Experience in Kiev, Ukraine by Ielyzaveta

What is it like to live in Kiev? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

If you want to be in the centre of all the events, Kiev is for you. The biggest concerts of the famous stars and the biggest festivals are there. The most interesting and smart people are there. There is also a wide choice of cinemas and theatres for all the tastes. The opportunities for a job are the highest in a country. As Kiev is built on the hills you may always enjoy the many beautiful views from these hills to the river Dnieper. Kiev is not a stony city, there are many big parks, forests and lakes to have a rest at. The city has many fantastic places for bicycle riders. But... very often the weather doesn't correspond to the calendar. It's usually about 10 degrees centigrade colder than in the south of Ukraine. There may be a lot of snow in spring and a lot of rain in autumn. Kiev is not for people who like warm or hot climate.

What is the student lifestyle like in Kiev?

Some students like to go to nightclubs and pubs very often, someones sing, dance or play at the theatre, some go in for sport, some study day and night, some belong to one of the subcultures (punks, goths, heavy metal fans, hippies). There is always a wide choice of activities.

How much does it cost to live in Kiev?

If you rent an apartment/room/bed you have to earn at least 3000-4000 UAH/person/month (including food and transport). Food and transport are about 2000 UAH/person/month.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Kiev? Is there any advice you can give?

To find accommodation from an owner is very difficult. Real estate agents occupied almost everything. They charge half of the price you pay for the flat. They are very importunate. If you have time, search from an owner, if not, rent through real estate agents.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

You may find very natural and tasty food at the markets where people come from villages with their own products... There are also many good posh restaurants of different cuisines in Kiev. I like salad Cesar and warm salad with liver which you can order at restaurants in the centre. Pizza is also good almost everywhere. Don't buy sushi at the supermarket. They are not very tasty.

What places would you recommend visiting in Kiev?

Independence square, Sofia's square, Nations Friendship Arch, Maryinskiy park, Andrew's descent, the Museum of the Great Patriotic War and the area around it, Poshtova Square, Institutska street, area around of the Golden Gate, Landscape Alley, Gryshko's Botanique Gardens, Fomin's Botanique Gardens.

Is it good to eat out in Kiev? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

If you have money, pretty good. My favourite restaurants are Ruthenian Club 'Cult Ra', Shaherezada, Whisky Corner, Shchekavytsya, Spotykach. There are also good low-cost restaurants like Puzata Hata, Zdorovenki Buly, Drova, Olivie, Trapezna.

Is the nightlife good in Kiev? Where is good to go?

Nightlife is good but I don't follow nightlife style. I just know that Shooters and Coyote Ugly are good night clubs.

What advice would you give future students headed to Kiev?

Studies is first, entertainment is second! Always watch your wallet and telephone. Don't trust bad-known people.