An Expat Talks about Living in Bydgoszcz, Poland

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Bydgoszcz

How long have you lived there?

5 years

What activities, clubs and organizations would you recommend to newcomers to help them meet others?

Well thats a difficult one as the most difficult problem is the languge. So would recommend just getting stuck in. The Italian Polish society strangley enough made me many contacts, Plus now there is a Chamber of Commerce and Investemnt bureau who are able to help out with contacts. If you are single I would recommend one of the free dating sites just to meet people.

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In terms of religious, racial, economic and cultural diversity, are the people of this city or town diverse? Are they accepting of differences? Describe.

This is a difficult one and without sounding racist I have to say that it is a racilaly pure country due to the works of Hitler and Stalin Poland is probably unique in Europe in having a near 100% Catholic religion and pure slavic culture. Foriegners are tolerated but after the intial curiousity has worn off beware as you are percived to be a 'rich foriegner' unless very careful, a low profile is best

What are the main industries in this city? What types of career opportunities commonly exist? How do most people find new jobs?

Bydgoszcz is an industrial City and also a centre of finance hosting over 38 banks, its an inland Bristol, so many opportunities. The old town is OK and now its got the international airport its a tarnsit route for Polish workers to the UK and Tourists to all the pretty towns around such as Torun or Chelmno look on www.cherishedpoland.com if you want an escorted visit

In general, what are peoples' priorities in this city? For example, do lives revolve around work, family, socializing, sports, etc.?

Poland is a very family orientated society so traditionally most social activities revolve around the home and family although this is changing and its now quite common to eat out although its a recent activity

If a friend of yours was thinking of moving to this city or town from far away, what other advice would you give them.

Well coincidently one just did, from Dubai, first you need to generate an income, this is a doddle as you can teach English conversation very easily, next you need to learn Polish and the culture as without you will have a very hard time. I took the easy route and have a Polish lady partner who did not speak any English but was a teacher to 'adults with learning difficulties' which is my category.