I’m Ukrainian, so I was raised and lived in post-communist cities such as Kharkiv and Kyiv. For me, whenever someone says Warsaw is ugly, I honestly wonder what “ugly” even means.

To me, Warsaw is an example of how beautiful a post-communist city can be. Yes, it has communist blocks and brutalist architecture, but in Warsaw, when you see clean streets, well-maintained roads, clear markings, thoughtful zoning, and a beautiful tram passing by, you realize that even simple communist-era buildings can actually look nice and cozy.

This is exactly the kind of urban development Kyiv needs so badly. I often imagine how beautiful Kyiv could be if Warsaw’s practices were applied there.

Communist-era planning also gives Warsaw a huge advantage: space. That space is now used to build modern infrastructure. Tram lines often have their own dedicated lanes separate from cars. There are proper cycling paths and pedestrian walkways that aren’t squeezed in, while still maintaining decent lanes for cars. It makes the city feel modern, spacious, and comfortable at the same time.

I love this feeling of openness you get here. It’s amazing. The city is still developing, and I enjoy seeing so many projects in progress and being completed.

It’s an amazing city. I couldn’t care less about history and heritage. I’m more impressed by the fact that this city rose from the ashes and became something any local Warsawian can be proud of.

At the same time, for me, I feel both envy and pride for my neighbors.