Money
Currency: The Belarusian Rouble (BYR). Notes are in denominations of BYR100,000, 50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5000, 1000, 500, 200 and 100. The Belarusian Rouble was devalued by a factor of 1000 on Jan 1 2000 (1 new Rouble = 1000 old Roubles). Old banknotes are still in circulation, and are worth one-thousandth of their face value.
Currency exchange: Foreign currency should only be exchanged at banks, money-changing kiosks and official bureaux, and all transactions must be recorded on the currency declaration form which is issued on arrival. It is wise to retain all exchange receipts. Most aspects of a tour, including accommodation, transport and meals, are paid before departure (through Belintourist or a recognised tour operator), so large amounts of spending money are not necessary. The US dollar is the preferred foreign currency.
Credit & debit cards: Major European and international credit cards, including Visa and MasterCard, are accepted in some larger hotels and at foreign currency shops and restaurants. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other services which may be available.
Travellers cheques: May be accepted at larger banks, but cash is easier to exchange. To avoid exchange rate charges, travellers cheques should be taken in US dollars.
Exchange rate indicators
The following figures are included as a guide to the movements of the Rouble against Sterling and the US Dollar:
| Date | Feb '01 | May '01 | Aug '01 | Nov '01 | | £1.00= | 1813.69 | 1930.49 | 2103.06 | 2170.12 | | $1.00= | 1242.00 | 1359.50 | 1454.00 | 1535.50 |
Currency restrictions: The import and export of local currency is prohibited. All remaining local currency must be reconverted at the point of departure. The import of foreign currency is unlimited, subject to declaration. The export of foreign currency is limited to the amount declared on arrival. Foreign banknotes and coins must be exported within 2 months of import.
Banking hours: Mon-Fri 0930-1730.
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