So, after the visit to Auschwitz, we walked (surprisingly) back to the train station, caught the last train back to Krakow, picked up our luggage and schlepped it to the place William rented for us. First I have to say that he does an awesome job picking places – another two bedroom one bath place in a nice building close (walking distance) to everything.
We had a lovely breakfast in a café – watched people go by – drank wonderful coffee….I could have spent the rest of my day there!
Before I go much further, I want to strongly recommend that you learn something about Poland; http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/country_profiles/1054724.stm I saw this because I have limited knowledge of the history of Poland. I have read James Michener’s Poland, many years ago and all I could remember about the history was that the boarders of the country changed frequently, and the country was seldom in the hands of its own people…then WWII; well that leaves a lot of blanks – and like with Hungary there is much to be known. http://www.localhistories.org/poland.html
So, Krakow is a pretty amazing place. The city consists of an “Old Town” still quite active and vibrant, with many churches and universities, and a castle (of course there is a castle), and the whole center of town is surrounded by a lovely park. I say that because I think I know every inch of that park! We had our lovely breakfast and heading into old town where we invested in a private tour with an English-speaking Ukrainian guide through the Old Town, the Ghetto, and to Schindler’s factory. She was a lovely girl who was flirting with William….did he give her his number? No – this is why he is still single!
Come on Uncle Bill!