not disappoint. Through nightlife tours, I connected with incredible individuals. There was Jeep, the wild Dane who could outdrink anyone; Afro, the coolest Egyptian with the best dance moves; Sasha, the Ukrainian who always knew the hottest after-parties; and Mofie our very own social butterfly. Together, we turned every night into an adventure. From bar hopping in Kazimierz to dancing until the early hours in Coco , Prozac 2.0 , Four and La Bodega Del Ron, our nightly escapades with Krakow Party Animals became a ritual. The rave reviews for Krakow Party Animals are true – they know how to showcase the best of Krakow’s nightlife. Experiencing Krakow's Culture But it wasn’t just about the partying, though that was a significant part. Krakow has a unique way of blending the old and the new. One day, we’d immerse ourselves in the somber history of Auschwitz, and the next, we’d celebrate life at the Jewish Culture Festival. The city offers a profound cultural experience that’s hard to match. I even timed my visit with Wianki, a wonderful summer solstice festival. Imagine thousands of people gathering by the Vistula River, floating flower wreaths on the water, with fireworks illuminating the sky. It was magical and made me appreciate the richness of Polish traditions. Culinary Discoveries And can we take a moment to talk about the food? I thought I knew Polish cuisine, but I was surprised. Sure, I indulged in pierogis (with zero regrets), but I also discovered zapiekanka, an amazing open-faced sandwich perfect for late-night cravings after a Krakow Party Animals tour. And then there’s the vodka. In Krakow, I quickly learned that you don’t sip vodka – you take shots. Na zdrowie! Life at the Hostel A significant part of my Krakow experience was staying at Let’s Rock Hostel. The staff felt like family, always ready with the best recommendations for party tours or hidden gems to explore. The common area was perfect for beer pong and beer bongs right before heading out with Krakow Party Animals. Reflections and Future Plans As I sit here, trying to pack a month’s worth of memories into my backpack, I feel a mix of emotions. I’m excited for the next adventure, but I’m also planning my return to Krakow. I don’t think anyone who has come to Krakow and experienced it the way I have would ever choose not to return! This city has a way of getting under your skin. Maybe it’s the friendly locals, the fairy tale-like Old Town, or the fact that there’s always something happening in Krakow’s nightlife. To anyone considering a visit to Krakow, all I can say is: do it. Book that ticket, pack your bags, and prepare for unforgettable adventures. And when you get here, connect with Krakow Party Animals, stay at Lets Rock. You won’t regret it. Final Thoughts As I get ready to say "do widzenia" (goodbye in Polish) to this amazing city, I’m filled with gratitude. Gratitude for the experiences, the friendships, and even the hangovers. Each one is a reminder of a night well spent. To Jeep, Afro, Sasha, and Mofie – thank you for the memories. To the staff at Let’s Rock Hostel – you rock (pun intended). And to the Krakow Party Animals team – you made every night an adventure. Dziękuję bardzo (thank you very much) for showing me the true spirit of Krakow. Here’s to Krakow – to its history, its energy, and its ability to surprise. To the nights that turned into mornings, and the strangers that became friends. To the stories I’ll tell for years, and the ones I’ll keep for myself. As I head to my next destination, one thing is certain – a piece of my heart will always belong to Krakow. Until next time, na zdrowie to the adventures that await! And if you’re planning your own Krakow adventure, make sure to hit up Krakow Party Animals . Tell them Ben sent you – maybe they’ll name a shot after me!
Read more
Afro
Lessons Learned – Tips for Future Travelers in Krakow
Krakow: My Guide to Poland's Party Capital If you're thinking of hitting up Krakow, you're in for a bloody good time! After a month of this place, I've got some solid tips to make sure you have an absolute blast. From cheap digs to epic pub crawls, here's the lowdown on everything I think you need to know before you land in Krakow. The Essentials: Where to Kip and How to Get Around Sorting Your Digs Listen up! Hostels are where it's at in Krakow. They're cheap as chips and perfect for meeting other sound travelers. Hotels and air bnbs might be more comfortable but if you want to be comfortable stay at home! One of the best things about traveling is meeting new people and hostels just make this so much easier. I crashed at Let's Rock Hostel right in the city center, and it was spot on. Great location, decent prices, and always buzzing with people up for a laugh and a drink or ten. Pro tip: Book a gaff with a shared kitchen. You'll save a few quid on grub and might even find some drinking buddies for the night. Getting from A to B The public transport in Krakow is deadly efficient and won't break the bank. Trams and buses will get you wherever you need to go. Here's a hack for ya: grab a 72-hour travel pass. It'll sort you out for unlimited rides, which is grand if you're planning to explore every nook and cranny of the city. Pro tip: Buy a ticket, don’t risk it. Krakow is very strict when it comes to people not buying tickets and the trams are checked often! They carry a card terminal and will make you pay on the spot. Obviously this happened to me haha so learn from my mistake. I was charged 150 zloty but I hear I can vary. Stretching Your Złoty’s One of the best things about Krakow is how cheap it is compared to back home. Your money goes a lot further here, so you can afford to have a bit more fun. The food's class and won't cost you an arm and a leg, and there's loads of cool stuff to see without spending a fortune. Most places now use card but its always good to carry some cash on ya. Keeping Your Wits About You Krakow's generally safe, but don't be an idiot. Keep an eye on your stuff, especially when you're in crowded spots or on public transport. This goes double when you're out on the piss, drunk tourists are the easiest to steal from and scam. Again I say this from experience. Talking the Talk: Polish Phrases to Impress the Locals Learning a bit of Polish can go a long way, lads. Here are some handy phrases to get you started: Dzień dobry (jen DOH-bry) - Good morning (use this one for the auld ones) Piwo, proszę (PEE-vo PRO-she) - Beer, please (essential, this one) Dziękuję (jen-KOO-ye) - Thanks Przepraszam (psheh-PRA-sham) - Sorry (for when you've had a few too many) Na zdrowie! (naz-DROH-vyeh) - Cheers! Avoiding Rookie Mistakes Learn from my cock-ups, boys: Mind Your Manners: Polish people are big on respect, especially for the older folks. Use "Dzień dobry" when you're talking to anyone over 30 or in shops and that. Pace Yourself: Krakow's nightlife is mental, but don't go too hard too fast. Polish vodka is lethal stuff. Joining a pub crawl is a great shout for a good night out without ending up in the gutter. Watch Out for Dodgy Spots: Steer clear of the strip clubs, lads. They're notorious for ripping off drunk tourists. Stick to the decent pubs and join a proper pub crawl instead. Wrapping It Up: Your Krakow Adventure Awaits After a month in Krakow, I was buzzing. From the epic nights out on pub crawls to all the cool people I met, this city really got under my skin. But the fun doesn't stop here! In the next post, I'll be spilling the beans on my maddest Krakow experiences and what's next on the cards. Will I stick around in this class city, or is it time to move on? Stay tuned, lads! Get Your Arses to Krakow! Right, boys, you're all set for a belter of a trip to Krakow. Remember, the best way to really get stuck into the city is to dive in headfirst. Join the pub crawls, chat to or chat up the locals, and be up for anything. Fancy giving Krakow a go? Don't hang about – start planning your trip now! And if you want to experience Krakow's mental nightlife without any hassle, get yourself booked onto a pub crawl. It's a savage way to meet other travelers, find the best bars, and make memories you'll be talking about for years (if you remember them, that is). Book your Krakow pub crawl tickets now and get ready for some serious craic in one of Poland's most class cities!
Read more
Afro
Cultural Deep Dive – Festivals and Traditions and Pub Crawl
Local Festivals Krakow’s cultural scene is vibrant and diverse, and I was lucky enough to experience some of its most exciting festivals. Wianki, the midsummer festival, was a spectacle of music, dance, and fireworks. The entire city seemed to come alive with celebrations along the Vistula River. The girls made wreaths from flowers and floated them down the river, a tradition meant to bring good fortune. I went with all the Polish lads to collect these flowers and to find a Polish girl. However, Kasia wasn’t too happy that I participated. Maybe the summer fling is over. Traditional Practices One of the best ways to understand a culture is through its traditions. I participated in a pierogi-making workshop, where I learned to make these delicious dumplings from scratch. However, I accidentally dropped all of mine on the ground, which didn't worry me so much as I'm pretty sure they were inedible. The instructor's dog, however, loved them. The instructor shared hers with me as I had given her doggo such a good lunch. Making pierogi gave me a hands-on understanding of Polish cuisine, its importance in local culture and it was surprisingly very fun. Click here to make your own Another tradition I enjoyed was the Polish toast, "Na zdrowie!" (Cheers!). It’s more than just a phrase; it’s a way to connect with people and celebrate together. I quickly adopted this tradition, and it became a regular part of our nights out, whether we were enjoying a quiet evening or participating in a lively Pub Crawl. We have spoken about the pub crawl so many times in other blog posts so it shouldn’t come as a surprise to you that I keep raving on and on about it. The Pub Crawls are just so much fun! Ive been on approximately 20 of them by now and because of the never ending new people I get to meet and the crazy amount of fun we have, they never get boring!I I even found a new love for a combination of beer and flavored Polish vodka called żubrówka. Shoeys, which obviously involve drinking beer from a shoe, and beer funnels, also known as beer bongs, added to the wild antics of the night. We visited several pubs and clubs, each with its unique atmosphere, from cozy traditional Polish pubs to vibrant modern clubs. The Krakow pub crawl is not just about drinking; it’s about experiencing the city's nightlife and meeting people from all over the world as I said previously. As always though running the games and still being the undefeated champion of beer pong is my personal highlight. Interactive Experiences Krakow offers plenty of opportunities for interactive cultural experiences. I joined a folk dance class, where I learned some traditional Polish dances. The class was full of energy, and although I'm not a very good dancer I still had a blast. Learning the dances was a fun way to connect with Polish culture and meet locals who were eager to share their traditions. Click here to Folk Dance Friendships Formed My circle of friends continued to grow. Jeep, Afro, and I were joined by two more fantastic people: Sasha and Mofie. Sasha was the responsible one in our group, always making sure we stayed out of trouble. But every now and then, we managed to convince him to let loose and join our antics. Mofie, an Egyptian like Afro, loved to gamble. Despite his terrible luck, he always dragged us to the casino for some wild nights. His enthusiasm was contagious, and even though he usually lost, we always had a great time. Mostafa played blackjack so badly he says purposely but perhaps he was just very drunk. Anyway one night he kept hitting even when he had card totals like 18. He played so poorly that the dealer actually let him retract his bet, only to lose it all shortly after. These nights out, whether it was a casual evening or a Krakow pub crawl, were filled with laughter and unforgettable memories. Personal Reflections Experiencing these festivals and traditions made me feel more connected to Krakow. I was no longer just a tourist; I was becoming part of the community. These cultural experiences enriched my understanding of the city and its people, and I felt grateful for the opportunity to be a part of it all. Participating in local traditions and festivals gave me a unique perspective on Krakow’s rich cultural tapestry. The vibrant Wianki festival event added a new layer to my understanding of the city. The pub crawl however, still the highlight of my time in Krakow. They provided a unique opportunity to explore the city’s nightlife, meet new people, and enjoy the local pub culture in a relaxed and fun environment. More Polish Words As I immersed myself in the culture, I picked up more useful phrases: Na zdrowie! - Cheers! Dobra robota - Good job Gdzie jest toaleta? - Where is the toilet? These phrases helped me connect with locals and navigate the city more easily. Learning the language, even just a few phrases, added another layer of depth to my cultural experience in Krakow. Anticipation for What’s Next With each festival and tradition, my love for Krakow grew deeper. I couldn’t wait to see what else the city had in store for me. The Krakow party scene, with its vibrant nightlife and welcoming atmosphere, was a constant source of excitement and joy. Whether it was a casual evening with friends or a wild night on a pub crawl, Krakow always had something new and exciting to offer. Stay tuned for Blog 7, where I share practical tips for future travelers, from accommodation to language tips, and reflect on my most memorable moments! My journey through Krakow is far from over, and I’m eager to continue exploring this incredible city.And as always if you want to join the fun Click Here!
Read more
Afro
Krakow Romance - Fun and Laughter
Romantic Moments As my days in Krakow flew by, I found myself growing closer to Kasia, the receptionist at Let’s Rock Hostel. Her charming smile and infectious laugh had quickly become the highlight of my days. So one evening I decided to ask her out, and you’d never believe this as I am one unfortunate looking fella, she said yes! We started our date with a stroll through Planty Park, The belt surrounding the Old Town. It was perfect, the atmosphere and scenery made it feel pretty damn romantic. Although looking back on it maybe it wasn’t so much for her as shes lived in this city her whole life haha….Anyway as we walked, we talked effortlessly about everything and anything. Felt like i’d known her for years. Effortless communication at its finest. A little about the Planty Park, with its ancient trees and historical statues, provided an idyllic backdrop. The gentle rustling of leaves and the soft glow of street lamps created a rather enchanting ambiance. Shared Experiences Kasia introduced me to some of her favorite spots in Krakow. We visited the Vistula River, where we sat on the banks and watched the sunset. The sky painted a stunning canvas of orange and pink, reflecting off the water. The tranquility of the moment was punctuated by the distant sounds of city life, creating a perfect harmony. Our adventures didn't stop at the riverbank. Kasia took me to the Kazimierz district, known for its vibrant Jewish culture and trendy cafes. The streets were alive with music, art, and the aroma of delicious food. We wandered through cobblestone alleys, discovering hidden gems like the Isaac Synagogue and the colorful murals that adorned the walls. Each visit to Kazimierz felt like stepping into a different era, and experiencing it with Kasia made it even more magical. One of our favorite spots quickly became Café Camelot, a cozy café with an old-world charm. We would often end our evenings there, savoring delicious cakes and enjoying the intimate ambiance. The café's warm lighting and vintage decor provided the perfect setting for deep conversations and stolen glances. Kasia's eyes would light up whenever she talked about her dreams of opening her own café one day, and I found myself imagining a future where we could make that dream a reality together. We also had our share of lively nights. I took Kasia to Prozak 2.0, a popular club known for its electrifying atmosphere and eclectic music. To my surprise, Kasia turned out to be an incredible dancer. Her energy and enthusiasm were infectious, and we spent hours on the dance floor, lost in the rhythm and each other's company. Every moment with her was a delightful surprise, and I was falling for her more each day. Krakow’s Challenges Navigating a relationship in a foreign country came with its own set of challenges. The language barrier was sometimes frustrating, but Kasia was patient and helped me improve my Polish. She would laugh at my mispronunciations and gently correct me, turning each mistake into a learning opportunity. Our language lessons became a fun and bonding activity, filled with laughter and encouragement. Cultural differences also led to some amusing misunderstandings. For instance, I learned the hard way that punctuality is highly valued in Poland, and being late (even by a few minutes) is considered rude. There was one instance when I arrived late to meet Kasia for dinner. She was visibly annoyed, and it took some time for me to understand the cultural significance of my tardiness. That experience taught me the importance of being respectful and mindful of local customs. Navigating these challenges made me more adaptable and resilient. I learned to approach each situation with an open mind and a sense of humor, knowing that every experience was a chance to grow and learn. Personal Growth These experiences were shaping me in ways I hadn’t expected. I was learning to navigate new social norms, improving my language skills, and becoming more adaptable. My relationship with Kasia was teaching me patience and understanding, and my adventures with Jeep and Afro were pushing me out of my comfort zone. Spending time with Kasia also made me more aware of the importance of communication and compromise in a relationship. We had our disagreements, but each one was an opportunity to understand each other better and grow closer. Kasia's patience and willingness to work through our differences made me appreciate her even more. My friendship with Jeep and Afro also played a crucial role in my personal growth. They were always there to support me, whether it was helping me navigate a tricky situation or simply sharing a laugh. Their friendship gave me a sense of belonging and made my time in Krakow even more memorable. More Polish Words As my confidence in Polish grew, I picked up more phrases that brought me closer to Kasia and the local culture. Here are a few of my favorites: Lubię cię - I like you Chodźmy na randkę - Let’s go on a date Czy mogę cię pocałować? - Can I kiss you? Dziękuję - Thank you Przepraszam - Sorry Proszę - Please Learning these phrases helped me connect with people on a deeper level and showed my appreciation for their culture. It was rewarding to see the smiles on their faces when I spoke their language, even if it was just a few words. Anticipation for What’s Next With each passing day, I felt more connected to Krakow and the people around me. I looked forward to spending more time with Kasia, exploring more of the city’s hidden gems, and continuing my adventures with Jeep and Afro. I was excited to discover more about Krakow's rich history, vibrant culture, and the stories that made this city so unique. Stay tuned for Blog 6, where I dive into Krakow’s festivals and traditions, and introduce you to the rest of my wild crew. From the colorful celebrations of Wianki to the somber reflections at Auschwitz, each experience will add a new layer to my journey. I can't wait to share more of my adventures with you!
Read more
Afro
Midway Adventures – Day Trips and Hidden Gems
Midway Adventures – Day Trips and Hidden Gems Day Trips Midway through my stay in Krakow, I decided it was time to explore a bit more and take some tours. So I went to the reception at Lets rock party hostel and booked the top two tours they had. Literally went “book me on the top two tours for tomorrow”.. and then I went on the Pub Crawl. Faced a small regret when I had to wake up at 6am but we pushed on! My first stop was the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This remarkable place, located just a short drive from Krakow, is a labyrinth of underground tunnels, chapels, and sculptures all carved from salt. The mine has been in operation for over 700 years! Upon entering the mine, I was immediately struck by the cool, damp air and the sense of descending into another world. Much like the movie where the Rock went to the center of the world haha..I digress. The tour began with a long wooden staircase that took us deep into the earth. As we moved through the tunnels, our guide shared stories about the miners who worked there, their daily lives, and the challenges they faced. The tour by this point had already pleasantly exceeded my expectations. I didn’t check reviews or know what I was walking into so when I saw a church right there underground I was blown away! Definitely the highlight of the visit. The church is named the Chapel of St. Kinga, a breathtaking underground church that looked like something out of a fairy tale. Every detail, from the chandeliers to the altars, was carved from salt. The chapel's grandeur and the artistry involved in its creation left me very impressed. The intricate carvings and the sheer scale of the chapel are a testament to the miners' devotion and craftsmanship. Additionally, there were numerous sculptures and carvings throughout the mine, depicting scenes from Polish history and mythology. Another notable stop was the underground lake, which had an almost ethereal quality with its crystal-clear water and the gentle lighting that illuminated the salt walls. The tour ended with a visit to the museum, where I learned more about the geological aspects of the mine and the various techniques used in salt extraction. I wasn’t expecting all that much and wow it delivered! Auschwitz-Birkenau Next, I visited Auschwitz-Birkenau, and again I had no idea where I was going, if I had known I probably would have asked for a different tour because I really hate being sad and I definitely didn’t want to pay to be sad. However it was a deeply moving and somber experience that provided a stark reminder of the atrocities of World War II and well worth the visit and the watery eyeballs. It is located about an hour’s drive from Krakow, Auschwitz is a site of immense historical significance and a place for reflection and remembrance. Walking through the grounds, I felt a mix of sorrow and reverence, grateful for the chance to pay my respects and learn more about this dark chapter in history. The guided tour was comprehensive, covering both Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau. In Auschwitz I, the brick barracks now house museum exhibits that tell the story of the Holocaust through photographs, personal belongings, and documents. Seeing the piles of shoes, suitcases, and other personal items left behind by the victims was particularly heart-wrenching. At Birkenau, the scale of the camp was overwhelming. The remains of the wooden barracks, the gas chambers, and the crematoria stood as silent witnesses to the horrors that occurred there. The vastness of the camp, with its rows upon rows of barbed wire and watchtowers, was a sobering reminder of the systematic nature of the genocide. The experience at Auschwitz-Birkenau was emotionally challenging but profoundly important. It reinforced the necessity of remembering and educating future generations about the Holocaust to ensure that such atrocities are never repeated. Now after such an experiance Its definietly time to go back to Let's Rock and grab a beer, maybe even join the Pub Crawl. Hidden Gems Baron Shisha Bar Back in Krakow, I continued my quest to find the city’s hidden gems. One evening, I stumbled upon the Baron Shisha Bar, tucked away in a quiet alley. This cozy spot quickly became one of my favorite places to unwind. The bar had a relaxed, intimate vibe with plush cushions and soft lighting, making it perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. The shisha flavors were diverse, and the staff made excellent recommendations based on my preferences. I tried a mix of fruity and traditional flavors, each one offering a unique experience. The bar also served a selection of teas and cocktails that complemented the shisha perfectly. It was a great place to meet fellow travelers and locals, share stories, and soak in the ambiance of Krakow’s nightlife. Really Good Food Krakow’s culinary scene continued to impress me with its variety and quality. I discovered Restauracja Cechowa, a spot near the main square that served traditional Polish dishes. The rustic decor and warm atmosphere made it a delightful place to enjoy a meal. My favorite dish was the pierogi, which came with various fillings. But my all time best filling had to be mushrooms and sauerkraut and the funny thing is I’m not a fan of these ingredients at the best of times. For coffee and dessert, I have to say Café Camelot, this place is well known for its cakes and quaint, artistic ambiance. The cakes were super good, with options ranging from rich chocolate tortes to light and fluffy cheesecakes. I definitely came here way too often, evident by my expanding belly! But hey, I'm on holiday! More Polish Words With every interaction, my Polish vocabulary expanded: Jak się masz? - How are you? Gdzie jest...? - Where is...? Ile to kosztuje? - How much does it cost? Pomocy! - Help! Learning these phrases helped me communicate and connect more with the locals and made my experiences more immersive. Even though there is a lot of english spoken in Krakow I think my efforts are generally appreciated and often led to friendly conversations and more recommendations.
Read more
Afro
The Rhythm of the Night – Joining Let’s Rock Hostel
Krakow Night Life Krakow, a city known for its rich history and vibrant culture, had me hooked from the moment I arrived. But what truly set it apart from all the other countries I'd previously visited was its nightlife. Settling into Let’s Rock Hostel was like diving headfirst into a never-ending party. From my favorite clubs to unforgettable friendships my Krakow journey was just beginning. Club Recommendations Krakow’s nightlife is something else, lads. After settling into Let’s Rock Hostel, I couldn’t wait to get stuck in. Prozak 2.0 quickly became my favorite. The underground club with multiple levels, different rooms offering a mix of techno, house, and hip-hop. You could get lost in this club! And the first few times I visited I really did. Every night felt like an adventure and the best part... It stays open very very late! Not surprising with the saying “Don’t forget to go home” written in neon lights on the wall. La Bodega Del Ron was another goodie, especially if you're into Latin music. The place was alive with vibrant energy and cheap drinks. The rhythmic beats of salsa and reggaeton kept everyone moving, creating an atmosphere that was impossible to resist. The bartenders were friendly, always ready with a recommendation for a new drink to try. And let’s not forget Let’s Sing, the hostel's karaoke spot. It was always packed with enthusiastic singers, and belting out "Make A Man Out Of You" from Mulan (despite my terrible singing voice) became a highlight of my nights. The karaoke nights often turned into impromptu dance parties, with everyone joining in the fun. The camaraderie among the hostel guests was infectious, making every night memorable. Party Etiquette Navigating Krakow’s nightlife has its own set of rules. Here are a few tips I picked up along the way: Pace Yourself: Polish vodka is strong. Take it slow because when it hits you don’t want to be 10 shots down before you feel it. Even if you’re not mixing drinks this can still end a night out. Respect the Locals: Always be polite and mindful of the locals. A little respect goes a long way. Just remember you’re a guest in their country. Bouncers: Polish bouncers are not your friends, don’t talk to them. And I mean that with sincerity. They are there to keep order which normally means kicking out drunk tourists. Stay with the Group: Especially during pub crawls, sticking with your group ensures you don’t get lost. In saying that it is quite hard to lose the pub crawl as they have an umbrella to follow and many guides who walk around letting you know how long you have in each club and the timing for leaving. Mind Your Belongings: Like any city, keep an eye on your stuff to avoid losing anything valuable. Pickpocketing can be an issue, especially in crowded places. Drugs: Drugs are very illegal in Krakow and will get you into a lot of trouble with the local police. Best not to put yourself through that kind of risk. The penalties are severe, and it's simply not worth the trouble. New Job and New Friends Life took an interesting turn when I started working at Let’s Rock Hostel. The job was a blast, helping run nightly events and occasionally meaning the reception desk. It was a fantastic way to meet people from all over the world. Plus, I got to see how to keep the party going strong behind the scenes. One of the first mates at the hostel was Jeep. He’s a proper party animal, always ready for a good time and never saying no to a drink and I mean never! Jeep’s lets say “adventurous spirit” kept us exploring new places, though I quickly learned he could drink a bit too much. His antics made every night out unpredictable and loads of fun. From drink offs, beer bongs to getting lost in the city, Jeep ensured there was never a dull moment. Then there was Afro, a local Egyptian guy with a genuine heart of gold. Afro only partied on weekends—no exceptions. He claimed it was due to work, but we all knew there was more to it. Regardless, he stuck to that rule, and no amount of persuasion could change his mind. In saying all that one night, because he was sober, Afro saved me from a Polish bouncer who misunderstood a situation. This taught me it's best not to engage with them unnecessarily. I tried to give the bouncer a friendly dab up and called him "bro," but it backfired, and I was about to be thrown out. Fortunately, Afro's calm and collected nature prevailed, and the bouncer let me leave on my feet with my dignity intact. Afro's steady demeanor balanced out Jeep's wild side, and I knew I had made solid friends. His level-headedness was a comforting presence, always there to keep the peace and ensure everyone had a good time without going overboard. The Statue Incident One night, Jeep's wild side led to one of the most memorable (and nerve-wracking) experiences of my time in Krakow. After a particularly lively pub crawl, we found ourselves in the main square, right by the famous Adam Mickiewicz monument. In his inebriated state, Jeep decided it would be a brilliant idea to climb the statue. He was halfway up, shouting triumphantly, when the local police spotted us. Panic set in as we saw them approach, knowing full well that Jeep’s antics could land us in serious trouble. We quickly tried to coax him down, but the police reached us before we could succeed. Afro, with his calm demeanor, stepped forward to speak to the officers. He explained the situation, emphasizing that Jeep meant no harm and was just a bit too enthusiastic after a night out. I chimed in, using my limited Polish to express our apologies and promise it wouldn’t happen again. After what felt like an eternity, the officers finally relented, giving us a stern warning instead of hauling us off to the station. We helped Jeep down from the statue, promising the police we’d get him back to the hostel without any more trouble. It was a close call, but it brought our little group even closer together. Romantic Interest Working at the hostel also brought a pleasant surprise. I met Kasia, a receptionist with a charming smile and a laugh that could light up a room. We often exchanged travel stories during breaks, and I found myself looking forward to seeing her every day. The language barrier and cultural differences were a challenge, but with each passing day, I grew more confident in my Polish, thanks to her patient teaching. Our connection grew stronger with each conversation, and I found myself eagerly anticipating the moments we could spend together, whether it was sharing a quick coffee or exploring the city during our days off. More Polish Words Learning Polish became a fun part of my daily routine. Here are a few more phrases that came in handy: Dziękuję - Thank you Przepraszam - Sorry Kocham cię - I love you (not used yet, but good to know!) Jak się masz? - How are you? Gdzie jest...? - Where is...? Each new word I learned felt like a small victory, and using them in conversations with Kasia and the locals made me feel more connected to the culture and the city. The locals appreciated my efforts, often smiling and encouraging me to continue learning. Anticipation for What’s Next With each night out, my love for Krakow’s nightlife grew stronger. The city had a rhythm that was impossible to resist. I looked forward to more adventures, more friendships, and perhaps more Kasia. Krakow had become more than just a city to me; it was a place where I felt alive and truly myself. The experiences and connections I was making were shaping my journey in unexpected and wonderful ways. Stay tuned for Blog 4, where I explore Krakow’s hidden gems, day trips, and more culinary delights! There’s so much more to discover in this incredible city, and I can’t wait to share it all with you.
Read more