Trip to Białystok

From reserve to the Philharmonic - the story of a trip to Bialystok

One beautiful May morning, a group of people, whom the early hours and such a fresh memories of comfortable beds, didn't disturb to smiles brightly, gathered at Cieszkowskiego Street. What were they doing at the premises of the "Vis Maior" Foundation at 7.00 am? Well, on May 16, so long and eagerly awaited trip to Bialystok began. I was participating in this excellent, three days trip as a volunteer. On the day of departure, I was constantly thinking, about how this trip will be? How will I feel among the people, which I almost or completely didn't know? I was standing leaned on the wall with my brimful bag, looking at the gathering, remanding participants of the trip and then, for the first time, I felt the true joy because of this trip. Later on, during the voyage, this extraordinary feeling was with me constantly.

We left Warsaw in a comfortable coach, whose technical condition fortunately remained in the standard. In my opinion, the only minus of that vehicle was the need to overcome six, or seven stairs when entering and leaving the coach. But it wasn't any major problem. Jola with her guide dog was overcoming the stairs in an extremely fast pace. Fortunately, nobody needed an intervention of a doctor. Safe, sound and with big smiles, we have reached the first point of the trip, that was Białowieża National Park. There, we had the opportunity to visit two reserves: bisons and nature. Unfortunately, we weren't able to see most of the animals, as they have hidden in places inaccessible to visitors. Bisons, with their enormous size, were not able to hide and were patiently bearing tourists' presence. Nature reserve proved to be more interesting, as the plants didn't have the opportunity to escape from visitors. What's more, a very kind guide allowed us willingly to learn about different kinds of plants by touching them. After an active rest in the open, we drove to Bialystok, where for the total change we have chosen the Philharmonic concert for the evening. Of course, I can not skip the issue of the accommodation in hotel "Spark", which happened to be a very welcoming place. Sometimes, some of us (such as myself and a my friend Jola) had trouble getting to the hotel room, as the doors were opening with use of magnetic cards. Happily, few magic words and stroking door handles was enough for door lock to not protest any more. After the delicious diner we have set out to the interesting concert in the Philharmonic, where people looked at us with interest. This observation accompanied us all the time. In those looks I could see mostly cordiality and sympathy.

Next day we were visiting monuments of Bialystok and its precincts. It is definitely worth to see those attractions. Touring wouldn't certainly be this interesting without very friendly guide lady, which was telling us with engagement about history and tourist qualities of Białystok. At one point we even got lost, as guide lady was concentrating so much on telling stories, that forgot to keep an eye on the road. Fortunately, the situation was only the reason for laughter. We have quickly found the right way to explore, explore and explore with pleasure again. So, what have we seen? The places we have visited had various characters. We have been to Heritage Park in Białystok Village, where he met a number of devices and items used by farmers in ancient times. The next point of the trip was a tour of the Museum of Icons in Supraśl. This incredible place, endowed with particular climate, attracts many tourists. Here it is possible see the richness and diversity of icons from various historical periods. Visiting museum is even more attractive thanks to sound and lighting effects, creating for visitors an appropriate mood. During the trip we have also seen religious places such as an orthodox church of St. Nicholas, the church of St. Mary, and the synagogue in Tykocin. We have finished touring with a long walk in Narew National Park. Unfortunately, or maybe fortunately, we haven't met there any wild animals.

The last day of the trip, May 18, went by extremely fast. We had the opportunity to establish a new record on eating pizza (quantity category). With full tummies we should have gone for a walk. Instead we have chosen cinema with audio description and funny movie "In God's garden" After the show, happy and grateful to the organizers, we set off in the return trip to Warsaw.

What could be said to summarize trip to Białystok? I believe three words are enough: wonderful, unforgettable time.

Ms. Sylwia Pilarska

Translated by: Karolina Krawczyk

The trip was fund by BRE Bank Foundation and The Metropolitan Centre for Disabled People.