Lithuania was occupied by the Soviet Union in 1940. It was the first of the Soviet republics to declare independence, but it was not recognized as independent until 1991. The country has come a long way since then, even going so far as to unveil a bust of Frank Zappa in 1995. Most visitors to Lithuania are those conducting business in the transitioning economy, however Lithuania is best known for its amber deposits, a well-preserved Old Town in Vilnius, and the natural, unique beach and forest environment of the Curonian Spit.
Lithuania is a flat country with a temperate climate and weather. Summers are warm, but winters can be quite cold. All seasons have rainfall, but the heaviest rain is in August; snowfall during the winter can be heavy. Spring and autumn are both relatively mild.
The official language is Lithuanian, one of the last remaining languages of the Baltic branch of Indo-European languages. There are two main dialects: Low Lithuanian in the West and High Lithuanian in the remainder of the country. Polish and Russian are also spoken. Most Lithuanians are Roman Catholic, and other religions represented include Lutheran and Russian Orthodox.
Lithuania's capital city of some 575,000, Vilnius, is accessible by air from many European capitals and is serviced by carriers such as Baltic Air Corporation, Lufthansa and Czech Airline. Most cities are connected by rail to the rest of Europe via Warsaw, Riga, Kaliningrad and Minsk. Ferries arrive from Scandinavia and the other Baltic states through Klaipeda. Internal rail travel is well-developed, reliable and inexpensive, though not as comfortable as buses. Main highways are in relatively good shape, but secondary roads can be unpaved and populated with farm vehicles and livestock. Vehicles drive on the right side of the road.
Travelers are not specifically targeted, but they are at risk for petty crimes such as purse snatching and pickpocketing. Harassment by skinheads is also a problem. Travelers walking alone are the most frequent victims. Common sense property and personal security precautions should always be observed.
The phone system is fairly reliable, and is in the process of being modernized. English media is readily available in Vilnius and other large cities. ATMs can be found in most cities and towns, and credit cards are accepted in many shops, hotels and restaurants.
Lithuanian cuisine is based on potatoes and dairy products; fish is also popular, and smoked eel is a Baltic tradition. In general, if one takes the usual precautions, the food is safe, wholesome and tasty. Though hotel prices tend to be closer to Western norms in deregulated, privately-run establishments, Lithuania is a bargain for those exchanging Western currencies.
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