Poland is the place to take a family because your budget will stretch and allow you to do so much

• Poland's biggest attraction is its countryside; it's natural, unspoilt, unfenced and simply beautiful. Enjoy walks amongst some of the greatest scenery in Europe. And it's safe. The photograph above shows the Gorce Hills around Rabka.

• There are national parks galore, mountains in the south (Carpathian and Tatra mountains), the Beskid hill chain where you can walk from one hill top to another and plenty of locations for outdoor activities such as horse riding, canoeing, rafting, mountain biking, rock climbing and so on.
• Eating out is inexpensive, public transport is very cheap and the Poles are a friendly lot, always willing to have a conversation with a foreign visitor.
• There is a selection of festivals and events, especially in the summer, that give you a snapshot of Polish culture, many of these involve Polish dance, music, national dress and folklore.
• The best months for lazing around and glorious hot days are July and August, for walking holidays May, June and September, for winter sports, frozen lakes, skiing and ice skating; January to the end of February. See winter holidays Poland.
• There are seasonal markets in Krakow during the week before Easter, also a Christmas Market from about the 7th of December to the 7th of January. New Year is hugely celebrated.

There is just so much to see of interest for the whole family. Entrance prices to exhibitions and events are relatively cheap - perfect for families with children. Go to see Krakow, the castle and cathedral, lunch in the medieval square and visit the cloth hall for some traditional Polish souvenirs such amber products and luxury goods. There are various walking tours to follow in Krakow, such as the Jewish Tour, Royal Route, in the footsteps of John Paul II, which you do at your own pace at no cost except for entry top places of interest along the route.

Thee Salt Mines should be on every visitor's 'Must See' list. As well as an historic exhibit they offer an astounding exhibition of Polish art and love for the church.

Take a trip to the mountains and Zakopane nestling at the foot of the Tatras for wonderful views, cable car rides and good evening entertainment.

During the summer, horse and carts ferry tourists around the town, in winter take a sleigh ride complete with jingling bells. Marvel at traditional Highland wooden architecture, rustic with carved adornment. Pay a visit to the market for dried flower arrangements, sheepskin products, wooden articles and carvings.