maurizio caduto P o l a n d

The Polish winter.

.

Although very cold the Polish winter is typically continental and dry. No matter how low the thermometer drops if you wear warm clothes you'll be fine unlike in some humid countries. So don't let the temperature put you off, winter in Poland can be very charming. I find its extreme character more inspiring photographically speaking then other seasons.

----------

----------

As Polish people would proudly tell you Spring is when they have four seasons in one day; in fact it can change from sun to snow and back to sun any time. The parks, gardens and the green countryside is blossoming and restaurants open their outside patio. The best period to visit the country however goes from May to September. June and July are hot - and dry, with temperatures easily over 30 degrees. It's just a great time to go boating on the Masurian lakes or on the Baltic Sea. It rains in July and August while September is splendid. Fall brings deep blue skies and warm colors to the countryside; it's a great season that lasts from mid August to end of September.

Then Winter sets in again and it's a long one only interrupted by the "Indian Summer", a short period when the Fall strikes back toward the end of October bringing in milder temperature. As much as the Winter can be long and cold it also brings blue crystal clear skies, joy of every photographer. The center of the country tends to be dryer while the mountains down south call for more rain or snow. The coldest area is the North Eastern border with White Russia and Ukraine where temperature can drop big time. It is the area of the Bialoviecha National Park - the largest wild forest in the country and possibly the only one left where the European Bison - yes, bison - still roams. Don't miss it, it's a great place and the bison is truly there.

---------------