Off to Ukraine

[2tallbill]

Dneid,

There are a zillion places to exchange dollars for hrivna as you walk down the street you will see the exchange rates posted outside on sandwich board type signs.
 
You can always stick your atm card in a machine and get some Hr.
Make sure you tell your bank that you will be in Ukraine and using your card.
I would pull a few hr out of the atm at the airport (you might get hungry thirsty etc).

I never worried about carrying cash, maybe I am lucky. I carry my wallet in my front pocket
because I don't like sitting on it.

Udachi (good luck),

Bill

[ScottinCrimea]

Exchange maybe $30-$50 at the airport in case you need it on the way to your flat or arrive after the exchange booths are closed in town.  Ad far as the ATM's, I preferred using those that gave out dollars and then exchanging it myself as I got a better rate.  There's a per transaction cost of using the ATM's but still I think it better to pull out only what you need for the near future as you may get noticed if you exchange a lot of money at once.  Also, you'll lose money on exchanging it back if you don't spend it all. I stopped carrying a wallet there altogether as there was nothing in it that I really needed.  I just did the same as you, carrying my cash in my front pocket.  If you carry a cell phone, keep a close eye on it in large crowds as they are more likely to be stolen than cash.  Hope this helps.

[HiTech]

Tips on plastic, if you have multiple, keep them in separate places if your wallet is lost. So leave some in Apartment, some with you.

I am the type who feels naked with out cash $ so I always had my emergency fund some where, but used the ATM for almost all cash, if banks give you $ most are $2 a transaction, if they give you Hrivna, normal is about $5 charge.

For most larger transaction like apartment, I found people preferred dollars.

Besides Peanut butter and cheese in a can, beef jerky has been a big hit.

Dale

[dneid]

Boy, am I glad I started this thread.  You guys have thrown a lot of great information for me and other newbies as they come along.  The whole exchange thing was such an item.  I think others coming behind me in this endeavor will find this thread to be of tremendous value as I have learned alot from you guys.
To those of you who have PM'ed me, I would like to ask permission to post your PM's here in the thread (scrubbed for IDs and such) as I think other newbies would get a lot of value from what you have PM'ed me.  So, if you would not mind a roll call type ok, I would appreciate it.
Take care all.

[ScottinCrimea]

One thing that very few know is that if you are exchanging a larger than average amount of cash you can negotiate for a higher rate at the exchange places.  I wish I had learned this sooner.  I think the first time I did this it was for $700, so we're not talking thousands here.  Just something to keep in mind if the occasion arises.

[wxman]

Using an atm card or just carrying cash just depends on what you are more comfortable with. There are advantages and disadvantages with both. It is getting harder to find much difference from place to place when exchanging dollars for Hryvnia. It has been fixed by the banks between 5.00 and 5.05 Hryvnia/dollar for a long time. A year ago you could have got a much better exchange rate, simply because the dollar was worth more. Now it's not worth as much, so you are more likely to find exchange rates at or below the bank level. It would be better now to carry Euros and exchange for Hryvnia, than dollars. Most of the atms now will let you choose between euros, dollars or hryvnia. Last month when I was there I would withdraw euros and then exchange to hryvnia. 

[Gator]

If you use an ATM, withdraw the maximum allowable amount because the bank fees are mostly inelastic (about $10 for $600).

[AkMike]

And for special people's gifts consider a leatherman tool. Those have been a big hit with close friends. Good quality tools are in demand. Bring lot'sa picture of your area too. They like to see what the rest of the world is like. I've also brought local smoked salmon and it's gone over very well.

[dneid]

Hey, Guys,
I asked about Russian phrase books in a different thread.  Jet provided this answer.  Thanks, Jet.


This is a question I can help with right now!  Cheesy
On the London trip I brought the Lonely Planet phrase book & Dictionary along. I liked it because it provides a lot of common phrases, questions, responses, and some cultural information.

Later on I picked up Russian the rough guide, Dictionary phrasebook which has a more comprehensive dictionary, but less of the cultural stuff


Either one of these would be excellent to take along on a first trip IMO as both provide transliterated (phonic) representation of the Russian word as well as Cyrillic text. Example: hello здравствуйте [zdrastvooytyeh] They are both cheap (under $10) and small enough to fit in your pocket  Wink

[dneid]

Hey, Guys,
I am looking at flats in Nikolaev (Pavel has me covered for Kiev).  A couple of you guys have sent me via PMs (newbies, use the PM system.... well worth it), info for a couple of folks in Nikolaev for flats.  However, in the spirit of being an informed consumer and competition, I have looked around the web for flats in Nikolaev.  I found a web site that has several nice flats listed for prices ranging from $55-$70/night.  The site is: http://www.ukrainefare.com

Does anyone have any experience with this company?  Would you use them again?  Once again, thanks in advance for all the help I am sure I will get here (pay attention newbies.... these guys are good and I am not talking about the PGA).

[dneid]

Hey, Guys,
This post is meant to accomplish a couple of things.... first is to pop the thread back to the top of the listing.  Second is to say thanks to all of you for the replies and PMs.  I appreciate each and every one.  I am sorry I have not replied to all the PMs.  Work is keeping me very busy as I get a project to a state where my absence for 2 weeks will have as minimal negative impact as possible.  Third is to tell everyone to hang on.  I am working on a post to update my activities to date.  I am now down to 9 days with much to do still. I think I have flats lined up for Kiev (thanks, Pavel) and Nikolaev (thanks, Yaroslav).  Odessa is no longer in the plans as the two women there did not work out.  For the newbies, if it does not feel right, kick it to the curb.  You will read this advice here over and over and it is very good advice.  The 2 ladies in Odessa never felt right from the beginning and I should have cut and run sooner.  Newbies, all I can say, is read this forum thoroughly and pay heed to the advice you read here.  These guys will truly save you heart ache and $$.  Listen to them.  Not me, them!!!
So, for all the newbs who follow me, keep checking deeper in the thread, I will post an update concerning final prep prior to departure.  I am taking my MacBook with me and I will try to keep everyone posted.  Damn, I am so excited.  Damn, I am so crazy.  What the hell am I doing? Well, all the experienced guys here tell me these are perfectly normal feelings that even they had!  So, for the newbs who are reading this, don't freak out if you are feeling a little queasy about your upcoming trip.  Apparently we all go through it.  Just get your butt on a plane and go.  Go, explore, learn, enjoy.  Just read every thing on this forum to be forewarned.  Just remember, breathe!!!

[groovlstk]

Dale,

Although I'm happily married and wouldn't change my life for the world, a tiny part of me envies you I'll never forget my first trip to Ukraine years ago, it's something that will remain vivid in your mind for a long time to come.

During all of my trips I had at least one "wtf am I doing here?" moment, but the more active you are the less time you'll have to idly philosophize about such things Keep busy, make the absolute best use of your time on the ground there, and you'll come away with wonderful memories regardless of how your romantic efforts work out.

[dneid]

Well, the bags are packed, I' ready to go.... OK, so I can not sing..... it is t-minus 26 hrs to wheels up.  Had a few scares, had a few thing go off the tracks, had a few things really shape up nicely.... sounds kinda normal.
I just have two more things to get and I will pick those up on the way home tonight.  All in all, it is looking good.  Anastasiya in Kiev is getting more and more excited.  My first scare came wheh she recommended Picasso's for our first meeting.  I found  out it is a high restaurant in Kiev (mucho $$$$).  My first thought was "Uh-oh, pro dater."  Well, I replied to her that I would prefer a place that is a little less stuffy for our first meeting.  Her response was "I don't care where we meet, as ling as we meet."  So, either she is playing me for the longer term or she is very sweet.  My overall impression is she is very sweet.  She has always answered my questions and has been very open.  Never asked for money even after her flat was broken in to.  I am looking forward to meeting her.
Sveta is firm for meeting me in Kiev for the weekend and then we will travel together to Nikolaev.  She still hits me as a lady who is sincere and sweet.   I have on more I may meet in Nikolaev.
Back up plan is to hook up with Zoya (thanks, Dale) if the wheels fall off.... Otherwise, I am just looking forward to seeing the country.  One other thing, Pres. Bush will be in Kiev tomorrow and the day after (I think he will still be there on the 2nd).  Pavel was saying traffic is just horrible right now (as of yesterday).
Well, guys, off we go.  Boots on the ground.... I am just excited to be going, let alone meeting anyone.  With the crap I went through during my divorce, a nice vacation is in order.  I'll try to post TRs every other day or so and a few pictures.

[myrddin]

Best of luck, Dale!

[Gator]

Bon voyage, Dale.

Picasso's is not that expensive.

http://www.2k.com.ua/eng/net2k/restaurants/kyiv/picasso/picasso_menu/

Maybe it is because I am accustomed to Moscow prices. 

Best to say, "I will be a little travel weary the first night.  While seeing your beautiful and exciting eyes for the first time will revive my energy, I prefer something simpler.  However, darling, Picasso's sounds wonderful for later in the week." (especially if you really like this woman).

[MaxxumUSA]

dneid,

First of all I wish you a safe way.  This is how the people in russia say it.

A few things...

First the nervousness.  Before my first trip I was SO damn scared.  I could not hold down food of any sort for a couple days before that first trip.  You are SO lucky to find the forums before flying.  I did not find forums until after my first visit.

You mentioned a woman wanted to take you to a fancy restaurant.  I would not immediately assume pro dater.  I would assume she wants to spend time with you at a quality restaurant and that she is also proud to show you a fine establishment in her home town.  When I visited my wife the first time she made reservations at one of the nicest restaurants in her home town for us.  No biggy.

I think with your reading here you do have some flags you can look for.  But don't be paranoid and scrutinize every word and action from the ladies.  They are probably just as excited to see you as you are to be there.  Life is very different there and every person has their habits.  Take a little time to decide things.  You do have a couple weeks there.  Plenty of time for a first visit.

For the record I paid for 99% of all expenses related to my Elena dating me and communicating with me throughout the time I courted her.  I think that is in some ways expected although this is not the reason I did...  I did because I am a bit old fashioned and I think the man should take care of these things while pursuing a woman.

I'm sure you already have some gifts but if not you can get them at the airport and on the airplane at the duty free shop.  BE SURE to take a few extra little things for the ladies friends or family.  Don't need to spend a lot of money - candies and small knick knacks will do.  I completely assume that you already have primary gifts for the ladies you plan to meet.  A carton of american smokes (american Marlboros or Marb lights) will go a long way.  MANY people over there smoke and they are a great gift/tip/bribe over there.  My first visit to my wife (I did WOVO btw) I took one gift for each day.  I also took an extra gift to hide in her apartment should we hit it off.  So I hid it and two weeks after I left on my first visit it was Valentine's day.  So I completely surprised her with that by telling her where it was.

Like Groov said...  I'm a bit jealous.  I would LOVE to go over again for the first time.  In July I plan to visit russia for the 5th with my wife and I'm already getting excited to get back there.

And one more thing about the woman that might be playing you for the longer term...  Umm...  that's the whole idea!  LOL

Have a great trip!  I'm excited for you!

- Maxxum

[Gator]

More on restaurants:

My last trip to Kiev I dined at the Dolce (as in la Dolce Vita).

http://www.lasoon.com.ua/eng/object.php?id=519

The prices were reasonable but not cheap, unless you do what I did and order fresh oysters.  It was the first raw oyster that my UW date had tried, and she jokingly made the sign of the cross before consuming it and asking for another.

There was a good Ukrainian restaurant at the top of Andriivsky uzviz near St. Andrew's Church, across the street from the statute  in Timothe's avatar.  I recall the name translated as Two Rabbits, but that was many moons ago.

Be sure to ask about some Georgian restaurants, especially the shash lik joints on the side of the hill.

[BillyB]

My first scare came wheh she recommended Picasso's for our first meeting.  I found  out it is a high restaurant in Kiev (mucho $$$$).  My first thought was "Uh-oh, pro dater."  Well, I replied to her that I would prefer a place that is a little less stuffy for our first meeting.  Her response was "I don't care where we meet, as ling as we meet."  So, either she is playing me for the longer term or she is very sweet.

Never asked for money even after her flat was broken in to.

Sometimes it's best to go to one of those expensive restaurants and she how a RW orders and understand what type of tastes she has. Maybe expensive, maybe not but I don't see why you couldn't go on one trip to a nice restaurant as long as it's not the first restaurant you visit or repetitious. If she feels you're important to her, she will take you to meet the friends and family and eat "in" much of the time you're there.

How easy is it to break into a flat with two reinforced locked doors? When I was writing hundreds of ladies, a few dozen had to have been scammers. Nobody asked for money except one for a little help for the internet cafe but they all had some type of problem that is solved with money. Scammers don't even need to ask for money outright anymore, they just give a bad luck story and enough desperate White Knights will come to save their day to prove their dependability and their love when they haven't even met the women. The foolish things men will do for what's between those legs.

many of those agency women talk and FSURookie's found out that the RW talk about the bigger better deals and who's men are buying apartments for which RW. I can see why many RW get spoiled and expect more and spend money like it was going out of style.

Not trying to get you paranoid but be smart and find a woman who likes you for who you are and who is smart with your money because someday it could be hers.

[dneid]

Hey, Guys,
You know (as Maxxim said), I am damn lucky to have found this forum.  You guys have really given me great advice.  As for Picasso's (BTW, thanks Gator, how do you find these links?  I tried Google and could not find a listing!!!), after Anastasiya responded with I don't care where we meet.... I replied to her that I wanted to take her to Picasso's the following evening after I had had a good night's sleep (we agreed to meet the evening I arrive after about 20hrs of travel).  We both want to meet as soon as possible as she has said she is as excited as child on Christmas Eve.  She said (and I told her the same) that would not be able to sleep the evening of the 2nd as she would know I am in Kiev and her nerves would keep her up all night.  So, we agreed to a meeting for 2-3 hours to say hello and jut get the introductions over with.  And, Gator, I need to remember that comma is used as a decimal there!!!!!  The first view of the menu left me gasping (Yikes, 116,00 - yeap I read it as 116,000 UAH, not 166 UAH) .  Damn, the floor here at work is hard when you head bounces off it!!!  Now, please tell me I am reading it correctly.  Please oh please tell me I have it correct now.  Yeap, I have gifts for all the ladies (all two of them) for each day I will be there.  They range from little trinkets (the candle idea is good) to an iPod shuffle (got a great deal on a refurbed unit with warranty). Add in the perfumes, and Texas T-Shirt for the kids.... (Hook 'em Horns!) and I think I have it all covered.
Like I said, I will be posting TRs and looking for help before it is all said and done.  I am sure I will step on my toes more than once.  Just hope I am not stepping on my wee wee

[KenC]

denied,
Finally your time has come!  Many of us have been in your shoes: a sense of excitement, fear and wonderment all wrapped in one. 

Don't worry about the woman picking an expensive restaurant too much unless it becomes a habit.  Take into consideration that the lady doesn't know your level of expectations.  You being a "rich American" might not be too interested in eating at "Olga's House of Blini"!

With all that you have learned here (and I commend you for paying such good attention) I am going to give you the best advice of all: Trust your own instincts!  If it "feels bad" don't pass it off on cultural differences, trust that it is bad.  Don't talk yourself into going against your own instincts and you will be fine.  Good luck grasshopper, you are ready.
KenC

[UTRO]

One important thing. Your Passport is Gold. Don't lose it, like I did in Sheremetyevo last month! 
Oh boy, I can laugh now. I should really Post the story one day. Longest 2 hours of my Life!!
From one Newbie to another..... enjoy and best wishes!

[START2]

Dale,
  Good luck and have a fun/safe trip. Drink it all in. Do you know the procedure already for going through customs? Collecting your bags filling out the declaration form etc? I have several, wish I had thought about sending a few before now. Just would make it faster instead of stopping at those little tables. Everyone will be crowding and maybe pushing but don't sweat it. No biggie.
  I still get excited the day or 2 before I go. You're a big boy so no need to panic. Remember, you have no gifts with you when asked. If you have any companion problems drop me a line. We can take care of that.
  Hey, the hyrivna is under 5:1 but not too much. 4.8/9.
  After a few days, you'll be wishing you had taken 3 weeks. Maybe we''ll meet when you can't stay away and decide to go back this summer
  2o hrs? was that a freebie?(FF miles) Maybe next time you'll go Tx...JFK..Aerosvit to Kyiv.
  The first or second weekend of April will be a huge garden show on Kreshtatyk. Pretty cool.
  Bon Voyage !!   

[Gator]

Dale,

I agree with KenC to trust your own instinct, but only if you allow your instinct to operate freely.

You worried (?) about her being a pro-dater when you had very little info.  If you worry about all the little stuff,  I am not sure that you will have a good time.  And if you are not having a good time, it will affect her mood and her impression of you.  Be assured that she is evaluating you while you are doing the same.

Enjoy the time together.  Compliment her freely each time you greet her without repeating yourself - her hair, her fragrance, her sense of fashion, her jewelry - not just her big eyes.  Say something sincere and nice about her country too and especially her people (you may have to overlook some things without comment).  Talk, talk, talk freely without analyzing ever word. Share a bottle of decent wine (although she probably will prefer that sweet crap if she is like most UW). 

This is so new to you that it is best not to sweat the little stuff.   Each morning, take a few calm moments to think about what happened the day before.  Add up the positives and negatives and the questions (and there will be plenty).

If she is a pro-dater, her true colors will become self-evident soon enough. 

[wxman]

You will have a great time! Enjoy every moment! If you happen to bump into George, give him our love.   

[docetae]

Share a bottle of decent wine (although she probably will prefer that sweet crap if she is like most UW). 

Big mistake ! share a bottle of good wine and if this is first time she is tasting this, try to educate her to Bachus pleasure...Just try to know if she prefer white or red, sweet or dry...

Wine help people to be more close