Users of popular travel website TripAdvisor, recently voted Warsaw as the ugliest city in Europe. Considering the heavy damage the city endured in the war, and the severe communist architecture that was rebuilt in its place, it probably didn't come as much of a shock to those who have spent some time in the city. Warsaw also appeared in a second category, grabbing third place for worst cuisine behind London and Moscow.
The general response in Warsaw has locals feeling there's been a classic case of mis-representation. Residents often feel that visitors don't spend enough time searching out the city's gems and that tourists often focus only on the towering Palace of Science and Culture, a Stalinist structure of debatable aesthetic value. Take a few moments to look further out and dig a little deeper, both for architectural beauty and a delicious dinner.
Poland did have one solid showing however - regal southern neighbor Krakow was voted the most under-rated city in Europe.
It looks like it's time to step up your game, Warsaw! |