Last updated: 27 Apr 2012
Travel
Airports
The ‘Frederyk Chopin’ airport in Warsaw is about 10 kilometres from the centre. Transit time to and from the city centre can vary from 15–45 minutes depending on traffic and the cost is approximately US$13.
There are three taxi companies officially licensed to operate from the taxi stand at the arrival hall (Level 1). They are MPT, Merc and Sawa. You should avoid taxi drivers operating inside the terminal building. Hotel shuttle buses and limousine services are also available.
Ground transport
If you want to drive in Poland you must have an International Driver's Licence (IDL), which you will have to purchase before coming to Poland. In Australia, you can get an IDL from the relevant motoring organisations in the state or territory where you hold your current driver’s licence.
International car hire companies operate in Poland. Roads are of variable standard, and there are few freeways. Highways between major centres can be very congested and driving habits are considerably less safe than in Australia.
Hotels
Poland has good choice of four and five-star hotels, including Radisson, Hilton, Sheraton, Le Meridien, Marriott and Westin. All hotels accept major credit cards and staff speak English.
Dining
There are plenty of good quality restaurants offering local and international cuisine. Most accept major credit cards.
Tipping
As a rule, tipping 10 per cent is expected.
Tourist attractions
Poland offers a wide range of tourist activities – GoPoland has comprehensive information.
Top Business Risks
OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises
Multinational Enterprises should be aware of the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises that provide voluntary principles and standards for responsible business behaviour in a variety of areas, consistent with applicable domestic laws. These Guidelines are endorsed and promoted by the Australian Government. For more information, go to the AusNCP website.
Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative
The Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) is a voluntary mechanism which promotes and supports improved governance in resource-rich countries through the full publication and verification of company payments and government revenues from oil, gas, and mining.
The EITI is supported by governments, industry, and non-government organisations around the world. The Australian Government supports the EITI and encourages Australian companies operating internationally to comply with its recommendations.
Bilateral agreements
Australia has social security agreements with several countries that address the issue of 'double super coverage' for employees sent to work overseas. To take advantage of these agreements, Australian employers sending employees overseas to work must apply to the Tax Office for a Certificate of coverage.
For more details, please visit the Australian Taxation Office website.