Kaliningrad area and also Belarus
 

Has anyone any tips on these 2 areas please? Is the Kaliningrad area still part of Russia? If so, do the same "protocols" apply as if going into the geographic bulk of Russia?
I am thinking of riding around the Baltic next year and wondered if Kaliningrad area was a good area to visit. I would also like to visit Belarus and would appreciate any comments.
I am used to travelling solo and have visited much of Europe, this year going to Ukraine and Romania.... hard work at times but well worthwhile.
Thanks, Gill.

Kalingrad in 2002
 

Hey,

I was in Kaliningrad in 2002. I guess things have changed last 6 years. All depends on your plans off course and what you like. There's a few very nice pamiatniks (памятник) to chase down, and the home town of Immanuel Kant (Köningsberg).

In 2002 it was difficult to ignore the mafia and drug trafficking being very present there. The border between Kalliningrad and Poland is one of the more interesting borders I've been accross.

And a normal Russian Visum was required, but that shouldn't be an impediment.

Here's some pics from our trip back then:
2002.Kalliningrad - a set on Flickr

Thanks for the speedy reply Robert..... and the photos too. I guess the first one of the traffic queue was at the border? Looks like a good time was being had by all. Main interests are culture and wildlife. I generally prefer rural surroundings, tho' cities make a nice change for a day or two. Thanks again, Gill.