The people

The residents of Minsk are some of the friendliest people you’ll ever come across. All you have to do is stand on a street corner and look confused and some affable local will probably come to your aid. Try to enter a shop through its window, and someone will promptly be on hand to suggest that you should use the door. Many younger people speak English and will be happy to give directions, read signs, take photographs, help you use the Metro and so on. While few restaurant and bar staff speak English, they’re generally very obliging. If there’s a place in town with grumpy people and bad service, we just couldn’t find it. Even the once infamous border crossing is less hostile. As for socialising, it’s very easy in Minsk. Many locals are still delighted to meet and interested to talk to foreigners.