Travel guide – ukraine
ukraine
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Overview
One of the largest countries in Eastern Europe, the Ukraine is situated between Russia, Belarus, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania and Moldova. It is a popular destination for tourists from surrounding countries, and is becoming increasingly attractive to citizens of Western Europe and North America.
One of the main attractions for visitors is the country's rich history, with more than 500 cities dating back over 900 years and a fascinating assortment of architecture influenced by its neighbours. Most travellers begin in the historical capital city of Kiev, arguably one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, where the ancient streets, striking architecture, stunning scenery, and wealth of cultural and religious sights make it one of the most fascinating places to explore. The early capital of Old Rus is also enriched with monuments such as the grandiose St Sophia's Cathedral, famous for its 11th-century mosaics and frescoes, and the Cave Monastery, the holy centre of the early Orthodox Church.
The other attraction for tourists is the natural beauty of the country, with areas like the Carpathian and Crimean mountain ranges, the Black Sea and Sea of Asov, and the Crimean peninsula, a popular tourist haven with its warm climate, famous resorts, history, and old cities such as Sevastopol and Yalta. The Carpathian Mountains draw skiers and hikers year-round, and the region is also popular for its restorative spas and historic sites. Gateway to the mountains is the city of Lviv, one of the main cultural centres of the country and a delight to explore with its medieval old town and distinctive architecture. The harbour town of Odessa, known as the 'Pearl of the Black Sea', is an established tourist destination that also serves as the gateway to many of the famous Black Sea resorts, and is a fascinating city with a wonderful mixture of cultures and historical architecture.
With things looking up for a country that is beginning to loosen its ties with Russia and forge new ones with the EU and NATO, Ukraine is a destination worth considering for its history and culture alone. Cruises on Europe's longest river, the Dnieper River, from Kiev to the Black Sea coast is one of the most popular ways to tour the Ukraine, providing a discovery of Ukraine's history, and its architecturally rich cities, while cruising the 1,370 mile-long stretch of river (2,205km) on board ship.
Climate
The climate is temperate continental, characterised by plenty of rain and cloudy autumns and winters. The southern Crimean coast experiences a Mediterranean climate. There are regular snowfalls in winter (between October and April) with average temperatures of 17-35°F (-8 to 2°C), with colder temperatures inland. While winters are long and cold, summers are short and can get very hot, especially in the south, with average temperatures of 64-81° F (18-27°C). Rainfall occurs in the form of thundershowers and the occasional downpour; rainfall is highest in the west and north of the country.
Health
Immunisation against diphtheria, hepatitis, tick-borne encephalitis and rabies should be considered. Typhoid vaccinations are recommended for long-term travellers who might eat outside of major hotels and restaurants. Tap water is best avoided, or treated by boiling or with chemicals. Bird flu has been confirmed in parts of Crimea, but no human infections have been reported. Travellers are not at risk, but close contact with domestic, caged and wild birds should be avoided, and all poultry and egg dishes well cooked as a precaution. HIV is widespread and the level of sexually transmitted diseases is high. Due to the risk of exposure to pollutants and radioactive materials, swimming in the Dnieper River should be avoided. Comprehensive medical insurance is advised, and visitors are advised to bring a supply of personal medication.
The basics
Time
Local time is GMT +2 (GMT +3 between March and October).
Electricity
Electrical current is 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Plugs are round pin attachment variety with two pins.
Language
Ukrainian is the official language, but Russian is also widely spoken.
Tipping
Tipping is expected in restaurants, and is usually 10% of the bill.
Safety
Foreigners are lucrative targets for petty theft and street crime, and valuables should be kept out of sight, especially in crowded areas and at tourist spots. Particular care should be taken on public transport, and overnight trains.
Customs
Homosexuality is legal and generally tolerated.
Communications
The international dialling code for the Ukraine is +380. The outgoing code is 810 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 81044 for the United Kingdom). International Direct Dialling is available in most cities. The GSM 900/1800 network coverage is limited to Kiev and other main urban centres. There are Internet cafes available in Kiev, Cherkassy, Lyiv and Odessa.
Duty Free
Travellers to the Ukraine can bring in 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars; 1 litre of spirits and 2 litres of wine; and goods for personal use, without incurring customs duty. Prohibited items include items that can have an impact on the environment, and agricultural goods and live animals.
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