As we’ve covered before, there are some things that you should be aware of when visiting Ukraine so that they are not shock to you when you get there. The country is considerably different from what many people are used to, and by knowing ahead of time what some of the most common complaints are before you get there, you go forewarned and well armed to deal with them. Here are a few more we found.
Secondhand smoke – Not every country in the world has gone to a ‘No Smoking’ policy. It is more common to see a smoker in public places in Ukraine that not, and they feel that they are the ones with the ‘right of way’. Subways, trains, and fast food restaurants are always smoke free in the country, and while the government has passed laws that bans smoking at bus stops and underground crossings as well as designating a non-smoker area in at least half of a restaurant, the law is not being enforced yet. If you are non-smoker, be aware that you will be the minority in Ukraine.
Pedestrians and drivers – If you are a pedestrian in any city in Ukraine watch the roads carefully and don’t cross any streets unless they are free of traffic. Ukraine drivers do not pay attention to pedestrian crossings or light colors and if you should happen to be hit by someone while crossing the streets you are the one at fault. Additionally, watch out for taxi drivers over there. They have no qualms about breaking the laws.
Monetary change – When at all possible, try to pay for an item with exact change or attempt to determine what kind of change the cashier may ask you for so that they can return your money in the easiest denomination they can. This is not because cashiers in Ukraine can’t count; it’s because monetary change in the country is short and they are reluctant to part with it and would prefer to hand you paper money instead.
Punctuality – The lifestyle of the average Ukrainian citizen is chaotic to say the least, so do not get upset if you are to meet with someone from the country and they are late. They are going to assume that you will amuse yourself or get additional work done while waiting for them. Make the best of it as often 5 minutes in Ukraine is really 20 minutes everywhere else.
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Responses to 'Common Issues When Visiting Ukraine Part 2'