Who are the Belarusians?

A Guide to Belarusians, Belarus and what makes the country unique.

Being on the crossroads between invading armies since time immemorial, Belarus has emerged with a growing sense of identity that sets them apart from their neighbours. The author opens the lid on the background, attitudes and behaviour of a people about which little is known.

‘Belarusians often describe themselves with the word ‘Pamiarkoŭnasć’. This spans the kaleidoscope of attitudes such as ‘moderation’, ‘self-restraint’, ‘patience’, ‘resignation’, ‘tolerance’ and an excessive interest in what other people think of them.’

‘Whereas in the UK politeness is generally applied in order to preserve a general sense of harmony, in Belarus it is selective and done for specific reasons and in specific contexts. A Belarusian is polite when the situation demands.’

‘In the bus, there may be an empty place in an otherwise crowded interior while many are standing uncomfortably. The empty seat is like the last biscuit on the plate – everybody wants it but are too polite to take it.’

‘Generally, the Belarusians are a law-abiding folk. This is not necessarily an instinctive need to adhere to the rules or a paranoia about the results of not following them. In fact in most cases, there is a feeling that it is better to stay within the rules which amount to one of the few uncertainties in life than to go out on a limb and risk unforeseen consequences.’

Panic Stations at Ski Stations

Conor MacNamara rode more than fifty of the greatest climbs in the Tour de France to try and conquer his fear of heights. In the end, Conor suffered a breakdown and discovered that he suffered from a panic disorder and required treatment. This book documents Conor’s experiences in detail.

Chasing Our Dream in La Rochelle

When the newly married Gillian and Bill leave Britain for rural France, little could they imagine the adventures they will have: from expert house renovation to wily language-school owners, to becoming involved in village life. The pair embrace all that comes their way, especially Bill, whose eye for the French ladies becomes legendary.While the newly christened 'Gilly-Anne' makes her debut as an English teacher in a school at La Rochelle, Bill tackles their new investment: a ruined house with no water or electricity. Fortunately, they are helped generously by their new neighbours. So many customs to discover, so much to explore in their camping van before the couple finally succeed in making France their home.New author Gillian Broome has written about her experiences with whimsy and humour. For those who have sought a new life abroad or are dreaming about one, her book will be a source of inspiration"”or laughter.

China - Behind The Mask

China Behind the Mask is not only an interesting, informative and enjoyable read but gives a thorough description of life in present-day China from the point of view of the author, an Australian English teacher, who lived in China for more than ten years. Not only does he provide a unique flavour of Chinese culture, but also presents a thorough analysis of the current political situation within China and how Chinese attitudes influence its relationships with other cultures and countries. Part travel guide, part biography, part history, this book covers many aspects of China, particularly in relation to Australian life and culture. Some entertaining comparisons are made, which illustrate the divide between West and East in considerable depth. Personal anecdotes abound, bringing the book to life and ensuring that the reader is informed and entertained in equal measure.

Jamaica

Jamaica: The Land We Love introduces the real Jamaica and will show you the way Jamaicans live their life.

Keep On Sailing the Wine-Dark Sea

Today’s fast-changing, globalised world is challenging thousands of years of received wisdom and ideas about Western society. The idea of Ancient Greece as being the cradle of civilisation is increasingly being called into question, not only by archaeological findings, but also by younger generations. As the author and her husband planned a series of sailing trips around the eastern Mediterranean, their children’s question “Why Greece?” inspired the author to investigate why Ancient Greece is so important – or indeed whether it is really still important at all.Readers of this book are introduced to the lasting influence of Ancient Greece through stories from ancient, medieval and modern times, enlivened by accounts of the author’s sailing adventures and are helped along with a large number of citations, maps and photos. This book aspires not only to entertain, but also to inspire, and to reflect on the ongoing impact of Ancient Greek ideas on today’s world.

Medieval Wanders and Wonders: Understanding Northern Spain and the Camino de Santiago

Those who have walked the Camino will know just how compelling is the magic to be found along this way. In Medieval Wanders and Wonders Kate Simons delves into the drama that can be sensed in glorious cathedrals and mysterious religious houses, the thrills shared by fellow walkers and the triumph of arriving in Santiago de Compostela. But, having gazed upon magnificent art and experienced the vast Spanish skies, do pilgrims question the significance of James' holy bones, the influence the saints wrought on western civilization or the peculiarity of medieval pilgrimage? By examining the mysteries, sometimes grisly, sometimes delightful, of witches, heresy, obsolete religious practices and knights Kate attempts to answer these questions. She also provides personal reflections and anecdotes from her own Camino walk and subsequent trips to northern Spain undertaken with her husband. As well as asking deep questions, Medieval Wanders and Wonders offers insight into the nature of pilgrimage and the curiosities and marvels of medieval Spain.  

Working at the End of the World: An Antarctic Diary

This honest, terrifying as well as humorous account of travelling and working in the magnificence of Antarctica will allow the reader to visualize and feel the harshness and beauty of the great white continent.The main body of the book is the diary account of a two-person deep field research trip. This is about being out in the remote mountains and glaciers facing up to extreme adversity in the coldest place on the planet while retaining one’s sense of humour; the psychology of spending time tent-bound in extreme isolation with just one other person and an honest reflection at the sad moments while being in a storm-bound tent, dwelling on life back in England. There is humour throughout, and the real and honest fear that one feels when in truly dire situations hundreds of miles from safety. The opening chapters look at the author's six-week ocean journey from England to Antarctica on the research ship ‘The RRS John Biscoe’.

Cyclus – 12 Months in Bangladesh

Join Elizabeth Grevstad-Mork on a captivating journey through the heart of Bangladesh in Cyclus - 12 Months in Bangladesh. This illuminating memoir unravels the rich tapestry of Bangladesh’s landscapes, cultures and traditions over the course of a year. From the vibrant festivities of Baishakh to the serene winters of Magh, each chapter explores the unique aspects of life in different parts of Bangladesh.

Grevstad-Mork masterfully interweaves personal anecdotes with vivid descriptions, bringing to life the beauty and complexity of this South Asian nation. As the seasons change, so do the stories, painting a picture of a country full of contrast and colour. Experience the bustle of Dhaka’s streets, the tranquillity of rural villages and the spiritual solemnity of ancient temples.

More than a travel memoir, Cyclus is a profound reflection on the human spirit, resilience and the universal search for meaning in the world’s endless cycles. This book is a must read for anyone who longs to understand the soul of Bangladesh and the rhythm of life that pulses through its land and people.

A Suitcase Full of Pink Pearls

Of course, I’d shied away from traveling to Croatia! Why embrace the unknown with Venice, Nice, Rome, and Constantinople calling? I’d heard whisperings of a city dubbed the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ but had little idea where that soul-stirring nirvana might have been located. You can imagine my surprise and delight, when I was invited to accompany five friends and their two young sons to Dubrovnik, Croatia, for a five-day stint in the scorching Balkan sun.

Words cannot express that first glimpsing of the red-roofed, white-walled, brilliant-blue -sea-skirted city when our sleek, silver, chauffeur-driven van tumbled into town from the brooding, cobalt-crusted Dubrovnik mountains.

Lord Byron had it right: Heaven on Earth!

The following five days for our ‘party of eight’ included beaches, swimming pools, ‘Old Town’ treasures, Wall-walks, Croatian food to die for, and best of all – a delightful ‘Game of Thrones’ tour, which had two little boys searching every nook and cranny on the ‘Kings landing’ for that elusive Iron Throne. Who’s never wanted to play kings or queens?

So you’ll be joining us on this pink-pearler tour in one of the world’s most Instagram-able spots? Thought so!

You Never Walk Alone

Today, numerous individuals find themselves adrift, seeking meaning in a world where various ideologies have faltered: Communism, Capitalism, Nationalism, Materialism. Amidst this ideological void, one ponders: What is the essence of life? Who or what can genuinely satisfy human yearnings?

Each year, hundreds of thousands embark on the Camino, or segments of it, in a quest for purpose. In 2018, I joined this pursuit, starting my journey on the Camino Frances from St. Jean Pied de Port in France and concluding in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. This 800 km trek, spanning forty days, was a solo venture, but as this book reveals, I was never truly alone. Along the way, I encountered numerous individuals, sharing not only the physical path but also profound connections.

I wholeheartedly recommend this pilgrimage – far more than a mere walk – to anyone earnestly seeking meaning in life.

Poochtraveller

Poochtraveller is the bible of dog travel guides – an insightful and down-to-earth book, and an invaluable support system for all dog owners looking to travel abroad.

Claire Templeton distils what she has learned over years of trial and error, traveling throughout Europe with her dog Snowy.

You will come away from this book feeling confident and excited about your travels, with some personal recommendations to get you started.