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It is hard to put labels on the whole country and state with complete certainty that people there are all funny, grumpy or friendly. After all, we are all different. But I’ve decided to visit 5 most popular Ukrainian tourist destinations to answer the question: are most of the Ukrainians friendly?
Kyiv City
Friendliness level: High
Kyiv is the main city of Ukraine and can serve as both transit town and the final destination of any journey. Statistically, Kyiv attracts majority of tourists from Germany, US and UK. I love Kyiv for its beauty, unceasing social and cultural everyday life. As a capital, it is full of young and active people, always open for communication. Crazy pace of life, constant festivals and social events create amazing atmosphere.
No problems: In shopping malls, cafes and in the central streets people are welcoming and easy to talk to.
Uzhgorod City
Friendliness level: High
Western Ukraine is well-known for its hospitality, and Uzhgorod isn’t an exception. Even though it is a small town, its population includes ethnic groups of Hungarians, Polish and Austrians. Uzhgorod gives a very European impression even though the people there often struggle with job finding and prefer to work abroad. Main tourist attractions are beautiful historical buildings and annual Sakura Festival.
No problems: The city mostly lives off the tourists and that’s why you’ll meet the nicest attitude.
Possible problems: I’ve noticed that drivers in Uzhgorod rarely stop at crosswalks and don’t drive safely in general, so you need to be a double careful while crossing the streets.
Odessa City
Friendliness level: Medium
If people told you, that Odessa is a unique city with unique people, they were right. It seems, that people of Odessa have built their own sense of humor and view of life. And oh do they proud of it. I’d say, that you might need some time to get used to the ethnic humor of people in Odessa and their way of interacting. Because commonly, it may sound a bit rude. But overall, Odessa is a city where you want to come back again and again.
No problems: I’ve met absolutely no problems in restaurants in the center of the city. Attentive stuff and the best service. I also find the fact that people go to the local parks almost every evening to listen free concerts and relax together absolutely adorable.
Possible problems: Scams and pickpocketing in crowded places. And for God’s sake, if you doubt your bargain abilities, don’t even try buying something at the local markets like Privoz.
Lviv City
Friendliness level: Extreme
Honestly, I don’t know any other city where people welcome you with open arms like they do it in Lviv. People seem happier there, with wide smiles on their faces and extreme hospitality. What’ve impressed me the most, is the caring attitude of the apartment owners. Very polite, they often offer homemade sweets, treats and can be flexible with the time schedule.
Personally I’ve never experienced any rude treatment while visiting Lviv. People on the streets were very polite and ready to talk.
Possible problems: Even though Lviv is a big regional city, it basically turns out at night. Of course, you can find night clubs and bars, but the streets become extremely dark and deserted.
10 things that prove Ukrainian friendliness.
1. Underground safety. The Ukrainian underground is equipped with heavy swinging doors, which can hit pretty hard, if you won’t catch it in time. Ukrainians always hold the door open for the person behind.
2. Hospitality. Ukrainians show their hospitality on so many levels: from the friendly greetings at the airports to the gatherings at home. If you are invited to somebody’s home, get yourself ready for the lots of treats, drinks and fun.
3. English speaking. The majority of people under 35 can understand and speak English. This fact really helps in the communication process.
4. Ready to help. 8 out of 10 will stop and give you an advice or show direction, if you ask.
5. Great sense of humor. Ukrainians prefer to deal with stress and minor troubles with humor. They can be pretty sarcastic, but never mean.
6. Trust. Despite political and economical hardships, people trust each other even in small things. For example, you can often witness how people pass the passenger fare in small local buses without being concerned whether someone can take it.
7. Politeness. You will see people offering seats in public transport to seniors, pregnant women or people with kids all the time. I personally believe, that this is a definitive sign of an overall positive personal development and kindness.
UKRAINE NEWS | ARE UKRAINIANS FRIENDLY