Krakow/Zakopane

Woke up in the morning and headed out on a bus to Zakopane.  Just 20 PLN and took about an 1 1/2 hours.  Zakpoane in true Southern Poland, next to the Tatra mountains.  This part of Poland is highlighted by the Tatras, which separate Poland from Slovakia.  Upon arrival I checked into a lovely cabin style hotel called Willa Schodnica.  The room was on the second floor with a blacony overlooking the Tatras.  Great place adn the owner was very friendly and accommodating.  It was about a 15 minute walk from Zakopane centrum.  Although the weather was cold and snowing, Zakppane truly is a magical place.  It is touristy here and boasts some of the most expensive real estate and shopping in Poland.  Fortunately, because of the weather, there were not that many tourists.  Set out for the center first and walked down the main drag.  This place is lined with shops and restaurants catering to tourists.  I found this place to be the most expensive in Poland so far.  The food was ok, but it just has that tourist , make a ton of money vibe.  One of them was Karczma u Zboja The outdoor market across the way was a little more realistic.  If you are into cheese this is the place.  The ladies here sell every kind of southern poland mountain cheese you can imagine.  I loved these ladies, real mountain folk carrying on their traditions and perpetuating their culture.  Just like Krakow, the outdoor markets were lined with flowers in anticipation of Dyngus day.  More about that later.  Spent the rest of day/evening enjoying the peace and quiet and spectacular views of Willa Schodnica.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zakopane
http://www.krupowki36.com/willa-schodnica/
http://www.karcmapozboju.pl