The belarussians

People often develop stereotypes when they are unable to obtain all the information. Unfortunately, some stereotypes can be offensive. It happens when we gather second-hand information from other sources and get a distorted picture.

Generalizations about nationalities are usually not welcomed, even when they are basically accurate. To be able to make fair judgments, we should travel and learn foreign languages, as travel broadens the mind and liberalises our outlook. Only then we can find what a country and its people are really like. And it may turn out that foreigners are not so very different from us after all.

Yet, some stereotypes can be favourable and complimentary.

But the fact remains that the world will be a dull place indeed when all the different nationalities behave exactly alike.

The geographical position has conditioned our national characteristics. The international contacts appear to have engendered the most distinctive features of the Belarusian national character – tolerance and hospitality. Belarusians have been living in peace with their neighbours for centuries respecting their religion and culture. Being situated at the crossroads of Europe, Belarus witnessed wars and conflicts and it gave its people a certain “please yourself” approach: better to part company without fuss than to quarrel. Belarussians, not being aggressive, hostile or warlike, learnt to find compromises. But when called upon to defend their freedom and native land, Belarussians were fighting courageously.

Belarussian have a reputation for being industrious. Not having rich fertile soil, favourable climate and minerals, our people had to work hard to provide for themselves. They are known to be practical, economical people who are wise with money. All this taught our people never to give up and be inventive.

Another typical feature is their modesty. They don’t like showing off or boasting. Due to their self-effacing manner they are called the hobbits of Eastern Europe.

Belarussians are said to be well-balanced, self-controlled, calm and tactful people. Being kind-hearted, they are forgiving, very reliable and helpful. One of the distinctive features is that they remain humourists even in adversity. In company Belarussiand tend to be convivial and sociable.

In general, Belarussians are fond of proverbs, marvelous tales of ghosts, prediction and herbal medicine. Poetry reveals their delicate and thoughtful soul.

England and its people

England abounds in places which merit a visit. It’s a country with a long and colourful history. That’s why it draws in millions of tourists every year and is a real Mecca for culture-hunters.

England is packed with historical towns and villages with an atmosphere and character of their own. Many of them date back to the 11^th century. So you don’t have to look for history here. The charm and spirit of history still hangs in the air. Magnificent castles, mighty fortresses, medieval churches and cathedrals attest to the glorious past of the country and are worth discovering and exploring.

Besides being a magnet for sightseers, England is an unlimited fund of beauties for nature-lovers. It’s a country of contrasting landscapes. Picturesque, breathtaking in their variety landscapes await you in the north. It’s a peaceful and pastoral region which boasts five national Parks. In the Lake District you will be enchanted by a stunning combination of mountains, lakes and rushing streams that inspired poets, artists and writers. This area is popular with climbers and watersports enthusiasts. Here the visitor will find a treasury of new beauties.

If you need relaxation, explore the countryside. You will be captivated by idyllic bijou villages, scattered around on valleys and soft rolling hills. Small market towns will award you with enchanting images. Meander along their cooblestone streets, linger near picture-postcard houses, plunge into the atmosphere of the historical and cultural heritage.

If you seek mystery, visit one of the numerous castles that echo many ages and conjure up images of battles and romance.

If your prime interest is culture, museums and galleries are a must on your itinerary. They house outstanding collections of fine and applied arts and exhibits of world historical importance.

This country is a rich tapestry of culture and history. And it is sure to exhaust you before you exhaust its possibilities.

The British people may seem to you aloof and superior, but if you get to know them better, they turn out to be friendly, sociable, polite and humorous.

Many people find themselves in love with England, its scenery and people.