A Cultural and Coastal Journey through Northern Poland
We remained in contact with two fellow Sindhis who live and study in Gdańsk: Vipin Kumar from Larkano and Farooqe Janjhi from Janjhi village in Tharparkar, currently pursuing their PhDs at Gdańsk University of Technology
By Abdullah Usman Morai | Sweden
Day 1– Arrival in Gdańsk and First Impressions of the Maritime Pearl
Flight from Stockholm: A Smooth Baltic Crossing
After weeks of tracking fluctuating flight prices from Stockholm to Gdańsk, I finally found an ideal round-trip connection for 8th to 10th July 2025. Gdańsk is frequently one of the more affordable international destinations from Sweden, but most budget flights depart extremely early, often making for a sleepless night. Thankfully, this one had a manageable departure time, allowing Dr. Imran Jamali and me to reach Stockholm Arlanda Airport, park the car, and board our flight without stress.
The journey itself was brief—just a little over an hour—essentially skimming across the Baltic Sea, slightly southeast of Gotland, Sweden’s largest island. In that short time, we transitioned from the Nordic cool to the maritime character of Poland’s historic coastline.
Rainy Arrival in Gdańsk & Taxi into the Heart of the City
Upon landing, a light drizzle greeted us—exactly as forecasted. Equipped with umbrellas and rain jackets, we opted to save time by taking a taxi directly to our hotel, skipping public transport to ensure we could begin our exploration of the city without delay.
Checking into The Cloud One Hotel – A Modern Gem on Granary Island
We checked into The Cloud One Hotel, located in the vibrant heart of Old Town Gdańsk, right on Granary Island (Wyspa Spichrzów)—a historically significant area that was once the grain storage hub of the city’s medieval trade networks. The hotel’s sleek, modern interiors blended elegantly with the Gothic and Hanseatic charm of its surroundings.
Our room offered everything we needed—except, unfortunately, a tea kettle, a small comfort I always long for in hotel stays.
First Walk in the Rain: City of Canals and Color
Armed with a city map from the reception and bundled against the soft rain, we stepped out to explore. The rhythm of raindrops on cobblestones, the cool breeze over the river, and the shimmer of water on stone all added a soft romance to the city. In fact, I was briefly reminded of Hamburg, with its maze of canals and similarly reddish-brown brick architecture—a legacy of shared Hanseatic League history.
The twin arms of the Motława River, whose calm, flowing waters instantly reminded me of our beloved Sindhu Daryah (River Indus)—a nostalgic comparison that lent a poetic beginning to our journey.
We wandered along the Motława River, observing a blend of history and modernity:
- Elegant wooden boardwalks lined the riverside, now slick with rain and reflecting light like polished mirrors.
- Cozy riverside restaurants and cafés, many offering covered outdoor seating, were packed with both tourists and locals enjoying the ambiance despite the drizzle.
- Glistening umbrellas and colorful raincoats added a touch of vibrancy to the grey skies.
Granary Island & The Maritime Spirit of Gdańsk
Granary Island itself has undergone a significant transformation in recent decades. Once heavily damaged during WWII, the area has been meticulously restored and modernized while retaining its historic charm. Many of the old granaries, some dating back to the 14th century, have been converted into hotels, eateries, and galleries.
On the river, we spotted several moored ships—no longer used for cargo or naval defense, but repurposed for dinner cruises, private parties, and guided sightseeing tours. Their preserved exteriors gave a glimpse into the city’s maritime soul.
Highlights around the Waterfront: Monuments and Memories
As we strolled, we passed several important landmarks and monuments that speak to Gdańsk’s rich historical tapestry:
- The Crane (Żuraw): One of Gdańsk’s most iconic medieval port structures, this 15th-century wooden crane once served as both a cargo hoist and city gate. It stands along the riverbank as a testament to the city’s trading history.
- Green Gate (Brama Zielona): This stately Renaissance gate once served as a residence for Polish monarchs. It connects the riverfront to Długi Targ (Long Market), the heart of the city’s historical center.
- Amber Museum & Art Galleries: The city is world-renowned for Baltic amber, and small museums and boutique shops around the island sell handcrafted jewelry, some even containing preserved ancient insects.
Walking Bridges & Engineering Marvels
One of the most fascinating aspects of riverside life in Gdańsk is its movable pedestrian bridges, which operate like small engineering spectacles. These bridges either swing horizontally or elevate vertically to allow boats to pass, adding a dynamic touch to the cityscape. Imran and I found ourselves waiting several times as the bridges opened, watching boats glide through while pedestrians stood paused, umbrellas overhead. While the wait was longer than expected, the interplay between infrastructure and river traffic was genuinely captivating.
Evening Reflections
As the rain tapered off and dusk began to fall, the city glowed under the amber lights reflecting in the water. We paused near the river, enjoying the serenity and soft chatter around us. Despite the long day of travel, our hearts felt light with the joy of discovery.
This first evening in Gdańsk was more than just a tourist’s introduction—it felt like a meeting with an old soul. A city that has witnessed centuries of trade, war, poetry, and resilience now quietly whispers its stories through cobbled streets and rippling rivers.
Comfort Food in the Rain: Discovering Curry Leaves
As the rain gently tapped on the cobblestones and umbrellas, hunger soon led us to search for something warm and flavorful. Luckily, we stumbled upon a desi food court restaurant called Curry Leaves, run by two friendly and passionate chefs from Uttarakhand, India. Tucked inside a vibrant food court not far from the riverside, it offered a comforting taste of home.
The aroma of spices wafted through the air—an inviting contrast to the damp, chilly weather outside. Their lamb curry, basmati rice, and naan were not only delicious but also carried the warmth of the subcontinent. In such moments, when you’re far from home and the weather turns grey, few things can beat a plate of hot desi food. Imran and I agreed—it was exactly what we needed.
While the restaurant satisfied our appetite, we still yearned for a cup of chai, preferably in an open space with a view. The idea of sipping tea outdoors in the misty drizzle felt too poetic to pass up.
Wandering into History: Długi Targ and the Long Market Square
With our stomachs satisfied and the rain easing slightly, we made our way toward Długi Targ, also known as Long Market Square—one of the most iconic and historic areas of Gdańsk. Once a merchant’s road in the Middle-Ages, it later became the city’s grandest street, home to royal parades and public events.
Lined with ornate facades, pastel-colored merchant houses, and crowned with decorative gables, this part of the city was buzzing with tourists, street performers, and open-air cafés. It reminded us of Gamla Stan, the Old Town of Stockholm, in both style and spirit- Gothic architecture, and a cheerful crowd in every corner.
Notable Sights in the Area:
- Neptune’s Fountain (Fontanna Neptuna): A bronze statue symbolizing Gdańsk’s connection with the sea and maritime trade. It stands as a proud centerpiece of the square and is one of the city’s most photographed monuments.
- St. Mary’s Basilica (Bazylika Mariacka): Known as the largest brick church in the world, its towering structure can be seen from most parts of the city. We briefly visited the entrance—its solemn grandeur and gothic arches were awe-inspiring.
On both sides of Długi Targ, charming restaurants and flower-decorated patios added a festive touch to the cobbled street. It was a place of colors, stories, and movement—where modern-day life danced amidst medieval charm.
Yachts and Hashtags: Glimpses of Local Life and Leisure
Crossing a nearby pedestrian bridge, we explored the other side of the Motława River, where modern yacht harbors hinted at the lifestyle of Gdańsk’s more affluent residents. Sleek white boats bobbed gently in the water, some likely used as holiday homes, others perhaps as floating escapes from city life. The contrast between historic granaries and contemporary yachts made for a fascinating scene.
Soon we reached the #Gdańsk sign—an oversized red-and-white hashtag installation near the waterfront that has become a favorite photo spot for tourists. Children climbed around the letters, parents snapped family photos, and like everyone else, we posed too, preserving our own memories in digital frames.
Tea by the River: A Quiet Moment at Gofry Lody
Craving that perfect cup of tea, we finally found a small stall named Gofry Lody, nestled near the kayak bar and footbridge. Run by two kind Polish women, their main offerings were pancakes, waffles, and hot drinks—ideal for a rainy day.
We ordered tea, found a spot with outdoor seating under an umbrella, and sat facing the river. The moment was simple but deeply satisfying: the gentle rhythm of raindrops overhead, the warm steam of tea rising in the cold air, and the serenity of watching the city go by. This was, in many ways, the kind of moment one travels for—not grand or flashy, but intimate and soul-soothing.
A Sindhi Connection in Poland
Later that evening, we remained in contact with two fellow Sindhis who live and study in Gdańsk:
- Vipin Kumar from Larkano
- Farooqe Janghi from Janjhi village in Tharparkar
Both are currently pursuing their PhDs at Gdańsk University of Technology and had planned to meet us. It was heartening to know that even in the far corners of Europe, our own people were making strides in higher education and building new futures.
Souvenirs and Fireplace Warmth at Baryłka Restaurant
Before wrapping up the night, we explored a few local souvenir shops. We picked up small tokens—magnets, amber trinkets, and postcards—to carry a piece of Gdańsk back with us.
Finally, feeling a bit chilled from all the walking, we stepped into Baryłka Restaurant, a cozy riverside spot known for its warm ambiance. We found seats near a crackling fireplace, the heat radiating pleasantly into the seating area outside under the umbrellas, surrounded by local décor and a rustic atmosphere. We sipped drinks and let the day’s experiences sink in.
Gratitude and Anticipation
The city, the rain, the tea, the history, and the hospitality—it all blended into a rich tapestry of experience. That evening, as we walked back toward our hotel under the dim glow of lanterns and soft river breeze, I felt grateful for every step we’d taken.
Day one in Gdańsk had given us not just beautiful sights, but a feeling of connection across borders, across time, and across cultures.
Old Bonds, New Streets: Friendship on Foreign Soil
There’s something deeply comforting about traveling with an old friend—someone who knows your stories, your laughter, and the silences between words. As Imran and I wandered through the charming streets of Gdańsk, we shared conversations that drifted across time and space—from our present travels to our life in Stockholm, and all the way back to our roots in Sindh.
We spoke of people we knew, of childhood memories and inside jokes only the two of us would understand. With every laugh, the cold felt warmer. This companionship, old and familiar, turned unfamiliar streets into a kind of home.
Gdańsk at Night: A City in Reflection
As night descended, Gdańsk transformed once more. The city’s old façades lit up in a soft spectrum of colorful lights, their reflections shimmering gently in the dark waters of the Motława River. The lights danced as if the buildings themselves had stories to tell—stories of ships and sailors, of war and rebirth, and of quiet, rainy evenings like this.
Every glance toward the river brought a postcard-worthy scene. It felt like a place where the past hadn’t vanished—it had simply learned how to glow.
A Late-Night Reunion: Sindhis in Gdańsk
After walking for most of the day, we returned to our hotel to take a short rest, knowing that two friends from Sindh, Pakistan—Farooque Janjhi and Vipin Kumar—were on their way to meet us.
Around 10:30 PM, they arrived. With warmth and smiles, we welcomed them, and soon we were strolling once again through the cobbled lanes of Gdańsk—revisiting places we had walked earlier but now illuminated by the warm glow of night and companionship.
Stories Across Borders
As we walked, we exchanged stories—not just about our travels, but about our journeys through life.
- Vipin Kumar, originally from Larkano, is currently pursuing a PhD in Civil Engineering, Geodesy and Transport, majoring in Geotechnical and Hydraulic Engineering. His academic path has taken him across Pakistan, the USA, and Canada. Despite the demands of research, he remains a passionate traveler, always curious about the world beyond the lab.
- Farooque Janjhi, from a small village called Janjhi in Tharparkar, is pursuing his PhD in Chemistry. Though much of his time is devoted to the lab, his heart beats for words, literature, poetry, and travel. Farooque is also known as a social media influencer, sharing insights and reflections that resonate deeply with many.
Their presence reminded us how far Sindhi talent and spirit have traveled, and how ambition, learning, and culture can thrive even thousands of miles from home.
A Humorous Encounter: Priests and Angels
As we meandered through the nightlife, we had a moment of unexpected—and rather humorous—adventure. A group of young women and a few men approached us, casually inviting us to visit a strip club. We grinned and told them, “We are priests.”
Without missing a beat, one of them smiled and replied, “No worries, there are angels inside.”
We couldn’t help but burst into laughter. Sometimes, the most random moments on a trip become the most unforgettable. We politely declined and continued walking, our amusement lingering with every step.
Sempre Pizza: Midnight Conversations
Eventually, we found ourselves at Sempre Pizza—a cozy, casual restaurant with welcoming vibes. What started as a stop for snacks turned into a long, warm meal, with fresh pizza, drinks, and conversations that refused to end.
We talked about science and poetry, travel and identity, life in Poland, and the long journeys from our respective corners of Sindh. There was something incredibly fulfilling about this cross-continental connection—four Sindhis in a Polish city, speaking of aspirations, sacrifices, and dreams that brought us where we were.
Closing the Day with Kindness and Laughter
As the restaurant staff gently signaled closing time, we moved back to our hotel lobby, still unwilling to part ways. We sat, laughed, and shared stories until well past midnight. There was no rush—only the comfort of being together in a place far from our shared homeland.
Before leaving, we agreed that if time and fate allowed, we might meet again the next day. It was heartening that they came all the way just to meet us. Sometimes, it’s not just cities or landscapes that make a trip memorable—it’s the people you meet and the bonds you strengthen.
A Pause Before Tomorrow
Later that night, we finally retreated to our rooms, tired yet deeply content. We knew we had an early morning ahead—the shores of Sopot and the mysterious Hel Peninsula awaited.
As I closed my eyes, the sounds of the city, the laughter of old and new friends, and the glow of Gdańsk at night echoed softly in my mind. (Continues)
Read: From Sunrise to Summer Joy
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Abdullah Soomro, penname Abdullah Usman Morai, hailing from Moro town of Sindh, province of Pakistan, is based in Stockholm Sweden. Currently he is working as Groundwater Engineer in Stockholm Sweden. He did BE (Agriculture) from Sindh Agriculture University Tando Jam and MSc water systems technology from KTH Stockholm Sweden as well as MSc Management from Stockholm University. Beside this he also did masters in journalism and economics from Shah Abdul Latif University Khairpur Mirs, Sindh. He is author of a travelogue book named ‘Musafatoon’. His second book is in process. He writes articles from time to time. A frequent traveler, he also does podcast on YouTube with channel name: VASJE Podcast.
