Even though we went to the Holocaust exhibition in London before the trip it was still a shock visiting a place where over 1 million people died under Nazi occupation. There were rooms full of hair and items from the prisoners at Auschwitz. We also saw gas chambers, residential areas, watch towers, punishment rooms and the place where victims were taken off the carriages for selection.
Especially in Birkenau many of it was unchanged and for some of us it was more moving than the main museum.
We had a picnic just outside Auschwitz and then returned to the hostel for a team debrief. We’re glad we’ve had the opportunity to see the death camps in person and feel privileged. It was very interesting and thought provoking. Its important people learn about the horrible things that happened so we can make sure it doesn’t happen again.
This afternoon we had free time from half 2 until 5.15pm. In that time we split into small groups and we did sightseeing, shopping, visiting Internet cafés and got some washing out of the way. In the sightseeing we had a competition for the best photo of selected landmarks in which the winners are being announced tomorrow.
As it was our last night in Krakow we were treated to a Polish restaurant where we tried some Polish delicacies, which was different and greeted with mixed views. We could order what we wanted and it was very popular place with locals.
However the atmosphere was excellent and homely. We had things like chicken, potato cakes, sauerkraut, beetroot and dumplings.
Afterwards we went for an evening stroll around the old town and watched entertaining street performances like breakdancing and puppet theatre acting out Elvis, Michael Jackson and Tina Turner. The crowds liked watching us dancing to the music - as much as watching the puppets! (ED)
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3 comments:
Wow what a busy past couple of days you have all had, seeing the pictures of Auschwitz makes it real we cannot imagine how you all felt walking around, someone mentioned about how silent you all were when entering the gas chambers we just cannot comprehend what the atmosphere must have been like. On a brighter side I am glad to hear you have all done a bit of shopping, please do not bring any pencils, rubbers or sharpeners home Elle! The polish food sounded interesting we hope it wasn't too much of a problem to you all. Carry on enjoying it all and stay safe.
It all sounds absolutley amazing. Everyday, all of the children ask for an update of your activities Ellie, even the boys say they miss you. Fin told his Mum you were in 'Pololand'. We thought that would be a good name for a fresh theme park!!! Thanks for the e-mails as well. Glad you were able to deal with Auschwitz as a group, and support one another.
The Blog is brilliant. I keep getting told off for checking it all the time!!!. The children all now want to see the pics of what you are getting up to. I love a bit of ITC.
Enjoy the mountains, I'm sure they will bring a whole new array of experiences.
Look after each other, stay safe. Proud of you all. XXXXX
Hi Abi and everyone. You all sure sound like you are having a great time. The photographs look fanstastic!!!!!
Hi abi i love you love munch xx
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