🍸Best Cocktail Bars

Black tea is the kind of drink that’s been around for ages, traded across continents, sipped at fancy afternoon teas, and downed in travel mugs on rushed mornings. It comes from the Camellia sinensis plant, just like green and white tea, but what sets it apart is the full oxidation of the leaves. That process turns them dark and gives black tea its deep reddish-brown color when brewed, along with that strong, punchy flavor that can be malty, smoky, fruity, or floral—depends on where it’s from and how it’s made. There are loads of varieties. Assam from India is bold and malty—perfect with a splash of milk. Darjeeling, often called the "champagne of teas," is lighter, floral, and sometimes a bit fruity. If you’re in the mood for something smoky, Lapsang Souchong from China tastes like someone brewed tea in a campfire—but in a good way. Ceylon from Sri Lanka strikes a nice balance—brisk and refreshing. The cool thing is, black tea keeps its flavor for years, unlike green tea that goes dull after a while, which made it ideal for long trade journeys back in the day. Brewing a cup is simple. Boil water (none of that lukewarm stuff), pour it over the tea leaves—or a tea bag if you’re in a hurry—and let it steep for 3 to 5 minutes. Go shorter if you like it mellow, longer if you’re after that strong kick. Milk and sugar? Sure, if that’s your thing. Lemon works too. Or just drink it plain and let the flavors do their thing. There’s something calming about it—the steam curling up from the cup, the earthy smell filling the room, the first warm sip hitting just right, like a hug in a mug. Whether you’re having a slow morning, taking a break in the afternoon, or catching up with a friend over a pot of it, black tea’s got that comforting, no-fuss charm. It’s simple, really—just leaves and water—but somehow, it always feels like a little ritual.

Green tea is a type of tea made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. Unlike black or oolong teas, green tea is made by heating the leaves soon after picking to prevent oxidation. This keeps the leaves green and gives the tea its fresh, grassy taste. It originally came from China but is now popular across East Asia, especially in Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. There are many kinds of green tea, depending on where it's grown, how it's processed, and when it's harvested. For example, Japan’s sencha is steamed, giving it a bright green color and a sweet flavor, while China’s longjing is pan-fired, making it more toasty and mellow. Making a cup is simple: just steep the leaves in hot water, but not boiling—usually around 70–80°C (160–175°F)—for a couple of minutes. If the water is too hot or you steep it too long, the tea can taste bitter. Green tea has been linked to many health claims, but the evidence is mixed. It does have some caffeine, though less than coffee, and contains antioxidants called catechins. People drink it for various reasons—some like the taste, some believe it helps with focus, and others just enjoy the ritual of making it. In the end, green tea is just a straightforward drink that’s been around for ages. Some people love it, some don’t—it’s really about what suits your taste.

Thai tea is a sweet, creamy drink made from strong black tea, usually Ceylon or a local version of Assam. It’s brewed with sugar and often flavored with condensed milk, giving it that rich, smooth taste and signature orange color. When served cold, it’s poured over ice, sometimes with a splash of evaporated milk on top for that creamy swirl. In Thailand, you’ll find it in tall glasses at restaurants or in plastic cups or bags from street vendors. Some places even turn it into a blended drink, like a frappé. There are variations too—like a version without milk called “dark Thai iced tea,” or one with lime for a citrusy kick. People drink it hot in the mornings as well, often with fried dough sticks.

Thai tea is a sweet, creamy drink made from strong black tea, usually Ceylon or a local version of Assam. It’s brewed with sugar and often flavored with condensed milk, giving it that rich, smooth taste and signature orange color. When served cold, it’s poured over ice, sometimes with a splash of evaporated milk on top for that creamy swirl. In Thailand, you’ll find it in tall glasses at restaurants or in plastic cups or bags from street vendors. Some places even turn it into a blended drink, like a frappé. There are variations too—like a version without milk called “dark Thai iced tea,” or one with lime for a citrusy kick. People drink it hot in the mornings as well, often with fried dough sticks.

Harmless Harvest Organic Coconut Water is a pure, single-ingredient coconut water made from organic Thai coconuts. It stands out because of its naturally pink color, which happens due to antioxidants in the coconut water reacting with light and oxygen. The pink hue doesn’t change the taste—it’s still naturally sweet, crisp, and refreshing. This coconut water has no added sugar, preservatives, or artificial ingredients. It’s packed with electrolytes, including potassium, making it a good choice for hydration, whether you’re working out, recovering from a night out, or just looking for a refreshing drink. It can also be used in smoothies, cocktails, or just straight from the bottle. Harmless Harvest focuses on sustainability and ethical sourcing. Their coconut water is USDA Organic certified, Fair for Life certified, and their bottles (excluding the cap and label) are made from 100% recycled plastic. The company partners with organic farms that use sustainable farming practices, ensuring no synthetic fertilizers or pesticides are involved. The coconut water comes in various sizes, with a 10oz 12-pack priced at around $48. It’s available for purchase online and in stores. Since it’s perishable, it should be kept refrigerated once received. While it doesn’t require refrigeration during shipping, chilling it before drinking helps maintain its fresh, clean taste.

Matcha tea is a smooth, vibrant green beverage made by whisking finely ground green tea leaves into hot water. Unlike regular green tea, where the leaves are steeped and removed, matcha is fully consumed, which gives it a fuller body and a richer, more complex flavor. The taste is a blend of grassy freshness, gentle bitterness, and a deep, savory umami that lingers pleasantly. High-quality matcha can be surprisingly sweet and creamy, while lower grades tend to be more astringent. Preparing matcha is as much about the process as it is about the drink itself. The powder is first sifted into a bowl to break up any clumps, then a small amount of hot water—usually around 80°C—is added. Using a bamboo whisk, called a chasen, the tea is briskly whisked in a zigzag motion until a layer of fine, soft foam forms on top. This foam not only looks appealing but also softens the tea’s natural bitterness, creating a silky texture and smooth mouthfeel. There are two primary styles of matcha tea: usucha and koicha. Usucha, or thin tea, is lighter and frothy, offering a refreshing and balanced flavor—this is the kind you’ll often find at cafés or casual settings. Koicha, or thick tea, uses more powder and less water, resulting in a dense, velvety texture with a bold, concentrated taste. Koicha is typically reserved for formal tea ceremonies, where the ritual of preparing and drinking it becomes a slow, meditative experience. The tea’s striking green color comes from how the tea plants are grown. For several weeks before harvest, the plants are shaded from sunlight, which boosts their chlorophyll content and preserves amino acids like theanine. This process enhances the tea’s umami flavor while reducing bitterness. It’s also what gives matcha its calming effect despite containing caffeine—the theanine promotes a sense of focused relaxation, making it popular with those seeking gentle alertness rather than the jittery kick of coffee. Though matcha has deep roots in Japanese tea culture, where it’s long been associated with mindfulness and simplicity, it’s found new life in modern drinks like lattes, iced teas, and smoothies. Whether enjoyed during a traditional tea gathering or as part of a morning ritual at home, drinking matcha is about more than just taste—it’s a small, calming moment of pause in a busy day.

Black tea is the kind of drink that’s been around for ages, traded across continents, sipped at fancy afternoon teas, and downed in travel mugs on rushed mornings. It comes from the Camellia sinensis plant, just like green and white tea, but what sets it apart is the full oxidation of the leaves. That process turns them dark and gives black tea its deep reddish-brown color when brewed, along with that strong, punchy flavor that can be malty, smoky, fruity, or floral—depends on where it’s from and how it’s made. There are loads of varieties. Assam from India is bold and malty—perfect with a splash of milk. Darjeeling, often called the "champagne of teas," is lighter, floral, and sometimes a bit fruity. If you’re in the mood for something smoky, Lapsang Souchong from China tastes like someone brewed tea in a campfire—but in a good way. Ceylon from Sri Lanka strikes a nice balance—brisk and refreshing. The cool thing is, black tea keeps its flavor for years, unlike green tea that goes dull after a while, which made it ideal for long trade journeys back in the day. Brewing a cup is simple. Boil water (none of that lukewarm stuff), pour it over the tea leaves—or a tea bag if you’re in a hurry—and let it steep for 3 to 5 minutes. Go shorter if you like it mellow, longer if you’re after that strong kick. Milk and sugar? Sure, if that’s your thing. Lemon works too. Or just drink it plain and let the flavors do their thing. There’s something calming about it—the steam curling up from the cup, the earthy smell filling the room, the first warm sip hitting just right, like a hug in a mug. Whether you’re having a slow morning, taking a break in the afternoon, or catching up with a friend over a pot of it, black tea’s got that comforting, no-fuss charm. It’s simple, really—just leaves and water—but somehow, it always feels like a little ritual.

Green tea is a type of tea made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. Unlike black or oolong teas, green tea is made by heating the leaves soon after picking to prevent oxidation. This keeps the leaves green and gives the tea its fresh, grassy taste. It originally came from China but is now popular across East Asia, especially in Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. There are many kinds of green tea, depending on where it's grown, how it's processed, and when it's harvested. For example, Japan’s sencha is steamed, giving it a bright green color and a sweet flavor, while China’s longjing is pan-fired, making it more toasty and mellow. Making a cup is simple: just steep the leaves in hot water, but not boiling—usually around 70–80°C (160–175°F)—for a couple of minutes. If the water is too hot or you steep it too long, the tea can taste bitter. Green tea has been linked to many health claims, but the evidence is mixed. It does have some caffeine, though less than coffee, and contains antioxidants called catechins. People drink it for various reasons—some like the taste, some believe it helps with focus, and others just enjoy the ritual of making it. In the end, green tea is just a straightforward drink that’s been around for ages. Some people love it, some don’t—it’s really about what suits your taste.

The best fast food burger joint. Beats McDonald's in every single category. Their burgers are better, their nuggets are better, their fries are better.

🍔 Classic & Signature Burgers Dave’s Single: A quarter-pound fresh, never frozen beef patty with lettuce, tomato, pickles, ketchup, mayo, and American cheese on a toasted bun. Baconator: Two 1/4 lb. patties, six strips of crispy bacon, two slices of American cheese, ketchup, and mayo. Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger: A junior-sized burger with lettuce, tomato, three strips of bacon, American cheese, ketchup, and mayo. Biggie™ Bag: A value meal that includes a sandwich (like the Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger), four-piece chicken nuggets, fries, and a drink.

Taco Bell is a fast-food chain from the U.S. that serves Mexican-inspired food. You’ll find things like tacos, burritos, nachos, and quesadillas on the menu, plus some of their own creations like the Crunchwrap Supreme and Doritos Locos Tacos. They’re known for mixing up flavors with American-style ingredients, so don’t expect something like you’d find at an authentic Mexican place—it’s more of a quick, grab-and-go option with lots of cheese, sauces, and seasoned meats. The first Taco Bell opened in 1962 in California, started by Glen Bell. He got the idea after seeing how popular a local Mexican restaurant was. Since then, it’s grown huge, with thousands of locations not just in the U.S. but in many countries around the world. Most of the stores are run by independent owners, not directly by the company. The menu changes a lot. They’ll bring in limited-time items and have tried everything from breakfast offerings to vegan options. They also have a value menu with cheap eats if you’re on a budget. Some of their restaurants, called "Cantinas," serve alcohol and have a more modern vibe, especially in city areas. Taco Bell has done plenty of quirky promotions over the years, like offering free tacos if a base is stolen during the World Series or letting people get married at their flagship Las Vegas location. It’s the kind of place people either go to when they want something quick and filling or when they’re craving something salty and cheesy late at night.

Mint tea is a warm drink made by soaking fresh or dried mint leaves in hot water. It’s simple—just mint and water—but the taste is fresh and cool, with a hint of sweetness depending on the type of mint you use. Peppermint tea has a stronger, sharper flavor, while spearmint tea is milder and a bit sweeter. People often drink it to relax or help with digestion. It’s popular in many places around the world—like in Morocco, where it’s made with green tea and lots of sugar, or in India, where mint is sometimes added to chai. In Korea, they have a version called bakha-cha. Making it is easy: boil some water, pour it over the mint leaves, let it sit for a few minutes, and you’re good to go. Some folks like adding honey or lemon, but it’s just as nice plain. The smell alone is pretty calming—fresh, like a garden after rain.

Thai tea is a sweet, creamy drink made from strong black tea, usually Ceylon or a local version of Assam. It’s brewed with sugar and often flavored with condensed milk, giving it that rich, smooth taste and signature orange color. When served cold, it’s poured over ice, sometimes with a splash of evaporated milk on top for that creamy swirl. In Thailand, you’ll find it in tall glasses at restaurants or in plastic cups or bags from street vendors. Some places even turn it into a blended drink, like a frappé. There are variations too—like a version without milk called “dark Thai iced tea,” or one with lime for a citrusy kick. People drink it hot in the mornings as well, often with fried dough sticks.

Harmless Harvest Organic Coconut Water is a pure, single-ingredient coconut water made from organic Thai coconuts. It stands out because of its naturally pink color, which happens due to antioxidants in the coconut water reacting with light and oxygen. The pink hue doesn’t change the taste—it’s still naturally sweet, crisp, and refreshing. This coconut water has no added sugar, preservatives, or artificial ingredients. It’s packed with electrolytes, including potassium, making it a good choice for hydration, whether you’re working out, recovering from a night out, or just looking for a refreshing drink. It can also be used in smoothies, cocktails, or just straight from the bottle. Harmless Harvest focuses on sustainability and ethical sourcing. Their coconut water is USDA Organic certified, Fair for Life certified, and their bottles (excluding the cap and label) are made from 100% recycled plastic. The company partners with organic farms that use sustainable farming practices, ensuring no synthetic fertilizers or pesticides are involved. The coconut water comes in various sizes, with a 10oz 12-pack priced at around $48. It’s available for purchase online and in stores. Since it’s perishable, it should be kept refrigerated once received. While it doesn’t require refrigeration during shipping, chilling it before drinking helps maintain its fresh, clean taste.

An authentic Polish milk bar. Cheap and delicious. Serves typical Polish foods. Probably the most affordable place in the center of Gdynia. Can get crowded at lunch time.

Nando’s stands out as the best fast-food restaurant by successfully combining casual dining with high-quality, flavourful food that boasts a unique cultural heritage. Renowned for its flame-grilled piri-piri chicken, the restaurant’s roots in Southern African-Portuguese cuisine provide a distinctive spicy twist that sets it apart from typical fast-food offerings. Nando’s emphasises freshness and quality, marinating their chicken for 24 hours in their signature "peri-peri" sauce which customers can select based on their preferred spice level. This personalised spice choice, coupled with a vibrant and welcoming ambiance, makes Nando’s not just a place to eat, but a culinary experience. The brand's commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing, including their use of higher welfare chickens and eco-friendly practices, resonates well with a globally-conscious clientele, further establishing its reputation as not only a food chain but a responsible corporate citizen.

Casual Greek restaurant and cocktail bar. Tzatziki, gyros, souvlaki, that sort of thing. Outdoor seating in spring and summer. I go there a lot and the food is delicious.

Affordable, casual pizza place in the center of Gdynia. They serve pizza by the slice, breakfasts, pastas and cakes. It's dog-friendly, has good music, friendly atmosphere and a vaguely "street style" hip vibe.

The best fast food burger joint. Beats McDonald's in every single category. Their burgers are better, their nuggets are better, their fries are better.

An authentic Polish milk bar. Cheap and delicious. Serves typical Polish foods. Probably the most affordable place in the center of Gdynia. Can get crowded at lunch time.

Taco Bell is a fast-food chain from the U.S. that serves Mexican-inspired food. You’ll find things like tacos, burritos, nachos, and quesadillas on the menu, plus some of their own creations like the Crunchwrap Supreme and Doritos Locos Tacos. They’re known for mixing up flavors with American-style ingredients, so don’t expect something like you’d find at an authentic Mexican place—it’s more of a quick, grab-and-go option with lots of cheese, sauces, and seasoned meats. The first Taco Bell opened in 1962 in California, started by Glen Bell. He got the idea after seeing how popular a local Mexican restaurant was. Since then, it’s grown huge, with thousands of locations not just in the U.S. but in many countries around the world. Most of the stores are run by independent owners, not directly by the company. The menu changes a lot. They’ll bring in limited-time items and have tried everything from breakfast offerings to vegan options. They also have a value menu with cheap eats if you’re on a budget. Some of their restaurants, called "Cantinas," serve alcohol and have a more modern vibe, especially in city areas. Taco Bell has done plenty of quirky promotions over the years, like offering free tacos if a base is stolen during the World Series or letting people get married at their flagship Las Vegas location. It’s the kind of place people either go to when they want something quick and filling or when they’re craving something salty and cheesy late at night.

Nando’s stands out as the best fast-food restaurant by successfully combining casual dining with high-quality, flavourful food that boasts a unique cultural heritage. Renowned for its flame-grilled piri-piri chicken, the restaurant’s roots in Southern African-Portuguese cuisine provide a distinctive spicy twist that sets it apart from typical fast-food offerings. Nando’s emphasises freshness and quality, marinating their chicken for 24 hours in their signature "peri-peri" sauce which customers can select based on their preferred spice level. This personalised spice choice, coupled with a vibrant and welcoming ambiance, makes Nando’s not just a place to eat, but a culinary experience. The brand's commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing, including their use of higher welfare chickens and eco-friendly practices, resonates well with a globally-conscious clientele, further establishing its reputation as not only a food chain but a responsible corporate citizen.

Katz's Delicatessen, located on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, is a New York City icon famous for its classic pastrami sandwich. Established in 1888, Katz's has been serving up delicious deli fare for over a century, becoming a beloved spot for both locals and tourists. This legendary eatery gained pop culture fame from the film "When Harry Met Sally," where the unforgettable "I'll have what she's having" scene was filmed.

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand and its biggest city. It sits along the Chao Phraya River in central Thailand, spreading out over a large area with nearly 9 million people living in the city itself and over 17 million in the surrounding region. It’s a place that mixes old traditions with modern life. On one side, you’ve got ancient temples like Wat Pho and Wat Arun, and on the other, you’ve got massive shopping malls and skyscrapers. The city has been around for a long time, starting as a small trading post in the 15th century. It became the capital in 1782 when King Rama I moved it to the eastern bank of the river. Over the years, Bangkok has seen a lot—colonial pressures, modernization, political protests, and economic growth. It really took off in the 1980s and 1990s when foreign companies started setting up shop there. Bangkok is known for being busy and full of life. The streets are packed with cars, motorbikes, and tuk-tuks, which often leads to heavy traffic. Despite efforts to improve public transportation with skytrains and subways, traffic jams are still a common headache. The air can get polluted, but things have improved since the 1990s. Tourism plays a huge role in the city. People from around the world come to see places like the Grand Palace or enjoy the street food. Markets like Chatuchak and floating markets offer everything from clothes to local snacks. Khao San Road is popular with backpackers, full of budget hostels, bars, and street vendors. The city has a vibrant culture. Festivals like Songkran (Thai New Year) turn the streets into massive water fights, and during Loi Krathong, people float little boats with candles on the water. Bangkok also has a wild nightlife scene, ranging from lively bars to well-known red-light districts. There are two sides to Bangkok—modern malls, luxury hotels, and fine dining on one side, and narrow alleyways with street food stalls and local markets on the other. It’s a city that can feel overwhelming with the heat, traffic, and crowds, but it’s also full of energy, surprises, and contrasts.

Warsaw is the capital of Poland, sitting on the Vistula River in the east-central part of the country. With nearly 1.9 million people in the city and over 3 million in the wider metropolitan area, it’s Poland’s biggest city. It’s a place where old and new collide—modern skyscrapers stand next to rebuilt historic districts, and its skyline is a mix of glass towers and ornate churches. The Old Town, destroyed in World War II and painstakingly rebuilt, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking through its cobblestone streets, you’ll find the Royal Castle and the colorful Market Square. Not far off is the Royal Route, a stretch of old palaces, churches, and the Presidential Palace, leading down to the grand Wilanów Palace and its gardens. Despite the scars of war—most of the city was flattened during WWII—Warsaw bounced back fast. The post-war communist era left a mark with grey apartment blocks and the towering Palace of Culture and Science, a gift from the Soviet Union that’s still one of the tallest buildings in Poland. Now, Warsaw’s business district is full of sleek glass skyscrapers, including the Varso Tower, the tallest in the EU. Green spaces are everywhere. Łazienki Park, home to peacocks and the Chopin monument, is a popular spot for Sunday strolls. The Vistula Riverbanks are packed with bars and cycling paths in summer. Even with its urban sprawl, about a quarter of the city is covered by parks and forests. Warsaw’s history is complicated. It was once a cultural melting pot, with a large Jewish community before the Holocaust. The city remembers that past with places like the POLIN Museum and the remnants of the Warsaw Ghetto. It also honors its wartime resistance, especially the 1944 Warsaw Uprising, with monuments and the powerful Uprising Museum. The city’s cultural life is rich. It hosts jazz festivals, classical concerts (especially anything Chopin-related), and has a buzzing nightlife. Food-wise, you’ll find everything from traditional Polish pierogi and hearty soups to modern vegan spots and Michelin-starred restaurants. There’s even a strong café culture, with old-school spots alongside trendy coffee bars. Weather in Warsaw is typical for Central Europe—cold, snowy winters and warm, sometimes stormy, summers. Spring and autumn can be mild and pleasant, though the weather can change quickly. In short, Warsaw is a city of contrasts. It’s got a tragic past but a vibrant present, blending historic charm with modern energy. Whether you’re wandering through its parks, exploring museums, or sipping coffee along the river, there’s plenty to take in.

Bydgoszcz is a city in northern Poland, the largest in the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship, and one of the country’s key historical, cultural, and economic centers. With a population of around 325,000 and a metropolitan area of approximately 600,000, it is Poland’s ninth-largest city. Located at the meeting point of the Brda and Vistula rivers, it has long been an important trade and transport hub, shaped by centuries of history and natural beauty. Though it is often overlooked by international travelers in favor of Poland’s larger cities, Bydgoszcz is an undiscovered gem with a vibrant cultural scene, beautiful waterfronts, and a dynamic urban atmosphere. A City of Water and Green Spaces One of the defining features of Bydgoszcz is its relationship with water. The city is sometimes referred to as the "Venice of Poland" due to its picturesque riverbanks, islands, and canals. The Brda River runs through the heart of the city, creating scenic waterfront areas and making Bydgoszcz a major center for rowing and water sports. The Bydgoszcz Canal, dating back to the 18th century, was a vital trade route connecting the Vistula and Oder river basins and remains a key element of the city’s landscape. Today, these waterways provide a unique backdrop for leisure, with walking paths, historic granaries, and modern riverfront cafes. Beyond its waterways, Bydgoszcz is one of the greenest cities in Poland. The city is surrounded by vast forests, including the Bydgoszcz Forest to the south and the Tuchola Forest to the north. Within the city, the Myślęcinek Park is the largest urban park in Poland, spanning 830 hectares and featuring a zoo, botanical gardens, and outdoor recreational areas. The city's many smaller parks and tree-lined streets add to its charm, making it an attractive place for both visitors and residents. Architectural and Cultural Heritage Bydgoszcz boasts a rich architectural heritage that blends Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Art Nouveau styles. Walking through the city, one can see elegant townhouses from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, reminiscent of Vienna or Berlin. The city's old granaries, located along the Brda River, have become iconic landmarks, reflecting Bydgoszcz's history as a trading hub. The historic Old Market Square, at the heart of the city, is where the 18th meridian runs directly through the center. One of the most picturesque spots in Bydgoszcz is Mill Island (Wyspa Młyńska), an area of beautifully restored buildings surrounded by water, where visitors can stroll along green pathways, visit museums, or relax at cafés with river views. Another architectural highlight is the distinctive Opera Nova, a modern opera house located right on the riverbank. Its sleek circular design contrasts beautifully with the historic buildings nearby and serves as a hub for performances, including the renowned Bydgoszcz Opera Festival. A Thriving Arts and Music Scene For lovers of culture, Bydgoszcz is an exciting destination. It is known for its deep connection to music, particularly classical music and opera. The Feliks Nowowiejski Academy of Music is one of Poland’s leading music schools, and the city’s Filharmonia Pomorska (Pomeranian Philharmonic) is famous for its exceptional acoustics, drawing world-class musicians from around the globe. The city hosts numerous music festivals, including the International Paderewski Piano Competition, which attracts talented pianists from different countries. Bydgoszcz also has a strong jazz scene, with venues like Mózg and Eljazz offering live performances in an intimate setting. For those interested in film, the city previously hosted Camerimage, one of the world’s most prestigious festivals dedicated to cinematography. Though the festival has since moved, Bydgoszcz retains a strong film culture, with independent cinemas and film screenings throughout the year. Sports and Outdoor Activities Bydgoszcz is often called the "rowing capital of Poland" due to its long tradition in water sports. The Brda River, along with the city’s professional rowing clubs, has produced many Olympic champions. The city’s regatta course is one of the best in Europe, and visitors can often see rowers training on the water. Beyond rowing, Bydgoszcz has a strong athletic culture, regularly hosting international competitions in disciplines like track and field, speedway racing, and volleyball. Cycling is also popular in and around Bydgoszcz, with well-maintained bike paths leading through forests, along rivers, and into the countryside. The city is part of EuroVelo 9, a long-distance cycling route stretching from the Baltic Sea to the Adriatic. A City with a Fascinating History Bydgoszcz has a complex and fascinating history, shaped by its location at a crossroads of cultures and empires. Originally granted city rights in 1346 by King Casimir III the Great, it later became an important military and trade center under Prussian, Polish, and German rule. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Bydgoszcz flourished as an industrial and commercial hub, gaining elegant new architecture and modern infrastructure. During World War II, Bydgoszcz was occupied by Nazi Germany, and the city suffered tragic losses, including the execution of thousands of Polish citizens. After the war, it became part of communist Poland, undergoing industrial expansion before transforming into a modern, business-oriented city in the post-communist era. A Growing Business and Innovation Hub In recent years, Bydgoszcz has emerged as a significant center for business and innovation. It has a strong presence in the IT and business outsourcing industries, with international companies setting up operations in the city. The Bydgoszcz Industrial and Technological Park supports startups and research institutions, helping to attract young talent to the city. The city’s location, with excellent rail and road connections, makes it a convenient base for business travelers. Bydgoszcz Ignacy Jan Paderewski Airport offers direct flights to several European destinations, and its proximity to larger airports in Warsaw and Gdańsk provides additional travel options. Food and Nightlife Bydgoszcz has a growing culinary scene, with a mix of traditional Polish eateries, modern bistros, and international restaurants. Visitors can try local specialties like pierogi (Polish dumplings), żurek (sour rye soup), and freshwater fish from the nearby lakes and rivers. Many of the best dining spots are located along the Brda River, where guests can enjoy a meal with a view. The city’s nightlife is lively but not overwhelming, making it an ideal destination for those who enjoy a relaxed but engaging evening out. The Old Town has cozy pubs, craft beer bars, and stylish cocktail lounges, while the district around Gdańska Street is known for its late-night energy. For a unique experience, visitors can take an evening boat cruise along the Brda, watching the city lights reflect on the water. A Hidden Gem in Poland Bydgoszcz is not as well-known internationally as Warsaw, Kraków, or Gdańsk, but that is part of its charm. It is a city where visitors can enjoy rich history, beautiful scenery, and cultural depth without the overwhelming crowds of larger tourist destinations. Whether you are interested in music, history, outdoor adventures, or simply enjoying a laid-back city with a strong sense of identity, Bydgoszcz has something to offer. For travelers looking to explore beyond Poland’s most famous cities, Bydgoszcz is a fantastic choice. It is a city of water, music, and history, blending old-world charm with modern energy. Whether you stay for a weekend or longer, Bydgoszcz welcomes visitors with open arms, ready to surprise and inspire those who take the time to discover it.

Malbork is a small city in northern Poland, but what makes it stand out is its enormous, medieval brick castle—one of the largest in the world. Built in the 13th century by the Teutonic Knights, the castle was more than just a fortress; it was the headquarters of a powerful religious and military order that controlled vast territories in the region. Today, Malbork Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for history lovers, with its towering walls, grand halls, and a fascinating museum that showcases medieval artifacts, weapons, and amber craftsmanship. Walking through its courtyards and chambers, you get a real sense of what life might have been like in the Middle Ages. The city itself is located along the Nogat River, about an hour’s drive from Gdańsk. While Malbork is mostly known for its castle, it has a peaceful, small-town charm. The streets are lined with trees, there are cozy cafés and restaurants serving Polish food, and you can still see traces of the city’s Polish and German heritage in its architecture. Some of the old defensive walls remain, along with historic churches and buildings that have survived centuries of change. One of the best times to visit is in the summer, when Malbork hosts the "Siege of Malbork" festival. This is a large-scale reenactment of the 15th-century battle between Poland and the Teutonic Order, complete with knights in armor, sword fights, archery displays, and a medieval-style market selling handmade crafts and traditional food. The whole city comes alive with history, making it an unforgettable experience for visitors. Beyond the castle, Malbork offers a few other attractions. You can take a boat trip on the Nogat River for a unique view of the castle, rent a kayak for a more active adventure, or explore the surrounding countryside, which is full of fields and forests. The city also has a large park and a dinosaur-themed amusement park, which is great for families traveling with kids. Malbork may not be a big city, but it’s a place where history feels alive. Whether you’re fascinated by medieval castles, enjoy historical festivals, or just want to experience a quieter side of Poland, it’s well worth a visit.

Katowice is not the first Polish city that comes to mind when people think about travel, but that’s exactly why it’s worth a visit. It’s a city that doesn’t try to impress with postcard-perfect charm. Instead, it tells a story—of industry, transformation, and resilience. Once a coal-mining powerhouse, Katowice was built on the backs of steelworkers and miners. It used to be all about factories, smokestacks, and the hum of heavy machinery. But things changed. Over the past few decades, Katowice has reinvented itself into a modern, creative city that embraces its past without being weighed down by it. The city’s industrial roots are still visible, especially in neighborhoods like Nikiszowiec and Giszowiec—once workers’ settlements, now some of the most atmospheric areas to explore, with red-brick buildings, cobblestone streets, and cafés that mix old-school charm with new energy. Katowice’s skyline tells the story of this transformation. The Spodek—a flying saucer-shaped arena from the communist era—stands next to the sleek, glass-covered buildings of the Cultural Zone, home to the National Radio Symphony Orchestra, the new Silesian Museum, and the International Congress Centre. These spaces, built on the grounds of a former coal mine, now host concerts, exhibitions, and business summits. For music lovers, Katowice is a hidden gem. It’s a UNESCO City of Music, home to everything from underground jazz clubs to world-class electronic festivals like OFF Festival and Tauron Nowa Muzyka. And then there’s the unexpected greenery. Despite its industrial image, Katowice is one of Poland’s greenest cities, with parks, forests, and lakes just a short walk from the city center. Places like Dolina Trzech Stawów (the Valley of Three Ponds) or the vast Silesian Park offer space to breathe. Katowice isn’t about tourist clichés. It’s about real life, real history, and a city that has learned to move forward while honoring where it came from. If you like cities with a raw, authentic vibe—where industrial grit meets creative energy—Katowice might just surprise you.

An authentic Polish milk bar. Cheap and delicious. Serves typical Polish foods. Probably the most affordable place in the center of Gdynia. Can get crowded at lunch time.

The best fast food burger joint. Beats McDonald's in every single category. Their burgers are better, their nuggets are better, their fries are better.

🍔 Classic & Signature Burgers Dave’s Single: A quarter-pound fresh, never frozen beef patty with lettuce, tomato, pickles, ketchup, mayo, and American cheese on a toasted bun. Baconator: Two 1/4 lb. patties, six strips of crispy bacon, two slices of American cheese, ketchup, and mayo. Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger: A junior-sized burger with lettuce, tomato, three strips of bacon, American cheese, ketchup, and mayo. Biggie™ Bag: A value meal that includes a sandwich (like the Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger), four-piece chicken nuggets, fries, and a drink.