The average Warsaw local – much like the average Pole – may have a slightly guarded and reserved demeanor when it comes to the foreign visitor. Don’t take this personally – they’re just recovering from centuries of national deceit. The ethnic and racial composition of Warsaw is quite homogenous now, with a dominant population of Roman Catholic Poles. Housing is a major issue in Warsaw, which is why migration from smaller cities has almost stopped.

These people are bound to impress you with their individuality and their witty sense of humor. And this initial wariness doesn’t mean that you won't make friends over a glass of beer in the city’s pubs or strike up a conversations on a train… just give these folks some time.