Belarus does not boast the best opinion when it comes to tourism however this landlocked nation offers some amazing experiences visitors are sure not to forget. Belarus also referred to as the lungs of Europe with over 40% of its land being covered by lush forests, this is also represented on the national flag by the green bottom stripe. When it comes to the national dishes, the potato is considered the second bread of the country, locals are capable of preparing over 100 dishes from this humble vegetable. This relatively unpopular destination offers some incredible attractions and experiences however like anywhere else there are risks and hazards involved with touring Belarus.

Traveling info

Belarus is not part of the EU and thus many nationals are required to obtain either a short or long term visa. There are however exemptions from this rule. Certain nationals are allowed indefinite stays without a visa like the citizens of Russia or are allowed to say up to 30 or 180 days depending on their nationality.
Visa can be issued by Belarusian embassies or by the consular center at the Minsk airport for those who do not have a Belarusian embassy in their home country. To drive in Belarus, tourists are required to have an international driving license, along with the entire car documentation, that is registration documents and insurance certificate. If staying for a period of time exceeding 3 months, IDP will no longer be valid and must be replaced with Belarusian driving permit.

Traveling hazards

Driving conditions in Belarus vary depending on part of the country. Generally, highways and main roads are maintained in good condition however rural roads and roads in other remote areas might be poorly kept, unpaved, etc. Although roads are generally well kept, other drivers pose quite a threat. Drunk driving is common despite zero tolerance and frequent police checks on the roads. Drunk driving is particularly exercised after dusk. Due to the fact that almost half of the country is forested, wild animals often cross roads which frequently results in serious road accidents, particularly after dusk, therefore, it is advised to abide by the designated speed limits and watch out for signs indicating wild animals. Car drivers share the roads with horse-drawn carts however these are becoming more scarce each year. Minsk and other Belarusian cities have a well developed public communication which is a cheap and reliable alternative to taxis, rented and private vehicles.

Environmental hazards

Although the vast swaths of Belarus are covered in forests, there are no animals in Belarus that would be unusual to the rest of Europe. There is quite a significant population of wolves and bears in the country. These animals, however, do not openly attack humans unless provoked. These animals usually avoid humans and will most likely retreat if made aware of human presence. These animals will usually be quite far from any human areas however whilst hiking through vast Belarussian forests it is possible to meet them. It is strongly advised to make as much human noise as possible to let these animals know you’re approaching. Bears will usually leave the area unless surprising them at a close distance or approaching a female bear with cubs which will usually end up in a defensive attack. When hiking through the Belovezhskaya Pushcha beware that the wistents or the European bison inhabit that area. Although they may look docile, beware that these behemoths may exceed a ton in weight and act defensively when approached too close. Other than that animals mostly pose threat by wandering out onto the roads causing traffic accidents. Belarus does not suffer from volcanic activity and in fact, it is quite flat as the highest hill reaches a bit over 300 meters. There are also no earthquakes however due to the flat nature of the country, significant floods occur which often damage infrastructure and urban areas.

Health hazards

There are currently no outbreaks of any diseases nor are there any vaccination requirements in order to enter the country. There are however several vaccinations recommended for travel. These are routine vaccines, hepatitis A and B and rabies vaccine. Belarusian healthcare provides free healthcare however expats are expected to pay for their services. Waiting lines in public facilities can be very long due to the serious need for new staff. It is estimated that there is roughly a 40% shortage of personnel in Belarusian hospitals and clinics. Private clinics provide better service and much shorter waiting times however these will come at a greater expense.
In case of an emergency dial 103.

Crime

Tourists in Belarus should expect crime like in most other European states. Violent crime targeting tourists are very rare however petty crime such as theft and pickpocketing is quite common. Tourists or those that particularly draw attention to expensive jewelry, clothing, etc. are usually targeted. Popular tourist spots, public communication, and sleeper trains are hotspots for such incidents. In order to minimize the risk of falling a victim of pickpockets, it is advised to avoid wearing flashy jewelry, expensive clothing or being indiscreet with money. Wearing money belts also helps to store money safely and discreetly. Owners of expensive sedans and SUVs are particularly vulnerable to car theft. Car hijacking is almost non-existent however expensive cars left in unguarded parking lots may be stolen, disassembled and sold for parts. Visitors should beware that Belarusian law is very strict. In fact, it is the last European nation executing capital punishment for murder, sabotage, espionage, treason, conspiracy, and terrorism. Tourists should know that if they are accused of committing a crime they may not immediately contact their consular official and may be expelled or imprisoned. Any drug-related crime results in a 5 up to 20 years prison sentence.

Summary

Belarus is certainly a unique place to visit in Europe. This ex-Soviet state carries the flavor of the past into the present. Belarus boasts numerous palaces, castles and keeps leftover from the times of the Commonwealth and the Russian Empire which are available to tourists year round. Remember that planning your trip with Travset.com will give you the quickest information about nearest emergency services and will also help you purchase indispensable travel insurance for the trip of your lifetime. Please feel free to comment and share the experiences of your travels with Travset.com.

Sources

(Visa)
http://www.belarus.by/en/travel/travel-visas
(Vaccinations)
https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/belarus