Belarus
Eastern Europe · Belarusian · Belarusian Ruble
Carry crisp cash, keep your camera away from anything in uniform, and let your host do the toasting.
Today in Belarus
No Belarus stories in today's wires — read the global briefing.
5 phrases you need in Belarus
- HelloВітаюvee-TAH-yoo
- GoodbyeДа пабачэнняdah pah-bah-CHEN-nyah
- PleaseКалі ласкаkah-LEE LAHS-kah
- Thank youДзякуйDZYAH-kooy
- Excuse meПрабачцеprah-BAHCH-tseh
The Trovlr app drills all 8 Belarus phrases with audio, Duolingo-style. Get the app →
Know before you go
money
Foreign cards often do not work, so bring euros or dollars in cash and exchange only at banks or official exchange points; keep the receipts.
safety
Avoid photographing government buildings, police, or anything military, and steer well clear of political conversations and gatherings.
transport
Use the Yandex Go app instead of hailing taxis at the airport or stations; street quotes for foreigners run several times the metered fare.
connectivity
Buy a local A1 or MTS SIM with your passport for cheap data; some Western apps and sites can be slow or blocked, so set up a VPN before arrival.
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