IF – I was to do this all over again – this is what I would do.
Arrange a long term apartment in outer Kiev or smaller city like Lvov (beautiful place) Ivano Frankivs’k etc – ( I have picked on Ukraine – because its so simple now without all the Visa/invitation letter crap – plus you can stay 90 days if you want)
If you haven’t been to FSU b4 – maybe team up with another man with same intentions (I am sure it could be done on this Forum) and go over late summer.
Do some contacts via all avenues available from home b4 hand (Agency contact – direct 1 on 1 contacts) also find out physical address of Agency’s – also any socials that might be available to go to whilst you are there etc.
Go there – relax – get the feel of the public transport etc – then set to work.
Be careful at night, stay together and don’t get pissed – and if alone – better not go out at all late night.
I know what its like (and I know it would be a little easier with support/company) I have spent much time moving around parts alone – my wife (then fiancée) was sick for a week – so I went out every day to get stores etc. Everyday – there were opportunities !!!!
The younger ones (without child in 20’s) seemed more available and approachable and gave the “come-on” more frequently. They were more usually in 2’s also – great if 2 of you. Ask – “excuse me – u know a little English – need a little help with direction – find flowers etc” buy some flowers and walk around with them Boy - you get the looks and smiles then !!!!!!! (not with your mate beside you though)
My wife and I got separated on a train from Lvov – Uhzgarod (western Ukraine) The lady who was coach warden/steward – saw my predicament (it was a bad one – no money/passport or bloody train ticket - just two bloody big suitcases) She teamed me up with her 19 yr daughter who spoke 50% English, the mother did everything she could to keep us together, changing seating etc. I ended up having the time of my life for 6 hours. The mother was very pissed when we got to the other end and my fiancée was waiting for me. That was where I 1st noticed a big difference between Kiev women and smaller outer city people – they definatly have a better angle on wants and wishes than their big city sisters. Much more suited to be wooed and swept away West !!!!
Those people on that train – who gave me drinks – cell phone usage etc – wouldn’t take a cent at the other end !!!! Great people – GREAT !!!!!
I would definatly tend to go “smaller city” than large like Kiev. Way cheaper and different attitudes and expectations.
Anyway – its doing dating more like you would at home – but with one huge difference – the availability pool is way – way - BIGGERRRRRRRRRRRRR !!!!!!!!!!!!
You know, I never really tried the "man in the street" approach - just walking up to women and asking if they spoke English, but if I eve find myself available again I might.
On day in Mariupol I need some simple AA batteries for my camera. In America, of course, you can get AA batteries at any convenience store, grocery store, drug store, gas station, electronics store (the list goes on an on). In Mariupol - I went to several stores, including a grocery store and an appliance store with no luck. I couldn't read the cyrillic writing on most store windows so I didn't know where else to try, but having a dead battery in my pocket, I thought I would ask people.
I got the warmest smiles and nicest responses from a few young beautiful women (in their 20s) who seemed MORE than willing (downright anxious) to talk with me (these women were drop dead gorgeous). They seemed s bit put-off and annoyed when I produced the old battery from my pocket and told them that I was just looking for a store that sold them.
Yes, sir. I think the "man in the street" approach would have possibilities.
Jet
What's your comment/thoughts on pairing up with another chap ????
I am sure its been done b4 - but not that I have witnessed on here. Remember Toad and Izi went to Yekaterinburg together but went their separate ways out the Air Terminal door - think Izi could have done with a minder or 2 !!!! Didn't he get tipped over ???
Wish he was still here – always plenty of drama and things to discuss !!!!
On a first visit to the FSU (where neither guy knows anything) it might be a good idea. Or when both HAVE experience - and they can go off their seperate ways dring the day in pursuit - it seems to make sense.
But if one guy knows very well what he is doing and the other is a newbee - it might be a problem for the first guy.
On my first vist - I asked every single male friend I had to go along - some thought that the entire idea was crazy, some said they couln't afford it. So I finally went it alone and had a great time.
When I came back and told of all my woderful experiences - it seemed like guys were coming out of the woodwork to come along on my next trip. But by then I already had a girl I intended to stay with (three's a crowd you know) and I didn't relish the idea of showing a new guiy the ropes on my limited time.
But I only had a couple of weeks - the plan you give above about having a few months - it might make sense to go with another guy - could keep expenses down and safety up.
And one great thing about the Romance Tours is that you always have someone to share experiences with. In your suggested idea you would too.
For what it's worth, I'm making my first trip within the next 8 weeks from here in rainy old England (thunder & lightning today)
I've always been afraid of the thought of flying though, and dont think I can face it on my very first time leaving Britain so, I'm thinking train or coach, checked them out and both take 2 days to get to Kiev from UK. I've also read that some people here like to drive it, can you believe, but when I suggested driving it to one of my girls in a letter, she said no way, Ukraine five o like money too much and will stop me every few miles for no reason just to relieve me of my hard earned.
Anyway, dunno if anyone in UK is intending to go to Ukraine soon but if so, I'd happilly join you. I'm going to Kherson for a day, maybe 2, then Berdyansk.
Mate, bit the bullit....eventually you will HAVE to fly. Think of it this way...you will be able to spend more time with girls!!!! Also, from statistics, there is a better chance of you dying in a car crash! Does this stop you from driving....NO, you are even thinking of driving what...1000 miles????
Get a MP3 player,close your eyes, and 2-3 hour trip will over.
To get over your fear of flying - as soon as you get on, take your shoes off. If you are able - cross your legs while sitting in the seat assuming the full Lotus position. With palms up and head back (to release the pressue in the back of your neck), close your eyes and start chanting this: "We're all going to die. We're all going to die."
I guarantee that soon help will come along. Airline personnel will see to you, and you won't have to woory about flying (or crashing) at all that day.
Who you talking to bbilly29 ???
If its SirDaniel - then just watch for a recent post by him and - ask then. Direct email address's used to be under the "nick name" on left panel - but not now for some reason.
If it was me - I am not going - well - not without my wife !! :-)))