10 Things to Know before Going to Ukraine !

About Ukraine

Ukraine is a country located in Eastern Europe, bordered by Russia to the east and northeast, Belarus to the northwest, Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary to the west, Romania and Moldova to the southwest, and the Black Sea and Sea of Azov to the south and southeast, respectively. It is the second-largest country in Europe, after Russia, and has a population of over 44 million people.

Ukraine has a long and rich history, dating back to the 9th century when it was part of the Kievan Rus’, a powerful medieval state. In the 13th century, it became part of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and later the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. In the 18th century, it was annexed by the Russian Empire and became part of the Soviet Union in 1922. After the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, Ukraine declared its independence and became a sovereign state.

Ukraine is a unitary state composed of 24 oblasts (provinces) and the Autonomous Republic of Crimea. Its capital and largest city is Kyiv (Kiev). The official language is Ukrainian, and the currency is the hryvnia.

Ukraine is a parliamentary republic with a multi-party system. The President is the head of state and is elected by popular vote for a five-year term. The Prime Minister is the head of government and is appointed by the President. The unicameral parliament, the Verkhovna Rada, is composed of 450 members elected for a five-year term.

Ukraine has a mixed economy, with a large industrial sector and a significant agricultural sector. Its main exports are steel, grain, and machinery. It is a member of the United Nations, the Council of Europe, the World Trade Organization, and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe.

Ukraine is a culturally diverse country, with a rich cultural heritage. It is home to many different ethnic groups, including Ukrainians, Russians, Poles, Jews, and Tatars. It is also home to a variety of religions, including Christianity, Judaism, and Islam.

Ukraine is a beautiful country with a lot to offer. It has a rich history, a vibrant culture, and a diverse population. It is a great place to visit, and its people are friendly and welcoming. Whether you are looking for a relaxing vacation or an exciting adventure, Ukraine has something for everyone.

Cost of Living and Currency in Ukraine

The currency of Ukraine is the Ukrainian hryvnia (UAH), which is abbreviated as ₴. As of my knowledge cutoff in 2021, the exchange rate was approximately 1 USD = 27 UAH.

The cost of living in Ukraine varies depending on the location and lifestyle. The capital city of Kiev tends to be more expensive compared to other cities in Ukraine. In general, the cost of living in Ukraine is relatively affordable compared to Western Europe or the United States.

Here are some examples of typical costs in Ukraine:

• Rent: The cost of rent in Ukraine varies depending on the location and size of the apartment. A one-bedroom apartment in Kiev can cost anywhere from 8,000 to 20,000 UAH per month, while a similar apartment in other cities may cost less.
• Food: The cost of groceries in Ukraine is generally lower than in Western countries. For example, a loaf of bread can cost around 10-15 UAH, a liter of milk can cost around 25 UAH, and a kilogram of chicken can cost around 70-80 UAH.
• Transportation: Public transportation is relatively inexpensive in Ukraine. A one-way ticket on the metro in Kiev costs 8 UAH, while a monthly pass costs around 400 UAH.
• Entertainment: Going out to restaurants, bars, and cinemas can be affordable in Ukraine, especially outside of the major cities. For example, a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant in Kiev can cost around 600-800 UAH, while a movie ticket can cost around 100-150 UAH.

Overall, Ukraine can be an affordable place to live, especially for those who are willing to adjust their lifestyle to local prices.

Means of communication in Ukraine

There are several SIM card and WiFi router rental services available for travelers in Ukraine. Here are some options:

1. Kyivstar – This is one of the largest mobile network operators in Ukraine and offers SIM cards and WiFi routers for travelers. They have booths at most international airports in Ukraine and in major cities across the country.
2. Vodafone Ukraine – This is another popular mobile network operator in Ukraine that offers SIM cards and WiFi routers for travelers. They have booths at most international airports in Ukraine and in major cities across the country.
3. Ukrtelecom – This is a major telecommunications company in Ukraine that offers SIM cards and WiFi routers for travelers. They have booths at most international airports in Ukraine and in major cities across the country.
4. Djuice – This is a mobile virtual network operator in Ukraine that offers SIM cards for travelers. They have booths at most international airports in Ukraine and in major cities across the country.
5. Rental WiFi Ukraine – This is a private company that offers WiFi router rentals for travelers in Ukraine. They offer both pickup and delivery options in Kiev, Odessa, and Lviv.

Please note that availability and pricing may vary depending on the vendor and location. It’s always a good idea to research and compare options before making a purchase or rental decision.

Ukraine Languages ​​and Greetings

The official language of Ukraine is Ukrainian. Here are some simple greetings in Ukrainian and how to pronounce them:

1. Hello – Привіт (Pryvit) – pronounced “prih-VEET”
2. Good morning – Доброго ранку (Dobroho ranku) – pronounced “DOH-broh-hoh RAHN-koo”
3. Good afternoon – Доброго дня (Dobroho dnia) – pronounced “DOH-broh-hoh DNIA”
4. Good evening – Добрий вечір (Dobryi vechir) – pronounced “DOH-bryi VEH-chir”
5. Goodbye – До побачення (Do pobachennia) – pronounced “doh po-bah-CHEN-nya”
6. Thank you – Дякую (Dyakuyu) – pronounced “dya-KOO-yoo”
7. Please – Будь ласка (Bud laska) – pronounced “bood LAHS-kah”
8. Excuse me – Вибачте (Vybachte) – pronounced “vy-BAHCH-teh”

Remember that Ukrainian is a phonetic language, so the pronunciation of each letter is usually consistent. However, the accent and intonation can vary depending on the region and dialect.

Food and Cuisine in Ukraine

Ukraine has a rich and diverse food culture that draws influences from its neighboring countries such as Russia, Poland, and Turkey. Here are some popular foods and drinks in Ukraine:

1. Borscht – This is a hearty soup made with beets, cabbage, potatoes, and sometimes meat. It’s usually served with sour cream and rye bread.
2. Varenyky – These are dumplings filled with potatoes, cheese, or meat. They are typically boiled and served with sour cream or butter.
3. Holubtsi – These are cabbage rolls filled with ground meat, rice, and vegetables. They are typically served with tomato sauce or sour cream.
4. Pampushky – These are small, round rolls that are fried and topped with garlic butter. They are a popular side dish or snack in Ukraine.
5. Chicken Kyiv – This is a breaded chicken cutlet stuffed with garlic butter. It’s a popular dish in restaurants and cafes in Kiev.
6. Salo – This is a traditional Ukrainian cured pork fat that is often served sliced and eaten on rye bread with garlic and onions.
7. Horilka – This is a traditional Ukrainian vodka made from fermented grains. It’s often served chilled and accompanied by pickled vegetables or salo.
8. Kvass – This is a traditional Ukrainian fermented drink made from rye bread, sugar, and water. It has a slightly sour taste and is often served chilled.

In addition to these traditional dishes, Ukraine also has a vibrant cafe culture with a variety of baked goods and pastries, such as pirozhki (stuffed buns), babka (yeast cake), and napoleon cake (layered puff pastry with cream).

Overall, Ukraine’s food culture is diverse and flavorful, with plenty of options for both meat-lovers and vegetarians.

Ukraine climate and clothing

The weather in Ukraine can vary widely depending on the region and season. In general, Ukraine experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters and hot summers.

Winter (December to February): In winter, temperatures can drop below freezing, especially in the northern and eastern regions. It’s important to wear warm and waterproof clothing, including a heavy coat, hat, gloves, scarf, and insulated boots. It’s also a good idea to dress in layers to stay comfortable indoors, as many buildings may be heated more conservatively.

Spring (March to May): Spring in Ukraine is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 20°C (50 to 68°F). It’s recommended to bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler days and comfortable shoes for walking.

Summer (June to August): Summer in Ukraine is warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30°C (68 to 86°F). It’s recommended to wear lightweight and breathable clothing, such as shorts, t-shirts, and sandals. Sunscreen and a hat are also recommended to protect against the strong summer sun.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn in Ukraine can be cool and rainy, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 20°C (50 to 68°F). It’s recommended to bring a light raincoat or umbrella and comfortable shoes for walking on wet sidewalks.

Overall, it’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before traveling to Ukraine and pack accordingly. It’s also important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites or cultural events, and to respect local customs and traditions.

Security and Situation in Ukraine

Ukraine is generally a safe country for tourists to visit, but like any destination, travelers should be aware of the current situation and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.

The ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine between government forces and pro-Russian separatists has led to sporadic violence and unrest in the region. The situation is mostly confined to the Donbass area, but it’s recommended to avoid travel to the easternmost regions of Donetsk and Luhansk due to ongoing hostilities.

Crime can also be a concern in some areas of Ukraine, particularly in larger cities like Kiev. Visitors should be vigilant when using public transportation, walking in unfamiliar areas, or visiting tourist attractions. It’s recommended to avoid displaying valuables or carrying large sums of cash.

Travelers should also be aware of scams, including pickpocketing and credit card fraud. It’s recommended to use ATMs located in banks or shopping centers and to be cautious when using public Wi-Fi.

In terms of health, visitors should be aware of the risks of food and waterborne illnesses, especially when consuming street food or drinking tap water. It’s recommended to drink bottled water and to avoid undercooked or raw meat, fish, and vegetables.

Overall, travelers to Ukraine should exercise caution and stay informed about the current situation. It’s recommended to register with your embassy or consulate and to follow local news and travel advisories.

Religion and Culture of Ukraine

Ukraine has a rich cultural and religious heritage that reflects its diverse history and influences from neighboring countries.

Religion: The majority of Ukrainians belong to the Eastern Orthodox Church, with the Ukrainian Orthodox Church being the largest denomination. There are also significant numbers of Roman Catholics, Protestants, and Jews in Ukraine, among other religious groups.

Culture: Ukrainian culture is a fusion of Slavic, Byzantine, and Central European influences. Traditional Ukrainian music, dance, and art reflect the country’s rural roots and folklore. Folk music is an important part of Ukrainian culture, with traditional instruments such as the bandura and kobza being used in performances.

Ukrainian cuisine is also an integral part of the country’s culture, with a wide range of dishes incorporating locally grown ingredients such as potatoes, cabbage, beets, and mushrooms. Traditional dishes include borscht (beet soup), varenyky (dumplings), and holubtsi (cabbage rolls).

Ukrainians also celebrate a number of festivals and holidays throughout the year, such as Christmas, Easter, and Independence Day. Traditional festivals include Malanka (New Year’s Eve), Kupala (summer solstice), and Vechornytsi (a pre-wedding celebration).

Overall, Ukraine’s culture is a rich blend of history, tradition, and modern influences. Visitors to Ukraine can experience its unique customs and traditions through music, dance, food, and festivals.

Transportation in Ukraine

There are several modes of transportation available for travelers in Ukraine, including:

1. Metro: The metro system is available in Kyiv (Kiev) and Kharkiv. It’s an efficient way to travel around the city, and fares are inexpensive.
2. Bus: Buses are available in most cities and towns in Ukraine, and are a common way to travel between destinations. Fares are generally inexpensive, but the quality of buses and roads may vary.
3. Trolleybus: Trolleybuses are available in some cities, such as Lviv and Odesa. They are similar to buses but are powered by overhead electric wires.
4. Tram: Trams are available in some cities, such as Kyiv, Lviv, and Odesa. They are a slower but more scenic way to travel around the city.
5. Taxi: Taxis are widely available in cities and towns throughout Ukraine, and fares are relatively inexpensive. It’s recommended to negotiate the fare with the driver before getting in.
6. Train: Ukraine has a well-developed rail network that connects most major cities and towns. Trains are generally comfortable and affordable, and overnight trains are available for longer journeys.
7. Car rental: Car rental companies are available in major cities and airports. It’s recommended to have a valid international driving permit and to be familiar with Ukrainian driving laws and road signs.

Overall, Ukraine’s transportation infrastructure is relatively developed, and visitors have several options for getting around the country. It’s recommended to research transportation options before traveling and to plan for possible delays or changes in schedules.

Major cities of Ukraine

1. Kiev (Kyiv): The capital city of Ukraine, Kiev is one of the oldest cities in Eastern Europe and has a rich history and culture. The city is known for its stunning architecture, including the iconic St. Sophia Cathedral and the Kiev Pechersk Lavra monastery complex. Kiev is also home to numerous museums, galleries, and theaters, as well as a vibrant nightlife scene.
2. Lviv: Located in western Ukraine, Lviv is a picturesque city known for its stunning architecture, charming old town, and vibrant cultural scene. The city has a rich history and is home to numerous museums and galleries, as well as a lively coffee culture and a wide range of restaurants serving traditional Ukrainian cuisine.
3. Odessa: Located on the Black Sea coast, Odessa is a major port city and a popular tourist destination. The city is known for its stunning beaches, elegant 19th-century architecture, and lively nightlife. Odessa is also home to numerous museums and galleries, as well as a thriving arts and music scene.

These three cities are among the most popular destinations in Ukraine, each offering unique experiences and attractions for visitors.