Current Time in Chorzów
Polish culture regarding time
Polish culture regarding time
Flexible time
In Poland, the "15-minute rule" is common, especially for private appointments, and delays of about 15 minutes are often tolerated. However, people tend to be more strict in business situations.
Long meal times
Polish people have a culture of taking their time to enjoy meals, especially dinners with family and friends. It is normal to eat while talking for 2-3 hours, and people rarely rush to finish eating.
Value holidays and vacations
Polish people place great importance on vacations and holidays, and many people take 2-3 weeks of summer vacation in one go. It is tacitly understood that work-related contact is to be refrained from during this period.
Polish values regarding time
"Time is life" rather than "time is money"
In Poland, people tend to value taking time to interact with people and enjoy their vacations rather than efficiency and speed. Time with family and friends is especially prioritized above all else.
Emphasis on flexibility over planning
Rather than being bound by a strict schedule, it is not uncommon for people to change their plans according to the flow and mood of the moment. Flexible use of time is especially preferred among the younger generation.
A sense of time that respects history and tradition
Poles are proud of their country's long history and value making use of past events and traditions in the present. They have a strong tendency to take time to preserve their culture and customs.
Things about time that foreigners should know when traveling or moving to Poland
Public transportation is relatively punctual
Polish trains and buses are not as accurate to the second as in Japan, but they generally run according to the timetable. However, in rural areas, they may be delayed, so be sure to allow plenty of time.
Be aware of restaurant and store opening hours
In Poland, stores often close on Sundays and holidays, especially in rural areas. Restaurants may also close after 9 p.m., so you should check their opening hours in advance.
Punctuality is required in business
Even if time is flexible in private life, being punctual is important in business. Being late for a meeting or appointment can damage your credibility.
Interesting trivia about time in Poland
There is a term "Polish time"
In Poland, being a little late for an appointment is sometimes jokingly referred to as "Polish time (Polski czas)". This expression is sometimes used especially among friends.
Summer time and winter time switching
In Poland, the switching between summer time (last Sunday in March) and winter time (last Sunday in October) is done according to EU regulations. It is customary to set the clock forward or back by one hour.
Church bells ring to tell the time
Especially in rural towns, church bells ring at regular times to tell the local people the time. This custom still remains in many places.