Job Discussion Forums

[Eugeniusz]

I have heard that taking the train around Poland is dangerous. Many people get robbed or worse. I plan to take a big camping backpack from town to town and am afraid I'll be pegged a foreigner and robbed. Any advise or can someone redeem the Polish public transportation system and tell me it's not that bad?

[Grrrmachine]

Ive railed up and down Poland, usually on my way to buy cars. This means Im usually carrying a large bag and the moment the ticket guy comes people twig Im "not from these parts." I really wouldnt worry about it. Of course there's Friend-Of-A-Friend stories of murders and knifings, but Ive never felt under threat on any of Poland's railways.

[Tumteetum]

I've travelled on trains a fair bit in Poland and never had any problems (other than having to stand in the aisle for 5 hours shoulder to shoulder). I have however had friends who have been victms of theft while they slept on trains (twice - both in/around Warsaw). Be on your guard (as with anwhere) but don't be put off by a wee bit of danger!

[afowles]

The trains are generally safe. That being said, there's nothing wrong with sitting in a compartment with a few other people in it, especially if you're travelling at night.

It's just common sense, really. Of course, Poland is the theatre of the absurd so now is a good time for a story.

A buddy of mine was on the train and he fell asleep. He was lying down on one of the seats with his bag as a pillow. His wallet was in his bag, but he had his credit card in his wallet. He woke up to find a guy cutting away at his pocket to get the card. Really professional job, apparently. When he woke up, the guys just left. No violence or anything.

[Eugeniusz]

Thanks to everyone who replied. It's a huge relief.

[gregoryfromcali]

Just stay awake and you'll be fine.

Don't fall asleep. My lady used to always say this and I didn't believe her. Until we fell asleep in the Czech Republic (which is basically Poland ) on a train.

Even though the door was locked, I woke up and found two guys standing over us. When they saw me move they said, "Okay...Shhh." and left.

Luckily I woke up.

Also keep your money on you and not in your coat. Because if you put your wallet in your coat and hang your coat...I think you get the idea.

[cezarek]

Long distance express trains are generally safe. Especially if you travel in the bar/buffet car.

Many people like to avoid the slow stopping trains, especially at night, but I've recently noticed a few more security guard than there used to.

[redsoxfan]

[cezarek]

". So, yeah, don't go to sleep on night trains and you'll be fine.

Or travel first class. It's 50% extra, but still much cheaper than back home. But safe.

And if anybody's worried about night trains, then try travelling in the daytime. Also cheap flights are cheaper usually than international trains.

And yes, Poland is quite tame compared with most of its neigbours.

[cheeseandegg]

Never had any problems travelling in Poland by train. Generally Polish trains are much safer than those in the UK and other parts of Europe. Day trains are extremely safe as they are usually so busy that nobody will bother you and also there are lots of conductors, police and staff from the WARS wagon. Night trains, in my experience, are just as safe. If you're stupid enough to keep all your money in one place and not be on your guard then you may be unlucky but since last year I've noticed many more police on the night trains and they check each compartment every hour or so (and wake you up with their torches!). If you want to waste money then you should travel in a sleeping carriage or go 1st class if you want to feel 99.99% safe.