Living and Working in Poland

Earlier this year GOOSE Recruitment partnered with leading Polish airline, LOT Polish Airlines to recruit for several Pilot jobs based in Warsaw, Poland. These roles include; First Officers Embraer 170/190, First Officers B737, and First Officers B787 Dreamliner. As a result, we have seen an increase in enquires from Pilots who are thinking about making the move to Poland and want to find out more about what a new life could be like there.

We have put together a guide on everything you need to know about living and working in Poland and in particular, Warsaw – where the Pilot roles we are recruiting for will be based.

1. Expats living in Poland

In a recent survey* over 70% of people said they would recommend living in Warsaw to a friend, and Poland has been recognised as the 13th best place to live and work in the world. As more people recognise its growing economy, low cost of living, levels of safety, rich history, buzzing culture, and attractive way of life, Poland has become increasingly popular. In fact, there are approximately 230,000 expats currently living in Poland and 22,000 living in Warsaw.

2. Language

The majority of the Polish population speaks good English and it is easy to get by if this is your first or second language. However, there will be people who do not and it is worth making some time to learn basic a few phrases to get by and to show you are making an effort with the local dialect.

No matter what part of Poland you choose to live in or want to visit, you will benefit from buying a small phrasebook to carry around with you. This is a great tool to use when heading out in local areas, taking public transport or ordering in restaurants and supermarkets. Additionally, it will definitely pay off to sign up to a local language school and learn some Polish and meet more people living in your area.

3. Cost of living, eating and getting around

The cost of living in Poland is typically considered to be inexpensive, especially when compared with other European regions such as Scandinavia, France and Germany. In fact, consumer prices in Poland have been recorded as over 50% lower than in the UK, as does most rental accommodation. Of course, accommodation in the central areas will be more expensive but nonetheless still less than in other countries in Europe.

Warsaw is one of the most expensive cities to rent in Poland and if you are planning to move to a very central area of the city a medium-sized flat will cost you approximately 2800 PLN (approximately 600 Euros), which is still much less expensive than other European countries.

Additional outgoings such as food and basic bills (water, gas and electricity) are also inexpensive for expats who will be used to paying the prices of other Western European counties. For example, food is especially cheap and Polish products can be purchased at a much lower cost than imported products that are a lot more expensive.

Eating out will always be more expensive than buying groceries in the supermarkets, however, you can eat a three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant for as little as 70 PLN (14 Euros). If you are looking for something more extravagant such as a meal in a Michelin Star restaurant it can set you back around 1081 PLN (220 Euros).

When it comes to getting around in Warsaw, it couldn’t be easier due to the city’s great public transport system. Warsaw offers commuters the option to use buses, trams and the metro which runs directly through the city both day and night. Even better is that you can purchase a one-way ticket for as little as 4.40 PLN (which is approximately 0.23 Euro).

4. Polish culture and traditions

Polish culture has been influenced by its thousand-year history, traditional Slavic culture and links to neighbouring countries, like Germany, Slovakia and Hungary. Additionally, with 95% of Roman Catholics making up the population, religion plays an important part in Polish life and because of this the country’s culture is mainly centred around religious holidays, such as Easter, Christmas, as well as Constitution Day and Poland Independence Day, which is held every year on 11th November.

Food is also considered to be a big part of Polish culture and is famous globally for its delicacies, which you can find in most cafes, food markets and supermarkets. Some typical Polish food includes Pierogi (dumplings), Polskie Nalesniki (Polish pancakes), cabbage, meat, bread, traditional cake and alcoholic drinks such as vodka and beer. If you are looking to get a taste of the local cuisine you will no doubt be encouraged to as Polish people love to use food as a form of hospitality.

Art, music and dance are also important to the Polish community and music in Poland originated as far back as the 13th century. Similarly, dance is used to celebrate traditional and religious occasions; the national Polish dances are the Krakowiak, Kujawiak, Polonaise, Oberek, and Mazurek.

If you are looking to immerse yourself in the Polish festivities, you’ll find a number of fun festivals and concerts on offer all year round.

5. Polish climate

The weather in Poland varies, with most areas experiencing warm light summers and very cold winters. In the winter you can expect rain, frost and snowfall from December to February - making the country a popular skiing destination. In Warsaw, during the winter months, temperatures can drop as low as -5 degrees and in the summer temperatures can reach up to the high 20s.

Therefore, Pilots interested in a move to Poland to fly will need to remember that they will be required to take off and land in extreme weather conditions. Nonetheless, this is a great opportunity for Pilots to build up their flying skills and gain some invaluable experience.

6. Life outside of Piloting

Poland attracts tourists and expats from all over the world who want to immerse themselves in Polish culture and activities. However, beyond its culture, Poland is renowned for its natural beauty and picturesque landscapes. Ranging from mountains to lakes and forests with endless greenery; to rolling hills and bright flowers, the countryside in Poland speaks for itself. On the other hand, the cities in Poland are equally as fascinating. With a mix of historic and modern Architecture – Poland has something for everyone.

In the winter months, the Southern parts of the country attract skiers and in summer hikers take to the mountains for walking treks. Besides the mountainous landscapes, Poland has many beaches and lakes, which are extremely popular in the warmer months and a great place to take a holiday outside of flying.

In the city of Warsaw, there are many attractions for both individuals and families to visit. One of the best ways for expats and tourists to get familiar with the city is by taking a guided tour, or by visiting museums and famous landscapes, such as the Royal Castle. Whatever you are interested in, there really is something for everyone.

What Pilot jobs is GOOSE recruiting for in Poland?

GOOSE Recruitment is currently recruiting for several First Officer positions on behalf of LOT Polish Airlines. If you are interested in living in Poland and want to find out more, please click on the individual jobs below.