AB Poland Travel delivered a memorable experience for me from beginning to end. I booked this tour about a month prior to my travel to Warsaw for the purposes of nurturing my interest in history and furthering my research for a personal project. The tour company was very responsive. Being that it was my first time in Poland and I was booking this tour as a solo female traveler, I asked questions to make sure I would be comfortable, and they were very responsive, reassuring, and accommodating. I ended up being the only participant, so I enjoyed a private tour, and they were able to accommodate an earlier start time so I could get back a little earlier. The driver, Matteus, arrived at my hotel a few minutes early. He was polite, easygoing, and a very safe driver! He confessed that his normal route was to Auschwitz, so instead of asking him questions about Majdanek, I ended up chatting with him about Polish culture, politics, and economics, which provided for a very easy and engrossing 3 hour ride to Majdanek. Once we arrived at Majdanek, I was greeted by the tour guide Patricia. She was impressive - a wealth of knowledge. She knew all the key dates of events that took place at the camp, the names of key figures at the camp, the details of daily life at the camp, details about every section of the camp, and fascinating stories about successful escapes from Majdanek. I was informed that while Auschwitz is the most frequently visited camp, Majdanek is the best preserved camp and less "commercial." There were some organized tour groups there at the site on the say I went, but the environment was definitely respectful and solemn. It didn't feel like a tour factory. Words cannot begin to describe the haunting experience I had at Majdanek. I am grateful that I was the only participant and Patricia was so patient, because I got to take the time I needed to absorb everything, especially in the museum. I think I took a lot more time than an average participant. Total, including the walking tour of the large camp, I spent about 3 hours there. Then, Matteus drove me and Patricia to Lublin, where we walk for 1.5 hours to learn about the history of her home town. The tour ended with a late lunch in the town center, at a restaurant Patricia recommended to be the best for traditional pierogis. Indeed they were the best pierogis I had in Poland! I cannot speak highly enough of this tour company, the driver, or the tour guide. If you are in Warsaw or anywhere in Poland and are interested in touring any of the camps, this company will ensure you have the best possible experience. TIPS: (1) in the summer, wear sunscreen; (2) wear comfortable shoes for a lot of walking; (3) have cash on hand to tip your driver and tour guide; if you are the only participant like I was, tip accordingly if you are pleased with the services.
