I just returned from my first trip to Ukraine. I spent 5 nights in Kremenchug. From the top:
Kiev-Borispol Airport: I decided I was going to declare nothing -- not my cash, my digital camera, my cell phone, any other electronics or the diamond earrings I had in a jewelry box in my carry-on, and I didn't get a second look from the Customs officials. Out of the airport in 15 minutes.
Ride to Kremenchug: I had hired a driver, and by American standards, I think that the professional drivers in Ukraine (including the taxi drivers) would run circles around the NASCAR people here. But, if you don't like high speed driving, close calls, and extreme tailgating, you may want to walk. Personally, I loved it.
First night in Kremenchug: I went with the woman and the translator to a bowling alley. Within 30 seconds I felt some liquid hit my arm, and I turned back to look and realized that some guy flicked his straw at me. After asking the translator to tell the guy that I would beat the piss out of him if he did it again, he walked away and I had no problems from him, or anyone else, for the rest of the night.
Nights 2-5: I didn't spend all that much time with the woman I went to meet due to her busy schedule, so being a younger man of 33 I decided to go out by myself. At first I was a little bit leery due to the straw incident, but a few drinks cured that, and I walked the streets alone. I went back to the bowling alley, bought a round of drinks for all of $15 USD, and instantly made 20 friends. I was pleasantly surprised by the high percentage of people that spoke intermediate/advanced English, and had no problems communicating my wants to the bartender, or anyone else that was there.
I was invited out by several people, and of course, foreigners are cautioned to not go with strangers... But, the aforementioned drinks built up my courage, and I soon found myself in a taxi with 5 other people, and they took me out to see the city, and I had a GREAT time. No problems at all. I made it a habit for the last 4 nights I was there, and usually went out with a different group each time. Of course, being financially advantaged, I bought most, if not all, of the drinks, but for $50-$60 a night and a good time, I didn't care.
Things of interest:
If you spend money in the clubs, you can ALWAYS get money changed, no matter what time it is. Just ask for the manager. I don't think I went to a bank after the first night.
I was approached by a police officer... I thought I was going to get shaken down for a few bucks, but he asked me if I wanted a prostitute! I declined, but for those interested, he offered her to me at $17 USD.
Most, if not all, of the women in the clubs expect payment for sex -- even if they like you. The guys I was out with told me that was the way things were, and they were used to paying a few dollars for sex. What the heck...I pay for it here in America too, except the women call it "dinner and a movie."
Kiev-Borispol on the way out: I was asked how much cash I had, threw out a number, and that was it. Nothing was searched, nothing was taken, no problems. I even lost my immigration card, and the Customs guy said jokingly that "I was bad," but no problems there either.
I think that's about it. If I think of anything else, I'll post it. All-in-all, I had a great time. If anyone has any questions, just ask! :)
So I guess the woman you came to meet didnt work out? ive read a few post that someone like yourself travels all the way there to end up hearing the woman(s) you came to meet can be with you much because they are busy. I dont know that just sounds wrong. If someone traveled halfway around the world to see me and i didnt attempt to see them all i could i would feel bad.
Yeah, she got a job like 2 weeks before I went, so with classes and that, she was busy. I could've visited her all I wanted at work, but I passed. The way I look at it there are 3 options for a woman there:
1. Have nothing
2. Afford something by working
3. Afford something through prostitution
If you can find a woman in category 1 or 2, you got it made. :)
I think a lot of these east Euro girl think we men are so wealthy in the west that travelling half way around the globe is something we do just for our health.
I had a very sincere sounding girl. What reenforced her sincerity was that she was only average in looks. But when I got there, she began making one excuse or another before she began to not even turn her phone on.
But I agree there. There girls are too self-centered to care what you want. They only know what they want.
I don't understand it either. Oh well... Next time, if I go, I'll meet every woman they have at the agency. I learned my lesson. And yes, self-centered is a good word. All dressed up and nowhere to go...
mrh, nice report, regardless of how it turned out with your girl, it appears you had a good time. And cheers for standing up for yourself, (the straw incident) I think many guys would have just let it go.
you may have answered your own questions.
if you watch there TV the west is all Hollywood and all what's rich.
rich Russians think its a competition and show off there wealth to show they have more.
there standing is all about wealth now not once who they were, its how many $1500-$2000us dress shirts are hanging in wardrobe, i got more then that American attitude.
you are half expected to turn up on your white horse (limo) ride off into sunset (private plane) so she can be bathed in milk and honey.
i also fish for that big one, "fishing with a fishing rod".
a lot of these girls are coached by agency.
they are coached hard not to give any private details, postal address, email.
they are coached don't trust westerners, don't mention money.
so they sit and hope for that white horse with......... balding fat westerner:)
these girls do live in a confusing world over there of all extremes.
they see wealth every day, but not in their hands.
there is the exception and some will try their best for you.
average or stunner makes no difference it seems.