Ukraine???

[Waverider98]

In a separate area of the board I asked a few questions about Moscow.  What I learned there was extremely interesting and quite helpful.  So thank you to all of you who are teaching me about that very fascinating City. 

Since I am a young pupil I seek more knowledge of yet another city…

While I am extremely intrigued about the prospect of visiting Moscow, I am also interested in Ukraine.  I am fortunate that I have a friend who lives in Ukraine and an open invitation to pay a visit.  On the way to visit him and his family I am planning to stop in Kiev. 

So, I would like to know if anyone has past experiences with Kiev Connections?  I truly believe they are on the up and up since I have yet to read a negative thing at all on the web about them, and believe me I have searched and searched… So far all the information I have found is positive. 

Your thoughts on; http://www.kievconnections.com ???

WR

[Turboguy]

I have never used KievConnections but I have never heard anything bad about them.  I have been to the offices of two agencies there with a friend.   I was not looking to meet anyone at that time.   Of the two I visited, I liked Elana's Models the best.   It is in the Impressa hotel.  Since you have never used an agency I will tell you a bit about how it works.   They have books (3 ring binders) broken down by ages.   Each page has the photos on one side and their description and requirements on the back.  You pick out the ones you would like to meet.  They can often tell you a bit about the girl.  They will try and arrange a meeting.  The first meeting is usually at the agency.   Elena's if I remember correctly charged $ 20.00 a meeting and you pay only for the ones that will meet you and I believe the other agency we visted charged $ 30.00.  There are quite a few agencies in Kiev.  If you go to Kiev and want to meet some ladies you should have no problem.  I think when you are arranging meetings you have less chance of being scammed by the agency than if you are arranging meetings.   At least you will not be there writing endless lettors to Yuri who is pretending to be Natasha.  I am sure if Yuri shows up to meet you they will have a hard time collecting thier fee from you.

[beattledog]

 I think that you are corrrect.  By effective utilizing the agencies, the man gets to meet more ladies, thereby, increasing his chances of metting a woman  that will be his wife.   He may have to make more  than one trip

Beattledog

[Waverider98]

Hey Turbo Guy and Beattledog,

I hear what you're saying, makes sense. 

Since we are on the subject of agencies how did/do you tap dance around the fact that you are there to meet more than one Gal?  As I have read on line at their web site “KC” for example sets you up with 5 dates after you submit a list to them and your photo w/ male bio and then they mutually match you.  Theory is that you exchange a few letters prior to arrival.  Whether you write or not is not so much of an issue as you still can be set up on 5 blind dates.  But I am sure some prior contact will put the lady at ease that you are not some creep or what have you.

Now, I'm thinking that in either case maybe the ladies might doubt your sincerity or what have you if they know (Since you're at an agency that sponsors dates) you have another date scheduled?  I am not suggesting that you are going to rub it in their face that you have 4 other dates but it just seems to me to be a unique situation and I myself would not know at this stage how to deal with the question of what I am up to tomorrow or "Are you going to call me and make plans?" 

I mean will they think you are an insincere player or do they all know and expect you to have other dates and not get jealous or upset?  I'm just trying to imagine what their point of view on the matter might be like since it effects their perception of you, and like everybody I am hoping mine will be positive.

Your thoughts Gents?

[acrzybear]

I went to Odessa with 1 purpose

1) Vacation-enjoy myself and have a good time and meet some ladies (mission accomplished)  If I found that special women I would have been open to pursuing that relationship. 

 I was not a "sex tourist" nor was I interested so much in that aspect as I was in learning about a new culture and enjoying myself.  I think it was JB (or someone else perhaps) that said it best "meet the ladies as you would at home".

  The best advice one can recieve is  Just go on vacation-enjoy yourself and be honest with yourself and others.

  Too many guys get caught up in the fantasy and let their emotions run wild instead of taking a step back and looking at the entire situation (campatability, cost of the chase etc...) 


Just the opinion of a humble transplanted Calfornian (Sonoma County/Bay Area) Federal civil servant

[Waverider98]

ACB, I couldn't agree with you more about just chilling and having a good vacation.  I've never used an agency in order to be introduced to a Girl.  I think it poses an interesting situation when they *Agency X* schedules more than one meeting.  But if I read you correctly you think using agencies is not such a good idea and to meet them in a more traditional setting?  Either way I appreciate your opinion. 

Take it easy,

WR

[Turboguy]

Well, a month from now I can answer that from first hand experience.  Personally I think if you are meeting 5 gals in an afternoon through an agency it will not be a problem.  I think they are well aware that you are meeting a number of gals in the hopes one will stand out.  Keep in mind that they are meeting guy after guy when the agency calls hoping for the same.

I think the problem is more when you are writing gals for a long time then go on a trip where you plan to meet a number of gals.   After investing all that time they want to think you are visiting just them.  How do I deal with it.  Well, If I were a wooden puppet I would have a heck of a long nose.  I have an advantage that I have an international business so I often say I am making a trip to Europe and will try to come over for a day or two and meet them and if we seem right for each other I will come back soon and make a special trip to see them and stay for a longer visit.  Unless they pin me down too much it is not even a lie.  If they ask me where I am going I ususally tell them where ever my plane will be connecting.  For example if I connect in Frankfort I tell them I am making a trip to Germany and coming over from there to see them.  Not quite a lie but perhaps a little misleading.  Deceptive devil, aren't I!

[acrzybear]

If they ask me where I am going I ususally tell them where ever my plane will be connecting.  For example if I connect in Frankfort I tell them I am making a trip to Germany and coming over from there to see them.  Not quite a lie but perhaps a little misleading.  Deceptive devil, aren't I!

Very clever Mr. Bond

Wave rider- If you want to use an agency then that's your choice-I did a combo.  I wrote to a lady for several months through an agency and then went to see her, Things got abit weird. After the second day in Odessa I decided I was going to cut any further dealings with the agency (they were trying to get me to use their services for everything) and strike out on my own.

  I had a great time just enjoying myself and loved the adventure of it all.  The problem with this type of venture is it's a big crap shoot (I think Vegas has better odds).  There are a couple of guys on this board that did everything they weren't supposed to and hit the jackpot (they've been married for several years) and others have been doing everything the "correct way" and they're still looking.

  So the way my personality is, I just enjoy the adventure and if I'm meant to be married then the stars will line up, the oceans will part etc....

What 'm trying to say is try different things and just enjoy the ride. Hey if things don't work out at least you will have the memories that'll make you smile years down the road.

Good luck and god speed.

P.S

What part of the Bay Area are you located? The City? East Bay?

[Waverider98]

ACB,
Appreciate the reply.  If I wrote everytime I was impressed or appreciative of someone here or how they were honestly voicing their views I would be a broken record.  Wait...  I think I just did it again.

Anyway, thanks.  I am actually just south of Santa Cruz so I think it is still Bay area right?  I dunno only been living here a year and a half.

My learing curve in the last month has been very steep.  WIth the help of guys like you and Mr. Turbo ( I read his post too) I have gone from fanatasy world hook up to reality and a better sense of relaxing and taking my time.  My expectations have changed and now I would be most greatful to have a ride from the Airport, Good Food, and a place to sleep out of the cold and the rain.  Anything else that happens while on my trip, well that is pure gravy!

[BillyB]

Your thoughts on; http://www.kievconnections.com ???

Kiev connections are part of the Angelika Network http://www.angelika.net/  They are a big agency with a decent reputation but one thing I don't like about them is that most of their women don't have e-mail addresses, when I know for a fact some do, and you end up writing through the agency or use painfully slow postal(snail) mail. Who knows, they may treat you well if you came to town but I personally want to get to know the women before commiting to a visit.

[Durk]

     Wave one of the things I really hate about agencies is the filler profiles that a lot of them have.
I really do not want to tell you what to do, but I think the writing is really very important. I believe
Bill sent out hundreds of letters before finding a quality girl. I actually have made the letter a priority
and a requirement for all my contacts. If the gal does not want to write for a while before my visit
she will never see me in her country. A relationship is a two way street and the sooner both people
in that relationship understand that the better. Russians are very direct and so am I!! Gals that list
NO PEN PALS I usually ask if they really are looking for a husband ??? See I do not care that she
has received 500 letters. Who has the picture on the internet and is looking for a good guy! Sort
it out and make a mature decision who is worth your time. If they are concerned about a serious
meeting I tell them my time is also valuable and that a G or two for the trip should mean something
as well. Try to get as much personal information as possible. Ask her about her parents work, her
friends, her coworkers, how she feels about moving to another country,(ask this asap) etc. I do
not think a lot of the younger girls even realize the impact this may have on their lives. Better they
think before they act.  Hope this helps.

[Waverider98]

Fellas,
It has been a while since I have posted anything but I have news.  I bought a plane ticket and head to Kiev next month.  I'll be there for about 10 days.  Next, I need to get a place to stay but that doesn't seem to be as much of an issue as actually getting off my butt and buying the ticket!  I'll keep you guys posted and will see for myself what that city has to offer...  Appreciate all the tips I've received so far and I am sure I'll need more as things pan out as they do... 

Good day to all,
WR

[BillyB]

Have fun. Make sure to use your big head when figuring out women.

[Turboguy]

My suggestion waverider is to get ahold of Pavel and use him for an apartment, your airport pick up and any other help you need.  Apartments are a better way to go than hotels. 

[Stirlitz]

I guess Kiev Connections have nothing to do with Confidential Connections?

Now, I'm thinking that in either case maybe the ladies might doubt your sincerity or what have you if they know (Since you're at an agency that sponsors dates) you have another date scheduled?  I am not suggesting that you are going to rub it in their face that you have 4 other dates but it just seems to me to be a unique situation and I myself would not know at this stage how to deal with the question of what I am up to tomorrow or "Are you going to call me and make plans?" 

I mean will they think you are an insincere player or do they all know and expect you to have other dates and not get jealous or upset?

Yes, they may think so. But let's face it: it is stupid of them. You are NOT having sex with them. You are NOT proposing them. You are NOT even actually dating them — yet!! You are just meeting them for the first time to see if you like them and want to continue. You MUST be able to choose someone you really like before you stop meeting others — and that usually cannot happen right after the first date. Well sometimes it does but not so often. So whatever they think, you should be more concerned about yourself. Of course you should be discreet and never rub it in — but you should also be firm when needed and not allow others rule you. Avoid questions about other women (I believe that it is OK to lie about it) but if she is too direct and insisting, you can tell her the truth, and if she makes a case of it — forget about her and move on.

I liked Elana's Models the best.

ELENA, not elAna. Pronounced like 'lend' rather than 'lane'.

[Turboguy]

Yes, Sterlitz I know, but thanks for bringing that to my attention.  That was just a case of fingers moving faster than brain.  If you look a few sentences later I spelled it correctly. 

Kiev Connections and Confidential connections are different.  I have also heard good things about Kiev Connections.

As far as people the two I hear the most good comments about are Pavel and Sterlitz.  As far as agency's Kiev Connectons might be another good one besides Elena's.  There are a number of agencies in Kiev and I have not heard too much bad about any.  Lugansk is the place you hear of a lot of scam agencies but there are even some fairly good ones there.

The FSU women seem to be a tad jealous and possessive.  Maybe it is just part of the FSU culture.  They are more direct there as well and maybe being direct goes along with wanting to stake a claim on something you are interested in.

[wiz]

The FSU women seem to be a tad jealous and possessive.  Maybe it is just part of the FSU culture.  They are more direct there as well and maybe being direct goes along with wanting to stake a claim on something you are interested in.

All women are possessive and of course get jealous....... anywhere in the world. It is not only the FSU women and yes the FSU one's are more direct than others.......it all depends on their character.

You have to be straight and firm with them otherwise they will make a meal out of you!

I agree with Stirlitz, when you meet them first time they are only prospective candidates and nothing more. Any type of questioning about meeting other women must be answered straight and honestly so they know were they stand. If they don't like it.......Dosfidania.

You are not their ownership and if they like you and you like them, then they must be understanding of your plan, which they know anyway and you don't have to shove it down their throat! Be discrete!

They will respect you for that!

GOOD LUCK in Maidan Square...........speak English and the flies will come around!

[Turboguy]

Oh, now we have gone from FSU women being rejects to them being flys.  Hummm, where to we go from here.

I think Wiz and everyone has made some good points.  I think a lot of it is where you are in a relationship.  If you are meeting gals in an agency for the first time I think being honest and open is the only route.  As Wiz said, if they don't like it get rid of them.  They are not the right girl for you.   When your relationship is evolving then sometimes you need to tread a little more carefully.  I am not saying to lie through your teeth but it takes a little common sense.  Of course the goal is to get to the point where you don't have to worry about it because she is the one you want.

[Sohkay]

Waverider,
Re: apartment in Kiev. Contact Chris Campling at travel2sevastopol.com. While he is based in Sevastopol, he has connections to apartments all over Ukraine, Kyiv included. I used his service when I recently spent a month in Ukraine and have nothing but good things to say. First, Chris speaks English. Second, all of the apartments I stayed in with his service were well located, very clean, and competitively priced. Chris also understands western levels of customer service, which is refreshing when you're in Ukraine!.

Suggestion...see if you can spend 4 or 5 days of your trip in a city other than Kyiv. It's a much different world than Kyiv and should give you a better feel for the women over there (no pun intended!) I've heard Lviv can be quite nice.

Have a good trip.

[catzenmouse]

Suggestion...see if you can spend 4 or 5 days of your trip in a city other than Kyiv. It's a much different world than Kyiv and should give you a better feel for the women over there (no pun intended!) I've heard Lviv can be quite nice.

Have a good trip.

If you do go to Lviv contact Bill and Hellen (Lviv here) they live there and have a small agency. I've known Bill for awhile and he is a first class guy.

Ken

[wiz]

Waverider,
Re: apartment in Kiev. Contact Chris Campling at travel2sevastopol.com. While he is based in Sevastopol, he has connections to apartments all over Ukraine, Kyiv included. I used his service when I recently spent a month in Ukraine and have nothing but good things to say. First, Chris speaks English. Second, all of the apartments I stayed in with his service were well located, very clean, and competitively priced. Chris also understands western levels of customer service, which is refreshing when you're in Ukraine!.

Suggestion...see if you can spend 4 or 5 days of your trip in a city other than Kyiv. It's a much different world than Kyiv and should give you a better feel for the women over there (no pun intended!) I've heard Lviv can be quite nice.

Have a good trip.

I will second that about Chris and his apartments.

I have stayed in his apartment last May and it was of European standards and the service and help received by him excellent.

Lviv is a very nice place to visit and you will enjoy history, architecture and beautiful ladies.

If you want some very good apartments visit www.airsunholidays.co.uk and you can see all apartments of European standard there.

Good luck and don't stay in Kiev only!

Kiev is a cosmopolitan large city and also expensive and does not represent the whole Ukraine.
Costs in Lviv is around 40 % cheaper than Kiev.

[Stirlitz]

The reason why I stressed the Elena pronunciation is all people tend to pronounce is the wrong way as if it were Alana. I do not know why. But it is wrong. The right pronunciation is Ye-lena.

Likewise, notorious Anastasiaweb is also a Russian name minus web that is Anastasia, and it always mispronounced like anesthesia. It should sound with S rather than SH: Anasta-sea-ya.

And, my nickname is Stirlitz, not Sterlitz. Another puzzle.

[SANDRO43]

The reason why I stressed the Elena pronunciation is all people tend to pronounce is the wrong way as if it were Alana.

Depends on where you are from, since ELENA is a rather international first name. Allegedly, it originates from the Ancient Greek verb ελεεω (eleéuo = to be compassionate) and, if you turn that into its almost synonym CHARITY, it makes a satisfactory triad with VERA and NADEZHDA (the 3 Theological Virtues).

The stress varies with the language :
(H)élen(a) = English, German, Italian, etc.
Elén(a) = French, Spanish, etc.

I think only Slavic languages use a proclitic Y sound with it (Yeléna).

ANASTASIA is a different case (not international like ELENA) and is complicated by its transliteration into the Latin alphabet : to preserve its original form, it should probably be written ANASTASIYA, but very few bother to do that.

Here mispronunciation concerns where the accent falls and can be explained by the prevailing stress pattern of your home language : to the French Anastasià, to Italians Anastàsia, English-speaking people would lean towards Anàstasia, etc.

And what about OKSANA and OLESIYA ?

[Stirlitz]

 

[SANDRO43]

... I do not know why...

Well, you asked for it .