What do I need to know before retiring in Poland?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Poland, they said...
"If you plan to settle here try to avoid expat populated areas (even thought it seems like a good plan to stick with people from your country only) as that will impede your assimilation with Poland and Polish culture. One can easily survive with English language only in all big cities and the general command of English is at ok-ish level for 40 yrs old and younger (the younger the generation the better their English) in the whole country. What is more - expect people to be interested in talking back to you in English as everybody tries to improve their language skills. Learn a few Polish words - that will open more doors to Polish hearts than the best English diplomacy. We know our language is deemed to be the most difficult to learn by non Slavic people so we appreciate all "Dzien dobry" from foreigners. And it is generally frowned upon if we learn that a given expat lives in Poland for a few years and still does not even try to speak Polish," commented one expat who made the move to Poland.
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"Have a very open mind, then make the move and be prepared for the village life. It may not be easy, however, it's very rewarding and beautiful," remarked another expat in Siemiechow, Poland.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Poland?
- How do I meet people in Poland?
- What is life like in Poland?
- Is there a lot of crime in Poland?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Poland accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Poland like?
- Is the cost of living in Poland high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Poland?
- What are healthcare services like in Poland?
- Is the cost of living in Poland high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Poland?
- What is the weather like in Poland?
- Are there good restaurants in Poland?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Poland?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Poland?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Poland?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Poland?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Poland?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What do I need to know before retiring in Poland?
If you live in Poland, newcomers to Poland would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.