Originally part of Kievan Rus, Belarus was part of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth until the Polish Partitions in the 18th century. After over a hundred years of Russian rule followed by seven decades as a constituent republic of the USSR, Belarus attained its independence in 1991.
Belarus is a landlocked country in Eastern Europe bordered by Russia to the northeast, Ukraine to the south, Poland to the west, and Lithuania and Latvia to the northwest. Its capital and most populous city is Minsk. Over 40% of its 207,600 square kilometres is forested.
Belarus remains a underrated tourist destination for many foreigners.
Belarus welcomed 365,500 visitors in 2018. Belarus’ most valuable tourism source market was Russia (57%). Others included Lithuania, Poland, Latvia, Ukraine, Germany, China, Spain, Estonia, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and Israel. Their average period of stay in Belarus was 5 days. (Sources: National Statistics Committee, Taxes and Duties Ministry of Belarus)
“The Professional Hobo”
“Never Ending Footsteps”
Accommodation – Belarus offer a full range of accommodation from luxury to budget. Most bookings can be made online, directly with each hotel or hostel and payment is made either in advance or at the property. However, some hostels will accept payment by cash only.
Food – Modern Belarusian cookery is based on old national traditions, which have undergone a long historical evolution. But the main methods of traditional Belarusian cuisine are carefully kept by the people. Common in Belarusian cuisine were dishes from potato. Halal food is not so easily available so do check list of certified halal food products in Belarus.
Transportation – Belarus is not a large country, and a traveler can reach from one side of its border to the other in less than a day. You can use train, bus, minibus for intercity travel. Fares are very cheap and service is good.
Suggested daily budget – 30-40 USD (Note: This is a suggested budget assuming you’re staying in a hostel, eating out a little, cooking most of your meals, and using local transportation. Using the budget tips below, you can always lower this number. However, if you stay in fancier accommodation or eat out more often, expect this to be higher!)
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September 27, 2018