Hi guys
I`m not necessarily a Lech fan but I really enjoyed all this atmosphere that game has created along City Fans (and Lech fanatics also).
It`s good to see that you really can`t wait for departure to our beautifull country :)
So I give you couple advices that I belive can be usefull during your trip:
TRAINS
Express InterCity (EIC)- best category of domestic trains, air-conditioned cars with or without compartments, reservation only, really good standard. There is no need to buy 1st class on EIC cause diffrence between 1st and 2nd ist`t remarkable. You are getting complimentary hot drink (tea or coffee) and the biscuit on both classes. You also gettin free daily newspapers but as long as you not familiar with our language they are pretty useless, don`t they? :)
Please note that EIC operates only during the day (no overnight trains in this category)
Tanie Linie kolejowe (TLK)-much cheaper and of course lower standard but much wider network than EIC, reservation only on 1st class and only on request (other words: you can buy 1st class ticket without resevation and have a seat in 1st class but you must vacate your seat if someone got the reservation on this particular seat- quite dodgy but but for peace of mind you can spare 10PLN for reservation)
Some overnight TLK`s trains are equiped with sleeping cars. There are two categories of sleeper cars:
-kuszetka (sleeping compartments), accomodating 4 or 6 people in compartment, it`s cheaper than
-wagon sypialny (compartments with a sleeping berth) accomodating 3,2 or 1 (single) person in compartment, compartment also includes sink, water, wardrobe and a welcome pack, usually in a shape of hot drink and cookie/croissant. You can also buy hot drinks and snacks at any time from the conductor (no no no... only soft drinks- you must be supplied with alcohol BEFORE you board the train).
Please note that reservation for both "wagon sypialny" and "kuszetka" is compulsory.
The general rule for sleepers is that you pay for 2nd class ticket for your route plus fixed price for place in sleeping car. Reservation for "kuszetka" 6 person compartment is 60PLN per head, "kuszetka" 4 person is 70PLN per head, "sypialny" 3 person compartment is 80PLN per head, "sypialny" double is 140PLN per head and single is 270PLN.
Sleeping cars is the most comfortable and safest way to travel overnight. There is lock in every compartment and you can lock yourself and your pals so even if you get very drunk you won`t be lost ;)
If you travelling during the night in no-sleeping cars be aware of pickpockets, stick to the group- especially when you decide to do shopping on the stations etc. and do not leave your stuff unatended but i think that`s the general precaution around the world.
Do not take alcohol from accidental people in your train also (i know that be tempting but it won`t be sensible at the same time)
In my opinion there are no other safety threats, espacially when you`re in a group.
EuroCity, BWE (Berlin-Warszawa Express)- international trains operating during the day, reservation is compulsory, standard high, may be pricey if not booked in advance
EuroNight- highest standard of international overnight trains, reservation compulsory
TAXI
Always take a RADIO TAXI- with clearly visible phone number and company name on the dors/windows. Did you notice dodgy taxi with only small plate "taxi" on the roof? Avoid, run away, give up! As you can be charged even 10x more than you should :)
You won`t have any problem with finding good one. They are cheap (comparing to uk prices) and quick (taxi drivers dont giva a s*it about rules) but don`t be affraid- they safe :)
And there are a lot of taxis around airports, train stations, malls and city centres.
The hackney style taxi are not popular in Poland (you may find couple of them in Warsaw). Usually there are Mercedes, Skoda, Audi and Ford combis and sedans.
CAR HIRE
Remember- you drive on the right! :) And be aware that drivers here are not that courteous as those in UK. Be carefull and have your eyes all around your head.
But take your time and admire the views behind the windows because some of them you won`t find in your homeland for sure.
Petrol is little bit cheaper than UK (4,50-4,80 PLN per liter)
OK, that`s in brief. If you have any more detailed questions- do not hesitate :)
And have fun and don`t be affraid of troubles- If you`re not looking for them you won`t find them in Poznan- i`m absolutely sure.
PS. greetings from Glasgow from one of those who took your joarbs ha ha ;)