Belarus is the last chance for tourists to get close to what was the USSR 20 years ago. Known as White Russia, Belarus is a republic of vast plains, lush forests that cover more than one third of the country and more than 10 000 lakes, is an intriguing destination for a trip. It is one of the few countries of the former Soviet Union where the statues of Lenin still standing and still used the services of the KGB.

Photography by Nigel’s Europe

But once the bold travelers lands and discover the landscapes of Belarus, and amazed with its wonders. Its history seems alive and you can almost feel. Among the most interesting cities to visit are: the capital Minsk, Brest, Hronda, Homel, Polatsk, Vitsebsk and Turau tiny village near the majestic National Park Pripyatsky.

This completely flat state also has four World Heritage sites of Humanity, two of them shared with its neighbors: Mir Castle Complex, the Niasvizh castle, the Belovezhskaya Pushcha (with Poland) and Geodetic Arc Struve (along with Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Moldova, Russia, Sweden and Ukraine).

Photography by maple03

A visit to Minsk is ideal for those interested in history or fascinated by the socialist way of life or for those who just want to experience something different out of the usual tourist route in Europe.

Scrupulously clean, with wide boulevards and squares lined with grand blocks, the capital is interspersed with menacing statues of the former Soviet republic and war memorials, creating a fascinating backdrop to the river Svisloch.

One of its attractions is the Hotel Europe, a luxurious stay where you can stay, the hotel is located in the historic heart of Minsk. Still, the tourist can find many boutiques, cafes and nightclubs to keep the entertainment.

In recent years, Belarus has made great efforts to develop tourism that will undoubtedly become one of its main sources of income. But so far are still inadequate infrastructure as demand for quality tourism.

Despite these drawbacks, visitors are welcomed and security is not a problem. Accommodation in Belarus is suitable for all budgets, but with nuances. It is best to book hotels booking your trip. And what better way to do it by Internet. The network offers numerous flight and hotel search engines in the country in eastern Europe.

The tourist backpacker, used to sleeping in shelters, you should know that there are only hotels that are either very expensive or very inexpensive. It is recommended that previously rented an apartment since they value for money comes out cheaper.

Spending a night in one of the more expensive hotels in Minsk costs about 150 euros a night which is equivalent to 220 U.S. dollars and the quality is of European type. If you choose a lower price overnight, with prices ranging between 45 and 75 dollars a night, so yes, they are cheap Soviet-style establishments that do not have the amenities you would find at that price in most developed tourism places.

Photography by _by

Belarus is a destination for those who are always preferred for those looking to find a place that feeling expectant eyes they want and do not want to close. A wonderful landscape that provides peace and many, many stories to tell.

Bon voyage!