Belarus
The Place
Often in the shadow of Russia, Belarus has at times struggled for its own identity, only to fall back into the fold of its more powerful neighbours. Often overlooked by tourists (but not invading armies), the Belarusian countryside of rolling hills and flat plains is enchanting. The country is also home to one of the largest and oldest forests in Europe. The Soviet-style cities, less western than their Russian counterparts, give a preserved view of Soviet planning at its purest.
