We have collected for you ten useful tips to make your trip to Ukraine comfortable and memorable:
- English proficiency levels in Ukraine can vary widely. In larger cities and among younger generations, you are more likely to encounter people who understand and speak English to some extent. In contrast, in smaller towns and among older generations, English proficiency may be limited.
- Bargaining in Ukraine only takes place at markets, and not everywhere. It depends on how lucky you are. In stores and boutiques, of course, it is not customary at all.
- Tipping here is left at the will of the visitors. Not obligatory, but quite welcome. Usually they round up the check and do not take the change, or just leave a little more. Tipping amount starts from 10 UAH, less will be mauvais.
- In the last year, the country has had street police, who can be called upon for help in case of anything. It is difficult to call the country's major cities safe, so be careful on the streets, especially in the evening. In transportation try to keep an eye on your belongings, pickpockets happen both in the subway and in shuttle buses. But the country's villages are quite safe, especially in tourist areas.
- Try not to exchange currency by hand, at train stations or markets. It is often practiced here, and it is often very dishonest and even dangerous for buyers. It is better to find a bank with a good exchange rate, or official exchange offices.
- Cabs in Ukraine can be called by phone or caught on the street. If the driver is available, he is likely to respond to the request. There are many cab companies, all of them have different fixed rates per kilometer. So choose, focusing on the major companies, in each city they are different.
- You can rent a car and travel the country's roads. They've been pretty well repaired in recent years, and the repairs continue. Of course, it will be more difficult to get to many outlying villages, but this travel option is quite convenient.
- If you are treated somewhere, try not to refuse, as this may offend the hospitable and hospitable hosts. Such traditions are especially noticeable in and around the Carpathians. In small towns far away from metropolitan areas, the old mores of the old days are still alive, when a guest brought news and was welcomed with an open mind.
- Book most tickets in advance, this will allow you to save money, and even just catch the right ticket. Ukrainians travel a lot, and routes are often duplicated. If there is a flight on a train, chances are there is also a bus equivalent.
- Visit places that are not listed in the guidebooks. You will definitely find something interesting, a temple, a castle or ruins, a beautiful mansion or a nature reserve. And local guides will be happy to give you a guided tour.
