Explore, Discover, Celebrate Your Heritage

Heritage Polonia invites young Polish-Americans to reconnect with their roots through immersive experiences in Poland, where history, culture, and identity come alive. Discover the legacy that shaped you and join a community of future leaders inspired to carry Polish heritage forward.

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Our Summer 2025 trip announcement is right around the corner and you do not want to miss out on a journey of a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Heritage Polonia Program?

Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime with Heritage Polonia! It's absolutely free and you'll spend 10 amazing days touring Poland with a group of new friends. We cover everything — roundtrip airfare, meals, super comfy places to stay, tons of landmarks, and exciting adventures. Plus, we take care of all the planning, from flights and accommodations to itineraries and activities. All you need to do is sign up, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable exploration. Let's make some memories!
Who can participate in the program?
Is the trip really free?
What activities are included in the program?
What are the social and alcohol policies?

Heritage Polonia is intended to be a trip of discovery for adult students, and we hope all accepted applicants treat Heritage Polonia's investment in them with seriousness and respect. That said, the program also intends for participants to immerse themselves in Poland's culture, create new lifelong friends, and make great memories. As a result, our itinerary will include social time for our young adult students to get together, visit local establishments, and develop the types of friendships made possible by hanging out in informal settings.

The legal drinking age in Poland is 18 and we will allow all young adults to responsibly consume a low-alcohol beverage (e.g., beer or wine) with meals. Moreover, participants will not be chaperoned during free periods. During these times, we will ask participants to behave responsibly and conduct themselves with appropriate decorum.

Importantly, Heritage Polonia will not tolerate excessive drinking or intoxication. We will not tolerate any sort of drug use. We also reserve the right to expel any member of the group who behaves irresponsibly, and that individual will be financially responsible for his/her immediate return to Chicago.
What is the duration of the program?
My parents have some concerns. Can they speak with you?
What safety measures are in place for the program?
We take the health and safety of our participants very seriously, and will take the following precautions:
- Host a pre-departure online orientation
- Require all participants to have medical insurance useable in Poland (either your core policy or a supplement)
- A small group of Polish-American volunteers will accompany the group throughout its journey in Poland
- Participants and loved ones in the U.S. will have emergency contact information for the on-the-ground volunteers
- Safe accommodations at four-star hotels
- Information about how to secure authorities in Poland (police, ambulance, fire, etc)
- Regularly scheduled morning check-ins and group meetings
- We will request information regarding any health issues we need to understand

Join a Journey of a Lifetime

Reconnect with your heritage, immerse yourself in Polish culture, and uncover the stories of your ancestors.

Air Travel

Round-trip travel between Chicago and Warsaw is included. You just pack your bags and meet us at Chicago ORD.

Transportation

We cover all travel within Poland, including comfortable buses and the nation's fastest intercity rail.

Accommodations

We've booked rooms at 4-star hotels to ensure you're recharged and ready for our many daily adventures.

Meals

Dine at unique, local restaurants to savor Poland's many rich flavors. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are on us.

Tours

Explore cities and landmarks with expert, English-speaking guides in each city. All admission fees are included.

Spending Money

Sorry, all you! We encourage bringing spending money for snacks, keepsakes and other fun with your new friends.

10 Days in Poland

Step into a world where history and tradition thrive alongside modern vibrancy. Heritage Polonia’s 10-day journey through Poland introduces young adults to the depth of Polish culture, from iconic cities like Warsaw and Kraków to natural wonders like the Tatra Mountains. Each day combines enriching excursions, immersive learning, and unforgettable experiences, letting participants walk the paths of history and explore the heart of Polish heritage. This journey will leave travelers with a newfound connection to Poland’s enduring legacy.

Worry-Free Travel

Our program provides a seamless travel experience, with all essential arrangements and expenses covered from the moment you embark. From round-trip airfare and accommodations at 4-star hotels to daily meals and guided tours, we take care of every detail. Participants can fully embrace the adventure, free from financial stress or logistical concerns, thanks to our generous sponsors. No upfront commitment is needed—just the excitement of discovering Poland.

Dedicated Support

Throughout the journey, participants are supported by a team of dedicated Polish-American volunteers and expert, English-speaking guides, ensuring a meaningful and safe experience. Our volunteers provide cultural insights and guidance, bridging the gap between Poland and the U.S., while professional guides enrich the exploration with expert knowledge and local stories. This caring team makes it easy to connect with Poland, creating a comfortable environment for lifelong friendships and memories.

Inspiring Pride and Connection

Heritage Polonia is a transformative journey that deepens connections to Polish heritage and inspires lifelong learning. By supporting this program, you're investing in a meaningful cultural experience that fosters pride and bridges communities.

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The 100 NPS score and key metrics demonstrate the Heritage Polonia program’s success in building meaningful connections between high-achieving individuals and Poland.

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of students want to learn more about Poland

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of students felt an increased sense of pride of being Polish-American after the trip.

Invest in Your Heritage

Heritage Polonia exists due to the generosity of sponsors like you, and we hope you consider supporting us so we can continue and expand this promising program. By helping high-achievers explore the rich culture and vibrant people of Poland, we will create a stronger appreciation in the United States for Poland's history, influence and future promise.

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