Getting There

I CAUGHT a National Express coach from near London's Liverpool Street Station, taking just under 55 minutes to reach Stansted airport.

The flight with Ryanair was uneventful, or, rather, excellent, in that we arrived about 25 minutes early, thanks to strong tailwinds.

I got a taxi from Kraków airport, and was given the choice of two fares - quick for 149 złoty (about £30), and slower for 129 złoty (about £26).

Choosing the latter, I arrived at the four-star Hotel Galaxy in about 30 minutes.

Christmas tree in the lobby

First impressions are certainly favourable, although the promised fridge in the room is in reality a crowded minibar.

There are lots of shops nearby, including a large mall. Almost everything was shut today, but I found a nearby Żabka convenience store that was not only open, but had fresh bread.