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Ukraine: An Underrated Tourist Destination In Europe

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When many people think of taking a European vacation they probably imagine strolling along the Seine with their lover, or seeing Michelangelo’s David in Florence. I mean, those are both two amazing things to do. However most people would even consider traveling to Ukraine. It is a country at war, the winters tend to be unbearable, and Eastern Europeans have a reputation of being unfriendly. All that being said, Ukraine is still an underrated tourist destination and one that should be on travelers radar.

What Is There To Do In Ukraine?

Ukraine is a large country. In fact, it’s the largest country entirely in Europe. This means that there is something for everyone! From adventure travelers to those just looking to relax, you can spend months exploring the country and still not tire of things to see and do.

If you are looking for a city break you can’t skip out on the capital of Kyiv, nor the cultural capital of Lviv. For adrenaline junkies you can go skiing in Bukovel, or white water rafting in Vorokhta. And if you are just a good old nature lover then camping by the sunken city of Bakota or the uninhabited Dzharylhach island could be for you.

5 Amazing Places To Visit In Ukraine

1. Lviv – A Beautiful City In Western Ukraine

The cultural capital of Lviv has a storied history. From being the capital of the kingdom of Rus to a part of Poland, the pearl of the Austrian Empire to the gem of an independent Ukraine. There are so many things to do in Lviv almost anyone can have a great time.

For dining I highly recommend a trip to the most popular restaurant in Lviv, Kryivka. This restaurant in a bunker under Rynok square is themed, but don’t let that put you off. The walls are papered with interesting artefacts from one of the most tumultous periods in Lviv history. Youc an see old military medals, propaganda posters, and plenty of old (non-functioning) weapons.

2. Bakota – A Less Than Easy Place To Go Camping Like A Local

The site of a submerged city, Bakota, is currently a reservoir connecting to the Bug river. This is a very popular camping spot for Ukrainians and there are plenty of activities you can do. I like to just relax and enjoy nature, but you can go boating, fishing, or hiking the cliffs around the area.

You will need a car to get there as public transportation doesn’t really exist, but that just means you’ll have to do a bit of car camping.

3. Dzharylhach Island – The Largest Island In The Black Sea

Dzharylhach Island is an uninhabited island in the Kherson region of Ukraine that is another beautiful place to camp. You can only get there by taking a ferry from the mainland, and there are no accommodations other than tents. Rest on the soft white sand or play with the dolphins that come very close to shore.

If you do spend some time there you have to try the island specialty – stingray borsch! This soup is made daily by the shanty little cafe near the pier. And don’t forget to see the sunset by the famous Dzharylhach Lighthouse!

4. The Pink Lake – One Of The Most Unique Places In All Ukraine

Located on Arabatska Strilka, about 6 hours by bus from Kherson City, is one of my absolute favorite places in the whole country. Officially named Henichesk Lake, this natural pink lake is an amazing sight to behold.

The color is due to a non-harmful bacteria that thrives in the high salt content of the lake. Many people even take salt home to cook with it, I know I brought a few kilos back! Make sure to wade out as far as you can go so you can see the most naturally pink section.

5. Kyiv – The Capital Of Ukraine

No list about places to see in Ukraine would be complete without Kyiv. A capital going back all the way to Kievan Rus, the city is a mix of classic Eastern European architecture and ugly Soviet commie-blocks. However don’t let the ugliness deter you. The city is lively and fun if you know how to do it right.

Spend some time at the Bukta food center on the Dniper river, or hit up an amazing pool party in the warm months. Walk through beautifully manicured parks and see the Mariinsky Palace, or visit the Pechersk Lavra – an historic cave monastery filled with the bodies of Orthodox saints.

About the author:

Alona Tiunina is a travel blogger from Ukraine who has been to (almost) every region in the country. When she is not traveling she enjoys binge watching Netflix and scouring airline tickets for her next trip.

Destinations

Unforgettable Adventures to Know About For Lovers and Family Alike

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Going on a shared adventure is a well-known way to strengthen relationships. Whether you want to get to know your lover better or want to enhance your family bonds, it’s worth taking some time out of your normal day to go on an adventure. As you plan an unforgettable adventure, it helps to use these ideas that lead to memorable experiences.

Plan a Romantic Escape

If you’ve ever watched a couple run off into the sunset together on horseback, then you already have an idea of how this adventure can inspire romance. Take a moment to picture you and your beloved one riding on horseback together in a gorgeous landscape setting. Most horseback riding adventures last from one to two hours. You can use this time to admire each other’s beauty along with the amazing scenery.

Make Memories With Family-Friendly Fun

Sometimes, you want to bring your kids along on an adventure. In this case, horseback riding taps into your child’s love of animals. Plus, they’ll have an adventure that they won’t be able to wait to tell their friends about. Family-friendly horseback riding adventures can be shorter when you have children under eight years old in our group. Taking them for a short walk around a lake helps them gain confidence on the horse for the first time. Soon, you can bet your child will ask to do it again as they develop more skills.

Explore the Beauty of Nature Together

The best adventures take you out of your comfort zone and encourage you to experience things you might not get to enjoy during your daily life. Exploring the outdoors on horseback involves multiple changes of scenery. On your ride, your guide might take you through a stream crossing. You may also go down an old log road as you learn more about the history of the area. As you ride, remember to keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer and wild turkeys that further give you and your companions a deeper appreciation of nature.

Establish Unforgettable Bonds

Sharing unique adventures helps to reinforce your bond with your loved one by showing you new aspects of their personality. Watching as your loved one sits atop a horse may give you more insight into their strength and willingness to try new things. You’ll also enjoy sharing the memories of the beautiful things you saw and experienced together. Making sure that your adventure stands out from your daily activities further heightens the positive effects of your shared experience. To create even stronger bonds, consider turning your adventure into an overnight rusting camping trip that gives you more time to spend together without the intrusion of phone screens.

Once you’re enjoying your adventure, remember to leave some time in your day to share your thoughts about the experience. Talking to your partner or family member about your favorite parts of going horseback riding or on a carriage ride helps to strengthen your memories. In fact, you might even find that you look forward to repeating your adventure on future dates such as your anniversary or a family member’s birthday.

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Destinations

Vacation Ideas Based On 2018’s Oscar-Nominated Films

Amazing vacation ideas inspired by the settings of some of the best films of 2017.

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2017 was a great year in movies. So many amazing films made by some of the best directors and actors of our generation. And a lot of them were set in very cool places too! So when planning your next vacation, why not consider the settings of some of your favorite movies of the year? Here are the 6 best vacation spots that come to us from this year’s Oscar-nominated films. 

NORTH YORKSHIRE, ENGLAND (PHANTOM THREAD)

Easily one of the more visually beautiful films of 2017, Phantom Thread owes a lot of that beauty to its location of North Yorkshire. Tucked along the coastline, it provides amazing views in every direction. And be sure to visit the Victoria Hotel in Robin Hood’s Bay to recreate the moment Daniel Day-Lewis first meets his muse!

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA (LADY BIRD)

Perhaps the perfect location for a film about a teenager looking for more, Lady Bird takes place in the California state capital of Sacramento. And while not typically considered a desirable travel destination, it is the perfect exemplification of a town someone could become nostalgic for without planning on it. Nothing beats that California sunshine!

LONDON, ENGLAND (DARKEST HOUR)

If you’re looking to take a vacation in some place rich with history than you can’t do much better than the setting for Darkest Hour, London, England. Visit the famous landmarks of Big Ben, Downing Street, and Buckingham Palace. But be sure to “Keep Calm and Carry On’ while you do!

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO (COCO)

Coco may be an animated movie, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it’s setting! Well, technically the film didn’t take place in Mexico City. But the animators used specific elements of the city when designing the movie’s locations. Just be sure to plan your trip around Dia de los Muertos. It is not to be missed.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (THE POST)

If you want to experience the energy and fast-paced lifestyle of a political journalist, then look no further than the setting for The Post, Washington, D.C. Some of the crowds and lines can be annoying, but it’s worth it to experience such important American history.

NORTHERN ITALY (CALL ME BY YOUR NAME)

 Italy is famous for being one of the most beautiful countries in the world. With its elegant and timeless architecture, winding cobblestone roads, and rolling hills, the Italian countryside is indeed worth experiencing. Take your time, relax, and contemplate what it must have been like to come-of-age in such an incredible place. 

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Destinations

A UK Bar Pretends To Be A Church To Get Around Pandemic Rules

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royal guard standing near lamp post

The pandemic has made it difficult for some businesses to run, which is why this bar is getting creative by registering as a church to their customers

With everyone being in lockdown and not being able to go out, not a lot people have been able to offer up prayers to the 400 rabbit gods, and with 2020 being the hot mess that it is, a tequila joint in Nottingham, England is planning to change that and keep their business afloat, as well. 

England just got out of its second nation-wide lockdown as of December 2, and now implements a system where they have tiered restrictions. Nottingham currently sits on the highest risk, the tier 3 category, which states that businesses targeted towards hospitality will stay closed with the exception of delivery or takeout.

Church of 400 Rabbits is an Aztec-themed bar that has an extensive choice of tequila and an application to become a worship center that is currently waiting for approval from Nottingham’s registrar general.

This bar decided to mix spirits with spirituality in hopes that it can implement a loophole in the COVID-19 rules of England, which says that if you’re a church or a place of worship, groups from the same bubble or household can enter your business. 

After posting their application that will certify their bar to operate as a place of worship, Church of 400 Rabbits is now looking for devotees through their website.

People who are interested in becoming a Bunny Believer can do this for free, and with a small fee of $13, (£10), you can be ordained as a Reverend, with a t-shirt that you use as your official robes. 

James Aspell, owner of Church of 400 Rabbits isn’t too hopeful that Nottingham will consider the application, but says that it’s an attempt to show how ridiculous the tier system is and how some of the rules are contradictory.

He says that it’s difficult because the government insists on these strict rules but that there is little to no financial support. Aspell believes that even if they moved down to a tier 2, they wouldn’t be able to open without dishing out substantial meals, and adding that it’s another Scotch Egg debacle. 

For those of you that don’t know what a Scotch egg is, it’s a hard-boiled egg that is wrapped with sausage meat and breadcrumbs. After a lot of debate, it has been considered a substantial meal by Michael Gove, who came under fire when he described it as an appetizer. 

Church of 400 Rabbits isn’t the first business that tried to apply as a place of worship, as Atlantic Squash and Fitness Club also rebranded to Church of the Healthy Body to keep their gym open.

Aspell notes that the number of devotees for 400 Rabbits is multiplying rapidly, as rabbits would and has decided to donate all proceeds to a Nottingham homeless charity group. 

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