One of the largest countries in East Europe and also the most varied, Ukraine borders the majestic Carpathian Mountains to its west, the historic central plains and the famous Black Sea coast to its south. The Crimean Peninsula, more Russian than Ukrainian ethnically, is a huge attraction for tourists from Russia who every summer come to enjoy the hospitality of the Ukraine hotels.
Known for its rich historical, cultural and architectural significance, Ukraine will not dissapoint those coming to visit this country that has more than 500 cities that are over 900 years old and many more things to see and do!
Situated right in the midst of Russia, Belarus, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania and Moldova, Ukraine is not just a popular holiday destination for holidaymakers from the surrounding countries, but is also becoming an attractive place for travellers from Western Europe and North America. So as not to miss out on the discovery of this fabulous country, book one of our Ukraine tours as soon as you have made up your mind.
Most tourists begin the tour of Ukraine at the historical capital city Kiev, also considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. The city's ancient streets, architecture, scenery, and famous cultural and religious sights as well as the many things to see and do make it a fascinating place to explore. Old Rus, which was an earlier capital, is also full of famous monuments such as the St Sophia Cathedral, which is well-known for its 11th century frescoes and mosaics; and the Cave Monastery, which is the holy centre of the Orthodox Church. The other attractions include the Carpathian and Crimean mountains, Sea of Asov and Black Sea. In fact, the Carpathian Mountains draw skiers and hikers all round the year. The region is also well known for its luxurious spas and historic sites. Then there is the Crimean Peninsula, a tourist haven thanks to its nice, warm climate, well equipped Ukraine resorts and history, besides old cities such as Yalta and Sevastopol.
The city of Lviv, the main cultural centre, is a delight to explore, with its medieval old town and distinctive architecture. Odessa, the harbour town referred to as the 'Pearl of the Black Sea', is also a tourist destination and the gateway to many of the popular Black Sea resorts. It is an interesting city to explore, with its unique mix of cultures and architecture.
Things are certainly looking good for Ukraine as the country begins to loosen its ties with Russia and make new ones with the European Union and NATO. In fact, the 2,205 km long cruises along the Dnieper River (Europe's longest river), from Kiev to the Black Sea coast, is one of the most popular ways to tour Ukraine and discover its rich history and architecture.
You might remember that in 2004 there was a revolution in Ukraine. The Orange Revolution, as it came to be called, was a series of public protests against the ‘unfair' Presidential elections. It ended peacefully after the Supreme Court ordered a re-vote and declared a new, ‘fair' winner.Ukraine's map remains the same - the historical, awe-inspiring capital city of Kiev at its heart, the monumental Odessa and popular Crimea to its south, and a quiet and cosy Lviv near the western hills. Several years on, the pro-Russian east has finally given up its threat to secede. Yet, the Ukraine you will be visiting is quite different from the country that it once was. Post the Orange Revolution, and despite ongoing parliamentary stalemates, Ukraine's attitude is more relaxed, its press is freer, and the economy improving. Memories of demonstrations at Kiev's Independence Square still fuel civic awareness; there is a fledgling democracy (instead of autocracy); the surety of fair elections; and tolerance of public debate. Still, the failed promises of a weak president have brought about a sense of cynicism.
Ukraine (the word literally means ‘borderland') is slowly, and perhaps indecisively, changing. While you might still witness the unhelpful bureaucracy that was supreme when the country was part of the Soviet Union, it is now tempered by the desire to ultimately be part of the European Union. The younger people, who played an important part in the Orange Revolution, want freedom, yet some traditionalists are worried about going too far out of Russia's reach. Due to its many historical influences, contemporary pundits like to refer to Ukraine as a patchwork nation in search for ‘unifying' 21st century symbols. The phrase could not be more apt - while Ukraine's dominant culture is Slavic, it still hoards Scythian gold in the history museum at Kiev's Kievo-Pecherska Lavra (also called Caves Monastery). And it is Byzantine mosaics that line the St Sophia Cathedral.
While the golden domes of Russian and Ukrainian Orthodox cathedrals shine in the skies of one of Europe's poorest nations, in Crimea, you will find Turkic architecture and cave cities! Not to forget the marauding Cossacks who are remembered on Dnipro River's Khortytsya Island, and in music and dance rituals.To be sure, not all Ukrainians remain excited about such traditions. The Russian-speaking south, east, and centre might be proud of the Cossack history, but the Ukrainian-speaking west prefers the Carpathians' Hutsul culture. Meanwhile, the Crimean Tatars can be seen making a comeback in their homeland.
Thus, the successes that post-Orange Ukraine has achieved are but small steps towards creating a new national identity. By hosting the Eurovision song contest back in 2005, abolishing most visas to allow more overseas visitors, co-hosting the European Football Championships in 2012, and aspiring to host the Winter Olympics in 2018, Ukraine is hoping to show off its new and increasing capabilities to the world and this is one of the reasons why you should contact our local connection to book your hotel in Ukraine.
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