Belarus

Types of trips: Historical, Exploration, Adventure, Geographical, Architectural

Best known for: Architecture, Operas, Ballet, Links with Russia

Why Go?: A country that most people don't consider going to, Belarus is full of surprises - a rich arts culture, beautiful buildings and breathtaking scenery to name a few of its assets; a trip here will leave you glad that you took the chance!

Fact File

Population: 9,500,000

Capital: Minsk

Language(s): Belarusian, Russian

Ties to the UK?: Increasingly popular holiday destination

Landscape: Landlocked country with forests, with lots of lakes and some large rivers

Climate/Seasons: Winters in Belarus are generally quite mild but can have extremes of -8°C in December/January time, while the summer months are around 20°C and can be quite moist. 

When to Go: The summer period of May-September will have the best weather and local events!

Reasons to Visit: Belarus is a country that has somehow avoided the increase in capitalism that has swept most of Europe, and is a place to visit if you want to see a Europe mostly unspoiled. Outside the big capital of Minsk, Belarus is full of quaint villages, hidden treasures and opportunities to visit some breathtaking National Parks. 

How to Get There: There are many airports in Belarus which should make access reasonably easy, with the biggest one in the capital of Minsk.

Places to Go: Minsk, Homiel, Minsk Zoo, Hronda, Brest Fortress, Belarusian Great Patriotic War Museum

Famous People: Louis Burt Mayer, Marc Chagall, Olga Korbut, Barbara Radziwill

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Bialowieza Forest and National Park, Braslau Lakes, Minsk Botanical Garden

History: Invaded by Nazis and Soviet Union in WWII, current president is Europe's longest ruling head of state

Architecture: Church of Saints Simon and Helena, Kalozha Church, Chizhovka Arena, 

Culture: Theatre, Ballet, Folk Music 

Sport: Football, Tennis, Hockey

Events: Many annual cultural events in the major cities

Watch Out For: The majority of foreigners need a visa to travel to Belarus, so make sure to look into this well beforehand! When in the country, the city centres can get very busy, so be aware of crowd risks!

Medical Issues: No specific vaccinations required, but check here for some up to date info and consult with your GP to make sure!