Ukraine - has anyone been?

[disneygal]

Hi friends,

I have an unexpected opportunity to go to the Ukraine next spring, 2008. A distant relative is getting together a group to visit our ancestral home, about 4 hours drive from Kiev. So far, all I know is that I will have to hire a driver and interpreter. Of course there is time to figure out the details. If any of you have been to this part of the world, I'd be interested to hear of your experience, and any tips you may have to share. Thanks!

[cruisinred]

Hi disneygal-



I have not been to the Ukraine. But I just saw a lovely film about called Everything is illuminated about an American boy that goes to the Ukraine to search for his grandfather's birthplace. I think you would really enjoy this film if you are going on an ancestral roots trip; its both funny and poignant.

http://wip.warnerbros.com/everythingisilluminated/

[disneygal]

Hi cruisinred,



Thanks for the response to my post! I was thinking I was way off track with this location. I had heard about that film, but forgot the name. So thank you very much! I just put it on my Netflix list.

[georgef3230]

Fantastic, you'l luv it. Been there 3X, I'm also of Ukie origin. My advise: buy Lonely Planets publication on Ukraine. Take a cab from the airportwith the rest of ur group and spend a nite or 2 in Kiyiv in the hotel Ukraina (on the maydan-not expensive in US terms). Ask the hotel to help ur group secure 1st class train trip, private cabins, very cheap, to ur destination. As a group, hire a cab and driver for the rest of the road, ask a family member to meet you, or follow the guidlines in the guide book. Ukraine is quite safe to travel thru, as long as it is not at night, single. In a group, you should have no problems. Enjoy! Can I come too?

[disneygal]

Hi georgef3230, thank you for your reply! At this point I have the arrangements in place, and I did buy the Lonely Planet guide. We'll have a total of 3 nights in Kiev and 1 night in Uman. Outside Kiev, we'll be going for 2 days with a driver and guide. My family left there 100 years ago, so no relatives. But it should be interesting!



If you have any other ideas, please let me know. For example,any ideas forsmall gifts to give along the way? I am working with someone in Kiev to organize things. She's been great, and given me more confidence that I've got things under control. Hope that's the case!