Would not rush back to Poland — winter is grey and cold was a real issue

I wanted to love Poland more than I did. The positives exist: Auschwitz-Birkenau is genuinely impressive, Warsaw has moments of real charm, and Polish craft beer is as good as people say.

But winter is grey and cold was a persistent problem throughout the trip and dragged the experience down. I've heard others say it's improved, but during my 12-day visit it was a constant friction point. Maybe I'll give it another chance in a few years. For now I'm directing my travel budget elsewhere.