On 1 May 2025, a group of British journalists and influencers embarked on a press trip to Warsaw, hosted by Accor and supported by the Polish Tourism Organisation – Poland Convention Bureau and the Warsaw Tourism Organisation. The visit showcased not only the capital’s hospitality and culinary charm but also its potential as a compelling destination for leisure and MICE travel.
Authentic Flavours and Local Connections
The programme began with a hands-on culinary workshop at Pierogi & MORE, where participants were introduced to the art of crafting one of Poland’s most beloved national dishes – pierogi. The interactive session offered more than just cooking; it sparked conversation, curiosity and, rather spontaneously, cross-cultural exchange.
Curious tourists from Germany and Sweden joined the group along the way – a testament to Poland’s signature hospitality and the unifying power of good food.
A guided walking tour followed, taking the group through the atmospheric streets of Warsaw`s New Town, Old Town, and the trendy district of Powiśle, offering a glimpse into the city’s layered history and vibrant present.
Spotlight on Elegance: Raffles Europejski Warsaw
Later in the day, the delegation visited the iconic Raffles Europejski Warsaw, one of the capital’s most exquisite luxury properties. Situated along the Royal Route, this landmark hotel opened its doors on 1 May 2018, but its roots stretch back over 160 years. Built on the site of the historic Hotel Europejski, the building underwent an extensive five-year renovation beginning in 2013, meticulously restoring its former grandeur while integrating contemporary luxury.
The hotel features 106 bespoke rooms and suites, each crafted by local artisans and designers. Period details such as brass fittings, 1960s–1980s Polish porcelain and glass, and preserved architectural elements underscore the building’s cultural heritage. A standout piece is “Warszawska Syrenka” (The Warsaw Mermaid), vibrant artwork by Maurycy Gomulicki, displayed in Suite 2. Another suite on the first floor opens to a terrace overlooking a peaceful inner courtyard and a glass pavilion, ideal for intimate events, art exhibitions, and even weddings.
Raffles Europejski also serves as a living gallery, housing a curated collection of works by 120 Polish contemporary artists, overseen by Anda Rottenberg and Barbara Piwowarska. Guests can admire original maps of Warsaw, century-old postcards, and even a 1905 restaurant menu tucked within the lounge corridors – a real treat for history and design aficionados.
Ownership of the hotel and the ambitious renovation was led by the heirs of the Przeździecki and Czetwertyński families, the original founders of the Hotel Europejski, under the company H.E.S.A., together with Swiss art patron and publisher Vera Michalski-Hoffman.
A Farewell in Style – and a Journey Ahead
The day concluded with a stroll to Sofitel Warsaw Victoria, where guests – adorned with bespoke rosettes from the “Poland. More Than You Expected” collection by designer Zuza Łobodzińska – posed for a commemorative photo in honour of the upcoming Polish Flag Day. It was a stylish and symbolic farewell to the capital.
From Warsaw, the group continues to Szczyrk, where they will be hosted at Mercure Szczyrk Resort – the longest hotel building in Europe and a growing hub for all-season tourism and meetings in southern Poland.
Featured Partners & Locations:
- Pierogi & MORE – culinary workshop & guest engagement
- Raffles Europejski Warsaw – cultural luxury hospitality
- Sofitel Warsaw Victoria – MICE-ready sophistication
- Old Town, New Town & Powiśle – guided exploration
- Mercure Szczyrk Resort – contemporary leisure in the Beskids
This press trip is a strong example of how targeted collaboration between global hospitality brands and tourism organisations (Polish Tourism Organisation, Warsaw Tourism Organisation) can amplify a destination’s visibility among key international markets. For planners and stakeholders in the MICE, luxury and experiential travel sectors, Warsaw – and indeed Poland – continues to offer far more than expected.
#PolandCVB #Warsaw #presstrip
