Belarus is well known for its rich European history. Until 1991, it was called Belarusia, which translated into “White Russia”. The name describes the country’s early Slavic settlers during the 16th century. Belarusia was once part of Imperial Russia.

Belarus can be found at the crossroads of Europe. Its location makes it a natural melting pot of cultures and beliefs. Belarus’ old castles are historical sites for political movements across Europe. The country’s landscape is miraculously unfazed by years of modernization. Geographically, Belarus is a flatland veined with numerous streams and rivers.

Today, Belarus is made up of about 81.2% native Belarusians. Russians make up the second largest percentage of the country’s population, while a small fraction of Poles and Eukranians reside in the country. Belarus recognizes Belarusian and Russian as its national languages.

Belarus’ old European feel contributes to its economical structure. The country thrives on manpower with most jobs available in its agricultural and industrial sectors. The most successful industries of the country include textile and woodwork. Presently, Belarus exports heavy machinery, energy, and agricultural products.

Accommodations in Belarus are pretty rustic. Its hotels rank no more than three stars. What attract tourists in the country are the huge research possibilities in history and architecture. Belarus is home to four World Heritage sites namely the Mir Castle Complex, the Niasvizh Castle, the Belovezskaya Pushcha, and the Struve Geodetic Arc. Numerous other castles can also be found in Belarus although most of them are in ruins.

Visitors of Belarus may also enjoy simple pleasures like mushroom hunting, picking wild berries, and gathering medicinal plants. Belarus is also home to healthcare facilities like man-made caverns. These caverns are known to treat respiratory diseases.

If you’re visiting Belarus, pack up for cold weather. Belarus experiences swings between continental and maritime climate.