ATMS, computers, etc.

Great questions.

Honestly, I have not heard about credit cards not working abroad because of these chips, but I will definitely check into it more just to be sure. Has anyone else heard? I doubt this will be a problem as last year I know all of the volunteers used ATMs and everything was fine.

Thus, I would definitely plan on using ATMs but ONLY in Krakow. Krakow is a major city and ATMS will be plentiful and easy to use. Outside of Krakow, in your villages, DO NOT plan on using ATMS. You will not find one. There may be some in Tarnow or Ustrzyki Dolne, but I would not rely on that. As you will not need that much money if your villages (basically, you will only be spending money if you travel on weekends, buy ice cream for your children =), or go out at night in your village), I would say take enough money out at the end of orientation to last you four weeks. Of course your host family will be willing to help you if you get into trouble and need money fast, but this is a hassle that can be avoided. Also, I would not recommend bringing traveler's checks at all to Poland. Eastern Europe is not yet very familiar with the idea of traveler's checks, and I wandered around for half a day in Budapest trying to find a bank that knew what they were. Also, you obviously never want to be traveling with too much cash on you either. Oh, in case you're thinking about bringing cash - definitely bring some because you never know. But, exchange rates are better on ATMS.

Regarding computers, honestly, would not recommend bringing one. First of all, I worry about it being stolen. And, you most definitely will not have wireless in your village, though I think we will have it in our hostel. Unless you really need it to organize your lesson plans I don't really see the need for one. You will most likely have internet access in your home stay (if not, it will definitely be in your village somewhere), and Krakow is full of cheap internet cafes. That all being said, I had a friend who brought his laptop and watched way to many episodes of Friends the whole summer. The thing is, you want to be spending as much time soaking up the culture and being with your students and host families. I was without one for 3 months, and honestly it was great to get away from since it dominates my life at home. Thus, it's totally up to you - just remember the risks.

Copy machines, wouldn't count on it. You never know, may have one, may not. You could try to find a place in Krakow to make copies if you don't want to lug them over by plane.

Please remember you second set of volunteer forms IS DUE ON APRIL 15TH!!

Also, I will be placing you all soon and getting you in touch with your host families (they don't all have email unfortuanetly).