Ukraine currently has the status of a developing Eastern European state. Progression is on the horizon, but its landscape and scenery have always been valued by tourists. Foreign business prosperity is questioned and under scrutiny, but the rise in serviced apartments construction says otherwise.
Populating around forty-five million people, the Eastern European country of Ukraine is the second largest in Europe. It has several bordering countries, the biggest being Russia in the east, whilst Belarus, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania and Moldova border Ukraine from north-west to the south-west. The south-east, including the disputed area of Crimea, has the Black Sea coastline. The most populous city Kiev, also spelt by many as Kyviv, is in the north of the country. The capital was visited by around 1.5 million people last year, which is twice of the number of arrivals three years ago. Business venture has contributed to this increase, and a necessity for Ukrainian serviced apartments has therefore emerged.
Previously known as Kievan Rus, Ukraine has a history intertwined with its neighbouring Eastern European states. Ukraine’s original foundations come in the 9th century though, when it was colonised by the Vikings. Following come ten centuries of outside influence, from the likes of the Ottoman Empire and western nations such as Poland. Despite braving years of foreign intervention, the people could not do it alone, and this invited the Treaty of Pereyaslav in 1654. This enabled the suzerainty of Moscow, leading to Kiev becoming absorbed into the Russian Empire. Ukraine has since declared itself independent of Russia twice now, in both 1918 and 1991. The Russian Empire and the Soviet Union both devastated the country and tensions are still high between the two states. Amid all of this was the nuclear disaster of Chernobyl in 1986, widely known around the world as one of the most disastrous power plant accidents in history.
It would be hard to say that Ukraine’s economy is one of the most prosperous in Europe. Once a powerful nation, the eastern European state’s frustrations with Russia in its eastern regions have limited the progression of its economy. However, there is still potential. Trusting Ukraine and its capital secure aid from the International Monetary Fund and its positive economic reforms are implemented soonish, Ukraine’s economy has great potential to grow.
These reforms have an aim to encourage foreign direct investment with incentives, a promise to target anticorruption, ensure macroeconomic stability and progress privatisation. Some would argue its already on the rise, with growth rising from 2.5 to 3.5% by 2018. It may seem a tiny part of the economy, but the exports of automotive ignition wiring sets grew from £20 million to £1.217 billion between 2000 and 2017. This is one of the fastest growing exports over recent times and shows the economic potential of Ukraine. Whilst the last few years have admittedly been tough, business potential is growing like the demand for Ukrainian serviced apartments.
Only citizens of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Moldova and Uzbekistan can enter Ukraine visa-free for an indefinite stay. However, all citizens of EU countries, the US and Canada can also enter Ukraine without a visa, but only for up to ninety days. Other national citizens are exempt too, so be sure to visit the website of the Ukrainian Embassy or Foreign Affairs.
Driving in Ukraine can be a rewarding experience once you have gotten the hang of it. This is easier said than done though, with Ukraine having a reputation for rash driving along particularly hazardous road conditions. If you have your national driving license, an international driving permit, and third-party insurance, you are ready to hit the road. Potholes, almost non-existent roads, crumbling bridges combining with a barely followed set of driving rules can make driving in Ukraine a challenge. Whilst the process to improve road conditions is underway, progression is slow. Alternatively, you could book a taxi. Fares are usually agreed over the phone and confirmation of bookings is done through a convenient SMS notification system. Be aware that not all drivers are fluent in other languages, so Uber could be an even better alternative.
Past decades of economic decline and tensions with Russia has meant the country has struggled to develop like other European states. It is important to recognise this and respect the lifestyles of the Ukrainian people. The capital is known to have some popular eateries and bars, so it’s worth having some of the national currency on hand. This is the Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH) and can be exchanged for a range of currency in Ukrainian banks. Do not smoke and drink in public places either, as well as avoid photographing military establishments. Otherwise, you stay in Ukraine should be hassle-free, but for your peace of mind, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/ukraine.
Ukraine perhaps does not get the credit it deserves with regard to its landscape and scenery. Usually unspoken about is the country’s famous river, the Dnieper. This is the fourth largest river in Europe, passing through Russia, Belarus and Ukraine before reaching the Black Sea. Worth visiting on the river is the Kremenchuk Reservoir and Khortytsia island. Both are the largest of their type on the river and showcase unique architecture, stunning scenery and the natural beauty of Ukraine. Serviced apartments in Kiev grant you easy access to these truly distinctive sites.
Glimpses of past Ukrainian heritage and culture are also dotted around the country. Ukraine is famous for its Orthodox churches, and two great examples are the Dormition Pochayiv Lavra near the town of Novy Pochaev and Saint Sophia's Cathedral in Kiev. The Lavra is the largest orthodox complex in Western Ukraine, rising over 180 feet and crammed with representations of the previous Kievan Rus. Saint Sophia similarly portrays this fascinating era of Ukrainian history, and become the first World Heritage Site of the country. Its one of Kiev’s top tourist attractions and its architectural prowess astounds anyone who visits. Why not compliment your business adventures with these fantastic attractions with ease when staying in Ukraine’s corporate accommodation.
Whilst Ukraine may not the first place that comes to mind when you think about profitable business venture, the country does have secret potential that goes unrecognised. The only way is up for Ukraine and the future is bright. Our serviced accommodation should be your first choice when planning your stay in Ukraine.
Located around twenty miles east of the capital Kiev, this airport is the country’s largest and is responsible for all intercontinental flights.
Sky Buses can provide easy transport to the city centre, and there is a great variety of taxis available out of the airport’s Terminal D.
Covering over 14,000 miles of track, Ukraine’s rail network is the fourteenth largest in the world. There are over 1,700 train stations supplying connections to major and smaller destination all over Ukraine.
Three types of train function in Ukraine; Express trains, Pasazhyrsky poyizd and Elektrychka. These all vary in pace, comfort and price. When asked for tickets, be prepared to show your passport too.
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