Polish border crossings have expanded and improved, but one can expect delays. Visitors are encouraged to register at the U.S. Embassy. Latvian visas are also valid for entry into Lithuania. The government has lifted restrictions on the export of hard currency. Vilnius's climate is temperately continental, with seasons of almost equal length.
Summers are pleasant, but winters inland are very cold and snowy.
Medical care does not meet Western standards, facing a severe shortage of basic medical supplies, including disposable needles, anesthetics, and antibiotics. Bring personal medication. Sometimes heat and hot water are unavailable because of the occasional disruption of energy supplies. Raw fruits and vegetables are safe to eat, but avoid drinking unpasteurized milk and tapwater. Two trains depart daily for Warsaw without crossing into Belarus, but take 12 hours.