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Plac Zamkowy, Warsaw
Photo: Jake McClure

Warsaw has thrown off the shackles of its communist past and is emerging as the vibrant capital city of an increasingly mature, confident and democratic Poland.

Stumbling out of the main central railway station, you will be confronted with a city that is a heady contrast of communist-era buildings and sizzling capitalist neon. But scratch the surface and beneath the largely ugly architecture you'll find a city full of life, whose rich tragic past blends headily with its youthful optimism.

The nightlife is small but bursting with vim, and when it comes to culture, the theatres, opera and galleries are as popular as the multiplex cinemas. Varsovians and their city are young, upbeat and enthusiastic, and it's still a lot cheaper than most capitals in the region.

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