There are places which tell us about their history on their own. To this group belong castles ruins, palaces, military fortresses and heritage parks. If the people who care for them are also engaged and full of passion, these places become even more enjoyable for tourists.

When we went thorough the brick-built gate into the Boyen fortress, we were welcomed by a guard with a very serious facial expression and a small squadron of Prussian soldiers. All these minor details made the Boyen fortress look more realistic and very attractive for children.

The Boyen fortress in Giżycko was built between 1843 and 1855 as a strategic construction to control the pass between Niegocin and Kisajno lakes. The Fortress is an example of Prussian Fort building knowledge from the mid XIX century and is one of the best remaining relics of defence architecture from the XIX century in Poland. It is difficult to believe that this huge fortress, which occupies around 10 hectares, was built so fast. The attention to detail and aesthetics of many elements is remarkable, even though this is a military fortress. The biggest surprise for me was seeing one of the best remaining openwork buildings, which in its prime served as a pigeon loft for almost 700 carrier pigeons.

What exactly is a vacation? For kids it is carelessness, fun and lack of any duties. And what about parents and, in particular, mums? From my perspective, apart from a higher than usual need for creativity and a little more free time there is no difference.

Additionally, if we are travelling to places where vacations are not organized, I have to take care of the cooking. At home where I have everything close to hand, where I have my favourite (and sharp) knives and all my seasonings, cooking is no problem. It is a simple daily task. When on vacation it is not so easy any more.

Because of this I really appreciate places where I can find well prepared cuisine at a good price. I seldom go to Masuria, but this year's vacation I am spending with my friend and thanks to her I have discovered the beanery "Under the spruces" in Rydzewo by the Niegocin Lake. Our children have named this place "The Garage Restaurant" and although the name is debatable, there is no doubt that the quality of the place is beyond question. It is clean, the waiting staff smile and are very patient. People say that lots of sailors sailing on nearby lakes come here because due to word of mouth the place is famous. After a few days of visiting it, I am not surprised.

I have already written about the necessity of filling up holidays with interesting things for children to do. We should appreciate the places which entertain and educate us equally. Today's entry is about the Miniature Park of Polish Lighthouses in Niechorze. In 45 minutes you can "visit" the whole Polish coast.

Kamień Pomorski, the lost city by Kamieński Bay, has many interesting hidden places. I visit them every year and always go back with pleasure.

Summer Holidays are coming. I'm happy about the thought that every day, laden like a camel with beach gear, I will follow the path to the beach. According to my children, this is what holidays are all about. In some holiday towns new amusements have appeared which give parents some breathing space. One such place is Whale Park in Rewal.