Poland is the largest of the countries which joined the EU in May 2004. With a population of 39 million, it ranks among the most influential countries in Central and Eastern Europe. Poland is a stable democracy with a fascinating history, great cultural heritage and outstanding natural beauty. Many tourist sites in Poland enjoy worldwide reputation: Kraków, Warszawa, Gdańsk, Częstochowa, Zakopane in the Tatra mountains or Auschwitz. Poland's popularity as a meeting point in the centre of Europe has grown considerably over the recent years. It is located only a two hours' flight from London or three hours from Dublin.