Belarus is located in the Eastern half of Europe and covers an area of 80,153 sq miles. It is basically a safe place to travel but the foreigners should bear in mind that they have to behave nicely. The local population is helpful and will pass a smile at the foreigners. This makes this place an enchanting hub. But Belarus has its fair share of rogues. People who are in their sports suits and have short haircuts should be avoided at all costs. They are the potential harbingers and can easily loot the innocent foreigners.

Visitors can reach Belarus by air and BELAVIA is their national airline. There are two airports in use in the capital city Minsk. There are taxis and buses available round the clock from airport to other parts of the city. One can reach Minsk by bus from various nearby cities like Moscow, St Petersburg and Riga etc. Three international bus stations are available in Minsk. Railway option is wide open if you are not far away from Belarus. There are rail lines that run from Warsaw, Vienna, Moscow and Odessa.  And traveling within Belarus you have quite a few options to roam around to watch different parts of the country. The luxury coaches and taxis are available. Tourists can drive their vehicles with international license without violating terms with in the country.

Try to see if you have any contacts in Belarus. This is because they will be able to guide you well about the local attractions or transport system that is so vital to your travel. It is advantageous if you are a student or connected to the universities in any way. Then you will surely get help from one of the educational institutions. Just approach them and they will be all the more happy to assist you. 

Communication can be at times a problem in Minsk. This is because the internet connections are a bit slow. There are several post offices which offer the internet services at cheap rates. If you want to use the public phones then you can use the cards which can be easily bought at the local shops or the news agents. One good thing about the postal office at Minsk is that it provides internet facility for cheap rates round the clock.

It is illegal to carry drugs in Belarus. And there are strict punishments for those who are caught with these. Even death sentences can be given if found guilty of highest level of crime pertaining to drugs. So be careful while you are traveling to Belarus.

One of the most travel countries in Europe is the country of Austria.  A landlocked country, Austria is situated right in the heart of the European continent.  It shares its borders with Germany and Czech Republic on the north, Slovakia and Hungary on the east, Italy and Slovenia on the south and Switzerland on the west.  The country is also bordered by the majestic Swiss Alps, giving the country the beautiful landscapes and sceneries. 

Austria is also known for its rich cultural heritage.  This could be seen on the pride that the locals have for its brilliant palaces and buildings, their love for the Waltz and their homage to the classical composer and child prodigy Mozart.  Whether you are traveling to Austria alone, with friends or with your family, here are just some helpful tips to make you get the most out of your trip to this magnificent country.

Climate

While many tourists head out directly to the capital city of Vienna, the other cities and towns that make up the country of Austria is also worth paying a visit to.  Traveling around the country is extremely easy.  There are a number of different public transportations that would take you not just around the city, but also across cities around Austria. 

Getting Around

If you are traveling with your family and would like to rent a car for added convenience, you can do this well in advance.  Most of the popular car rental companies have branches here in Austria.  Just make sure that you have first acquired an International Driver's Passport with a German translation before you arrive to the country since not all driver's license issued in other parts of the world are honored here.

Where to Stay

In some cases, you may also need to provide some proof of insurance to the car rental company before they would allow you to take the car.  Make sure that you get these necessary documents first in order prior to booking your car rental for your trip to Austria.

Of all the expenses you will incur during your trip to Austria, the amount you will spend for your lodging will comprise a huge chunk of your budget.  The average cost for hotel rooms in Austria is between 50 pounds and 60 pounds per night.  Hotel reservations generally include breakfast along with your room reservations.

Andorra sits in Western Europe with a high mountain climate. The region of Andorra is influenced by the Mediterranean Sea.  Andorra has a high percentage of sunshine with a dry climate. If you are a nature lover traveling in the country, you will find that Andorra has many things to offer. Nature activity like hiking, trails and mountain bike routes are only a few things you will find in your quest for excitement.

If you are considering traveling to Andorra, there are some important factors you must keep in mind.  Due to the mountainous ranges of the Pyrenees Mountains, one road leads into Andorra from France and one road entering Andorra from Spain. Please remember that that Andorra is not a Schengen member.

Spanish and French borders link the north-south highway of Andorra la Vella. Secondary roads and trails go across the border but they are closed sometimes during the winter season due to deep snow upon the mountain passes. 

No trains are available in Andorra. There is however, a bus route that links with France. If you want to travel to Andorra by train French trains is the best way you will get to Andorra. If you are traveling from the UK to Andorra overnight trains are available.

There are rental car agencies available for your driving needs. You can drive over the mountain ranges into Andorra. Keep in mind that if the mountain ranges are blocked by snow or other dangerous conditions, the mountain passes will be closed. Another great tip about driving into Andorra through the mountain passes is, make sure you have enough fuel in your car.

If you decide to drive to Andorra, you must remember to drive on the right side of the road. A good suggestion for items to have in cases of emergencies is first aid kit, fire extinguisher, a spare bulb kit and snow chains or snow tires during the winter. To keep extra warm clothes and blankets in case you break down within the mountain passes is a wise idea. Remember to drive carefully because of the constant snow and ice which covers the roads on a permanent basis. Public transportation is also available. You can take a public bus to and from Barcelona, Girona or Toulouse airports. You can even hire a private bus.  

The roads are of good quality in Andorra if you want to travel by car. Entering into Andorra from the Spanish side is easy and a straight drive. Driving in from the French side involves many hairpins and can be quite stressful at times. Be prepared for delays during the busy times. Ensure your car is in good condition.  Be aware of the “black ice” and huge snowdrifts that can be found along the mountain passes. The temperature in Andorra is much colder than at sea level.  While driving from the French side you will pass through the Tunnel d'Envalira, which will require a credit or debit card for payment for travel.

If you want to utilize the public transportation, there are six different bus routes available. Cooperativa Interurbana offers services out from Andorra la Vella along the main roads. Ensure you take advantage of the free leaflets available showing the timetables of departures and pickups.