Poland Handbook

POLAND HANDBOOK

Military Family Services Europe / MFS(E)

Riga-Remote Team

[email protected]

www.cafconnection.ca / www.connexionfac.ca

Date published: 01 June 2019 Date revised: 15 March 2020 TABLE OF CONTENTS

GREETINGS FROM YOUR MFS(E) TEAM ...... 1

European Advisory Committee ...... 3 Using This Guide ...... 3

SOME HELPFUL RESOURCES ...... 1

OVERVIEW OF (PLACE) ...... 2

Maps ...... 2 Geography/Politics ...... 3 Climate ...... 3 Languages ...... 3 Religion ...... 4 Cost of Living ...... 4 Canadian/Expat Community ...... 5 Cultural Nuances, Etiquette and Traditions ...... 6 Public Holidays ...... 7 News ...... 8

BEFORE YOU COME ...... 9

EMERGENCY INFORMATION ...... 10

Public Safety and Security ...... 10 Emergency Contacts ...... 11

GETTING SETTLED ...... 13

Making Phone Calls ...... 13

Date published: 01 June 2019 Date revised: 15 March 2020 Calling Within Europe ...... 13

Calling Outside of Poland ...... 13

Calling Canada from Poland ...... 13

Calling Poland from Canada ...... 13

Some Country Codes: ...... 14

Summary: ...... 14

Toll Free and Charges for Calls ...... 14

Where to Live ...... 15 Houses and Realtors ...... 16

BASE INFORMATION ...... 18

Exchange/Commissary ...... 18

TRAVEL & TRANSPORTATION ...... 20

Subsidized Travel ...... 20 NON-UNIT Fund and CANEX/SISIP Grant ...... 20 Air Travel ...... 20 Public Transit ...... 21 Train ...... 22 Taxis ...... 24 Car Rental ...... 25 Hotels ...... 25 Travel Advisories ...... 27

ADMINISTRATION ...... 28

Banking ...... 28 Online Banking Payments – IBANs, BICs, and TANs ...... 28

Money Transfer ...... 29

Insurance ...... 29 CRA and Residency Status for Spouses/Dependents ...... 29 Child Benefits ...... 31 Pets ...... 33

POSTAL SERVICES ...... 34

Personal Mail ...... 34 Canadian Forces Post Office ...... 34

Polish Postal Services ...... 35

HEALTH SERVICES ...... 36

General ...... 36 Emergency Numbers ...... 37 Hospitals ...... 37 Private Clinics ...... 41 Pharmaceutical Services ...... 42 Dental Clinics ...... 42 Social Services ...... 42 Social Worker ...... 43

Padre ...... 43

CAF Member Assistance Program ...... 43

Family Information Line ...... 43

Local Resources ...... 44

A. A. Meetings ...... 44

Great West Life / Allianz ...... 44 Dental Claims ...... 44

Medical Claims ...... 44

ON THE ROAD ...... 45

General ...... 45 Driver’s Licence ...... 45 Information on Driver’s Licence in Canada and Renewal ...... 46 Car Insurance ...... 50 Vehicle Registration ...... 52 Emission Sticker ...... 52 European Green Zones ...... 52

Fuel Card ...... 53 Items in Your Car ...... 53 Biking/Mopeds/Motorcycles ...... 53 Bicycles ...... 53

Parking ...... 54 Tolls ...... 55 Rest Stops ...... 55 Speed Cameras ...... 55

Safety Belts and Child Seats ...... 55 Winter Tires ...... 56 Roadside Assistance ...... 56 If Involved in a Car Accident ...... 56 Buying or Selling a Car ...... 56

RELIGIOUS SERVICES ...... 58

English Language Services in the Area ...... 58

AROUND THE HOUSE ...... 59

Internet/Television/Mobile Phone ...... 59 Electricity ...... 59 Transformers ...... 61

Utilities ...... 61 Appliances ...... 61 Beds ...... 61 Water Quality ...... 62 Garbage and Recycling ...... 62 Metric Conversion ...... 63 EMPLOYMENT ...... 64

Working for Military Family Services (MFS) or Personnel Support Programs (PSP) .. 64 Spousal/Dependent Employment Assistance and Education ...... 64 Job Postings ...... 65 Local Employment ...... 65 Adult Employability Program ...... 65 Volunteering ...... 66 Youth Employment Preparation Program ...... 66

EDUCATION ...... 67

Schools ...... 67 Local Schools ...... 67

Department of Defense Education Authority (DoDEA) ...... 68

International School ...... 68

Immunization ...... 68 Distance Education ...... 68 Children’s Education Management (CEM) ...... 68 Scholarship and Bursary Information ...... 69 Post Secondary Education ...... 69 Local Institutions ...... 70

Canadian Institutions ...... 70

ENTERTAINMENT & LEISURE ...... 71

Family Life and Recreation ...... 71 Local Attractions ...... 74 Cinemas ...... 75 Concerts ...... 75 Hobbies & Clubs ...... 75 Sports & Athletics ...... 76 Recreation Centres & Parks ...... 76 Amusement Parks ...... 77 Dining Out ...... 77 Tipping ...... 77

SHOPPING ...... 78

General Shopping Tips ...... 78 Local Store Hours/Sunday/Holiday Shopping ...... 78

Public Washrooms ...... 79

Shopping Bags ...... 79

Groceries ...... 79 Clothing Sizes ...... 79

LOCAL SERVICES ...... 80

Pet Care ...... 80

IN CLOSING ...... 82

USEFUL TRANSLATIONS & PHRASES ...... 83

Basic Words, Phrases and Questions ...... 83 Numbers ...... 84 Phrases for Emergencies ...... 84 Ordering in a Restaurant ...... 85 House Hunting ...... 85

GREETINGS FROM YOUR MFS(E) RIGA-REMOTE TEAM

Your Military Family Services Europe / MFS(E) team wishes to congratulate you and your family on your OUTCAN posting. We would like to be the first to welcome you all to Europe! Did you know that your MFS(E) Riga-Remote team supports more than 350 members, spouses, and children posted to 16 countries throughout Europe?

MFS(E) is here to facilitate a smooth integration for you and your family into your new posting, whatever your family unit may look like. We serve everyone from single members to blended families, so please make sure to ask us how we can best help you.

As you and your family begin the transition to Europe, MFS(E) is here to assist you along the way. Throughout your posting, you can expect phone calls, e-mails, virtual programming, as well as workshops for your spouse and children. We also send crafts and packages in the mail!

This Thriving in Guide is a living and dynamic document. Once you are settled, we would welcome your input in order to keep it relevant and current. We would like to extend our sincerest THANK YOU to our volunteers, for providing us with most of the information and for sharing their experiences and suggestions as to how to make the location guides as complete as possible.

Our website (www.cafconnection.ca) can be a useful resource for your transition overseas, as it provides information that is location and country specific and provides links to current MFS(E) newsletters, programming, and even overseas job postings for spouses.

Current MFS(E) programs include, but are not limited to:

• Virtual presentations ranging from the PSP Chalet Program and Europe Christmas Markets (to name a few)

• Crafts For Kids Mailings (for children 3-9 years old)

• Birthday Cards for Children (up to 18 years of age)

• Youth Employment Preparation (YEP) Program (13 to 18 years old)

• Youth Connect (helping incoming youth connect to Canadians youth already in Europe)

• Youth Leadership Conference(annually for teens 13 – 18 years old)

• Family Separation & Reunion Services

• Host Language Training & Virtual Language Training (ask us about a Rosetta Stone license for your dependents)

• Virtual Workshops (Including Community Demo and Virtual Travel Forums)

• Virtual Book Club through Facebook

• Virtual Coffee mornings

• Friends on a Journey program for kids

• …And so much more!

This is your opportunity to connect with other Canadian families going through a similar transition to Europe. If there is any wisdom we can pass along to you from the get go, is we encourage you and your family to build a strong support network while you are in Europe. MFS (E) is your key resource to getting in contact with others and to share your experiences and your insight.

Once you have arrived and settled at your new location, MFS(E) will provide you with a welcome package containing information specific to your location and to your unique family dynamic. Your package will be sent to you in the mail, either to your home address or your embassy / consulate (please make sure it is approved by the Embassy first!). Also, please make sure you keep us informed of your contact information, an updated telephone number and e-mail address is greatly appreciated.

If you have any questions about living in Europe or if you wish to know what your MFS(E) team can do to help you and your family, in all shapes and forms, please contact one of our staff members bellow, or e-mail us directly at: [email protected]

We look forward to hearing about your adventures and new experiences in the near future. Help us serve you better, don't be a stranger!

Best Regards,

Your MFS(E) Riga/Remote Team

EUROPEAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE

The Military Family Services (Europe) (MFS(E)) Advisory Committee (AC) is a group of volunteers representing Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) families and communities across Europe. The AC works to enhance MFS(E)’s capacity to implement family programs and services to all Canadian military families regardless of where they are located in Europe.

As a group of volunteers, the AC is not authorized to act as decision-makers or policy- makers. Their primary role is to provide advice to the Senior Manager MFSP Europe about the needs of the community and to evaluate the effectiveness of the program.

CAF members (in a non-official capacity), and their civilian spouses/partners and dependents (18 years or older) are eligible to volunteer for the AC. Fifty-one (51) percent of the voting membership must be civilian family members of CAF members. Members representing a particular region must reside in that region at the time of recruitment and must have the support of their local CAF Commander.

The MFS(E) AC meets on site at the Canadian Forces Support Unit (Europe) in Geilenkirchen, Germany once a year, usually in the winter. All other meetings, usually held every second month, are conducted on-line. No special computer equipment or program required but reliable internet is required. If you have any questions or would like to discuss this opportunity further, please see the website.

USING THIS GUIDE

Moving around in the guide:

• To go to a Table of Contents entry or a website link, simply click on it

• To search for a specific word, use the Find tool by pressing “Ctrl” then F

Several of the websites referenced in this guide will be in a language other than English. There are a couple of options to obtain the information in English:

• You can enter the address of the website directly into https://translate.google.com/ and it will translate the entire website

• If you have Google Chrome, you can right click anywhere on the page and it will bring up a dialog box which often has a “Translate to English” option. Due to website formatting, this option may not be available for all pages or for all text on the page.

• Some sites have the option to change the language. These sites will have either a drop- down menu listing multiple languages or flags symbolizing the language. Simply click on the language or flag (typically a British or American flag) to see a translated version of the website. Often this option can be found in the top right corner.

This guide is an ongoing work in progress, and we need your help:

• Our Handbooks heavily rely on the time, energy and experiences of our families posted to Europe. For that reason, some sections may be more complete than others.

• Please let us know of any errors or omissions and we will update them in the next edition.

• If there is a topic you’d like added to the next edition, do not hesitate to let us know.

You can contact us at:

[email protected]

DISCLAIMER: Due to the fact that rules and regulations are ever changing, please ensure you do your own research and consult with the resources provided for the most up-to-date policies and procedures before making any assumptions or relying on information provided here as accurate as policies and procedures change and could be different from the time this document was created and updated. Thank you for your cooperation and attention in this matter.

SOME HELPFUL RESOURCES

Please be sure to connect with us online for the latest programs and services being offered:

MFS(E) Website

• https://www.cafconnection.ca/Europe/Home.aspx

MFS(E) Facebook Page

• https://www.facebook.com/MFSEurope/

MFS(E) YouTube Channel

• https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbQXCBqcVYvLZhDj0a37h8Q

CAF Connection Website

• https://www.cafconnection.ca/National/Home.aspx

Employment Opportunities while in Europe

• https://www.cafconnection.ca/Europe/Programs-Services/Employment.aspx • https://www.cafconnection.ca/Europe/Programs-Services/Employment/Civilian- Employment-Opportunities.aspx

My Voice/Ma Voix

• MyVoice is a closed Facebook group open only to the Canadian military community. MyVoice is a place for you to communicate with Military Family Services (MFS). The group is a safe place to discuss your experiences as a military family and offer feedback about your military lifestyle. : https://www.facebook.com/groups/MyVoiceMaVoix/

Family Information Line (FIL)

The Family Information (FIL) is a confidential, personal, bilingual and free service offering information, support, referrals, reassurance and crisis management to the military community. We serve Canadian Armed Forces members, Veterans and their families- immediate and extended. Family Information Line: 1-800-866-4546, (613) 995-5234 or toll free in Europe 00800 7711 7722 • https://www.cafconnection.ca/National/Stay-Connected/Family-Information-Line.aspx

OVERVIEW OF POLAND

MAPS

Overview of Poland:

Capital: Warsaw Language: Polish Border Countries: Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine, Belarus, Lithuania, Russia Population: 38.5 million Area: 322, 575 sq km Time Zone: CET (UTC +1) Summer: (DST) CEST (UTC +2) Climate: Hot summers with moderately mild winters Currency: Zloty 1 zloty = 100 groszy Government Type: Republic, parliamentary democracy Members of: EU, UN, NATO, OECD, WTO and many others Country Code: PL

GEOGRAPHY/POLITICS

CLIMATE

Poland has everything: beautiful coastal beaches and dunes, lake districts carved out by glaciers, plains as flat as a pastry board, lush forests, mountains old and new, including the only Table Mountains in Europe, and even a desert region.

Water can be found in abundance in the plains of eastern Poland. The Narew, Europe’s only braid-shaped river, spreads wide near Bialystok and splits into branches like the Amazon. Meanwhile the Biebrza near Goniadz turns the whole terrain into a succession of marshes which continue for miles. For more information on the climate in Poland, click here.

LANGUAGES

The official and commonly spoken language in Poland is Polish. Services in English can generally be found at hotels, restaurants and shops in major tourist locations. French is not commonly spoken in Poland. You may experience difficulties in obtaining services in English or French outside major tourist destinations. This is also true of many governmental services, including medical care, police services and public transportation. Locals do appreciate when you make an effort in Polish even if not perfect. Any little bit of the language helps!

Warsaw - English can be found in most restaurants, government institutions etc. English for common services (medical / education / transportation) may still be a challenge. French is not a common language in the capital. Szczecin - Neither English nor French are commonly spoken among locals. Elblag - Neither English nor French are commonly spoken among locals. Bydgoszcz - Neither English nor French are commonly spoken among locals.

Polish (język polski, polszczyzna) is a Slavic language spoken primarily in Poland and the native language of the Poles. It belongs to the Lechitic subgroup of West Slavic languages. Polish is the official language of Poland but it is also used throughout the world by Polish minorities in other countries. It is one of the official languages of the EU. It’s written standard is the Polish alphabet, which has 9 additions to the letters of the basic Latin script (ą, ć, ę, ł, ń, ó, ś, ź, ż).

The ability to speak and understand your host nation's language will ensure your European post is as rewarding as possible. It will make day-to-day life such as grocery shopping and banking easier. It will also be easier to connect and build friendships and ensure your cultural experience is more enriching.

Rosetta Stone is the world’s number one language-learning program. We offer Rosetta Stone licences to Canadian Armed Forces Military Spouses. If you are interested in Host Language Training, contact the Military Family Services (Europe) Virtual Programs Coordinator at [email protected].

Besides Rosetta Stone, there are options to take classes at your local centre or on the economy. There are also various online resources available. Please see the Host Language Document or contact your Virtual Programs Coordinator for more information.

Other language resources to learn Polish:

• Helpful YouTube videos! • Online courses

RELIGION

The majority of Poles are Roman Catholic, an estimated 90% of the population. Religion plays an important role in day to day life in Poland. In most cities, shops are closed on Sundays to respect the practice of Catholic mass. Religion has a more pronounced feel in smaller cities. Warsaw has more of a heterogenous feel, when it comes to religion.

The other religions of Poland today are predominantly Christian, including Byzantine Catholics (Uniates), Orthodox Christians, Armenians, Old-Believers, Evangelical Reformed, Evangelical Augsburg, Evangelical Methodist, Seventh-Day Adventists, Pentecostals, and Jehovah’s Witnesses. There are also communities of Muslims, Jews, Karaims, and Hare Krishnas. When exploring places connected with Polish minorities, visit Grabarka known for its Orthodox Christian sanctuary, Bohoniki or Kruszyniany with their Muslim Mosques, and Wisla, Cieszyn or Karpacz, associated with Protestants. The range of non-Catholic religions is fairly wide even though the number of members is relatively small.

Information retrieved from: https://www.staypoland.com/poland/religion/

COST OF LIVING

The cost of living in Poland is quite reasonable, it is among the cheapest places to live in the European Union (EU). Western amenities and products will be more expensive. Programs and services in English will be more expensive. In the 2018 Mercer Cost of Living Survey, Warsaw, Poland's most expensive city, ranked 154 out of 209 cities.

Eating out and buying groceries is generally cheaper than in most other Western European cities and prices for Polish products are very reasonable, but imported (Western) items will be significantly more expensive.

Public transportation is relatively inexpensive and students, pupils and senior citizens are eligible for discounts on long-term ticketing.

Poland's central location and the prevalence of low-cost air travel makes it easy and affordable to explore the rest of Europe while living in Poland. Airports can be found in all of the major Polish cities.

Overall, Poland has a moderate cost of living index, with the larger cities (Warsaw) being significantly more expensive than the rural areas (Szczecin, Elblag, Bydgoszcz) as is the case with most countries.

Of note, child care can be quite expensive in large cities, such as Warsaw. If you are hoping to send your child to an English or French speaking day care, be prepared to pay several hundred Euros a month. Some services in Poland can be priced in Euros.

Information retrieved from: http://www.expatarrivals.com/europe/poland/cost-living-poland

CANADIAN/EXPAT COMMUNITY

Warsaw - (3-5 families posted here) If you are posted to Warsaw, there is a good chance it is to the Embassy. The Canadian Embassy in Warsaw has a good social community for Canadians and hosts many social events. Warsaw also has many Expat Communities, check them out here!

Warsaw – Embassy of Canada Address: ul Jana Matejki 1/5, 00-481, Warsaw Poland Tel: 48 (22) 584-3100; recording after office hours Fax: 48 (22) 584-3101 or 48 (22) 584-3192 Email: [email protected] Website: www.poland.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Warsaw and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

Szczecin - (5-7 families posted here) Chances are, you are posted to a NATO position. Make sure you check in with any possible NATO clubs to join! Szczecin is a medium sized city, but may have a limited Expat community.

Elblag - (2-3 families posted here) Chances are, you are posted to a NATO position. Make sure you check in with any possible NATO clubs to join! Elblag is small city, and the Expat community will likely be small. There may not be many Canadians living here, this is a great opportunity to meet another nationalities and the Poles!

Bydgoszcz - (3-5 families posted here).

Get to know the NATO Spouses Club – Bydgoszcz

The NATO Spouses Club (NSCB) is an international fellowship of spouses to members of the JFTC, 3NSB, Customer Support Unit (CSU), as well as spouses to the NATO Civilians and International Contractors. The club operates in Bydgoszcz with its objectives being to encourage friendship among members, to provide a communication platform for mutual cultural exchange, to organize leisure and social activities for its members and to support selected local charities. Annual membership is currently 20 PLN.

The NSCB meets every month (2nd Tues of every month, except for the months of July and August), usually at the JFTC grounds for “Coffee Mornings”. Moreover, NSCB offers monthly social activities, such as: craft workshops, seminars, museums, factory visits and many others.

There are also Special Clubs within the NSCB. A few include: Cooking Club, Craft Club, English and French Conversation Club.

To join the NATO Spouses Club or for more information, please email them at [email protected]

CULTURAL NUANCES, ETIQUETTE AND TRADITIONS

Polish customs and traditions Poles are fun lovers who enjoy festivities, traditions and centuries-old Polish customs. The most ancient rituals, especially those dating back to pagan times, have long lost their magical character, becoming a colourful vestige of the past and a form of amusement. Links with tradition are felt the strongest during the greatest religious feasts, such as Christmas, Easter, Corpus Christi processions and All Saints’ Day. Retrieved from: https://www.slavorum.org/polish-customs-and-traditions/

A few helpful resources on Polish traditions:

• https://www.tripsavvy.com/polish-culture-1501992

• Https://polska.pl/tourism/traditions-and-holidays/ • https://theculturetrip.com/europe/poland/articles/7-traditions-only-poles- can-understand/

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

Make sure you check the local city where you are living. What and how they celebrate, may differ.

1. New Year Day, January 1st

The first day of every year Poles start with a toast in some sparkling wine. As elsewhere, the ensuing 24 hours is mostly spend on recovering from the effects of revelries on the preceding night,

2. Epiphany, January 6th

The Christian festival is called Swieto Trzech Kroli in Poland.

3. Easter

The two-days public holiday, known in Poland as Wielkanoc, includes Easter Sunday and the following Monday when traditional Emaus market takes place in Krakow next to St. Norbert convent.

4, Labour Day, May 1st

The public holiday called Swieto Pracy in Polish is mostly an occasion for enjoying varied open-air activities, weather permitting.

5. Constitution Day, May 3rd

Polish Swieto Konstytucji, Poland's time-honored patriotic festival, commemorates the nation's first (and the world's second ever) written constitution, passed by the country's parliament on May 3rd, 1791.

6. Whit Sunday

Whitsun, in Poland popularly known as Zielone Swiatki and officially as Swieto Zeslania Ducha Swietego, is basically a religious festival.

7. Corpus Christi

The Catholic feast day called Boze Cialo in Polish is considered here the third most important church festival after Easter and Christmas.

8. Assumption Day, August 15th

The Polish Swieto Wniebowziecia, a major Catholic festival, coincides with Poland's official Armed Forces Day.

9. All Saints Day, November 1st

On the Dzien Wszystkich Swietych all Poles visit cemeteries to light memorial candles on the graves of the deceased family members.

10. Independence Day, November 11th

Swieto Niepodleglosci in Polish. It's another major patriotic festival and a remembrance day honoring people who fought for the independence of Poland.

11. Christmas

Known as Boze Narodzenie in Polish, the most popular Christian feast is December 25th though actually it starts in the late afternoon of Christmas Eve, December 24th. Also Boxing Day is a public holiday in Poland and the festive season goes on till February 2nd, workdays and weekends.

Bank holidays in Poland can be found at: https://www.officeholidays.com/countries/poland

NEWS

It may be challenging to find news about Poland, in English or French. Here are few resources for you in English:

• https://www.tvn24.pl/tvn24-news-in-english,157,m • https://www.euronews.com/tag/poland • https://poland-today.pl • https://www.pap.pl/en

BEFORE YOU COME

Do your homework and read about your new country of residence. Moving can be exciting, but make sure you are as prepared as possible. Here are a few country reports for Poland:

• European Commission on Poland (2019) • The World Factbook (CIA) -Poland • Travel Advisories for Poland (Government of Canada)

Things to Consider/Bring:

• Immunization Records (for school registration – don’t pack in the sea shipment!)

• Long form birth certificates and your marriage certificate (this may be required for entry to DoDEA school – to prove dependents are “yours”, a Canadian posting message may not be enough. Also, don’t pack in the sea shipment!)

• If your children will be participating in sports on a US Garrison or in a DoDEA school, they will require a sports physical. It can be challenging to get this done on arrival, so if possible, have their Canadian doctor complete the form before leaving. This will cost, but it may be claimable through Sun Life. Get the form from the school on your HHT.

• If your teens participate in the Youth Employment Preparation (YEP) Program, they will require a Social Insurance Number (SIN). Get this well before leaving Canada.

• If you plan on working in a field that may require a Police Check, get one done before leaving Canada.

You and your family are all ambassadors for Canada while you are here. You will likely get invited to a neighbour’s home or participate in hosting an international night or Canadian social for your military community or spouse’s community or your children will have an international day at their school where they will showcase Canada. If you can stock up on Canadian goodies, they will be a big hit. Everything from the items the local dollar store has for Canada Day celebrations in July to decorations to gifts that symbolize Canada (maple syrup, Aboriginal/Inuit crafts, books, flags, maple leaves, Canada clothing, children’s stuffed animals of beavers or RCMP…. get creative!).

Some people really miss their Kraft Peanut Butter, Tim Horton’s coffee, Kraft Dinner, Coffee Crisps, real maple syrup or ketchup chips and prefer to bring a bit of a stockpile of comfort food as these items are not available in Europe or you will pay a high premium to be able to get them. Some common cooking ingredients can also be hard to track down so you can either bring graham wafer crumbs or improvise by crushing up digestives. The choice is yours and it is part of the experience. Just as you can’t get some of that comfort food you have been used to, you will get to experience all kinds of new and interesting tasty treats while in Europe.

EMERGENCY INFORMATION

PUBLIC SAFETY AND SECURITY

Polish National Police statistics underscore that Poland continues to be one of the safest countries in Europe. The U.S. Department of State has assessed Warsaw as being a MEDIUM-threat location for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.

Pickpocketing is common and is one of the most frequently reported crimes. Most pickpocketing incidents occur on public transportation (train/bus stations) or in areas where there are large crowds (Krakow’s Market Square or Warsaw’s Old Town).

Assaults occur on very rare occasion. The majority of assaults occurs among patrons of late-night establishments and often involves alcohol consumption. These crimes generally take place between 2400-0600 hours.

Burglars tend to rob homes by entering through an unlocked front door or by some ruse. Police continue to report that most residential crimes occur because tenants and homeowners failed to use alarm systems or to lock doors, gates, and/or garages, allowing thieves to take advantage of the vulnerability. A common tactic favored by thieves is to pose as employees of municipal utility services and attempt to gain access to a residence under the guise of checking meters or repairing reported problems. In reported cases, residents failed to verify the employment status of the supposed employees.

Poland is the easternmost border of the Schengen Zone and is the entry point into “Schengen Europe” for some illicit activities. Organized crime has declined since its heyday in the late 1990s but is still active. Various elements operate across borders, particularly with regard to drug/cigarette trafficking, vehicle theft, and alien smuggling/human trafficking.

Information retrieved from: https://www.osac.gov/Pages/ContentReportDetails.aspx?cid=23769

After Poland witnessed a series of international crises, the government began to focus more on improvement of overall national security. In addition to the increased demand for more traditional security, concerns over conventional and cyber terrorism attacks and protection against biological agents have come to the center of attention.

Poland has no indigenous terrorism, and no known terrorist organizations are known to operate inside Poland. It would be difficult for a non-Caucasian group to operate in this very homogenous country.

Helpful resources:

• https://www.export.gov/article?id=Poland-Safety-and-Security • http://www.interpol.int/Who-we-are/Member-countries/Poland • https://www.osac.gov/Pages/CountryHome.aspx?CatalogLocationId=252

EMERGENCY CONTACTS

The 112 emergency number is an all-service number in Poland like in other EU states, but old numbers that were traditionally designated for emergencies are still in use parallel to 112. Those are 999 for ambulance, 998 for fire brigade and 997 for police.

From fixed phones:

999: Ambulance 998: Fire Brigade 997: Police 981: Road Assistance 986: Municipal Police

When using mobile phones, remember to dial the local code before the number, for example:

22 – 997 to call the police in Warsaw. Emergency calls from phone boxes are free of charge. If you do not know the local code, dial the general emergency number for mobile phones: 112. The operator will request the appropriate emergency unit. We recommend using direct emergency numbers in the case of danger (997, 999, 998) because in some areas the general emergency number (112) still does not work properly.

These numbers may also be useful:

Warsaw public transportation information (22) 94 84 Kracow public transportation information (12) 91 50 International flight departure information (22) 650 39 43 International flight arrival information (22) 650 42 20

CFSU(E) GK Medical Clinic...... +49 (0) 2451-717301

E-mail address: [email protected]

You can also find greater detail about their services at: https://www.cafconnection.ca/Europe/Locations/Germany-The- Netherlands/Niederheid/MFS(E)-Niederheid/Health-Services.aspx

CFSU(E) Duty Officer ...... +49 (0) 1725 345 900

CFSU(E) Chaplain ...... +32 (0) 65 44 6179

Embassy of Canada ...... (+48 22) 584 3100 https://www.canadainternational.gc.ca/poland-pologne/contact- contactez.aspx?lang=eng

GETTING SETTLED

MAKING PHONE CALLS

Calling Within Europe

There is no standard way to write a European phone number, which will lead to confusion. This is the same number, written different ways –

+49 - 89 - 343 80 - 14 +49 (89) 343 80 – 14 0049 (0) 89 343 80 – 14

(089) 343 80 – 14 089 / 343 80 – 14 089 343 80 14

The “+49” at the start is the exit code and German country code. The “89” is the area code and the “3438014” is the phone number. There is no standard length for area codes (2-5 digits) or phone numbers (5-12 digits).

So…when dialing within the country you’re in, you do not need the exit code and country code (+49).

If you’re dialing within the same area code, you do not need to enter the area code. But it’s a good idea to use it just in case!

Calling Outside of Poland

The exit code for calling out of the country in Europe is 00. You then follow that with the country code, area code, and telephone number. The “+” means to use the exit code for the country you’re in – in Europe, that’s 00, in Canada, it’s 011. You can use the “+” on your mobile phone as the exit code, and your phone should pick up the right exit code, no matter what country you’re in!

Calling Canada from Poland

The country code for Canada and the United States is 1. Dial the exit code (00) then the country code (1) then the number.

00 - 1 - area code - seven-digit number

Calling Poland from Canada

The exit code in Canada is “011”

011 -

Some Country Codes:

Austria ...... 43 Italy ...... 39 Switzerland ...... 41

Belgium ...... 32 Germany ...... 49 Poland...... 48

Czech Republic ..... 420 Latvia ...... 371 Turkey ...... 90

Estonia ...... 372 Netherlands ...... 31 United Kingdom ... 44

France ...... 33 Spain ...... 34

Summary:

To dial a number within Poland 0 711 1234567

To dial a Polish number from elsewhere in Europe +48 711 1234567

or 00 48 711 1234567

To dial a number outside Poland +33 121 1234567

or 00 33 121 1234567

To dial Canada from Poland 00 1 613 5551234

To dial Poland from Canada 011 48 711 1234567

Toll Free and Charges for Calls

Per minute charges for calls

Check your phone contract, both land line and cell phone. Many families have been surprised by charges on their bill for calls they thought were “free” or included. Depending on your contract, you may end up paying per minute for local calls. It is common for calls to be free to numbers with the same provider, but not always. Some contracts charge for calls to cell phone numbers, but land lines may be included. The same applies to long distance – if you get a plan that includes calling to Canada, that may only include calls to land lines.

Check the plan for the term “flat”, which means that calls are included – “Germany flat” means you can call anywhere in Germany, where “Vodafone flat” means your calls to other Vodafone customers are included. If you have a landline, you may have to pay to call a cell phone, or vice versa.

0800

0800 is the dialing prefix for Toll Free Calls in most of Europe.

0900 and 0180 calls

0900 numbers are “premium-rate” services, and 0180 numbers are for service-oriented calls and are billed at a per minute or per call. Costs will vary.

WHERE TO LIVE

Please note that this section is currently being developed. If you have questions, contact us at: [email protected]; we are happy to assist you with your new posting. If you have further information to add, please let us know. We are always open to suggestion.

Warsaw : The postings are associated with the Embassy, they will assist you with housing.

Śródmieście is Warsaw’s busiest and most vibrant district, making up a large part of the city centre.

Szczecin Help with finding suitable accommodations is available through MND-NE.

Recommend houses on the Western, left side of the Oder River (Odra). As the Oder can grow to a huge river in case of a flood, members should enquire and reach out for the flood free areas.

Unfurnished homes with a fully furnished kitchen with all appliances such as washer, dryer, dishwasher, fridge, stove and oven (only "white goods/appliances" provided) and all ceiling lights needs to be discussed and negotiated case by case with the landlords. Floor space: 50 to 200 sqm and above.

Single female members may have a difficult time finding a place to rent (very traditional society).

Elblag : The Elblag Old Town, “Stare Miasto” in Polish, is definitively a place to look at if you want to enjoy beautiful scenery and active social life as this is the most crowded and touristic area in Elblag. Be aware that only flats might be found in this area though. You might have to export yourself in the surroundings of the city if you want to find a convenient and modern house with a backyard. Some Canadians and other International families have also decided to leave in the bigger city of Gdansk (about 66 kilometres West of Elblag) due to the higher amount of services provided in English. The newly constructed highway S7 allows a smooth commuting between both cities.

Bydgoszcz : Both apartments and houses are available for rent. NATO personnel will pay more than a local Polish citizen but you will find something suitable within your funding allocation either in the downtown core (apartment) or in the suburbs (house/apartment).

HOUSES AND REALTORS

Elblag –

Agency Freedom

Addrees: Al. Grunwaldzka 31, 82-300 Elbląg Aleksandra Kraińska Phone: + 48 667-774-100 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.freedom-nieruchomosci.pl

Agency Baranowski

Address: 12 Lutego 30/1, 82-300 Elbląg Anna Kraszewska Phone: + 48 55 236-85-36 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.elblag.nieruchomosci.pl

Agency Cesum

Address: Wyżynna 9, 82-300 Elbląg Grzegorz Mękarski Phone: +48 530-102-222 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.elblaskie.nieruchomosci.pl

Agency Cargos

Grażyna Gniado Address: Stary Rynek 11, 82-300 Elbląg Phone:+ 48 510-181-782 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cargos.com.pl

Agency Defacto

Alewtyna Buczko Address: Garbary 17Street, 82-300 Elbląg Phone:+ 48 55 2324684

E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.defacto.elblag.pl

Gdansk – Biuro Nieruchomosci Zaleski

Address: Al Grunwaldzka 99, 80-244 Gdańsk Phone: +48 58 3440707 Website: www.zaleski.pl

BASE INFORMATION

There are presently 4 locations where Canadian families are currently posted to Poland.

1. Warsaw, Poland - Canadian Embassy

Address: ul Jana Matejki 1/5, 00-481, Warsaw Poland Tel: 48 (22) 584-3100; recording after office hours Fax: 48 (22) 584-3101 or 48 (22) 584-3192 Email: [email protected] Website: www.poland.gc.ca

2. Szczecin, Poland - Headquarters Multinational Corps Northeast https://jfcbs.nato.int/operations/multinational-corps-northeast Waleriana lukasinskiego 33 71-215 szczecin. Poland

Tel: +48 91 4445 888

3. Elblag, Poland - Headquarters Multinational Corps Northeast https://mndne.wp.mil.pl/en/ Podchorążych 1 82-300 Elbląg, Poland Tel. +48 26 1312 382 Central Registry: +48 261 312 365 Central Registry Fax: +48 261 312 363

4. Bydgoszcz, Poland - Joint Force Training Center http://www.jftc.nato.int Joint force training centre central registry ul. Szubinska 2 85-915 Bydgoszcz Poland E-mail address: [email protected] Phone: +48 261 41 9777

Polish Special Status Card

All Canadians (and their dependents) posted to Poland are allowed to request a special Polish ID card (what is called a NATO ID card), which will alleviate the need to request a 3 year Temporary Residency permit (as this card is actually replacing the visa). This card, plus the deliverance of a PECEL number (the same as our Social Security number in Canada) by local authorities, will give you the same rights as a Polish Citizen; including free medical care in public hospitals in case of an emergency.

The Special ID cards (white) are issued by Polish MFA (not DMFA). Contact information below:

Renata ZIELENIEWSKA I Radca Organizacje międzynarodowe (OBWE; KOWK, MFW, MKF, UNHCR, BŚ, EBOR, BI RE, WHO, IOM, SSWD). Dowództwa NATO Instytucje UE (Frontex, EBI, RKE) Phone: 38(0) 22 523 7838

SOFA Agreement links for Poland: https://www.nato.int/cps/en/natohq/official_texts_17265.htm https://www.pref.okinawa.jp/site/chijiko/kichitai/sofa/documents/germany02-2.pdf

TRAVEL & TRANSPORTATION

SUBSIDIZED TRAVEL

The PSP Chalet Program offers accommodation options in various parts of Europe at a 40% subsidy. It is open to all European Fund members and chalets are awarded by draw. For more information please visit:

• https://www.cafconnection.ca/Europe/Programs-Services/Chalet-Program.aspx

NON-UNIT FUND AND CANEX/SISIP GRANT

As a CAF member of Formation Europe you and your family are members of the European Fund (EF). EF members who are not part of a Unit Fund due to their geographical location are termed Non-Unit Fund (NUF) members. In order to ensure equitability across Formation Europe, all EF members have the same entitlements; however, certain entitlements are managed differently depending on location. See this link for more information:

• https://www.cafconnection.ca/Europe/Programs-Services/European-Fund/Non-Unit- Fund-(NUF)-Member-Personnel.aspx

AIR TRAVEL

From Warsaw

Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW) https://www.warsaw-airport.com

Chopin Airport is an international airport with a wide range of airlines. The Polish Airline is called LOT and flies across Europe. It is also very easy to catch connecting flights to/from here to North America.

From Szczecin or Elblag

Although Szczecin has its own airport, it is 45 minutes from the city center and not always the easiest to get to. The flights from the Szczecin airport can also be limited. For that reason, most people fly from Berlin.

People living in Elblag fly either from Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW) (about 3 hours away) or Gdansk Lech Wałęsa Airport (about 1 hour away). Both are international airports

although Gdansk has a limited number of airlines which force connections via bigger European airports such as Munich or Frankfort.

You can take a bus from the city center in Szczecin, directly to the Schonefeld Airport for an estimated 11 euros. - https://www.omio.com/buses/szczecin/berlin-schonefeld- airport-sxf

Schonefeld Airport (SXF)

Click here for a list of airlines that fly through Schonefeld. https://www.berlin-airport.de/en/travellers-sxf/index.php

Address: Flughafen Schönefeld, 12521 Berlin, Germany

From Bydzoszcz

Bydgoszcz has its own airport with Ryanair and Lufthansa operating. The airport offers both domestic and international flights. The airport is situated 3km from the city center. There is a connection with the airport by regular bus line no. 80.

Bydgoszcz Airport ul. Jana Pawta II 158, 85-151 Bydgoszcz tel. 52.365.4620/fax 52.365.4619; info line: 52.365.4700

Other airports include Lodz, Poznań and Gdańsk.

Lodz Airport (in Polish Port Lotniczy Lodz im. Wladyslawa Reymonta) General Stanislawa Maczka 35, 94-328, Lodz Tel. 42 685 5255, www.airport.lodz.pl

Poznań Airport (in Polish: Port Lotniczy Poznan--Ławica im. Henryka Wieniawskiego) Ul. Bukowska 285, 60-189 Poznan tel. 61.849.2343 www.airport-poznan.com.pl/en/

Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport (in Polish: Port Lotniczy Gdansk im. Lech Wałęsa) ul. Stowackiego 200, 80-298 Gdansk tel. 58.348.1154/ info line:58.348.1163; 0801002801 www.airport.gdansk.pl

PUBLIC TRANSIT

Buses and Trams:

Poland has an extensive network of public transport. Full fare tickets for day lines and night lines within the city limits cost 3.00 PLN and can be bought at any newsagent (“kiosk” in

Polish). Children, students (presenting a student’s card) and senior citizens pay a reduced fare.

You must stamp the ticket immediately after boarding a bus or tram. The ticket is only valid for one bus or tram ride, if you change the bus or tram, you have to stamp a new ticket.

You can also buy a long-term ticket (14, 30 or 90 days) encoded on a Bydoszcz City Card. The JFTC Support Unit can help you obtain the card.

• TRAM LINES are numbered from 1 to 8 (in service from 5 a.m. to 11 pm) • DAILY CITY BUS LINES are numbered from 51 to 86 (in service from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.) • DAILY SUBURBAN BUS LINES are numbered from 91 to 94 (in service from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m) • NIGHT BUS LINES are numbered from 31N to 35N (in service from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m.)

During the Spring/Summer season it is also possible to take a water tram as a means of public transport in Bydgoszcz. It runs on the Brda river from 01 May until mid-September. There are currently 3 routes to choose from. It is very popular among tourists and worth recommending.

TRAIN

Information on the railway system in Poland was retrieved from: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/poland/transport/getting-around/train

Poland’s rail network has several different types of train that differ primarily by speed, cost and level of comfort. Identify the train type by the initials on station and online timetables.

ExpressInterCity Premium (EIP) High-speed 'Pendolino' trains that travel between major cities, such as Warsaw, Kraków, Katowice, Wrocław and Gdańsk. Both 1st- and 2nd-class seats are available, and reservations are mandatory for both.

ExpressInterCity (EIC) One step down from EIP trains, the modern, comfortable EIC trains also run between major cities, like Warsaw–Kraków and Warsaw–Gdańsk, but are slightly less expensive. There's seating in both 1st and 2nd class, and reservations are compulsory in both.

InterCity (IC) As with EIC, but generally offer a slightly slower service with more stops than EIC trains.

EuroCity (EC) International express trains linking Polish cities with cities in other European countries.

TLK (Pociąg Twoje Linie Kolejowe; TLK) Low-cost express trains that run between major cities at speeds approaching EIP trains, but at fares that are around 40% cheaper. TLK trains are a step down in comfort and can be crowded. There's seating in both 1st and 2nd class; both classes require reservations. Bicycle carriage on TLK trains may be limited.

InterRegio (Pociąg InterRegio; IR) These are the standard Polish ‘fast’ trains running between regions, with stops at most medium-sized cities along the route. IR trains normally don’t offer 1st-class seating, and no seat reservations are required.

Regio (Pociąg Regio; Regio/Osob) These trains are much slower as they stop at all stations along the way. These may be 2nd-class only and reservations are not required.

Train Companies

Since the demise of the state monopoly Polskie Koleje Państwowe (PKP) the Polish rail network has been broken up into around 10 different operators that manage different routes and trains.

PKP InterCity runs all of Poland’s express trains, including ExpressInterCity Premium (EIP), ExpressInterCity (EIC), InterCity (IC), EuroCity (EC) and TLK trains.

A second main operator, PolRegio (www.polregio.pl), takes care of most other trains, including relatively fast InterRegio trains and slower Regio trains.

Online Timetables

There are several useful online timetables that show schedules between routes, and which usually display prices and allow you to purchase tickets online. www.rozklad-pkp.pl Shows information for all Polish trains. www.rozklad.sitkol.pl Another general timetable with easy-to-use instructions in English. www.intercity.pl Displays information for high-speed express and TLK trains.

Timetables normally require Polish spellings for cities (diacritical marks are not necessary).

Train Passes

If you’re planning on travelling a lot, consider buying an InterRail pass. Passes are only available to those resident in Europe for at least six months and are priced in three bands: youth (under 26), adult 2nd class and adult 1st class. Tickets cover three/four/six/eight day’s travel within one month and range from €51 to €114 for 2nd-class travel. See www.interrail.net for more information.

Train Stations

Many Polish train stations have undergone major renovations since 2010, and those in Kraków, Poznań and Warsaw are now attached to gleaming shopping malls. Others, such as those in Wrocław or Tarnów, are historic buildings in their own right. Most larger stations have left-luggage desks and lockers (fees are around 12zł to 16zł per bag per 24 hours).

Station platforms (peron) are numbered, but there are usually also track (tor) numbers if there is a line on either side of the platform – check you have the right one. If there are no overhead signs displaying the destination of the next train, look for the signboards on the sides of the carriages.

From Bydgoszcz

There are direct connections from Bydgoszcz to many cities. Polish railways offer regional, express, and intercity connections. It is recommended to travel by express or intercity as most trains have dining cars. For Fridays and Sundays, it is advisable to make a seat reservation. A large number of travellers use railway services on these days. Please note that families who have lived in Bydgoszcz have informed us that the railways are very time consuming but for some this may be perfectly fine.

TAXIS

There are a lot of taxis in most major cities in Poland. In general, use taxis that clearly show a telephone number on the side. The prices depends on the company. First kilometer costs approximately 6 PLN and every additional kilometer approximately 2.5 PLN. The cheapest and easiest way to order a taxi is by phone or SMS. For trips at night you will have to expect a 50% increase of the fare. It is not mandatory to tip taxi drivers. Each taxi driver is obliged to provide a receipt for the service provided.

If you choose a “private” taxi (a taxi operating outside one of the taxi corporations), you may experience that the fare will be higher (check fare information on a taxi window). Keep an eye on the meter and if you believe the meter is counting too fast, ask the driver to stop, get out of the taxi and pay the fare before finding another taxi.

Uber : Uber does exist in Poland, in fact Krakow hosts the European hub for Uber.

Warsaw: https://www.uber.com/en-CA/cities/warsaw/

Click here for a review of taxi services in Warsaw.

Poland’s government has proposed new legislation that will require Uber and other ride- sharing companies to use only licensed taxi drivers from 2020. This is a hot topic in Poland, keep yourself informed with the local news to understand what is available in your area.

Ferry Connections

Regular ferry connections are operated from Polish port cities to other cities in the Baltic Rim, e.g. from Świnoujście to Ystad and Trelleborg; from Gdańsk to Visby and Nynäshamn.

Stena Line operates ferries from Gdynia to Karlskrona. Finnlines operate ferry routes from Gdynia to Helsinki and from Gdynia to Travemünde. For further information visit www.promy.pl

CAR RENTAL

To rent a car in Poland, you must be at least 21 years old (age may vary by car category) and have held your license for 1 year. A few car classes have a maximum rental age of 70 years. Drivers renting a car under the age of 25 may incur a young driver surcharge. An International Drivers License is required.

Most rental car categories in Poland can be driven anywhere in Western Europe without restriction, however you will need to purchase ‘Green Card Insurance’ at the time of pick up. Due to insurance regulations, there are restrictions on luxury car categories and on travel in certain countries.

HOTELS

Eblag

Hotel, address, Number of Price phone Services beds/rooms (room/night) number Breakfast, Restaurant, Night club, Hotel Arbiter *** 143 - 90 rooms Conference 2 Plac Słowiański (19 single rooms, PLN 130 – 400 rooms, Parking, T: +48 55 230 61 91 60 double rooms, Beauty www.arbiterhotel.pl 2 family rooms) treatment, Hairdresser’s salon, Wi-fi. Hotel Atrium *** 39 - 15 rooms PLN 180 – 440 Breakfast, Wi-fi.

13 Mostowa 14 double rooms, T: +48 55 233 33 66 1 family room) www.atriumhotel.pl Breakfast, Restaurant, Fitness Club, Swimming Hotel Elbląg **** 150 - 85 rooms pool, Steam room, 54-59 Stary Rynek (80 double rooms, PLN 190 – 1220 Spa T: +48 55 611 66 00 5 suits) treatments, www.hotelelblag.eu Conference rooms, playroom for children, Wi-fi. Breakfast , Hotel Europa *** 60 – 30 rooms parking, 219 Królewiecka (24 double rooms, PLN 100 – 320 playroom for T: +48 55 237 50 50 6 family rooms) children. www.europahotel.pl Wi-fi. Breakfast, Restaurant, Swimming pool, Hotel Młyn Aqua SPA Steam 100 – 48 rooms ***/**** room, Conference (4 single rooms, 132 Kościuszki PLN 192 – 765 rooms billiards, 40 double rooms, T: +48 55 235 04 70 parking, 4 suits) www.hotelmlyn.com.pl playroom and playground for children. Wi-fi. Hotel Pod Lwem *** 64 – 35 rooms 10 Kowalska (17 single rooms, PLN 160 – 420 Breakfast, Wi-fi. T: +48 55 641 31 00 13 double rooms, www.hotelpodlwem.pl 5 family room) Hotel Żuławy - Hotel&Restaurant *** 50 – 27 rooms Breakfast, 126 Królewiecka (26 double rooms, PLN 100 – 300 Restaurant, T: +48 55 234 57 11 1 family room) Parking, Wi-fi. www.hotel- zulawy.com.pl Pensjonat MF *** Breakfast, 26 Św. Ducha 40 – 16 rooms PLN 180– 330 Restaurant, T: +48 55 641 26 10 (16 double rooms) parking, Wi-fi. www.pensjonatmf.pl

TRAVEL ADVISORIES

Remain vigilant and ensure personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times.

Carry a valid Canadian passport, whether you are travelling in any other foreign country. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. When you make purchases with a credit or debit card, your passport will be required to verify your identity.

Exercise normal safety precautions. Ensure that your personal belongings, passport and other travel documents are secure at all times. Keep a copy of your passport identification page, driver’s license, train or airline tickets, and credit cards. Safeguard the originals. Be advised that many countries require visas in advance either for official or vacation travel. It is recommended you research the policy for each country prior to travel. For the most updated information please visit: https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories

Polish Foreign Affairs https://www.dfa.ie/travel/travel-advice/a-z-list-of-countries/poland/

Government of United Kingdom https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/poland

Government of U.S.A https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/pol and-travel-advisory.html

Government of Canada https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories

ADMINISTRATION

• Exchange rate to consider: Złoty (PLN). 1 PLN = 0.34 CAD (Jan 2020). • Even though Poland joined the European Union in 2004, it has not yet adopted the Euro. • The Polish currency is the Złoty (PLN), which is divided into 100 groszy.

BANKING

The Polish currency is złoty (PLN – zł), which is divided into 100 grosz. You can check the current exchange rate at the Polish National Bank website (www.nbp.pl/Kursy/RatesA.html) You can exchange your cash in a Polish bank or in an exchange office (“kantor” in Polish).

When making money transfers from abroad to a Polish bank account, please be aware that EU anti-money laundering regulations require Polish financial institutions to check all single transfers exceeding 15.000 Euros, and cash transfers exceeding 1.000 Euros. You may be asked to show your ID/passport and identify the beneficial owner of a transaction.

Warsaw: https://warsawlocal.com/banks-in-warsaw/

Bydgoszcz and Elblag

Approximately thirty-eight banks operate in Bydgoszcz and twenty in Elblag. Many of them conduct retail banking operations in both PLN and foreign currencies. Banks are usually open from Monday – Friday, between 0800 to 1800h. You can withdraw cash with your banking card at most ATM’s (“bankomat” in Polish) all over the city.

In order to open a bank account, you must present your passport and the JFTC or HQ MND- NE Certificate of Status and your passport. Comprehensive service in English is not always available, therefore, it is useful to open an account with a bank that provides online banking services. The one recommended is Bank Milennium or ING as both have several branches around the country and good online services. You are advised to familiarize yourself with banking fees. The fees that would be set out in standard information or in your contract, and may be subject to negotiations, depending on the bank and the choice of account.

Online Banking Payments – IBANs, BICs, and TANs

Bank accounts in Europe have an “IBAN” (International Bank Account Number) and a “BIC” (Bank Identifier Code). You will use these for making payments and receiving money. If you are paying a bill, you will typically find their IBAN on the bill and you can use that in your online banking to make the payment. You will also provide your IBAN to companies to pay

your bills (insurance, gym payments, cell phone, etc). The orderly room and claims section at CFSU(E) will use your IBAN to deposit pay and claims into your bank account.

To make a payment, you will often need a TAN (Transaction Authorization Number). This can be a complex thing to get used to in Europe. You will likely get a sheet of TANs when you initially get your bank account, but then through your mobile banking you can use mobile TANs (a number sent to your phone) or photo TANs with an app on your phone. To use mobile or photo TANs, you will need to register your mobile number in the online banking.

Money Transfer

You will likely have a requirement to move money between Canadian and European accounts. Transferwise.com and XE.com are both worth looking at for this.

INSURANCE

Elblag

-Dariusz Piotrowicz (agent): Address: Plac Dworcowy 4 82-300 Elbląg Phone: +48 501–213-331

-Marcin Kozłowski (agent): Address: Plac Dworcowy 5 82-300 Elbląg Phone: + 48 503-173-221

- CUK (Central Insurance) website: You can contact with e-mail [email protected] Address: Hetmańska 16/1 82-300 Elblag Phone: + 48 505-619-487 www.cuk.pl

CRA AND RESIDENCY STATUS FOR SPOUSES/DEPENDENTS

Completing and submitting an income tax return from OUTCAN can be even more fun than doing it in Canada. In the past, there has been significant confusion regarding the residency status of spouses. Unfortunately, some CAF families have found out that choosing incorrectly can have a major financial impact. Many have found this issue confusing and have sought professional tax advice.

The following information regarding residency status has been provided to us by the CRA:

Spouses of Canadian Government Employees on Foreign Assignment – Residency Status for Tax Purposes The purpose of this document is to provide general residency information for the spouses of employees of the Department of National Defence (“DND”)/members of the Canadian Armed Forces (“CAF”) and Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development (“DFATD”) Canada that are sent on foreign assignments. This document does not address all possible situations that may require more analysis when determining the tax implications.

Please note that our reference to a spouse in this document includes a common-law partner.

Spouses that Intend to Return to Canada and expect to Maintain their Canadian Residency

Where you are the spouse of a Canadian Government employee and are moving with your spouse and family to another country for your spouse to carry out a foreign assignment for the Government of Canada and it is your intention to return to Canada following the assignment, then you will be considered a factual resident of Canada. This factual residency is based on your intention to return to Canada as well as your secondary residential ties maintained with Canada, as described in paragraph 1.14 of Folio S5-F1-C1.

Please do not complete a Form NR73, Determination of Residency Status (Leaving Canada).

As a factual resident, you will have to complete and file your Canadian Personal Income Tax Return and you will meet the residency requirement for Canadian benefits administered by the CRA.

Spouses that do not expect to Maintain their Canadian Residency

If you believe that you will be a non-resident of Canada when you leave with your spouse and family for the foreign assignment because your intention, primary ties and secondary ties support your status as a non-resident of Canada, then you should complete Form NR73, Determination of Residency Status (Leaving Canada). The Canada Revenue Agency will review the information provided in your completed Form NR73 to determine whether or not you will be considered a non-resident of Canada.

If it is determined that you will be a non-resident of Canada, you should know the tax implications, which include:

1. You will be deemed to have disposed of certain properties that may give rise to capital gains (taxes on gains can be deferred by using Form T1244, Election , Under Subsection 220(4.5) of the Information Sheet Income Tax Act, to Defer the Payment of Tax on Income Relating to the Deemed Disposition of Property);

2. You will only be able to create additional RRSP room if you have earned income in Canada;

3. You will not be able to contribute to a Tax Free Savings Account; and

4. You will be subject to tax of up to 25% on certain payments from Canadian sources, such as investment income (Part XIII tax).

For further information with respect to the determination of an individual’s residence status, please consult CRA’s Income Tax Folio S5-F1-C1 available at: http://www.cra- arc.gc.ca/tx/tchncl/ncmtx/fls/s5/f1/s5-f1-c1- eng.html

Further information on how income tax rules apply to Canadian residents that leave the country can be found in http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tx/nnrsdnts/ndvdls/nnrs-eng.html

Should you have any further questions or require additional information regarding this, please do not hesitate to communicate with the International and Ottawa Tax Services Office.Child Benefits

CHILD BENEFITS

Did you know that MFS(E) provides short-term Emergency or respite child care? To learn more about it, please click here.

For a complete list of Child & Youth programs through MFS(E), please consult our website. Children's Education Allowances: +49(0) 2451-717-138

Kindergartens

Elblag

Kindergartens operate 10-12 and half hours a day and perform as care, educational and instructive institutions. They take actions to support customized development of children according to their needs and possibilities, and in the case of children with disabilities - according to their psychological, physical and communication abilities and also the level of psychophysical development. Children are provided with psychopedagogical assistance, in particular, speech therapy, educational therapy, sociotherapy, corrective- compensative classes and corrective exercises.

A yearly work plan includes: • developing children’s interest in the book as a source of knowledge, values and pleasure

• developing linguistic skills in the contact with literature, including English language classes • strengthening families’ bonds with the kindergarten • arousing interest in the world of nature • teaching children to take care of nature and environment

It is possible to organize kindergarten branches for foreign children. Each unit will recruit teachers of preschool education holding additional qualifications for teaching English or translator, who will help children in the daily functioning of the group and participation in educational activities. It is also possible to organize for these children Polish language classes. English language classes organized in all kindergartens will help both Polish and foreign children in everyday communication. The kindergartens have too additionally interested like: judo, cook, capoeira, dance, sing song theatre, football, handball, gymnastic, swim pool, trips …

Locations in Elbląg:

Non-Public Kindergarten and Nursery PIEKARCZYK Address: Niemcewicza 1, 82-300 Elbląg Katarzyna Kurowicka Phone: +48 733-436-107 E-mail: [email protected] Website: http://piekarczyk.elblag.pl/en/home/ Nursery about fee/month – 450 PLN Kindergarten about fee/per month 300 PLN + meals/a day 8 PLN Kindergarten and Nursery deposit only one time is 300 PLN. Open: 6.30 am- 6.30 pm

Non-Public Kindergarten JEDYNECZKA Address: Nowogródzka 7, 82-300 Elbląg Monika Peszko Phone: +48 603-727-269 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.jedyneczka.elblag.pl Kindergarten about fee/per month 620-650 PLN Kindergarten deposit only one time is 300 PLN. Open: 6.30am-5.00pm

Non-Public Kindergarten MAŁY EUROPEJCZYK Address: Wyżynna 9, 82-300 Elbląg Patrycja Kołodziejczyk Phone: +48 797-810-477 E-mail: [email protected] Website: malyeuropejczyk.elblag.pl Kindergarten about fee/per month 400-590 PLN Kindergarten deposit only one time is 500 PLN. Open:6.30am-7.00pm

Non-Public Kindergarten MUCHOMOR

Address: Podgórna 12, 82-300 Elbląg Anna Nowak- Ludziejewska Phone: +48 575-805-015 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.muchomor.edu.pl Kindergarten about fee/per month 690 PLN Kindergarten deposit only one time is 400 PLN. Open:6.30am-5.30pm

PETS

Currently, all pets must have a valid anti-rabies vaccination taken at least 21 days before they arrive in Poland. Dogs, cats and ferrets brought to or taken out of Poland must have valid passport. All pet owners must have an international vaccination card which may be checked by the border authorities.

You are only allowed to bring 3 pets with you to Poland. If you bring more than that we have been informed it is considered commercial importing.

It has been advised by other Canadians to bring your pets into the Shengan Zone via Germany before entering Poland. This ensures that they clear customs in the zone.

Entering Poland, your pet must be: • Older than 3 months of age • Identified by an electronic microchip • Have certification of a valid anti-rabies vaccination (can be documented in a pet passport)

Dogs

Under Polish legislation referring to animal protection, you are reported to obtain permission from the local authority (City Hall) to breed or keep one of the following dogs, which are considered aggressive breeds: • Akbash Dog • Perro de Presa Canario • American Bulldog • Perro de Presa Mallorquin • American Pit-Bull Terrier • Rottweiler • Anatolian Karabash • Tosa Inu • Argentinian Dog • Moscow Long Hair Terrier • Caucasian Shepherd

Permission can be declined or withdrawn if the dog is kept under conditions that may endanger people or animals.

Furthermore, dog owners in Poland are obliged to:

• Supervise dogs in public places; keep the dog on a lead and in a muzzle in all public places (punishment foreseen for not observing the obligation: a reprimand or a fine up to PLN 250)

• Remove dog waste from public places (punishment foreseen for not observing the obligation: a reprimand or a fine up to PLN 500)

• In case of dogs which are considered aggressive, owners shall possess a permit issued by local authorities (ask for the list of dogs in your National Support Element or in the legal branch)

• Pay the yearly fee for possession of dogs • Vaccinate dogs against rabies once a year

POSTAL SERVICES

PERSONAL MAIL

Canadian Forces Post Office

Your postal address in Belleville will be:

(name) RP PO Box xxxx Stn Forces Belleville, ON K8N 5W6

If you need a physical address, either for banking or for a signature on delivery, the address is:

(name) RP xx, CFPO xxxx 15 Westwin Ave Bldg 348 CFB Trenton Astra, Ontario K0K 3W0

If mail or a package is being sent to the 15 Westwin address, it is recommended that you email [email protected] to inform them when and what to expect.

Polish Postal Services

Elblag

There are over 20 post offices in Elbląg. The Polish word for post office is “poczta”. The nearest post office is located PKP Station in Plac Dworcowy 2 Street.

Mail is delivered from Monday to Friday. Postal delivery staff are assigned to each part of a city, town or village, and thus have different delivery hours. However, mail is usually delivered before noon.

Unregistered letters and postcards are dropped into personal letter boxes. Registered letters, other letters requiring acknowledgement of receipt and packages are delivered by a postman personally. If the addressee is not at home and does not receive such mail, the delivery person leaves a note with information on where and when it may be collected. To collect mail at the post office, you should bring the note and your valid identity card; if you want to collect someone else’s registered mail, you additionally need an authorization.

To send letters and packages, you may use either regular mail or priority (fast) mail. You can also make payments and cash transfers at a post office. Each post office is open from Monday to Friday until afternoon or evening hours. Some post offices also work on Saturdays.

HEALTH SERVICES

GENERAL

As a CAF member posted to a remote location in Europe, you are able to consult the medical services offered at the medical Geilenkirchen (GK) in Germany.

The Health team at CFSU(E) is able to provide support, education, and resources to the CAF community, including remote families. You can contact them at:

+49 2451 717 301

[email protected]

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/GKMedicalClinic/?ref=br_rs

Social Workers

Capt Martin Laferrière-Simard - Social Worker (Military Members) [email protected]

Myriam Chebat - Social Worker (Family members / dependents) [email protected] or [email protected]

Immunizations For an up to date list of required immunizations for your location, please contact Tel: +49 2451 717 305

Pharmacy Services Tel: +49 2451717 308

I Dental Unit Detachment Geilenkirchen

Canadian Forces Support Unit (Europe), Selfkant-Kaseme

Quimperlestrasse I 00, 5251 I Geilenkirchen, Germany

Clinic Phone Number: +49 (0) 2451 717 330 (leave voicemail if no answer).

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

ENERAL EMERGENCY NUMBER FREE OF 112 CHARGE FROM ANY TELEPHONE

AMBULANCE 999 POLICE 997 FIRE BRIGADE 998 EMERGENCY ELECTRICAL SERVICE 991

GAS EMERGENCY 992 WATER-SUPPLY EMERGENCY SERVICE 994

EMERGENCY ROAD SERVICE 981

ELBLAG MUNICIPAL POLICE (e.g. 986 tickets for parking, speeding, public order violation)

The person answering an emergency call – with the exception of the 112 operator - may only speak Polish.

HOSPITALS

According to the NATO SOFA, Poland as a Host Nation is obliged to provide medical and dental services to members of the force, members of the civilian component, and their dependents under the same conditions as Polish personnel. The Technical Arrangement between Poland and Allied Command Transformation regarding support to the JFTC further details and extends the medical support provided through the Medical Facility at the JFTC Support Unit to contractor personnel.

The level of medical and dental services and the terms of providing emergency support and basic medical treatment are set out in the JFTC Directive 19-01 Healthcare., which also explains how to register to receive medical assistance from the 10th Military Hospital and the JFTC Medical Facility.

Clinics & Medical Centres & Hospitals

Warsaw

LIM Medical Centre Warsaw, 65/79 Al. Jerozolimskie tel: (0048-22) 458 70 00

fax: (0048-22) 630 55 24 e-mail: [email protected] website: www.cm-lim.com.pl Damiana Medical Centre Warsaw, 46 Walbrzyska Str. tel: (0048-22) 847 33 13, 853 16 44 website: www.damian.pl Lux Med Ltd. Warsaw, 132 B Raclawicka Str. tel: (0048-22) 646 99 99; 627 00 10 fax: (0048-22) 646 99 88 e-mail: [email protected] website: www.luxmed.pl Syfiums Clinic Ewa Swoboda-Kopec, MD 25 A Okopowa Str. apt. 7 01-059 Warsaw tel: (0048-22) 632-1524 Marek Kruk, MD 31 Katowicka Str. 03-932 Warsaw tel: (0048-22) 617-3021, (0048) 601214672

Poznan

LIM Medical Center 42, Pólwiejska Str 61-888 Poznan tel: (0048-61) 859 6520 e-mail: [email protected] HCP Medical Centre 194 , 28 Czerwca 1956r Str. 61-498 Poznan tel: (0048-61) 831 29 03; 831 18 24; 831 11 82 Medicover 11 Sarebska Str. 61-696 Poznan tel: (0048-61) 827 62 00 fax: (0048-61) 827 62 01 la ligne d`urgence 96 77 (24 heures)

Elblag

In the area of Elblag there are 2 hospitals that provide comprehensive medical services in the field of residential, outpatient, emergency, emergency medical and ambulance care as

well as diagnostics (computer tomography, magnetic resonance imaging) and rehabilitation. These are:

Wojewódzki Szpital Zespolony (the Voivodship Hospital), and

Szpital Miejskiśw. Jana Pawła II (St. John Paul II Municipal Hospital) • NCAGE code (The Commercial and Government Entity Code) No. 0668H

Wojewódzki Szpital Zespolony Regional Hospital - (the largest hospital in the region) Address: Królewiecka 146 82 - 300 Elblag E-mail: [email protected] Website: [email protected] Phone: + 48 (55) 239 59 00; (55) 234 41 11 www.szpital.elblag.pl Hospital Emergency Ward has 12 beds with full monitoring of life functions. There are 26 doctors, 41 nurses and 11 paramedics. The ward is located in the immediate vicinity of the helicopter landing spot.

Other wards offer a full range of services as expected of a regional hospital, including but not limited to Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, General and Vascular Surgery, Surgical Oncology, Traumatology and Orthopedic Surgery, Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology & Endocrinology, Dermatology, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Cardiology, Neurosurgery, Neurotraumatology and Spinal Surgery, Neurology with the Stroke Unit, Newborns, Neonatal Intensive Care, and much more.

St. John Paul II Municipal Hospital (institution subordinate to the local government Elblag) St. John Paul II Municipal Hospital in Elblag Address: J. A Komeńskiego 35 82-300 Elblag Phone: +48 55 239 44 02 E-mail: [email protected] http://www.szpitalspecjalistyczny.elblag.pl

Wards include Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Surgery of Trauma and Orthopedic Unit, Pediatric Surgery, Obstetrics – Gynecology, Neonatal Unit, Infectious Diseases, Lung Diseases, Institute of Caring and Treatment, and Laboratory of Immunology of Transfusion the Blood Bank.

Krakow

LIM Medical Center 64, Slowackiego 30-004 Kraków tel: (0048-12) 632 9077 fax: (0048-12) 632 9055 e-mail: [email protected]

Medicover 1 Krotka Str. Krakow tel.: (0048 12) 616 10 00 fax: (0048-12) 616 10 10 amergency tel: 96 77 (24 hrs) website: http://www.medicover.com/plen/104,Home-page.htm

Group 4 Falck - Poland 4-6 Mazowiecka Str. Krakow tel: (0048-12) 634 33 69; 633 21 11 website: http://www.falck.pl

Gdansk

Medicover 23 Beniowskiego Str. Gdansk tel.: (0048 58) 557 55 55 fax: (0048-58) 558 20 47 website: www.medicover.pl emergency tel: - 9677

Clinica Medica 11 Mireckiego Str. Gdynia tel: (0048 58) 661 50 55; 661 53 40 fax: (0048 58) 661 50 44 e-mail: [email protected] website: www.clinica-medica.pl

Warsaw

Centralny Szpital Kliniczny 1a Banacha Str. Warsaw tel.: (004822) 823 64 11; 822 7494

Centralny Szpital Kliniczny WAM 128 Szaserow Str. Warsaw tel.: (004822) 681 76 66; 681 62 94

I Katedra Poloznictwa i Ginekologii Akademii Medycznej 1/3 Starynkiewicza Sq. Warsaw tel: (004822) 621 02 41

Szczecin

Physiotherapy Clinic:

Rehbet - Rehabilitacja i Diagnostyka Sportowa Ulica Cedynska 3-4 71-570 Szczecin There is one physiotherapist who speaks English at the clinic. You can book appointments by e-mail.

Dental Clinics:

Stomatologia Mierzyn Dr. Łukasz Drejarz and Dr. Justyna Jach Welecka 38 Mierzyn (Szczecin)

Dental Plus Med Dr. Paweł Dobosz Aleja Piastów Str. 3 Szczecin

Stomatologia na Podzamczu Wielka Odrzańska Str. 31B Szczecin

Hospitals

Samodzielny Publiczny Szpital Kliniczny Nr 1 PUM (SPSK 1 PUM) Unii Lubelskiej 1, 71-252 Szczecin, Poland Phone: +48 91 425 30 00

You can access Urgent Care and Emergency Care at this hospital. Some physicians spoke a little English; administrative staff were not able to communicate in English.

PRIVATE CLINICS

Elblag

Elblag primary health care is protected by the network of 64 clinics - health care facilities.

Non-Public Clinic GROUP LUX-MED - Dermatology, Cardiology, Paediatric, Rheumatology, Endocrinology, Gynecology, Orthopedic, Ophthalmology, Internist.

LUX-MED Address: Stoczniowa 1, 82-300 Elbląg Phone: +48 22 332-28-88 Website: www.luxmed.pl

LIFECLINICA Address: Węgrowska 3 82-300 Elbląg Phone: +48 55 235-11-94 Website: www.lifeclinica.com E-mail: [email protected]

PHARMACEUTICAL SERVICES

Please note that prescriptions in Poland are valid for 30 days from the date of issue, except prescriptions for antibiotics which are valid for 7 days.

Staff members registered with the Polish Health Insurance Fund (NFZ) need to carry the original NFZ certificate while purchasing medicines on prescription.

There are many pharmacies (“apteka” in Polish) in major cities in Poland and some of them operate 24 hours a day (e.g Apteka Centralna, 27 Gdanska St. in Bydgoszcz)

For a list of pharmacies, including pharmacies that offer delivery services, please refer to the JFTC Support Unit or your embassy for details.

In Elblag there are 33 public pharmacies, some of them are open until late or even 24 hours a day.

DENTAL CLINICS

As with medical services, dental services are received at local clinics. Dental claims are addressed through Great-West Life Health and Dental Benefits. Be sure to keep copies of your receipts!

For any other questions, you can always contact GK Medical and ask for the dental clinic.

CFSU(E) GK Medical Clinic...... +49 (0) 2451-717301 E-mail address: [email protected]

SOCIAL SERVICES

The following options are available to military members and their families for access to psychosocial or mental health resources:

Social Worker

You can reach the MFS(E) Social Worker Myriam Chebat at: [email protected] +49 (0) 2451 717 206

Or, reach the CAF Formation Europe Social Worker, Captain Martin Laferrière-Simard at: [email protected] +49 (0) 2451 717 309

Padre

There are three Padres serving the families in Europe, and they are also available for consultation:

Maj Jean-Guy Morin Lt(N) Lesley Fox Capt Gerson Flor Located in Casteau Located in London Located in Naples Responsible for Central Europe Responsible for UK and Responsible for Southern (Netherlands, Germany, Northern Europe Europe (Spain, Italy, France, Belgium) Portugal, Turkey, Romania) [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] +32 (0) 65 44 6179 +44 (0) 1895 613 022 +39 345 080 5673

CAF Member Assistance Program

Military members and their families can also contact the CAF Member Assistance Program at +1 800 268 7708. This is a voluntary and confidential service that allows callers to speak with a professional counsellor and is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Please note that Canadian toll-free numbers are not free when calling from another country, but the CAF Member Assistance Program will also accept collect calls at +1 613 941 5842.

Family Information Line

The Family Information Line offers confidential assistance and supportive counselling 24/7. When you call you will be connected to one of their experienced professionals who can connect you with local and national resources. The Family Information Line can be called toll free, from Europe, at 00 800 7711 7722.

Local Resources

Military families can also access resources in their community, as recommended by their doctor or other sources, but they should ensure with their Public Service Health Care Plan that they will be covered for the services they are considering. For their services, military members are required to go through their medical system or the CAF Member Assistance Program.

A. A. Meetings

Information on Alcoholic Anonymous meetings in Europe or online is available at https://alcoholics-anonymous.eu/

GREAT WEST LIFE / ALLIANZ

Dental Claims

Unless you are served by a CAF Dental Clinic, dental claims will need to be sent to Great- West Life, using the paper form. Log into your account on the Great-West Life website and print a claim form. Claims and original receipts need to be mailed to the following address:

Great-West Life Health and Dental Benefits Foreign Benefit Payments PO Box 6000 Winnipeg, MB R3C 3A5

Be sure to keep copies of your receipts!

Great West Life is now using a new online system called “GroupNet” where participants have to register online in order to process claims and get them reimbursed.

Medical Claims

For medical claims, you will also need to submit a paper claim to Allianz, using the PSHCP Out-of-Country claim form (http://www.pshcp.ca/media/43901/claimform_out_fill.pdf). Send the claim form and the original receipts to:

Allianz Global Assistance Public Service Health Care Plan PO Box 880 Waterloo, ON N2J 4C3

ON THE ROAD

GENERAL

The NATO SOFA requests Poland to recognize the driving license of a member of a force or of a civilian component. The MOA extends this privilege to dependants of the JFTC military or civilian staff members and the JFTC contractors.

If you are not covered either by NATO SOFA or by the JFTC MOA (e.g. contractor’s dependants, au-pairs) your national driving license, if issued by an EU member state, is valid in Poland within its validity period. Other (non-EU) national driving licenses are valid in Poland within their validity period but no longer than six months after the arrival and on the condition that such documents comply with requirements set out in the International Road Traffic Conventions of 8 November 1968. After six months, you have to change, without any additional tests, your national driving license to the Polish one. The administrative fee for obtaining a Polish driving license is approximately 100 PLN. For more information, please contact your JFTC Support Unit In-Processing Office or the embassy.

For CAF members, a military driving license (DND 404) is recognized by Polish law therefore there is no need to procure an International Driver License (IDL). For dependents, it is absolutely necessary to obtain and carry on a valid IDL as the National Driving License is not sufficient.

Vehicles

Please be aware that at the time of publishing this guide, there is a temporary restriction on importing motor vehicles to Poland. For the most accurate information, please contact the Orderly Room. Information below may not currently apply.

Members of the forces and of the civilian component are entitled to import (and re-export) private motor vehicles for their personal use free of duty. Please remember that it does not apply to the Host Nation nationals or to contractor personnel. There is a limit on the number of vehicles which the entitled staff members may import free of duty. This also applies to the purchase of vehicles free of taxes in Poland, however, it should be noted that it is unlikely you are able to buy vehicles with US specification in Poland. The VAT and duties are to be paid to the dealer and will then be reimbursed by the local authorities. For more information on tax free import and purchase of motor vehicles, see the JFTC Directive Tax and Fiscal Entitlements.

*Dependents are entitled to drive the vehicles without triggering any VAT. However, they are not eligible to import private motor vehicles free of duty.

In case of private purchases of cars in Poland, Polish consumer law provides you with a two- year warranty period from the day of purchase. However, in case of used cars, the parties to the contract may agree to shorten the warranty period to one year. You are also guaranteed that the seller will fix your car in case any defects occur within the period of time. You should remember that the guarantee is a voluntary commitment on the side of the seller. If you don’t have a written guarantee declaration, you are only entitled to the warranty claims. INFORMATION ON DRIVER’S LICENCE IN CANADA AND RENEWAL

Province Mailing Address Phone Number Internet Site Alberta Alberta Transportation (780) 310-0000 Government of Alberta Main Floor- Twin Atria Outside AB: Ministry of Transportation: 4999-98 Ave (780) 427-8230 Drivers & Vehicles Edmonton, AB T6B 2X3 British ICBC Licensing From Lower BC: Columbia Driver Services Centre (604) 661-2800 http://www.icbc.com/driver- 151 West Esplanade Toll Free in NA: licensing/Pages/default.aspx North Vancouver, BC (800) 663-3051 V7M 3H9 Manitoba Manitoba Transportation (204) 985-7000 http://residents.gov.mb.ca/re Driver & Vehicle Fax: ference.html?d=details&progr Licensing (204) 954-5338 am_id=304 234 Donald St, Box 6300 or Toll Free in Winnipeg, NB NA: R3C 4A4 (800) 665-2410 New Brunswick NB Department of DPS- http://www2.gnb.ca/content/ Transportation MSP.Information gnb/en/services/driving_and_ 364 Argyle St @gnb.ca vehicles.html Fredericton, NB E3B 1T9

Newfoundland Motor Registration (709) 729-4834 http://www.gs.gov.nl.ca/drive & Labrador Division rs.html Department of Government Services PO Box 8710 St. John’s NF A1B 4J5 North West Government of NWT (867) 873-7487 http://www.dot.gov.nt.ca/_liv Territories Department of Transport Fax: e/pages/wpPages/issuingoffic 5003 – 49th Street, (867) 669-9094 es.aspx Yellowknife NWT X1A 2L9

Province Mailing Address Phone Number Internet Site Nova Scotia Registry of (902) 424-5851 http://www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/ Transportation Toll Free in NA: access/drivers.asp Nova Scotia P.O. Box 186 (800) 898-7668

Halifax, Nova Scotia tir- B3J 2N2 occ@novascotia. ca.

Nunavut Motor Vehicles Division Toll Free: http://www.gov.nu.ca/progra Department of Economic (867) 975-7800 ms-services/vehicle- Development & registration Transportation Box 1000 Station 1575 Iqaluit, NU X0A 0H0 Ontario Ministry of Transportation (416) 235-2999 http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/en Licensing Admin. Office glish/dandv Toll Free: 77 Wellesley Street West Ferguson Block, 3rd Floor (800) 387-3445 Toronto, ON M7A 1Z8 Fax: (416) 235-4414 Prince Edward Prince Edward Island (902) 368-5228 http://www.gov.pe.ca/tir/inde Island Depart. of Transportation x.php3?number=20138&lang Fax: & Public Works =E PO Box 2000 (902) 368-5236 Charlottetown, PE C1A 7N8

Quebec Societe de l’Assurance Quebec, PQ: http://www.saaq.gouv.qc.ca/ Automobile de Quebec (418) 643-7620 en/index.php P.O. Box 19600, Terminus Montreal, PQ: 333 blvd. Jean- Lesage (514) 873-7620 Quebec, PQ G1K 8J6 Toll Free in PQ: 1 (800) 361- 7620 Saskatchewan Saskatchewan (306) 775-6900 http://www.sgi.sk.ca/individu Government Toll Free: als/index.html Insurance (SGI), (800) 667-9868 Licensing and Registration Services 2260 11th Avenue Regina, SK S4P 0J9 Yukon Gold Creek Building (Old (867) 667-5315 http://www.hpw.gov.yk.ca/m Rogers Video Building) Fax: v/mvdrlic.html Unit A, 2251-2nd Avenue (867) 393-6220 Whitehorse, Yukon Toll Free: Y1A 5W1 (800) 661-0408 ext. 5315

Province Mailing Address Phone Number Internet Site Transport Transport Canada (613) 990-2309 http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/road Canada Tower C, Place de Ville Toll Free: -menu.htm 330 Sparks St (866) 995-9737 Ottawa, ON K1A 0N5

Traffic Rules

When driving in Poland, you will notice that traffic is heavy and the standard of the road infrastructure is not high. Regular traffic jams are common in major cities. Outside cities it is common to drive on roads with only one lane in each direction. There is also a narrow lane for slower moving vehicles on both sides. Be aware of pedestrians and cyclists who use it frequently.

For your own safety, always call the police if you are involved in a traffic accident. Make sure to return to the place of the accident if you have to leave to place a call for assistance. If you do not return, you put yourself at risk of being charged with escaping the scene.

Under Polish law, it is not mandatory to have a first- aid kit in the car. You are obliged to give life-saving first aid, if you become involved in or aware of a traffic accident. It may be mandatory to have a first-aid kit in the car when going through other countries (e.g. Germany).

These are the main traffic rules & driving speeds:

Maximum speed within certain heavily populated areas marked with this sign is 20 km/h:

Maximum speed within built-up areas is:

50 km/h from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 pm

60 km/h from 11:00 pm to 5:00 a.m.

Maximum speed outside built-up areas:

90 km/h or 70 km/h for lorries/trucks and cars with trailers

Maximum speed for passenger cars on:

Dual carriageways (double-lane but no specific sign) and single-lane expressways: 100 km/h

Dual-lane expressways: 120 km/h

Motorways: 140 km/h

For trucks, lorries and cars with trailers the speed limit on the above ways is always 80 km/h.

In case measurement is done by a speed camera, the legally allowable tolerance of a driver is set at 10 km/h

There are many roundabouts, and the rules on giving way differ. Be aware of both square roundabouts (they come as a surprise for some!) and of trams which pass through several roundabouts.

In most intersections controlled by traffic lights, you are allowed to turn right even though your traffic light is red, providing there is a green arrow. Before turning, you have to stop and give right of way to traffic from the left and to pedestrians.

Additional Information:

• According to Polish Traffic Regulations, the permissible legal blood alcohol level is up to 0.2 mg per ml. A blood alcohol level between 0.2 and 0.5 per mille is an act of offence. A blood alcohol level above 0.5 per mille is an act of crime. Please note that you are required under Polish law to be tested upon request.

• It is forbidden to use a hand-held mobile phone while driving. Mobile phones may be used while driving only if they are fitted with a hands-free kit.

• It is compulsory for both the driver and the passengers to wear seatbelts while driving. (There are exceptions to this: pregnant women, taxi drivers, medical support service, a health condition certified by a doctor which would prevent being able to wear a seatbelt)

• Children up to 12 years of age, and not taller than 150 cm (4.92 feet) of height must be carried in special booster seats adjusted to weight, height and technical conditions.

• Headlights must be switched on at all times while driving.

If stopped by a police officer, drive up to the place indicated and wait for instructions. Stay in the car, keep your hands on the steering wheel and wait. Passengers are required to remain in the car, unless otherwise instructed by the police officer. In the conditions of sufficient visibility, a uniformed police officer gives the stopping signal with a red paddle. In the conditions of insufficient visibility, after dusk, the uniformed police officer gives the stop signal with a red-light flashlight or a reflective, red-light paddle. Police officers in plain clothes may stop you only in an urban area whereas non-urban areas it can be done only by uniformed police officers. If you are suspicious that an individual pretending to be a police officer is trying to stop you, you are allowed not to stop. Polish Police officers wear different uniforms depending on their service, branch and function.

Police can fine you up to 500 PLN (up to 1000 PLN if your action covers more than one minor offence) on the spot for a traffic offence. Fines are paid immediately (unless you are registered with the local authorities). If you do not have enough cash, you must deposit a personal document with the Police Officer, find the nearest bank or ATM and pay the fine. Polish Police run a system of penalty points. However, in case of a traffic offence, when you drive on a foreign driving license, you receive a regular fine and the penalty points will not be added to your driving licence.

When riding a motorcycle, you must have a Category A driving licence. It is mandatory to wear a helmet, but no additional protective gear is required by law.

If you are certain that you will not use your car at night, Bydgoszcz Traffic Police suggest that you put this sticker in the rear window. If a police officer spots the sign on a car at night (from 11:00 pm to 5:00 a.m.), the car will routinely be stopped and checked.

CAR INSURANCE

Polish law requires mandatory third-party liability insurance in the use of motor vehicles. The general rule is that a vehicle must be insured in the same place (country) where it is registered, and where the insurance risk is mainly situated. If the car is registered in Poland, third-party liability insurance has to be concluded with a Polish insurance company. In case your previous motor insurance is valid beyond your new, Polish insurance, contact your insurance agent and ask for reimbursement for the period covered by the new Polish insurance. Additional insurance (i.e. collision/ auto casco) is available with all Polish insurance companies.

It is possible to take out a short-term, third-party liability insurance in Poland covering vehicles registered outside Poland. This is relevant to those staff members who import vehicles from outside the EU. The insurance is normally valid for 30 days which should be sufficient to conclude customs clearance and registration. Upon registration and receiving the temporary registration papers, you are required to take out a regular, third-party liability insurance.

Polish motor vehicle third-party liability insurance is renewed automatically every year, if not terminated at least one day before the expiration date. Make sure to terminate your Polish insurance during out-processing.

You are recommended to check beforehand if your insurance provides coverage outside Poland before going abroad, or if you try to obtain an International Motor Insurance Card (Green Card). The Green Card is often provided by insurance companies on request, but not issued automatically.

An accident-free certificate from your previous insurance company is mostly accepted by Polish insurance companies and may provide you with a cheaper insurance rate. The certificate is to be translated into Polish (a certified translation is required). When you leave Poland, you can request your Polish insurer to provide you with a certificate to use in your next assigned country.

An example of an Insurance company that Canadian families have used in the past is: Generali. The telephone number for them is 48 913 913 913.

Some insurance companies available in Elblag:

Dariusz Piotrowicz (agent): Address: Plac Dworcowy 4 82-300 Elbląg Phone: +48 501–213-331 Marcin Kozłowski (agent): Address: Plac Dworcowy 5 82-300 Elbląg Phone: + 48 503-173-221 CUK (Central Insurance) e-mail [email protected] Address: Hetmańska 16/1 82-300 Elblag Phone: + 48 505-619-487 www.cuk.pl

If you are driving a car with foreign number plates in Poland, and you are not the owner of the car, the Police will require presenting a written authorization for you to drive the car, signed by the owner. The administrative fine for not holding a valid authorization and being able to present it on demand is 50 PLN. There is a suggested format for this available on the L-Drive.

VEHICLE REGISTRATION

In accordance with the Polish law, you have to register your vehicle in Poland within 30 days following your arrival. Details of the registration procedure are given in the HQ Staff Directive 05-7. Your National Support Element will inform you about the forms and documents to be submitted to obtain the car registration document and will co- ordinate the procedure.

Prior to the registration you have to obtain a technical inspection certificate, or present a valid EU Declaration of Conformity for new cars provided by the dealer. New cars registered for the first time are given technical inspection valid for 3 years, 3-year old cars - for 2 years, older than 5 years - for one year. At the expiration of the certificate, you have to obtain a new technical inspection (check the Address Book for Vehicle Inspection garages or you can use RTS SP. Z O.O. company Kazimierzowo 71the place is too Elbląg 82-300 Elbląg phone: + 48 887-777-994 Błażej Markowski) and have your registration prolonged.

According to the Polish law, cars registered in Poland must have Polish civil liability insurance. It is advisable to additionally purchase Casco Insurance and other accident insurances in your home countries due to certain limitations in coverage of Polish insurances. Contact your National Support Element for more details.

EMISSION STICKER

European Green Zones

Germany (58 zones), France (28 zones), Belgium (3 zones), Denmark (5 zones), and Austria (6 zones) have Green Zones and corresponding stickers. If you will be driving in the Green Zones of those countries, you may need a sticker for your car. You can order a sticker for your vehicle from the links in this website:

https://www.green-zones.eu/en.html

FUEL CARD

ITEMS IN YOUR CAR

Licensing regulations in Poland place the obligation on the drivers to carry a fire extinguisher in their car - available in supermarkets and home-improvement stores.

The following items are useful and should be carried in your vehicle: o Proof of identity – certified true copy of passport is always best. o Proof of Insurance o First aid kit (to include 2 pairs of disposable gloves). o Warning triangle o Reflective vests for any passengers who leave the vehicle; e.g. when stranded by the side of the road. One vest per seat is required o A disposable camera or a small digital camera in your accident kit (optional) o International Driver’s License

BIKING/MOPEDS/MOTORCYCLES

Bicycles

Bicycles & Pedestrians

Bicycles are becoming increasingly popular, and there are many paths around Bydgoszcz marked especially for bicycles.

Here is the summary of bike rules in Poland

• No driving permit is required to cycle on public roads in Poland if you are 18 or older. Children older than 10 years old, unless accompanied by an adult, are required to carry a pass (“karta rowerowa”) issued by the school to certify their knowledge of the Highway Code.

• You are obliged to use the bike path (if there is one next to the road) or a road lane designated for the bicycles.

• If there is no bike path or a road lane designated for the bicycles, you use the road normally as other vehicles do. Just remember to stick to the right edge of the roadway.

• You are allowed to travel on the sidewalk if you are taking care of another rider under 10 years old, the weather conditions threaten your safety (snow, high winds, rain, sleet, heavy fog), the width of the sidewalk along the road where vehicles can travel faster than 50 km/h is greater than 2 m and there are no road paths or road lanes for bikes around. However, please keep in mind that pedestrians have the priority on sidewalks.

• You are not allowed to cross a zebra crossing while riding a bike.

• Under Polish law, you are not allowed to ride a bicycle if you have been drinking alcohol (the same limitations as for driving a vehicle)

Pedestrians are obliged to follow traffic regulations. Use a zebra crossing when you want to cross a street except in the following 2 exemptions:

• You are allowed to cross the street in any other place, if the distance to the nearest zebra crossing is more than 100 meters, you are then required to cross the street at a 90% angle to the axis of the road.

• You are allowed to cross the street on the crossroad, even if there is no zebra crossing. You are not allowed to cross the street on the crossroad within the city borders, if it is a two-way street or a street with a tramline.

PARKING

Elblag Please be aware that you are required to pay a fee for parking your car in the centre of Elbląg from Monday to Friday from 9.00am to 5.00pm. with the exception of 02 May, 24 and 31 December and other days when it is justified. There are currently two paid parking zones specified and various available ways of payment for parking. You may buy a parking ticket in the parking meters located along the streets. If you live in the city centre it might be

more convenient for you to purchase monthly/quarterly/annual subscription valid for your zone or the whole centre.

Tickets can be bought in a parking meter using the following coins: 10 gr, 20 gr, 50 gr, 1 PLN, 2 PLN, and 5 PLN, or by means of a Parking Zone Card

The Season tickets you can buy at Customer Service Office on Czerwonego Krzyża 2 Street in Elbląg. Open Monday-Friday 7:30am – 5pm.

TOLLS

When traveling, be aware of toll costs. To drive on the autoroutes in Switzerland, for example, you require a sticker (called a vignette) on your windshield. The vignette is only available as an annual purchase. For Austria, you can purchase a 10-day, 2-month or annual vignette. In France, you will find toll booths on the autoroute. For some you pay a toll to go through the booth, for others you take a ticket and pay when you exit the toll road. The website https://www.viamichelin.com/ is an excellent resource for calculating toll costs before a trip.

REST STOPS

SPEED CAMERAS

Motorists in Poland have to pay attention when it comes to speed limits. The penalty for speeding by 1 to 10 km/h to 50 PLN. If you exceed the maximum speed by 11 to 20km/h, you will have to fork out 50 PLN to 100 PLN. Speeding by 21 to 30 km/h will be punished with a penalty of 100 to 200 PLN, by 31 to 40 km/h 200 to 300 PLN, by 41 to 50 km/h 300 to and for speeding by over 51 km/h the penalty will amount 400 PLN to 500 PLN. The penalty has to be paid immediately in cash and in PLN.

SAFETY BELTS AND CHILD SEATS

Both the driver and passengers must keep their seat belts fastened at all times while the vehicle is moving, except for persons having an appropriate doctor’s certificate and women

in advanced pregnancy. Motorcycle and scooter drivers and their passengers must wear safety helmets at all times.

Children up to 10 years are not allowed to occupy the front seat, unless seated in a special safety chair. If the seat belts cannot be used because of child’s weight or size, a special safety seat must be provided. If an air bag is fitted in front of the passenger seat, a child may not be seated in its safety chair with its back towards the front of the vehicle.

WINTER TIRES

Not mandatory in Poland but strongly recommended especially if expected to travel in the Southern part of the country.

ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE

IF INVOLVED IN A CAR ACCIDENT

In case of an accident you should always call the police in order to avoid any uncertainties during the following insurance procedures. Unless somebody is injured, you are required by Polish law to pull over by the side of the road (shortest distance possible from the place of impact) in order not to obstruct further traffic. For insurance purposes, it is highly recommended to use a special form – the European Accident Statement – in order to collect all necessary data of both vehicles involved in the accident, as well as the circumstances of the accident. You can easily download the Polish-English version of the form from www.pbuk.com.pl. A hard copy is available from the JFTC Support Unit In-Processing Office and on the L-Drive. Please carry it with you when you are driving.

BUYING OR SELLING A CAR

Traffic Office in GK:

[email protected] (Traffic Section)

+49 (0) 2451 717 119

+49 (0) 2451 717 136 http://www.forces.gc.ca/en/caf-community-benefits/relocation.page

RELIGIOUS SERVICES

Poland is an intensely religious country, over 90% of the population is Roman Catholic. That being said, it may be a challenge to find services in English in your community.

It will be easier to find English, or possible French services, in the larger cities such as Warsaw.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE SERVICES IN THE AREA

To better understand what services and denominations are available in your area, please speak to the Canadian consulate, embassy or your unit.

AROUND THE HOUSE

INTERNET/TELEVISION/MOBILE PHONE

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Phones

Several Canadian families have used a VoIP phone, and this is worth investigating before leaving Canada (so you can keep your number).

With a VoIP phone, you can keep a Canadian phone number. This has a few benefits. Your family and friends can call you, and you can call them, without overseas long-distance charges. Besides cost, it is also less confusing for people who may not be used to European calling (like elderly parents). Keeping a Canadian phone number also can help when completing online forms, banking, registering on Canadian websites etc. And finally, if you want to keep a phone number for continuity, you can move a number to a VoIP provider when you move OUTCAN, then move the same number back to a Canadian provider when you return.

Which provider to use? There are several, with varying costs and services. MagicJack and Vonage are two of the big companies, but many other VoIP providers are out there.

ELECTRICITY

Electricity in Europe differs from electricity in Canada, in that the voltage is higher and the frequency is lower. In Canada our electricity is 110V 60Hz, while in Europe, they have 220- 230V and 50Hz. Some electronics are not compatible with European power and require transformers, while others are dual voltage and only require a plug adapter.

To find out if an electronic is dual voltage, look for the electronic information on the product. This information is often found on the bottom or back of the product, or on its battery pack. If the input gives a range such as 100-240V 50-60Hz, then the product is dual voltage and works with both Canadian and European electricity. If the input does not give a range and only says 110V 60Hz, then it is not compatible with European electricity.

In Poland the power plugs and sockets are of type E. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.

Dual Voltage

If your product is dual voltage, then all you need is a plug adapter in order to use it. Since the product is already compatible with the local electricity, all the adapter does is allow the prongs to fit the electrical outlets. If you use an adapter with a product that is not dual voltage, you will not only damage your product, but you may also cause electrical damage to the building.

Lamps are considered dual voltage; however, you will need to replace the light bulbs with European lightbulbs.

Single Voltage

If your electronics only says 110V 60Hz, then it is not compatible with European electricity. In order to use it while in Europe, you will need to use a transformer. Transformers convert the local electricity to 110V 60Hz, so you are able to plug devices into it as if you were plugging them into a wall in Canada.

Most electronic devices have a prominent label that looks like this picture. On this device (a camera battery charger), you can see that after "Input" it says "110 - 240 volt", which means that it can be used with any voltage within that range, including the 110 volt standard in Canada or the 220-230 volt standard in much of Europe. All you'll need is a plug adaptor.

On this next label, you can see that this coffee maker is NOT dual voltage. It lists simply "120 volts". Other items may say "110" - anything in this range is a standard North American appliance. If you want to use something like this overseas, it will need to be on a transformer

In this final image, you can see that some appliances have a switch for use between higher and lower voltages. This can be used overseas with only a plug adaptor, but don't forget to flip the switch!

Transformers

Transformers are created with different wattage ratings, so you will need to make sure you are using the correct wattage to handle what you are plugging into it.

The total wattage of appliances plugged into the transformer must be less than the wattage rating of the transformer. To find out the wattage of an electronic device, if it’s not on the label, you can multiply the voltage of the item by the number of amperes (amps). For example, if the information on an item says 110V 60Hz 1A, you would multiple 110 (voltage) by 1 (amps) to get 110 watts.

There are also websites that have information on the approximate wattage of electronic and household appliances, for example,

• https://www.wholesalesolar.com/solar-information/how-to-save-energy/power-table

Research before choosing transformers. If in doubt, buy bigger. Some items (like TVs) need a big surge of power when switched on, so go with three times the wattage (a 500W appliance might need a 1500W transformer). Items that produce heat (iron, hair dryer) will require more wattage.

Transformers that do not have an ON/OFF switch, or have a switch and are turned on, will consume energy while plugged in, even if you do not have an appliance plugged into them. Therefore, you should always keep your transformers off or unplugged when not in use.

As part of your furniture claim, you can purchase and claim 50% of the cost of up to four transformers.

UTILITIES

In Poland utilities charged are normally the water consumption (cold and hot), the electricity and the oil (if used as a heating source).

APPLIANCES

Many houses and flats in Poland are not set to install a conventional dryer (drain dryer) due to the lack of space. Options are to dry the clothes using a drying rack or a condensation dryer.

BEDS

You should note that sizes of beds and bedding differ between Canada and Europe. It may be helpful to purchase extra bedding prior to your move, or you may find that you have to

have it shipped from Canada. If you plan on purchasing a bed while you are in Europe, do your research to ensure you will be able to find bedding that will fit upon your return to Canada.

WATER QUALITY

Poland is one of many European countries with conflicting reports about tap water quality. Water companies operating in Poland are required to comply with standards adapted to the European Union (EU) regulations.

A recent study (2014) reveals that 60% of Poles do not trust to drink water without prior boiling. Water flowing from the taps, although widely available, is judged to be polluted, with too much fluorine or not having the appropriate consumer values (colour, smell and taste).

According to the research by an environmental physicist Dr. Przemysław Wachniew from AGH-UST (University of Science and Technology in Kraków), the poor condition of the Polish waters and the Baltic Sea is not only the effect of the current land fertilization by farmers. Poland continues to struggle today with the effect of fertilization in the 1970s and the 1980s. The underground water carrying pollution in many cases remains under the surface for a long time, and may flow into a nearby river after several dozen years. (Retrieved from: http://scienceinpoland.pap.pl/en/news/news,27913,dr-wachniew-polish-waters-will- remain-polluted-several-decades.html)

From several reports, the water in Poland is potable (drinkable). Theoretically water can be drunk without boiling in Poland, but it depends a lot from the quality of pipes etc and where you are living. Again, it is advised to talk to the local authorities on water quality and / or consult the embassy or your unit.

It is highly recommended to drink bottled water or to use a water filter such as BRITA.

GARBAGE AND RECYCLING

Recently, new regulations for waste disposal have been implemented in Poland in accordance with the EU standards and Polish law. The municipalities are now responsible for waste disposal including segregated waste. Segregation includes paper (blue), glass (green), metal & plastic (yellow), bio (brown), remaining waste (black). Note: All contracts are to be signed between house owners and municipalities and not directly with waste disposal companies.

METRIC CONVERSION

Oven Temperature

275 F = 135 C 350 F = 175 C 425 F = 220 C

300 F = 150 C 375 F = 190 C 450 F = 230 C

325 F = 165 C 400 F = 205 C 500 F = 260 C

Cup & Spoon Equivalents

EMPLOYMENT

Please note, at the time this guide was last updated (March 2020), Spouses are not permitted to work on the economy.

WORKING FOR MILITARY FAMILY SERVICES (MFS) OR PERSONNEL SUPPORT PROGRAMS (PSP)

If you want to work for MFS and PSP while in Europe, you should bring the following information with you. It will be required to process your file to obtain the required security clearance to work in Europe. Having this information at your fingertips will speed-up the hiring process:

• Copy of passport, SOFA or VISA stamp (some of those, you will get in Europe)

• Another form of government (federal or provincial) photo ID (birth certificate, Driver’s Licence, etc.). If Government photo ID is not available a 3rd piece of photo ID (such as student ID) must be provided

• Five years of resident addresses along with proof (mail, bill, T4, etc.). The dates must be five years from the date of filling out the form back exactly five years from that date (i.e.: 24 Oct 2018 back to 24 Oct 2013)

• Proof of relevant education and professional qualifications (transcripts, diplomas, etc.)

• Proof of previous employment (back 5 years), (work agreements, T4s, etc.)

• Two References (names and addresses at least – reference letters are good to have as well) SPOUSAL/DEPENDENT EMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE AND EDUCATION

Our Education, Employment and Training Program Coordinator creates and delivers programs such as the Youth Employment Preparation and the Adult Employability Programs. The coordinator also offers employment and training assistance to working age youth and adult family members. These services include; job search information and tools, career related training and programs, and one-on-one employment assistance (resume writing, cover letter, interview skills).

For information regarding education or employment please contact the MFS(E) Education, Employment and Training Programs Coordinator, at

[email protected].

Resume Review

If you will be looking for employment while you are posted to Europe, or when you return to Canada, a review of your resume is in order.

Did you know that most resumes are scanned for only 10-30 seconds before they are rejected or set aside for further consideration? It can be a challenge to describe yourself and the positions you have held in a way that will catch a reviewer’s attention quickly. Your space is limited so you have to make every word count.

Interviewing for a job is one of the most stressful things you can do. It is difficult to put yourself on the line and face the possibility of rejection. Most of us don’t interview frequently enough to become very skilled at it, but here is an opportunity to practice in a safe and stress free environment.

For help creating a strong resume that will increase your chances of getting that all important interview, contact our MFSE Education, Employment and Training Programs Coordinator: [email protected].

JOB POSTINGS

Civilian employment opportunities are published regularly on the CAF Connection Website:

• https://www.cafconnection.ca/Europe/Programs-Services/Employment.aspx

LOCAL EMPLOYMENT

If you are interested in working for a local employer, your SOFA stamp/dependent status does not confer the right to be employed on the economy. This is entirely a matter for the host nation to decide and it is an individual’s responsibility to seek permission from local authorities. The host nation embassy in Canada may be able to assist before departure or upon arrival, consult the appropriate department of the host nation government.

ADULT EMPLOYABILITY PROGRAM

If you will be looking for employment when you return to Canada, MFS(E) can help you to be well prepared through our Adult Employability Program. Through participation in a series of virtual workshops, you can receive help creating a strong resume, cover letter and career portfolio as well as learn and practice interview techniques.

VOLUNTEERING

An OUTCAN posting is a good opportunity to get involved with your community. Volunteer work not only helps support other CAF families and provides social networks and personal satisfaction, but it can help build your skill set and improve your resume.

YOUTH EMPLOYMENT PREPARATION PROGRAM

The Youth Employment Preparation (YEP) Program provides real-life workplace training and employment opportunities to the youth of the CAF members and Canadian Forces support personnel posted in Europe. YEP aims to assist youth - between the age of 15 and 24 who are pursuing full-time studies – gain the knowledge, skills and experience to make a successful transition into the labour market. For more information on this program, see:

• https://www.cafconnection.ca/Europe/Programs-Services/Employment/Youth- Employment-Preparation-Program.aspx

EDUCATION

Please note, MFS(E) strongly encourages you to do your own research regarding educational institutions for your children, based on their abilities and needs. The following is a list of international schools in the city of your OUTCAN posting. If you have questions regarding the curriculum, entitlements or other important questions, please contact the school directly or contact the Children's Education Manager for Europe: [email protected]

Other CEM contacts: https://www.cafconnection.ca/National/Programs-Services/Children-s-Education-Management/Contact- (CEM).aspx

General information on Education and Training: https://www.cafconnection.ca/National/Programs-Services/Education-and-Training/Children-s-Education- Management.aspx

SCHOOLS

Local Schools

Bydgoszcz

Sokrates International Cambridge School – Polish school which became accredited in 2014. Grades 0-5 are bilingual, classes 6-10 are taught in English. The school teaches in accordance with the Cambridge program. For more information please visit: www.sokrates- szkola.pl

If your child is to attend a school, some vaccinations may be mandatory. Please contact the JFTC Support Unit medical section for details.

Warsaw

The American School of Warsaw: Found as a private, non-profit educational institution, ASW was established to provide an English language school in Warsaw for children of all nationalities. A secondary objective has been to contribute to international goodwill and understanding through the school’s multi-national character. For more information visit: www.asw.waw.pl

Elblag

CAF members are not currently authorized to be posted to Elblag with school-aged children, as no schools are recognized as meeting Canadian education standards.

Department of Defense Education Authority (DoDEA)

International School

IMMUNIZATION

Be sure that your routine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.

Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

The Government of Canada and WHO (World Health Organization) recommend the following vaccinations for Poland:

1. Hepatitis A 7. Mumps and rubella 10. Shingles 2. Hepatitis B (MMR) 11. Pneumonia 3. Rabies 8. Tdap (tetanus, 12. Influenza. 4. Meningitis diphtheria and 5. Polio pertussis) 6. Measles 9. Chickenpox

For more health information on Poland: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/poland

It is also strongly recommended to be vaccinated for Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE), due to the high presence of ticks in the Northern part of Poland.

DISTANCE EDUCATION

CHILDREN’S EDUCATION MANAGEMENT (CEM)

For school-age children and benefits associated with university-aged dependent children studying in Canada, the Children’s Education Management Officer for Europe, Nathalie

Gagné, should be your first point of contact. Her contact information is: +49 2451 717 164 or [email protected].

For full information on education OUTCAN, please visit Children’s Education Management on CAFConnection.ca

• https://www.cafconnection.ca/National/Programs-Services/Education-and- Training/Children-s-Education-Management.aspx

SCHOLARSHIP AND BURSARY INFORMATION

A variety of scholarships and bursaries are available to serving and former Canadian Armed Forces members and their families. These scholarships and bursaries are funded by educational institutions, government partners and charitable organizations and are not administered by MFS(E). More information can be found here:

• https://www.cfmws.com/en/SupportOurTroops/Programs/Documents/Scholarship_e_FIN AL_25%20Mar%2013.pdf

The European Fund (EF) Academic Program is established to recognize the academic accomplishments of students graduating from high school who are dependents of European Fund Members and to encourage students to continue towards post-secondary studies. All students accepted and attending a recognized post-secondary institution will receive €500.

• https://www.cafconnection.ca/Europe/Programs-Services/Education-Training/Academic- Scholarship.aspx

POST SECONDARY EDUCATION

An OUTCAN posting can be an ideal time to continue your education, whether through part- time or full-time studies, working towards a degree or certificate, for professional development or taking a special interest course for fun. Studies can be done in person at local colleges and universities or on-line through a variety of institutions.

If you plan on studying with a local university or college, be aware that Canadians may have to pay overseas (international) student fees and these fees can be double or triple what a local student will pay. Check with the institutions to see if part-time studies lower these fees.

Local Institutions

The Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials (http://cicic.ca) can provide you with information related to Canadians studying abroad or returning to Canada with foreign credentials.

If you are looking to continue a degree that you started in Canada, transferring credits or studying on a Letter of Permission from your Canadian university can be challenging due to differences in the educational systems. Do some research into programs available at your local universities and colleges, attend open days, and connect with their international admissions department to see what options are available to you. Your Canadian university may also have information about studying abroad.

If you choose to pursue an educational program locally and intend to use it professionally, you must ensure that it is an accredited program and your diploma/degree will be recognized in Canada. If there is a governing body for your line of work in the province you will be returning to (i.e. teaching, nursing, accounting) you should check with them to determine how they view foreign qualifications. If you plan to continue with higher education upon returning to Canada, you may want to contact the Canadian institution you are interested in attending in order to see how they will assess your foreign education.

Distance learning in your local community may be available; however, if distance learning is your desired method, it may be easier (and cheaper) to go through a Canadian institution.

Canadian Institutions

Many Canadian universities and colleges offer distance education programs. The delivery of these programs can vary based on the institution or field of study, for example, some programs are offered completely online, some may require you to have proctored exams, while others may require you to visit the institution in person periodically.

When choosing a program, it is important to make sure that it is offered through a recognized, authorized, registered and/or licensed educational institution.

To check the current status of an institution you can use the following search tool:

• https://www.cicic.ca/868/Search-the-Directory-of-Educational-Institutions-in- Canada/index.canada

For more information on this directory please visit:

• https://www.cicic.ca/871/Read-more-information-about-the-Directory-of-Educational- Institutions-in-Canada/index.canada

ENTERTAINMENT & LEISURE

Things to Do (Warsaw) https://www.oddurbanthings.com/things-to-do-in-warsaw/ https://www.thecrazytourist.com/25-best-things-to-do-in-warsaw-poland/ https://www.lonelyplanet.com/poland/warsaw/top-things-to-do/a/poi/360342

Things to Do (Szczecin) https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Tourism-g274736- Szczecin_Western_Pomerania_Province_Western_Poland-Vacations.html https://www.lonelyplanet.com/poland/pomerania/szczecin https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Szczecin

Vegetarian Restaurants

Public Cafe na Odra

Wielka Odrzańska 18A, 70-001 Szczecin

You can find them on Facebook. They are located in the old district of Szczecin. Please note that their is limited parking available.

There are several cafes located near Plac Jasne Błonia such as Castallari and Cinnamon Garden. Street parking only.

Spiżarnia Szczecińska

Plac Holdu Pruskiego 8

You can find them on Facebook.

Located by the old city gate (there is also a nice cafe inside the city gate). Street parking only.

Things to Do (Elblag)

Elbląg Canal

A unique water system connecting several West-Masurian lakes with the Vistula Lagoon. A 100-metre difference in water level is made navigable by the system of locks and inclined planes. The 82 km long built in 1860 is a world phenomenon. The Canal is one of the Seven Wonders of Poland along with the Salt-mine in Wieliczka, the Castle in Malbork and the Cathedral in Wawel.

St Nicholas Church

St Nicholas Cathedral is one of the oldest sacral buildings in Elbląg. You can feel history in the gloomy interior of the church. From the 90 m high cathedral tower you can observe many regional attractions such as the Vistula Lagoon, Malbork Castle and beautiful forests of the Elblag Uplands. Church Path is another noteworthy site. Before the war the path used to run through almost the entire Old Town and served as a communication route between the hospital and churches.

Market Gate

It is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Elbląg, dating back to the 14th century, once a part of fortifications, it was destroyed during WWII and rebuilt in 2006. Today the top floor offers a splendid view on the Old Town.

EL Art Centre

Located in the former Dominican church, it is the only art gallery in Europe to be located in a temple. The church offers exposition space to great works of artists from around the world that are arranged here along with centuries-old epitaphs and tombstones.

Museum of Archaeology and History in Elbląg

The exhibits come from two archaeological sites: Old Town and Truso settlement. Conducted for over 20 years, excavations have been a source of thousands of new objects made from ceramics, metal, wood, leather. The findings are a proof of Elbląg’s distant trade contacts with numerous centres in Europe. https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Elbląg https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Tourism-g274743- Elblag_Warmia_Masuria_Province_Northern_Poland-Vacations.html https://www.staypoland.com/about_elblag.htm/

Things to Do (Bydgoszcz) https://www.thecrazytourist.com/15-best-things-to-do-in-bydgoszcz-poland/ https://theculturetrip.com/europe/poland/articles/the-best-things-to-see-and-do-in- bydgoszcz-poland/ https://visitbydgoszcz.pl/en/explore/what-to-do

Get to know the NATO Spouses Club – Bydgoszcz

There are also Special Clubs within the NSCB. A few include: Cooking Club, Craft Club, English and French Conversation Club.

To join the NATO Spouses Club or for more information, please email them at [email protected]

Jet Clubs and Activities

The clubs, activities and facilities indicated below are available for JFTC members and their dependants.

• Sports Club/Junior Sports Club • Spouses Club • JFTC Shop • Tennis Court • Fitness Room • Library • Polish Language Classes

The city has much to offer the JFTC staff and families to include rich cultural events, world class sporting events, superior shopping opportunities, a vibrant night life, outdoor sporting activities. It offers a number of high standard restaurants which serve tasty dishes and a wide choice of drinks. Traditional Polish cuisine is well worth tasting!

Bydgoszcz is well-known for its speedway team (Polonia Bydgoszcz) and for being a home to the Opera Nova, the Polish Theatre and the Pomeranian Philharmonic Hall.

For Kids Myślęcinek Park offers walks, skiing, cycling, mini-golf. You and your children can take a group or individual horse riding lessons for beginners or advanced. It is possible to go horse riding and ride a carriage all year long. Instructors speak English.

You may also look up cinemas or other fun activities in the Bydgoszcz area online.

FAMILY LIFE AND RECREATION

Please note that this section is currently being developed for Warsaw, Szczecin and Bydgoszcz. If you have questions, contact us at: [email protected]; we are happy to assist you with your new posting. If you have further information to add, please let us know. We are always open to suggestion.

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS

Elblag area

Malbork Just 30 km from Elblag is situated Malbork, where you can visit the biggest gothic castle complex in the world with an area of approximately 21 hectares. This medieval Teutonic building is considered to be the biggest brick building built by human hands and was listed as the World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Address: Starościńska 1, 82-200 Malbork Telephone: +48 55 647-09-78 Website: www.zamek.malbork.pl E-mail: [email protected]

Frombork Several kilometers from Elblag is located Frombork. There, on the cathedral hill lived and made his discoveries famous astronomer Nicolas Copernicus. A few years ago, a group of scientists discovered the tomb of Copernicus. The remains of the great astronomer were found in the aisle of the cathedral.

Address: Katedralna 8, 14-530 Frombork Telephone: +48 55 244-00-71 Website: www.frombork.art.pl E-mail: [email protected]

Mierzeja Wiślana One of the favourite holiday destinations, not only in the summer season, is Mierzeja Wiślana (the Vistula Spit). It is a narrow piece of land between the Baltic Sea and the Vistula Lagoon. It is characterized by wide beaches, which many people consider as the most beautiful in Poland, on which the waves throw marine amber. Nature lovers visit the Lake Drużno, situated near Elblag. Due to the uniqueness of the fauna and flora Drużno is included in the areas designated in Natura 2000 Programme. Around 210 bird species,

including 110 species of breeding birds, can be found there. For information on cruises: Ilfing Address: Stary Rynek 54-59, 82-300 Elbląg Telephone: +48 55 611-66-99 Website: www.ilfing.pl E-mail: [email protected]

CINEMAS

Elblag

Światowid Cinema Address: Plac Jagiellończyka 1, T: +48 55 611 20 56, kino.swiatowid.elblag.pl Ticket office opens: Tue – Fri: 2.30pm - 8.30pm, Sun – Sat: 11.30am-8.30pm

Multikino Cinema - Ogrody Shopping Centre Address: Płk. Stanisława Dąbka 152, T: +48 502 555 992, www.multikino.pl Mon - Sat: 9.00am-10.15pm; Sunday: 9.00am - 10.15pm CONCERTS

Elblag

The Elbląg Chamber Orchestra Address: Stary Rynek 25, T: +48 55 237 47 49, www.eok.elblag.eu Ticket office opens on Monday, Wednesday and Friday 8.00am-16.00pm, Tuesday and Thursday 10.00am-6.00pm

Aleksander Sewruk’s Theatre in Elbląg Address: Teatralna 11, T: +48 55 641 97 00, www.teatr.elblag.pl Ticket office opens: Tue – Fri: 10.00am-6.00pm and an hour before the show HOBBIES & CLUBS

Elblag

Cyprian Norwid’s Library in Elbląg Address: Św. Ducha 3-7, T: +48 55 625 60 12, www.bibliotekaelblaska.pl Mon – Fri: 9.00am-6.00pm; Saturday: 9.00am-15.00pm The library has 7 branches in the city (Monday – Friday 10.00am-6.00pm).

SPORTS & ATHLETICS

Elblag

Elblag offers a wide range of sports and recreation attractions. Residents and guests have the opportunity to use, for example, the following sports and recreational facilities accessible to the public: • The Helena Ice rink (figure skating, speed skating, short-track) • Centre of Water Recreation - the indoor swimming pool complex comprises one sports pool, two recreational swimming pools and relaxation area • 7 multi-purpose sports complex Orlik (football stadium, multipurpose sports field for basketball, tennis, volleyball) • Plus: Canoe marina; Marina; Sport airport (parachuting, sailplane, airplane); Skate- park; Paintball; Climbing wall; Bowling; Casino; Go-kart track, and Chrobrego Hill (ski resort). • Indoor swimming pool and an outdoor skating track are being modernized now.

Park of Bażantarnia (the Forest Bażantarnia Park): Scenic trails and paths provide an opportunity for active recreation and sports activities. Forests, huge hills and deep ravines make this area absolutely unique.

The Green Velo Trail – a beautiful 2000 km cycling route - also starts in Elblag.

Sand Valley Golf Resort 20 km from Elblag; professional 18 hole golf course Address: Sand Valley 23, 14-400 Pasłęk Website: www.sandvalley.pl

Elblag also offer several fitness centres that provide wide range of activities and services including gym, sauna, cross fit, yoga, aerobics, Zumba, cycling classes and many others.

Elblag for many years has been associated with dance. Several dance schools that offer a wide variety of classes continue this tradition.

The city has dozens of sports clubs which offer sports training for children and youth in such disciplines as football, volleyball, basketball, handball, judo, karate, kick-boxing, sport flying, swimming, speed skating, figure skating, short-track, skating, canoeing, sports dance, cheerleading, triathlon, athletics, tennis, table tennis, chess, boxing and ice hockey.

Recreation Centres & Parks

Elblag Water Recreation Centre "Dolinka" Address: Moniuszki 25, T: +48 55 625 60 60, www.dolinka.elblag.eu Mon - Sun: 6.00am-10.00pm

Climbing Wall Address: Sienkiewicza 4, +48 726 472 898, www.wspinalnia.pl/elblag Mon – Fri: 4.00pm-9.00pm; Sat – Sun: 11.00am-9.00pm

Helena Ice Arena Address: Karowa 1, tel. 55 625 63 13, www.mosir.elblag.eu (Opens during winter time)

Góra Chrobrego Ski Complex Address: Chrobrego 34, T: +48 501 517 738, www.gora-chrobrego.pl Opens in winter (9.00am-9.00pm).

Airclub Address: Lotnicza 8b, T: +48 55 233 44 10, www.aeroklubelblaski.pl

AMUSEMENT PARKS

Elblag

Family Fun Park Nowa Holandia Address: Nowe Pole 1b, T: +48 55 615 10 85, www.nowaholandia.pl May – September 10.00am-7.00pm

DINING OUT

Tipping

It is the custom to tip only if you were really satisfied by the service. Normally 10 to 12% is enough.

SHOPPING

GENERAL SHOPPING TIPS

The selection of goods available in most Polish cities is high. International specialties may not be easily found but this is just another reason to try local products. Families have noticed in the past that if something is found once it won’t necessarily be found again or it could take several months for it to reappear.

Most shops, restaurants and service providers accept credit cards, but in rural areas you may have to pay in cash.

Bydgoszcz

The majority of shops in the central part of Bydgoszcz are found in Dluga Street, Gdańska Street and Dworcowa Street. Open air food markets are located in most parts of the city. Additionally, there is a very big Sunday open air market at the Chemik Stadium (ul. Glinki), where you can buy everything from vegetables to furniture. In addition, Bydgoszcz has many large shopping malls. Shopping malls and larger supermarkets are open from Monday to Sunday (some operate 24/7). Regular shops are closed on Sundays. If you need further information on location and opening hours please contact the JFTC Support Unit.

Elblag

Ogrody Shopping Centre Address: Płk. Dąbka152 , T: +48 55 236 55 05, www.centrumogrody.pl Mon – Sat: Shopping Centre: 9.00am - 9.00pm, Carrefour: 7.00am - 10.00pm; Sunday: Shopping Centre: 10.00am - 8.00pm, Carrefour: 9.00am - 9.00pm.

E.Leclerc Address: Żeromskiego 2, T: +48 55 611 30 00, www.e-leclerc.net.pl Mon – Sat: 08:00am-9:00pm; Sunday: 10:00am-7:00pm

Zielone Tarasy Shopping Centre Address: Teatralna 5 , T: +48 55 236 78 00, www.zielonetarasy.elblag.pl Mon – Sat: 10:00am - 8:00pm; Sunday: 10:00am – 6:00pm

Kaufland Address: Teatralna 5, www.kaufland.pl/elblag every day: 07:00am – 10.00pm

Local Store Hours/Sunday/Holiday Shopping

In Poland from January 2019 the stores are open only on the last Sunday of the month. On Sunday free shopping you can do shopping at Gas Stations and in small stores.

Public Washrooms

Public washrooms in shopping areas are available and normally free of charge.

Shopping Bags

It is recommended to bring your own bags from home. You can also purchase plastic bags in the shops when you get to the cashier. GROCERIES

Cooking and Baking

CLOTHING SIZES

While living in Europe it will be helpful to know how clothing and shoe sizes differ. The conversion charts below are intended as a helpful starting point, but as they do at home, clothing sizes vary between manufacturers and also between different styles from the same manufacturer. Please use this information as a guide only.

Women’s Clothing Women’s Shoes

Canada EU UK Canada EU UK 4 36 6 5 35 3 6 38 8 6 36 4 8 40 10 7 38 5 10 42 12 8 39 6 12 44 14 9 40 7 14 46 16 10 41 8 16 18 18

Children’s Shoes Children’s Clothing Canada EU UK Canada EU UK 9.5 27 9 4 125 43 10.5 29 10 6 135 48 11.5 30 11 8 150 55 12.5 31 12 10 155 58 1.5 33 1 12 160 60 2.5 34 2 14 165 62 3.5 35 3 4.5 37 4

Men’s Suits Men’s Shirts Men’s Shoes

Canada EU UK Canada EU UK Canada EU UK 36 46 36 14 36 34 6.5 40 6 38 48 38 15 38 38 7.5 41 7 40 50 40 16 40 42 8.5 43 8 42 52 42 17 42 46 9.5 44 9 44 54 44 18 44 48 10.5 45 10 46 56 46 11.5 46 11 48 58 48 13 49 12.5

Read more https://www.blitzresults.com/en/european-sizes/

LOCAL SERVICES

DRY CLEANING /BARBER & BEAUTY / LIBRARY / AND CHILD CARE

PET CARE

Veterinarian Clinics in Bydgoszcz:

There are veterinary clinics, which operate 24 hours a day, e.g. “Kora”, 5 Moniuszki St, Bydgoszcz, tel. 52.341.04.88.

Other offices include:

Dr. Rafal Bernacki (practice of 4 veterinarians who speak English) Debowa, 31, Lochowo, 86-065, tel. 52.582.86.76. It is a short drive outside of Bydgoszcz.

Local law in Bydgoszcz prescribes that if you walk your dog in a public place, it must be on leash. If the dog is aggressive or dangerous it must be muzzled. When travelling by means of public transportation, every dog has to be on a leash and wear a muzzle. Your dog can run without a leash while in a fenced area or in not much frequented places. However, if you are around a playground, please make sure that your dog is on a leash. Finally, remember to clean up after your dog. Otherwise, you can face a fine of up to 100 PLN.

Dog Kennels in Bydgoszcz:

Pies 365 – ul Stolarska 66, Maksymillianowo, 86-031 Owner: Anna (she speaks English) tel. 723.167.734

IN CLOSING

Your posting to Europe may be one of the most memorable postings you will experience with the Canadian Armed Forces. This experience comes from a combination of your outlook on life, your specific location and your family dynamics. While some revel in relaxed weekends roaming their local area, others are perpetually traveling to various locations otherwise too far or too expensive to discover from Canada.

Through it all, MFS(E) is here to assist you to maximize the good times and overcome any bumps along the way. Our focus is on virtual programming, email and telephone contact and on informational mailings. This may be different than what you are used to, but support is very much available to you, and we await your arrival with anticipation.

This Handbook is a special tool designed with you in mind. You may be surprised at the cultural differences upon first arrival. This guide is set in place to assist you in understanding some of the differences.

We have a Military Family Services Europe Facebook page so please take a moment to follow and ‘like’ the page. It helps get everyone in touch and keep up to date on upcoming events and programs. As this is always a working document and every family’s experience is different, we welcome any recommendations to improve this guide. It is your input that helps us to better serve you. We wish you a pleasant posting and we look forward to meeting with you at any of our organized events or programs, or online during one of our virtual programs. Remember we, are only a phone call or email away.

Welcome!

MFS(E) Staff, Advisory Committee & Volunteers

DISCLAIMER: Due to rules and regulations ever changing, please ensure you do your own research and consult with the resources provided for the most up-to- date policies and procedures before making any assumptions or relying on information provided here as accurate as policies and procedures change and could be different from the time this document was created and updated. Thank you for your cooperation and attention in this matter.

USEFUL TRANSLATIONS & PHRASES

BASIC WORDS, PHRASES AND QUESTIONS

English Polish Yes (formal) Tak (formalne) Yes (informal) Tak (nieformalne) No (formal) Nie (formalnie) No (informal) Nie (nieformalne) Hello Good day! ‘Dzień dobry’ (jine-dobree) Good Bye Dobry dzień! Hi cześć Bye PA Please ‘Proszę’ (proshe) Thank You ‘Dziękuję’ (jen-koo-yea) Excuse Me Przepraszam Nazywam się… Sorry ‘Przepraszam’ (psh-she-pra-sham) My name is… Nazywam się… What’s your name? ‘Jak masz na imię?’ (yak-mash-na-im- yea) Do you speak English? ‘Czy mówisz po angielsku?’ (ch-mo- vish-po-ang-ee-el-skew) I don’t speak Polish Nie mówię po polsku I do not understand ‘Nie rozumiem’ (nie ro-zoo-me-em)

How are you? ‘Jak się masz?’ (yak-she-or-mash) Would you help me please? Czy mógłbyś mi pomóc, prosze? What time is it? Która godzina? How much does…cost? ‘Ile to kosztuje?’ (ee-le-toe-kosh-too- yea) Where do I find…? Gdzie znajdę…? Where are the bathrooms? Gdzie są łazienki? Do you have…? Czy masz…?

English Polish Where is…? Gdzie jest…? Could you please talk more slowly? Czy mógłbyś mówić wolniej? Could you repeat that, please? Czy możesz to powtórzyć? Cheers ‘Na Zdrowie!’ (nas-dro-v-yea)

NUMBERS

English Polish English Polish

one jeden eleven jedenaście

two dwa twelve dwanaście

three trzy thirteen trzynaście

four cztery fourteen czternaście

five pięć fifteen piętnaście

six sześć sixteen szesnaście

seven siedem seventeen siedemnaście

eight osiem eighteen osiemnaście

nine dziewięć nineteen dziewiętnaście

ten dziesięć twenty dwadzieścia

PHRASES FOR EMERGENCIES

English Polish Help! Wsparcie! Police! Policja! Fire! Ogień! Get a doctor! Zawołać lekarza! I am sick. Jestem chory.

ORDERING IN A RESTAURANT

English Polish The menu, please. Poproszę menu. Do you have a menu in English? Czy masz menu w języku angielskim? I’d like…. Chciałbym…. Could you recommend something? Czy mógłbyś coś polecić? Another (beer) please. Jeszcze jedno piwo proszę. The check, please. Rachunek prosze. A receipt, please. Proszę o potwierdzenie. Breakfast Śniadanie Lunch Obiad Dinner Obiad

HOUSE HUNTING

English Polish House Dom Apartment Apartament Rooms Pokoje Bedrooms Sypialnie Living Room Salon Kitchen Kuchnia Dining Room Jadalnia Rent Wynajem Utilities Narzędzia