The Jewish Quarter, old market and Blue City

Trip Start Feb 07, 2008
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Trip End Feb 23, 2008


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Flag of Poland  ,
Friday, February 22, 2008

I'm writing this a year after the event, so I can't remember exactly the order of things, but anyway......we headed for the old Jewish ghetto, where we found the only remaining synagogue from war times. Naturally, security was quite tight, and it was fascinating to walk around the synagogue, viewing the place and objects of worship downstairs, and the display of photos from war times at the exibition upstairs. There were no other visitors at the time, and I asked the rabbi a few questions about the Jewish community in Warsaw. Unfortunately, I can no longer much of what he said. There was a shop connected to the synagogue, and we went in and bought a few items. The shop-keeper was very friendly. Paul Eric sat down, and some American orthodox Jews entered the shop. The conversation was in English, and I understood that the shop-keeper was going to show them around the city. They asked Paul Eric if he was Jewish. I replied, "No, but we love Israel". They seemed happy with that. After, the shop-keeper told us that if we wanted to see the city another time, he would show us.

Following this, we wandered along the road, and found a trendy café where we bought drinks. The café was full of books, photos and memories from the war, and just about everyone who came in was Jewish. They certainly don't forget the past here - and that can be a good thing!

Also that day, we visited a covered market that had been recommended by the youth hostel as "typically Polish". Most of the clientelle appeared to be middle-aged, and it was fun to see the things on offer. I bought a wonderful warm skirt and shawl at great prices.

After watching a video about Warsaw's history at the youth hostel, and relaxing, we made our way by bus to Blue City, a gigantic and modern shopping centre, which seemed to have everything from entertainment, go-karts and the sale of animals. There were many good deals here, and we enjoyed a great BBQ for two at a restaurant, with desserts.
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