Minsk skyline is highrise and the Belarusians are smartly turned out and sophisticated. There is a marked difference between here and life in the smaller country towns. Cycling provisions are surprisingly advanced helped by the fact that streets are very wide and pavements have plenty of room for cycle lanes.
It doesn't take long to find the dust tracks once beyond the city ring road and its a bumpy ride to Barysau.
Knowing the standard of my previous Belarussian BelHotel accommodation it is a relief to find this is a larger establishment. In fairness the cost at less than 10 Euros is very small. The stamped paperwork and payments in advance were made weeks before I left and each place included in my visa. The 'insitutional' showers were refreshingly cold.
Its nice to meet a Belarusian couple in a restaurant next to a square with a statue of Lenin. He's everywhere in Belarus (Lenin that is) but less so in other former Soviet States - apparently. Stanislava and Kirril speak English and Stanislava teaches English in a local school. Kirril is in the business of manufacturing mechanical 'diggers' and sees a Brexit bringing a downturn in European economy which will have an affect on global economy and potentially harm his business. Who would have thought such matters in Europe would be looked at with concern in Belarus?
The struggle to improve economies and standards doesn't come easily in many less wealthy countries.
Very interesting indeed re his opinion of Brexit. I am still for remain. X
ReplyDeleteTom - yours is the first "blog" that I've actually read, believe it or not!
ReplyDeleteI have to say it is a fascinating insight into the culture of the country as well as the anecdotes - such as that lovely couple's views on Brexit - which add a richness to the whole experience.
You have certainly brought that part of the world alive to me and I am humbly most grateful.
After our meeting in Florence in October, is Minsk likely to rise up the table of "where shall we go next?!"
Keep up the good work, Tom (and Sandra) - more power to your elbow (or should I say knees?!).
Doug
PS - really sorry to see Wales lose to England at the last gasp!
Appreciating your positive comments thanks Doug. Few places compare with the Italian Roman and Renaissance cities.
Delete