Frequently Asked Questions about Slovakia and Poland

Will I be able to communicate with people?
Your students and some (but not all) of your Slovak and Polish colleagues will speak English well enough to communicate with you. Outside of school you will have a harder time. In the cities, a few people understand some English, and if you are in a troublesome situation, someone will usually be able to help you. Since you will undoubtedly get into situations in which no one speaks English, most volunteers learn at least a little Slovak or Polish. In some situations, German will be useful. No formal language lessons are provided.

An English-language weekly, The Slovak Spectator, is a good source of local information in Slovakia. The The Krakow Post is a good English-language newspaper available online for local information in Poland. BBC radio is popular for international news.

Will I be able to live on the stipend I receive?
You will receive housing, health insurance, and a stipend comparable to that of a Slovak or Polish teacher. This is enough to cover food and other basics, if you live simply.

What do I need to bring with me?
Consumer goods of all kinds are now readily available in small shops, open markets, and large chains like Tesco, Carefour, and Billa, generally at prices lower than in the U.S. or Canada. You can buy just about anything you need. You should bring any required medications and any special health and beauty products. Business casual is appropriate for the classroom. Bring warm clothes adequate for a winter in Washington State or New Jersey.

How is the food?
Food is plentiful and good, and relatively inexpensive compared to the U.S. Traditional Slovak and Polish meals tend to run toward meat and potatoes, but you can buy a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. You will want to sample some local dishes, but in major cities you can also find Asian, Middle Eastern, and Mexican restaurants, and even McDonald’s and Pizza Hut.

How will I handle my money?
When you come, leave some money in an American account that you can access with an ATM card. In major cities and towns there are many ATMs where you will receive your money in Slovak crowns or Polish Zlotych.

When you are on the street or on public transportation, carry your cash in a money belt or other safe place inaccessible to pickpockets. Also take special care to protect your passport.

Will I be safe in Central Europe?
Like any urban area, thievery and pick pocketing happen. However, there is very little violent crime. Bratislava, the capital city of Slovakia, for example, is much safer than any city of comparable size in the U.S. If you use common sense, especially at night, you can expect to feel and be safe.

There is no major political or social unrest that would expose you to danger. Although you will meet Slovaks or Poles who disagree with American foreign or environmental policies, there is little anti-Americanism directed to individuals.