Top 5 Lithuanian celebrities that are only popular in Lithuania

There are celebrities and there are celebrities. When visiting other countries, locals sometimes expect you to know some national celebrities that are totally unknown outside their own country. This is also the case in Lithuania, and the five local boys most commonly mistaken for international celebrities are:





A Zemaitis guitar. Far more recognizable than its creator

#1 Tony Zemaitis

A very gifted guitar maker of Lithuanian descent. Many people will be familiar with his iconic guitars, but very few will recognize his name. Yet fewer are able to do so when it is pronounced in Lithuanian. Guitar enthusiasts are most likely to have heard about this man, but there are not really all that many of those. It just seems so, because many of them are fuzzy people.



Mamontovas. For some reason without Zemaitis guitar

 #2 Andrius Mamontovas

Successful Lithuanian musician. Allegedly some kind of Lithuanian counterpart to Bryan Adams, who in his more mature years has started giving concerts in some of the countries that his fans have emigrated to, like Norway. A recent example from Bergen illustrates why this has not necessarily made him a global celebrity; only one Norwegian showed up – the rest of the audience were Lithuanians. Mamontovas has sometimes also been involved in Eurovision, but that just goes to show that appearances on Eurovision does not really equal international fame.



Maironis. Priest with enough spare time to become national bard

#3 Jonas Mačiulis

Commonly called Maironis. A long since diseased priest and poet, mostly known for his nationalistic (in a good sense) poems. He has a museum devoted to him in Kaunas, which many visitors leave without a proper understanding of who this man really was. Largely because the exhibitions are based on the assumption that most visitors possess such knowledge, which the average Lithuanian does, but the average tourist don`t. So some googling is in order if you are planning a visit to that particular place.



Žemaitė. Staring at you in accusation, as you you remove the1 Litas note from your wallet 

 

#4 Julija Beniuševičiūtė-Žymantienė

Commonly known as Žemaitė. A well-known female author, who has made it as far as to the (now long gone) 1 Litas note, and an appearance on Google Doodle on the 4^th of June 2014. Not bad for a woman that has been dead for almost 100 years, but on the other hand – 100 years without publishing a single bestseller doesn`t really help the international fame of an author that had only a limited amount of such to begin with.



Tony G. Either at a poker tournament, or during a slow day at the European parliament

#5 Tony G

Chances are that you have actually heard about Tony G, but most likely you will discover that the Tony G you know is a totally different one. Tony G himself will probably confirm that such confusion is a rather common side effect of having an inconspicuous first name and a one-letter surname. In any case, the Lithuanian Tony G is an internationally recognized poker player and even a member of the European parliament.

So here you have them. If you can quietly nod your head in recognition when some of these names are mentioned, you will gain favor with many a bewildered Lithuanian patriot.

Recommended related post:  5 most famous Lithuanians

All pictures and peculiar facts are from www.wikipedia.org

5 most famous people of Lithuanian descent

Although few people can name many Lithuanian celebrities, as established by my previous post, there are some individuals of Lithuanian descent that are rather famous internationally. For some reason this heritage does not seem to be something they emphasize too much, but that doesn`t stop me from outing them as being only a couple of steps away from their native kaimas:





Bob Dylan. A well-known wearer of peculiar hats

#1: Bob Dylan

World famous for singing strange songs in odd, but yet fascinating ways. Not so famous for being a descendant of Lithuanian Jews. He is also an accomplished painter and poet, and is thereby a modern day match for the Lithuanian national hero Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis, if not for the fact that he has failed to die young. Although he seems to have tried very hard to do so.

Sean Penn. Doesn`t sound very Lithuanian

#2: Sean Penn

Actor from the US. Most famous for being Madonna’s “love of her life”, despite of being charged with abuse during their marriage. Less famous for being of Lithuanian descent on his father’s side. In recent years, he has involved himself much in political activity. After starring in the movie “Milk”, he for instance came out in support for same-sex marriages, Despite of this, I have yet to see him at the rather odd gay parade that takes place in Vilnius every three years.  








Charles Bronson during one of his more civilized appearances

#3: Charles Bronson

The tough guy from the early 80s in Hollywood, with productions like “Death Wish” and “The Dirty Dozen” under his belt. His father was Lithuanian and mother was half Lithuanian. In spite of this, it is not uncommon for people to believe him to be Asian. Perhaps because of his apparent love for sunbathing, and his modest capacity for growing facial hair.



Anthony Kiedis. Also during one of his more civilized appearances

#4: Anthony Kiedis

Red Hot Chilli Peppers vocalist. I could very much picture him driving around Lithuania in a BMW, eating cepelinai, shaking his fist at pedestrians and scaring old people. But then again, his Lithuanian ancestry is from his father’s side, so a bit of exaggerated masculinity is to be expected. Although responsible for some of the best music in the world, he is also a former drug user. Like most on this list. For some reason, none of the people on my previous list – the one about Lithuanian national celebrities – were drug users. Some sociologist will hopefully some day give me the answer to why this anomaly exists.

  

Brian Epstein. A prime example of how drugs can kill you, even if you support them very much

#5: Brian Epstein

Beatles manager. Another descendant of Lithuanian Jews. Although largely responsible for one of the largest success stories within popular music, he was also a well-known homosexual and drug user. Ironically, after allegedly being introduced to drugs by #1 on this list, contemporary singer Bob Dylan. So if Dylan ever gets a Lithuanian commemorative museum, Epstein should at least be awarded a corner of it. A flawed one, where the vititors impressions can end almost before they begin. 







First runner up: Leonard Cohen. Famous for singing about serious matters in a deep voice and speaking in zen riddles when not singing. Norwegians love him, by the way.

Recommended related post: Top 5 Lithuanian celebrities that are only popular in Lithuania 

All pictures and weird facts are of course from www.wikipedia.org

5 most famous Lithuanians

Anyone drawing this category in a televised quiz show are likely to be more than a little nervous, since most people outside of Lithuania rarely recognize even a single of the names I am about to give. I made this list mostly to entertain myself (I am after all still the most frequent reader of this blog), but it could still hold some educational value for others. And for future visitors to Lithuania – people always like it when you know someone they also know.

#1: Antanas Smetona

Once your head is on a coin, your fame is usually undisputable

Former president. Made a name for himself by being in the right place at the wrong time – more accurately, he was head of a European country at the outbreak of WW2. Despite being branded as a dictator by western historians, Lithuanians seem to love him. There is even a brand of butter named after him. I doubt the world will ever see “Obama butter” or “Merkel butter”.

 

#2: Žydrūnas Savickas

Žydrūnas lifting something heavy, while a skinnier man watches in silent reflection

International strongman. I don`t know how they rank such athletes, but this man must be among the absolute strongest. The fact that he is in second place speaks volumes about how the contense of  international television has taken a turn towards the more trivial in recent years. On the other hand – it takes a bold man to choose the strongman profession in a country that boasts the skinniest population in Europe. I can only imagine how shops overcharge him for pants and shirts.

 

#3: Vytautas Landsbergis

Landsbergis. One of few Lithuanian presidents with a name that is easy to pronounce.

Politician and former head of state. I would in fact not be surprised if many in the west believe that that he is still president of Lithuania, since he was still in office last time “anything important” happened there. This of course being the early 1990s, and yet again popular opinion can be proven wrong. Landsbergis now shares the fate of former communist colleague Mikhail Gorbachev, who also remains sincerely loved and remembered in the west, despite having been equally sincerely kicked out of office by his countrymen. And rather than being heads of state, both are now considered by many people to be heads of something completely different.

#4: Arvydas Sabonis

Another man with a name that is easy to pronounce

Some basketball player who made it big in America. Like most on this list, I have not met him personally, but I think I have met his cardboard cutout in a grocery store. I don`t question his talent, but if the scale of that thing was 1:1 I am fairly sure that his sheer height also was quite significant. In the same way that the simplicity of his surname probably made it easier for people to remember him, as opposed to other Lithuanian basketball players like Marčiulionis or Ilgauskas. This being a tip for future Lithuanian basketball playes with complicated names.

#5: Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis

A man with a name that is virtually impossible to pronounce correctly

Somewhat internationally famous painter and composer. Has his own museum in Kaunas, although not run by him personally. This man could have done well with the advice I gave under #4, since it sometimes can be difficult to make a name for yourself in the world, if most of the world’s population is unable to pronounce that very name. Some would claim that he would be #1 on this list had he been granted a longer life, while other may claim that he would not even have been on the list of he had died of old age. Nevertheless, his pictures are beautiful and his music is nice.  

That concludes the list so far. If you are famous and feel left out – please let me know, and I will consider including you.

Related post: 5 Most famous people of Lithuanian descent

All Pictures are from www.wikipedia.org

Top 5 Lithuanian bottled water

Although Lithuanian tap water is not toxic, and very few deaths are recorded as a result of consuming tap water, most tourists still prefer bottled water. Since many locals also share this preference, or at least take the precaution of boiling water before drinking it, it might be wise to follow the heard in this matter. And there are many types of bottled water to choose from. I`ve tried most of them, and here are my recommendations:

#1: Neptunas

In many ways unremarkable, but that in itself speaks to its advantage. Tastes like water, without any of those other tastes that bottled water often has (those that some manufacturers try to cover by adding salt or flavour). This also seems to be the most popular choice among locals. Good value for money.

#2: Žalia giria

 

 

Shares many of the characteristics with #1, but is somewhat more expensive. Very pure taste when cold, but somewhat stale in room temperature. Available almost everywhere. Good alternative.

 

 

 

#3: Tichė

Also available almost everywhere, and tastes rather good. Contains some minerals, and can be even more expensive. Particularly when sold I kiosks and such. Allegedly very healthy and natural, but when you are thirsty such things are usually not your primary concern.

#4: Borjomi

Although not strictly Lithuanian, this product can be found all over the country. Mostly in grocery shops. It is a type of mineral water, but is mild enough to be a very good alternative to ordinary bottled water. Usually comes carbonated, but still also works very well. Can be expensive, but is worth the extra money.

 

 

 

#5: Any type of bottle with English text

 

 

Most of these are ordinary tap water that has been treated and mixed with some kind of flavour. Much like anywhere else in the world. There is nothing wrong with these products. The taste is usually OK, they will not kill you, BUT: you can get them anywhere else. So why bother. Since you took the trouble to travel to Lithuania, you might as well try the local water. You will most likely live.


Recommended related post: Top 5 Lithuanian vodkas

 

 

 

Top 5 shopping malls in Kaunas

#1 Akropolis

Location is quite often a deciding factor when it comes to shopping malls, and this one has by far the best location for tourists. Located within walking distance of most hotels in the city centre, and equipped with a large parking area that rarely gets crowded. In addition to the standard selection of shops, it also has a large number of restaurants, cinema, bowling alley and ice skating rink. And it has a great location.

 

None of the shops are particularly exciting, but they do cover the needs of most people. With a couple of exceptions. Currently it is for instance without an electronics store, and as far as I know it has never had any hardware stores. In my mind this is kind of an outrage, but then again...did I mention that it has great location?

#2 Urmas

Here you can get everything from a tombstone to cotton candy. This is the place to go if you want something out of the ordinary. Something that you can`t also find in any given shopping mall anywhere in Europe (because lets face it – they mostly sell the same crap everywhere). Also, this is a place that is not commonly visited by tourists.

There are even specialized shops for such things as treecakes, wallpaper, fur clothes, bathroom tiles etc. This variation gives a much more rewarding shopping experience than a visit to your average shopping centre. Particularly if combined with a good meal at the many small restaurants, og from one of the market-like shops that sell fresh produce. The only problem is that the place can be a bit hard to find for tourists, since it is located a bit on outskirts of the city. One should also make sure not to go too late in the day, since many of the smaller shops close rather early in the evening.

#3 Mega

This mall has two things that the winner lack; Senukai and Rimi hypermarket. Two stores that may not be of importance to the average tourist, but should anyway be visited by every traveler aspiring to be a more advanced shopper, since they offer a number or products not available in other shops. Like for instance shady Lego imitations, inexpensive Lithuanian plumbing parts or rare Georgian brandies.

 

  

Mega also boasts a shark tank stretching over several stories, and a plaster monument to its eccentric founder integrated into the ceiling. Those things, and the fact that the whole place is designed as something of an indoor shopping street, makes shopping here a pleasant experience.

Oh, and there is also a rather annoying train for children.

#4 Prisma

This is rather a new shopping mall, but still I have visited the place several times. None of them were however memorable. As far as I recall there were some shops that sold some stuff, but nothing that made an impression. Not even a bad one.

 

 

And a place that leaves no impression can hardly expect a good rating. I do vaguely recall there being a drug store, but then again those can for some reason be found all over Lithuania.

#5 Molas

Aside from the ridiculous name, which I only can assume is a poor attempt to Lithuanize the American term “mall”, the biggest problem this shopping center has is its lack of main attractions. It has nothing you can`t find anywhere else. None of the shops are the biggest of their kind, and none of them are specialized shops that other shopping centers do not have.

Everything here can be purchased elsewhere and probably also closer to where you are staying. There is nothing wrong with the shops or restaurants, it`s just that there is no reason to go there if you have other and more attractive options. Shoppers here are probably mostly locals. Tourists are few and far between. For good reasons.

Top 5 lithuanian vodkas

It was of course only a matter of time. A test of Lithuanian vodka was inevitable, at least so that I myself would know which brands are good and which are a waste of Litas. One would think that it would only be necessary to do such a test once, but as a scientist I know the value of restesting your earlier findings frequently in order to prove their validity. So I will conduct this test once a year. Here is the top five list for 2014:

#1 Stumbras

The key word when it comes to Stumbras is pure. I have no idea whether it is in fact pure or not, but it tastes like pure and that is the main point. The texture is smooth like drinking water and it has no intrusive tastes of sugar and impurities. The bottle is also impressive, making the 1 litre appear larger than it actually is. Why some other testers give a better rating to stronger spirits is beyond me. This is the best Lithuanian vodka by far.

Your average drunkard would probably not like to pay extra for the novelty of having some grain in his bottle, so the one in the picture is most likely aimed at people buying gifts.

Rating: A drink for the gods

#2 Lithuanian vodka/Lietuviška Degtinė

A smooth, almost sweet tasting vodka with no bitter aftertaste. Works well in coctails, since it does not give an intrusive taste when mixed. And by the way, a small side test revealed that very little distinguishes Golden Lithuanian Vodka from ordinary Red Label Lithuanian Vodka. But yet again a bottle with the reassuring gold medals on the label. A bit worrying that it only won four, and by the way what international committee issues such medals anyway? Where do the international vodka championships take place, and why are those competitions never on Eurosport? Who are the athletes?





Distributer photo. It was better than mine.

Judging from the predominantly English text on the bottle, this seems to be a product largely aimed foreigners.  This leads me to suspect that it is either overpriced or in some other way unfit for the Lithuanian market. If the label is in English, then most Lithuanians probably drink something else. The answer to this remains unclear. The label further boasts that the vodka is silver filtered. I have no idea what that really means, but I have sincere doubts as to whether there are any "silver filtering standards". Silver filtering on the whole is new to me as a selling point. Most vodkas would come a long way if they were exposed to a simple coal filter. But filters aside, this one is a good choice.

Rating: More like a drink for the demigods

#3 Bajoru

 

The name gives expectations, but those are never really met. It reflects on the now long gone Lithuanian aristocracy, and thereby gives an impression that this is a product that they would have enjoyed. In this assumption, the manufacturers are probably right, since the the quality of vodka at the time of the bajors were such that even the worst of todays vodkas would have been considered a treat. By todays standards however, this vodka is not fit for a nobleman. In fact, it is barely fit for a man.

 

 It is also clear that the bottle is not made to impress anyone. The label might have the the obligatory ancient medals and information that the distiller has been making this brand since well before Smetonas times. However, just because some company has been making some product for a long time, it does not necessarily make the product good. Take MacDonalds as an example. They have been making unremarkable fries for generations, and they are still not getting any better. The only reason people buy them is for the price. This is perhaps also the case for Bajor Vodka. Although it plays successfully on the history of the nation it does give a sort of sour taste and dentist like feeling to the tongue. People from Trøndelag would probably love it in their coffee, but for the rest of is I think we can safely say that this is mid-range quality.  

Rating: Drinkable
 

#4 Svogeris

The name appeled to me instantly, since Svogeris is Lithuanian for brother in law. This must be one of the most original brand names in the spirits world, and as it turns out also one of the more appropriate ones. After all, a brother in law is not a real brother and Svogeris is not a real vodka. It does however share many characteristics with vodka, but has very few similarities when it comes to taste. This thing tastes more like something someone made in the barn. Without experience. In the dark.

I threw away the bottle, so sadly there is no picture.  

Rating: Possibly mislabelled moonshine

#5 Balta Degtine

Although not strictly a Lithuanian manufactured Vodka, this drink is still somewhat a Lithuanian phenomenon. Sold in little plastic containers, similar to those used for yoghurt for children, but placed appropriately alongside the bigger bottles of vodka. Catering to the needs of those looking for a quick, disposable shot of vodka.

And these customers are apparently not picky when it comes to taste, since this is one of the worst vodkas I have ever tasted. And I come from a rural part of Norway where moonshining was considered more as a hobby rather than a fine art, and can consequently tell the difference between bad vodka and terrible vodka. This one was terribe. 

Rating: Toxic waste