Modlin
LOT to Wroclaw goes from Okęcie, not much difference for us in a cab due to the route used, and in any case last time we would have needed a cab at the other end anyway even if we'd gone by train.
I've never seen the point of the VIP lounge
I would find it a terrible affront to turn down free booze. It would go against all my principles and values. I would be heartbroken.
119zl, which makes it at best more than 50% more than the Pendolino.
We checked the train first and it was a lot more than that - perhaps because we wanted to travel on Friday afternoon.
When I go to Berlin each month, I always take the train - the first class dining car is very comfortable and it's cheap (Air Berlin have just put their prices up - I used tho sometimes go by plane and return by train for various reasons...) and we did think about the train first, however time was of the essence and comfort is an issue when we travel together.
I don't bother to pack liquid toiletries if I'm alone - solid deodorant is fine and a tube of toothpaste wherever I'm going costs pennies. If I'm with my other half, we need a checked in bag anyway for certain reasons, so no problem, and you still get that anyway on Eurolot.
Also remember there are mobility and other connected issues, so a cab to the airport, a G&T or six and a cab at the other end is good for us.
The OP should check the prices of both, using the PKP Intercity website and Momondo.co.uk. The new LOT website is more trouble than it's worth - probably just dandy if you a. use Windows 8 air b. like computer games.
And re. the OP's question, if he/she has a Schengen Visa (which as an international student he/she will) then there's no need to show a Karta Pobytu. The passport will be fine.
I know that Ryan Air checked if I had a valid EU visa when traveling with my passport. They put a stamp on the boarding pass.
They have to - it can be expensive for them if they let you fly and you don't have a visa. But within Schengen they aren't bothered and no need for a Karta Pobytu. Where were you travelling to/from.