Service in restaurants
As is the case for most of Ukraine's formerly soviet neighbors, the national food sector is still struggling to redefine its livelihood as dependent on the quality of service it provides. Service in all restaurants has improved markedly in the last three years. However, the pererva (midday break), once atradition in Western restaurants to accommodate the switch from the lunch to dinner shift, is still an institution in many Ukrainian eateries. Wherever possible, break hours have been noted, but they can change, so it may be worth calling ahead to make sure you will be served in mid-afternoon.
Your Order
The average Ukrainian menu can read like a grocery list: 150 grams of pickled mushrooms, 200 g of fried potatoes, 150 g of chicken cutlet, and 50 g of garnish. You'll find each of your options clearly laid out for you - great for those carefully monitoring their diet, but otherwise a bit puzzling. You should look at this as a rare opportunity to choose in a post-soviet society. Unfortunately some menus are a little vague as to whether the prices given are per portion or per weight. So if you only have a lirnited amount of local currency, it's probably worth asking before you order.
Your Bill
There are several curious aspects to a typical Ukrainian bill. The first is that bread, fruit baskets, and even butter or cream which in other places might be complimentary can appear on the bill with inflated prices attached: to avoid this unpleasant surprise, inquire before consuming such 'gifts'. The second is a 5-10% charge at the end. Be assured: this is not, as yet, a tax. This is the service charge, and you can freely tip in addition - or not -depending on how happy you are about the service provided.
And Remember: It is now officially legal only to accept payment in the national currency. Still, many restaurants will exchange foreign currency, though often not at preferred rates. It is best to ask up front whether hard currency is accepted, and at what rate.
Dining out at a Ukrainian home
Ukrainian people are very hospitable and cordial. So,when eating at a Ukrainian home, be prepared to eat whatever they serve you. And don't bother telling a Ukrainian that you don't want any more food because they do not know the meaning of the word "No." They'll probably serve wine or vodka to drink, so if you don't drink alcohol, ask politely for juice or tea. As for the food, it's very tasty. The special thing about Ukrainian Cuisine is that the meat is as a rule fatty and oftentimes the potatoes are fried.
Airports
Almost all international flights to Kiev arrive at Boryspil International airport, located 30 kilometers from the city center. The city's other main airport Zhuliany-Kiev, located seven kilometers from the center, handles domestic flights. Save all the documents you receive and fill out while going through customs - you will need these to leave the country.
The most convenient way to get from Boryspil airport to downtown Kiev is by taxi.
Taking into account the fact that that taxi drivers do not usually speak English, you should have your destination written in Russian or Ukrainian.
Taxis
Although you can order a taxi, there is little need. Private cars and taxis swarm the city streets. To hail a car, simply put your hand out in the road and a car will stop. Private cars, meaning locals who have cars sometimes act as taxi drivers, cost significantly less than taxis.
Metro
Kiev boasts a very convenient, safe, and inexpensive metro system. Buy tokens at any metro station; currently, one token costs 50 kopecks. One token allows you to transfer from line to line.
Trolleys/buses
These are a good and cheap way to travel around Kiev. You can purchase tickets (price 50 kopecks) at bus stops or from a controller on the trolley/bus.
Rail information
Kiev is connected to European and Asian cities via an extensive network of railways. The capital's only station is located right next to the Vokzalna metro station.
Train travel is the least expensive and most convenient way to reach just about anywhere.
Electricity
The standard electric voltage in Ukraine is 220 volts. If you bring electric appliances, make sure to take a plug adapter. For expensive equipment like computers, it is a good idea to bring a surge protector.
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