Lifestyles

Tolerance

Poland has along standing tradition of tolerance towards minorities. While the absence of discrimination on the grounds of religion, nationality or race is a known fact, it is perhaps less known that homosexuality has never been illegal in Poland.

Tolerance Throughout History

Poland is one of very few countries where historically homosexuality has never been banned, except when Poland lost its sovereignty to foreign powers and for the few years after regaining independence.

The Polish constitution guarantees equal rights to all people and protects them against discrimination on whatever grounds, including sexual orientation. Lifestyles — Narodowy Portal Turystyczny.

Nonetheless, in Poland there is no legal recognition of same sex relationships with regard to marriage or the adoption of children.

Polish Spirit

From the ancient custom of greeting visitors with bread and salt, Poland's system of social graces has developed into one that is unmatched in the world and will often put a smile on your face. You should expect to be spoilt as every Pole wants to be the "Host with the Most", no money and effort spared.

When in Poland, be prepared for your words to be sometimes misinterpreted but do not worry about miscommunication. You will find it very easy to engage in friendly conversation, even regardless of the other speaker's linguistic competence.

You will be overwhelmed by the exceptional hospitality offered by the Polish people and the good-hearted everyday social rituals you will experience.

When visiting a traditional Polish home, be prepared to be confronted with situations as described below:

• Even on the first visit do not be surprised to be offered a pair of slippers for your comfort by your host.
• If you are invited to dinner, it is advisable to go with an empty stomach because otherwise you will find it difficult to feast on the generous portions of soup with noodles, pork cutlets with cabbage and potatoes and finished off with a cheesecake, all washed with a bottle of home distilled flavoured liquor.
• If you abstain from alcohol, you will find that in Poland it is sometimes not enough just to say "no, thank you", as your host may assume his traditional Polish hospitality is being put to test.
• If you travel on public transport, be prepared for a display of old fashioned courtesy. Young people give up their seats to the elderly while gentlemen make way for ladies.
• It is considered exceptionally courteous to kiss a woman's hand as a way of greeting. This practice is particularly popular among the older generation.
• While dining in a restaurant, you will be expected to leave a tip. Tipping is similar as in the rest of Europe, at least 10% of the value of the bill.

There are, of course, many more specifically Polish customs. It is also worth knowing that the Poles are a particularly friendly and supportive people who cultivate a sense of duty towards each other and their families and friends.

Since 95% of the population are Roman Catholics, all major church holidays are strictly observed, particularly Christmas and Easter. On such occasion, Polish families come together to enjoy the good spirit and, of course, good food and drink.

Gay & Lesbian

Poland is becoming increasingly aware of the rights of sexual minorities. This attitude is even more apparent among the younger generation.

Lesbian and Gay Lifestyles

You will find a high degree of acceptance for gays and lesbians lifestyles among the young, educated urban dwellers. Such attitudes are widely adopted in Warsaw, Krakow, Lodz, Wroclaw, Poznan, Katowice and Gdansk, where a large number of bars and other public places declare themselves GL-friendly.

There are a number of Polish publications and websites devoted to homosexuality topics. Many private organisations offer support to same sex communities, champion their rights and promote greater tolerance. Gay pride parades are organised from time to time

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