Łazienki Park

After hearing from every Pole I know that Łazienki Park is the most beautiful place in all of Warsaw, I finally ventured down to the park and palace, which used to be the summer home of Poland's royalty.

After a treacherous journey (we are talking about Warsaw, afterall) which involved a long walk, a metro ride, a couple dark, abandoned, graffiti-sprayed underground tunnels, unfinished sidewalks, and a slippery cobblestone road, I entered the gates of the park.

I wasn't exactly in the best of moods, but my annoyance dissolved instantly. Stunning. Beautifully manicured lawns, lush flowerbeds, clear lakes and romantic buildings with paths crisscrossing throughout, I can see why Łazienki Park is such a big deal here.

Inexplicably, one can find peacocks wandering around the park. They make for excellent entertainment--and I don't just mean the inevitable question, "Why are there peacocks in Poland?" to which the only response I've heard is "I have no idea." During my visit, several peacocks had gathered in a small plaza. I unfortunately only had my cell phone, so my ability to transmit the experience is sub-par and a bit washed out.

No, I can't explain why there are peacocks in Warsaw

We visitors were witness to the miracle of life - a single peahen wandered among the various peacocks, acting unimpressed.

This peacock did have marginal success with her , but I'll spare you the pornographic details

One word of caution: peacocks can be aggressive, screeching creatures. Especially towards unassuming Americans who venture too close trying to take a photo. Yes, that's right--this peacock yelled at me (in Polish? hard to say). I'm sure he was quite satisfied when I emitted shriek and ran away.

My assailant

Peacock terror aside, the park is truly lovely and provides a nice contrast to the rest of the city.