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Before You Go: Ukraine Travel Basics

By , About.com Guide

What do you need to know before you travel to Ukraine? What's Ukraine's currency and how can you pay for goods and services in Ukraine? Find out in the following Ukraine travel basics.

Travel to Ukraine - What it Means

Ukraine is an Eastern European country that has a struggling economy and a burgeoning independence. Long under the yoke of Russian domination, Ukraine has asserted its power as a nation. While travelers to Ukraine will find this Eastern European nation beautiful, not all conveniences can be taken advantage of in Ukraine.

Travel to Ukraine - Currency

Ukraine's unit of currency is the Hryvnia. US dollars can be exchanged easily in Ukraine, and it is important to keep some local currency handy at all times. Major credit cards, while accepted at large establishments in major cities, will not be accepted everywher, and it is best not to count on using them to pay for food, goods, or accomodations. Using traveler's checks is not recommended.

Travel to Ukraine - Visas

Citizens of the US, Canada, UK, and EU nations only require a valid passport if they are staying in Ukraine for less than 90 days. Australians and New Zealanders require visas. Immigration cards must be filled out upon arrival and presented at customs upon departure.

Travel to Ukraine - Vaccinations

While no vaccinations are required for entry into Ukraine, all travelers should be up-to-date on their immunizations. Hepatitis A shots should be considered, as well as those for diptheria and typhoid fever. Tick-borne encephalitis is also a risk in woody or overgrown areas.

Travel to Ukraine - Drinking Water

Visitors to Ukraine should avoid drinking tap water. Bottled water should be purchased, or tap water thoroughly boiled before consumption.

Ukraine Travel - Getting Around

Most travelers will get around Ukraine using the train and bus systems. It is also possible to book domestic flights within Ukraine. Getting around Ukraine's cities will depend upon the public transport there - some cities have metros, and others will have systems of trams, trolley buses, and regular buses.
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