TRAVELING TIPS TO UKRAINE

 

Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe that lies at the northwest end of the Black Sea and is bounded by Russia on the east, on the north by Belarus, Poland to the northwest, on the west are Slovakia and Hungary, and to the southwest by Romania with Moldova in between.  Ukrayina is the national name of the country with Kyiv as the capital city. 
Its customs is heavily influenced by Christianity, the dominant religion in the country.  The cultures in western and eastern neighbors are reflected in Ukrainian’s architecture, music and art.

    When to Go 
    If you love spring, then it is the best time to travel to Ukraine, which will start from late April to early June.  It is where the trees bloom everywhere.  In addition, the attractions are less crowded so there will be a wide space to roam around and the amount of rainfall is much lighter than in summer.

    Following these simple tips can avoid you from travel inconveniences and will totally give you the ultimate vacation escapade in your life!

    What to Wear
    Summer: Light clothing e.g. T-shirts, jeans, summer outfits
    Winter: winter jackets/ winter coat or heavyweight clothing
    Spring and Autumn: warm clothing and jacket

    Temperature: during January average temperature like in the city of Kiev is 6° below zero Celsius whilst in June average temperature will raise to 20° above zero Celsius.  Lowest temperature during winter will drop to 25° below zero Celsius and in summer, the highest temperature will reach to 32° above zero Celsius.

    Gifts
    If you want to visit someone in Ukraine, make sure you bring a gift with you.  Moreover, if you wish to give your special someone with flowers avoid giving even number of flowers, as it is believed to bring bad fortune.

    Business Hours
    Most of the offices in Ukraine are generally open from Monday to Friday (9:00am-6:00pm) and closed during Saturdays and Sundays.

    Etiquette Tips
    • Women should wear scarves or hats whilst men should take off their hats when entering Orthodox churches.
    • Turning down of food is considered rude so as much as possible accept all the foods or drinks being offered to you.
    • Shaking hands across the threshold of a door is deemed bad luck.
    • Give up your seats to older women, mothers with children or the infirm when riding a public transportation.
    Take off your shoes or sandals when you enter other’s house because the host will provide you with a pair of slippers.

    Tipping
    A tip between 5% or 10% extra charges is normally included in restaurant bills or in other Ukrainian major establishments.  Usually, drivers are not tipped but if you are generous enough an extra Hryvnias is greatly appreciated.

    Water
    To avoid yourself in catching water-related diseases, it is recommended to drink in bottled waters or boil the tap water before drinking it. 

    Food
    You can buy everything in Ukraine like Western products & foods.  There are numerous establishments, which cater based on your preference.  So, no need to pack your luggage with tons of your favorite food.