Kiev Check-in Magazine - Dec 2017-Jan 2018

DEC17-JAN18

Discover

Kiev

-

the

City

of

Intrigue

Merry Christmas!

CHECK INSIDE: The Hottest EVENTS and New Year’s Parties 2018 WINTER FUN in Kiev

Secrets of Successful Entrepreneurs Is Your Job Safe From Automation?

New vs. Old Apartment: The Investor’s Dilemma

CONTENTS EDITOR’S WELCOME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 TOP EVENTS CALENDAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-14 WHAT’S NEW IN THE CITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 TOP IDEAS FOR THIS WINTER - Kiev Winter Fun . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-19 TOP IDEAS FOR THIS WINTER - Shopping Destinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 TOP IDEAS FOR THIS WINTER - Beat a Path to the Bath! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22-23 TOP IDEAS FOR THIS WINTER - 4 Cool Hotels to Explore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24-26 INTERVIEW - Interview with prima ballerina Kateryna Kukhar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28-29 INTERVIEW - Interview with Sinan Ertemel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 SLOVENIA - Take me to Slovenia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32-33 IT - IT Trends, Automation, and You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34-35 ENTREPRENEURSHIP - Are You an Entrepreneur? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36-37 ENTREPRENEURSHIP - Guide to Private Entrepreneurship in Ukraine . . . . . . . . . . . . 38-39 BUSINESS TOURISM - Organizing conferences in Ukraine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-41 REAL ESTATE - Pros and Cons of Buying a New Apartment in Ukraine . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42-44 BUSINESS LISTINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46-47

G R E E T I NmGthe Editor fro

Dear Kiev citizens and precious guests, A chill is in the air, long, dark nights are settling in, and as we anticipate the first snow and the changes winter brings to our natural surroundings, it’s time to start thinking about the holidays!

Scrolling page after page of this Kiev Check-in issue, you’ll discover what drives Kiev city life in the majestic winter season, from advice about business and conference planning to the hottest ways to thrive and have fun when it’s cold out, which we hope will bring some warmth and cheer to our readers in the coming months.

While preparing the December/January issue — perhaps our favorite edition all year — our team has been plunged into a joyous, festive spirit. And no wonder! Kiev Check-in saw its debut back in January 2017, so this marks a full year of publication. We are enormously glad to share our enthusiasm for Kiev with you and are thankful to our readers for sticking with us and providing great feedback, priceless support, and a whole lot of inspiration. All of us made this first birthday happen, and I am very proud to have been a part of it!

On the eve of 2018, the year of the Yellow Dog, our team wishes you a wonderful Christmas and a new year filled with love, happiness, and laughter.

Your path to success in 2018 Aries / Ukr. Овен “Keep your eyes on the stars and your feet on the ground” Taurus / Ukr. Телець “It’s the friends we meet along the way that help us appreciate the journey” Gemini / Ukr. Близнюки “Travel far enough, you meet yourself” Cancer / Ukr. Рак “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade”

Leo / Ukr. Лев “If the crown fits, wear it!”

Virgo / Ukr. Діва “Improvement begins with I” Libra / Ukr. Терези “A man with dreams needs a woman with vision” Scorpio / Ukr. Скорпіон “Honesty is a very expensive gift, Don’t expect it from cheap people” Sagittarius / Ukr. Стрілець “Go for the moon. If you don’t get it, you’ll still be heading for a star”

№ 11 (11) DEC 17 JAN 18

-Chief, Editor-in akovenko Y Nadiia Capricorn / Ukr. Козеріг “Family is the most important thing in the world” Aquarius / Ukr. Водолій “The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary” Pisces / Ukr. Риби “It’s the small things done often that make the difference”

All the materials published in Kiev Check-in are intellectual property of the publisher and protected in accordance with Ukrainian law. Publisher does not accept any responsibility for the goods and services advertised in this magazine. While every effort has been made to make sure information provided in this magazine is accurate and up-to-date, the publisher is not in anyway liable for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions.

ADVERTISE WITH US

Kiev Check-in is an English language bimonthly magazine, aimed to promote tourism to Kiev and highlight local events, news, attractions, leisure options, and investment opportunities in the city.

Registration Information: Contact Ukraine LLC Publisher: Kiev Check-in is registered Chief Advisor: Pradeep Boparai with Ministry of Justice of Ukraine Editor-in-Chief: Nadiia Yakovenko as a print media (license number КУ № 802-439Р).

Legal Advisor: Tetiana Yakovenko Marina Bochok, Editors: Printing Doreen Martens, House: Natalia Demers

Sales Director: Nataliya Shamray llona Ryabchenko Designer: Photography: Shutterstock, iStock, Light Studio Photo Space

Each bimonthly issue of our magazine is available and distributed through more than 100 businesses in Kiev including leading hotels, cafes, restaurants, pubs, bar, clubs, business centers, embassies, business associations, various events, etc.

Our Kiev Check-in brand extends beyond the pages of the print magazine to our website www.kievcheckin.com where we optimize the magazine content for online searches.

FOLLOW US ON: kievcheckin

For advertising or general enquiries, please contact us at kievcheckin@contactukraine.com or tel. +38 068 1180505, +38 093 253 9048 Scan and visit our website here

ENTERTAINMENT

TOP

EVENTS CALENDAR

Step inside the magnificent, multicolored kaleidoscope of Ukrainian traditions, holidays, and events and feel the full flavour of New Year’s festive mood in Kiev!

ST. ANDREW’S DAY On this day, the faithful of the Orthodox Church honor the memory of St. Andrew, the Christian Apostle and brother of the Apostle Peter.

Despite its deep religious essence, this holiday is celebrated with great cheer in Ukraine. By tradition, it’s a day when unmarried women can learn something of their destiny in love and marriage by stepping outside in the evening and asking the name of the first passing stranger. It is believed that his name will coincide with your future husband’s name!

THE NEW YEAR The New Year is one of the most important holidays of the year, arriving at midnight on December 31. Ukrainians believe the way you spend New Year’s Eve will say a lot about how that year will go. That’s why they try to have everything perfectly ready: prepare a rich table, gather the family together, and eagerly await the moment when the clock hits midnight to toast, greet each other, and enter the New Year with peace, happiness, and high hopes. Some important customs of the New Year celebration in Ukraine include putting up a Christmas tree, drinking champagne, enjoying a rich variety of dishes including the famous Olivier salad, making wishes while the bells chime, watching a famous romantic comedy The Irony of Fate, and enjoying bright fireworks, revelry and dancing until the early hours.

During these festive days be especially curious, discover some wonderful local traditions, and enjoy a fiery New Year’s celebration in truly Ukrainian style!

4

Kiev Check-In

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

HOLIDAYS & TRADITIONS

December 04 - Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary (“Vvedynya”) December 07 - St. Catherine’s Day December 13 - St. Andrew’s Day December 19 - St. Nicholas Day December 25 - Western Christmas (National holiday, day off) January 1 - The New Year (National holiday, day off) January 6 - Christmas Eve January 7 - Eastern Orthodox Christmas (National holiday, day off) January 13 - Malanka January 14 - Old New Year January 19 – Epiphany January 22 - Ukrainian Unity Day SAINT NICHOLAS DAY Why celebrate this day, and what is its meaning? St. Nicholas was a man who devoted himself entirely to helping those who needed it most, for this reason, he has become known as Father Christmas. Some people believe he is still alive. First and foremost, this is a joyful occasion for children, who write letters to St. Nicholas on the eve of the holiday, asking for presents. They believe that on this magic night of December 19, a kind grandfather with a lush white beard (as St. Nicholas is customarily portrayed on icons) comes with a large bag and puts gifts under the pillows of kind and obedient children, while naughty ones get a twig. One must say that sometimes it really happens, but no child has managed to see St. Nicholas personally yet.

EASTERN ORTHODOX CHRISTMAS The warmest and most revered holiday in Ukraine is Christmas Eve, the evening before Christmas, which Orthodox Christians celebrate on the 6th of January. On this day Ukrainians try to create an atmosphere of happiness, peace, abundance, and tranquility.

Traditional homemakers cook 12 incredible dishes, representing the twelve months of the year. Kutia is a main dish always served first at the Ukrainian Christmas Eve supper. It is a dish of boiled wheat berries mixed with poppy seeds and raisins. When the first star appears in the sky –in biblical legend, heralding the birth of Jesus Christ – Ukrainians begin the festive meal. The supper starts with a blessing and lighting of a candle in memory of one’s ancestors. The next morning, on January 7, it is customary to go around making dropin visits, offering holiday greetings, carolling, and wishing wealth and prosperity to the owners of each house. www.kievcheckin.com

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

FESTIVALS in Kiev

Dec 9-10

Dec 16 Jan 14

Dec 18-24

Dec 15-17

Dec 15 Jan 31

Dec 16-31

Dec 19 Jan 14

www.kievcheckin.com

Top Events Calendar ENTERTAINMENT

December 9-10 CHRISTMAS KURAZH BAZAR Art-Platforma (1a Bilomorska Str.)

One of the biggest festivals of Christmas goods and products – “Kurazh Bazar” will represent almost 370 Ukrainian brands and will offer visitors food, clothing and New Year presents. While children can take pictures with good Santa at one of several photo zones, visit master classes and have fun in a company of fairy characters, adults are welcomed to take a photo near “bad” Santa, drink winter cocktails and enjoy a real party.The entrance will cost UAH 50 - 80. www.facebook.com/kurazhbazar Dec 16-Jan 14 WINTER LAND AMUSEMENT PARK Expocenter of Ukraine (1 Akademika Hlushkova Ave.) Christmas festival Winter Land Amusement Park will be held in twenty locations, interesting both for children and adults. Entertainment program includes gifts fair, animator shows, master classes and showrooms of creative Ukrainian designers. Participants of the event will also be able to attend skating rink adorned with the kilometers of shining garlands. Entrance to Winter Land Amusement Park is free, but still some big zones will need a ticket. www.expocenter.com.ua/ua/news/newslist/3999 Dec 18-24 MEETING WITH ST. NICHOLAS Museum of Folk Architecture and Life of Ukraine Meeting with Ukrainian ethnic Santa – St. Nicholas or St. Mikolay is scheduled before New Year celebrations in Pyrohiv area where outdoor Museum of Folk Architecture and Rural Life locates its breathtaking landscapes. During the festive event, visitors will get acquainted with Ukrainian authentic Christmas traditions, attributes, and decorations.Of course, St. Nicholas himself will give presents and wish happy holidays to all children.

Entrance fee: UAH 40 for adults, UAH 10-20 for children. www.pyrogiv.kiev.ua/golovna/ anons-podii/260-zustrich-iz-sviatym-mykolaiem-2017.html December 15-17 “ST NICHOLAS BOOT” PRE-CHRISTMAS FAIR Ukrainian house (2 Khreshchatyk Str.) While Santa kindly puts presents under the Christmas tree, St. Nicholas leaves gifts under the pillow or inside children’s shoes. That is why the name of the fair “St. Mykolay boot” means a lot to Ukrainians. You will surely like rich assortment of products here: Christmas cookies and other sweets, aroma lamps, candies, thematic decor for your house, books and Ukrainian literature. www.icc-kiev.gov.ua/agenda/yarmarok-svyatkovikh-podarunkiv-chobitok-svyatogomikolaya-s Dec 15-Jan 31 ICE AGE FEST Spivoche Pole Park (25 Lavrska Str.) At the festival, which is going be located on the picturesque hills of Kiev, all comers are welcomed to try riding 30m and 50m snow slides on inflatable sledges (snowtubing), dog sledding and delicious Christmas meals at 5 food-courts. In addition, on the territory of the event, there will be contact zoo with puppies, a special place where one can not only watch but also freely communicate, play and feed animals. Ticket for Ice Age Fest costs UAH 50. www.facebook.com/events/631694870553739 Dec 16–31 (weekends) VSI.SVOYI CHRISTMAS FAIR 12 Desyatynna Str. Winter holidays are fast approaching and if you still do not have presents for your friends and family, it is great spot for you! The festive fair Vsi.Svoyi will help you easily find everything to put under a Christmas tree, starting from delicious candies and home-made chocolates, ending with exclusive tableware, perfumes, textile, toys, home decor and clothing. www.facebook.com/vsi.svoi Dec 19- Jan 14 THE MAIN NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS Sofiyska and Mykhailivska Squares The grandiose New Year celebrations will be traditionally organized in the historical center of the capital, Kiev’s Sofiyska and Mykhailivska Squares. The bright Ukrainian and European traditions, an impressive set of neon illuminations and installations, fabulous Christmas tree, Christmas fair and a lot of other attractions are waiting for visitors from mid-December for a whole month. www.facebook.com/events/157855118138737

Kiev Check-In

5

ENTERTAINMENT

Top Events Calendar

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

CONCERTS & THEATRE

Dec 9 SHLYAGER OF THE YEAR National Palace of Arts “Ukraina”

Dec 9 M1 MUSIC AWARDS

DEC 12 LP

(103 Velyka Vasylkivska Str.)

Pavlo Zibrov, Ivo Bobul, Nina Matvienko, Petro Chorniy, Dima Kolyadenko and many other Ukrainian favorite celebrities will entertain guests of the 12th “Shlyager of the year” award ceremony held in the National Palace of Arts “Ukraina”. A ticket price is UAH 200-2000. palace-ukraine.com/afisha/321-Hit-theyear#buy

In the middle of December, major Ukrainian musicians and showmen will compete for the title “Best singer”, “Best music video”, “Best singer duet” of 2017 within the prestigious event M1 Music Awards.

Among famous participant of gala-concert are Tina Karol, the Hardkiss, Monatik, Mozgi, Vremya i Steklo, Alekseev, and others. Ticket prices vary from UAH 1000 to UAH 5900. www.facebook.com/events/ 1196317327104616

LP became popular in the world with the hit “Lost on You”. But few people know that previously talented girl wrote songs for Rihanna, Backstreet Boys and Cher. This summer when LP came to Kiev, the fans showed her true hospitality – 6,000 tickets were sold out immediately. That is why the singer is coming again to the capital of Ukraine – to show more. kiev.karabas.com/lp

Dec 16 – Jan 14 NEW YEAR’S CIRCUS

Dec 17 THE WORLD FAMOUS GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA

Dec 23 - JAN 08 HOW CHRISTMAS WAS STOLEN

National Circus of Ukraine (2 Peremohy Square)

“New Year fantasy” show invites everyone to the Christmas tree lighting ceremony and to meet favorite cartoon heroes, Santa Claus and Snow Maiden. Best performers of Ukraine will tell you a fairy story about Snow Queen living in the ice palace and the brightside fighters – amusing minions trying to battle her dark forces.

Numerous surprises and gifts are waiting for you at the National Circus of Ukraine.

Ticket prices vary from UAH 50 to UAH 490. www.circus.kiev.ua/novorichna-fantaziya

6

Kiev Check-In

Palace of Sports (1 Sportyvna Square)

International Center of Culture and Art (1 Instytutska Str.)

Glenn Miller created his striking orchestra in the 30’s of the 20th century. Then he could hardly predict their performances would become popular not only in the United States but also all over the world.

Even after Miller’s mysterious death, the fame of the swing style project doesn’t decrease, on the contrary – today three official orchestras are performing songs on behalf of the band. kiev.karabas.com/ua/the-world-famousglenn-miller-orchestra

Palace of Sports (1 Sportyvna Square)

National Palace of Arts «Ukraina» (103 Velyka Vasylkivska Str.)

A little trickster does everything for Christmas celebration not to take place.

The idea of ​​spoiling the most important holiday in the year seemed so fantastic!

However, while the main character is busy with planning his perfect crime he forgets and then discovers what true love, kindness, and fun are. Ticket price varies from UAH 100 to UAH 300. palace-ukraine.com/afisha/354-ChristmasHijacker-24-12-1#buy

www.kievcheckin.com

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

www.kievcheckin.com

ENTERTAINMENT

Kiev Check-In

7

ENTERTAINMENT

Top Events Calendar

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

December 2 Olimpiyskiy National Sports Complex (55 Velyka Vasylkivska Str.)

A large-scale charity event in Kiev: the 25th

r IWCK a a z a B Charity

For 25 years, on the first Saturday in December, IWCK (the International Women´s Club of Kyiv, consisting of spouses of diplomats, expats, and foreign businessmen) has organized the international community’s biggest charity event in Kiev! The main purpose of the IWCK Charity Bazaar is to raise money for those in need in Ukraine: orphans, elderly people, disabled kids, and others.

What is IWCK?

Here’s what’s happening at the 25th annual IWCK Charity Bazaar:

•Some 41 foreign embassies have confirmed they’ll be participating, each with their own booth selling national products, including food and drink.

•Items for sale at the Bazaar are new or previously used but in good condition, including home appliances, electronic gadgets, DVDs, and more.

•As per tradition, the event will be accompanied by a cultural program (music, dance, and workshops) representing various countries and continents.

•A Kids’ Corner will give youngsters the chance to explore various craft master classes and traditional games.

•Visitors can try their luck at the Grand Raffle/Tombola, in hopes of winning valuable prizes including airline tickets, gift certificates for restaurants and hotels, gifts from the embassies, etc.

The entrance fee is UAH 80 for adults, UAH 20 for seniors and children (6-18 years old). All funds generated during the Bazaar will go to charity.

IWCK is a non-governmental, non-profit organization founded in 1992 by a group of foreign women headed by H.E. Ms Ingabor Kristofassen, the first Ambassador of Belgium to Ukraine and the first president of IWCK. At the moment, this organization has more than 250 members from 59 countries, including representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited in Ukraine, women in the cultural and business communities, and wives of diplomats and businessmen. www.facebook.com/events/137545470336624

Valerie Stulíková IWCK President 8

Kiev Check-In

“One of the magical things about the Bazaar is the way it brings people together.

It involves serious team-building in our international community, as we start preparations in September. To make this event happen, we need more than 1,000 volunteers. Among them are diplomatic spouses, spouses from the international business community, many Ukrainian university students, and people who have simply fallen in love with the Bazaar—all of these are members of our “Bazaar family.”

If you are new to Kyiv, joining in Bazaar preparations is a great way to find many new friends and learn about Ukraine, too. The IWCK Bazaar is not only about big sponsors, but also the endless creativity of IWCK embassy volunteers, many of whom are making, for example, handmade crafts, and thinking what would best sell at the Bazaar to raise money for the charity. Sometimes it is hard work, but it’s hugely rewarding to see how many visitors come and enjoy it. They love seeing the cultural program, trying exotic drinks and dishes, and just speaking to some of the many foreigners living in Kyiv. Every year, we are able to raise over 3 million UAH, which is then spent on projects that support, for example, children with disabilities or the purchase of special hospital equipment. Together we can create things of benefit to the community and send out a lot of positive energy to people who are in need.”

Photos credit to Thierry Malfatto www.kievcheckin.com

ENTERTAINMENT

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

Dec 26 NEW YEAR’S HOLLYWOOD IN KIEV

Dec 26-Jan 2 ”STAR ODYSSEY”

A sensational project of Kyiv Metropolis Orchestra covers best soundtracks from favorite Hollywood movies. Visiting gorgeous performance of real maestros, you will enjoy OST fairy melodies from the beloved Christmas films and animations such as “Home Alone”, “Happy New Year”, “Ice Age”, “A Christmas Carol”, “Santa Claus”, “The Polar Express”, “Harry Potter”, and many others. Be ready for the evening full of miracles and adventures. Ticket price varies from UAH 200 to UAH 1,150. kiev.karabas.com/ua/hollywood-in-kyivnovogodnij

This year, small spectators will have a fantastic interactive performance which is based on games and dialogues with curious viewers. The show will amuse the audience with the wonderful bright suits and special effects. Polina, being on vacation, accidentally receives the SOS signal from New Year’s Santa Claus station: “We’re in trouble! The Space Pirates have stolen all the gifts!” This means that Christmas is under threat and Polina is the one who is in charge of rescuing winter holidays. A lot of planets and incredible adventures are waiting for her on the road. kiev.karabas.com/ua/volshebnyj-mirrozhdestva-2-zvezdnaya-odisseya-15

International Center of Culture and Art (1 Instytutska Str.)

Premier Palace Hotel (7/29 Tarasa Shevchenko Blvd.)

On December 21, Caribbean Club Сoncert Hall invites you to see the unique Freedom Jazz show - ENCORE! This show combines theatrical performance, high-quality sound and magnificent atmosphere that will fill you with energy for the whole year ahead. What can be better way to say goodbye to the old year?

The charming girls from Freedom Jazz can easily draw big audiences in Europe and America.

In Kiev, they had 9 shows this year and tickets were sold out within just a few days.

Be ready to ‘melt the ice’ and kiss a stranger in the Caribbean Club Concert Hall on December 21.

Contacts: Caribbean Club (4 Symona Petlyury Str.) +38 (067) 224-41-11 caribbean.com.ua

Jan 3, 4, 5 CHRISTMAS MUSICAL PERFORMANCE

Jan 12 JOE COCKER TRIBUTE

Guests from 82 countries have already seen shows led by genius Richard Montez and now it’s time to admire Broadway Christmas musical for Ukrainian spectator. It will tell an American story about romantic love and bring inspiration and joy to the audience. The organizer promises to surprise you by bright costumes, fantastic music, choreography, and visual effects. Ticket price varies from UAH 200 to UAH 1,150. kiev.karabas.com/ua/ rozhdestvenskij-myuzikl-2

The project of the Lviv Jazz Orchestra and the finalist The Voice show, singer Anis, is dedicated to the King of the Cavers - Joe Cocker. The tribute concert of talented Ukrainian musicians will present musical masterpieces of the legendary vocalist performed by the best musicians of Lviv. The unique velvet baritone of Anis will open the door to a new vision of Joe Cocker’s music. parter.ua/ua/event/kontserty/rok/joe_ cocker.html

Malinskaya Hall (16 Malinskaya Str.)

www.kievcheckin.com

Central House of Officers of the Armed Forces Ukraine (30/1Mykhaila Hrushevskoho Str.)

Kiev Check-In

9

ENTERTAINMENT

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

Ho ho ho, dear friends!

It is said that the way you spend New Year’s Eve is the way you’ll spend the rest of the year. On that magical night, no one wants to be alone, because in our hearts we’re all hoping for something fabulous, exciting and new. As hints of the coming holidays are starting to appear all around the city, we’re eager to help you plunge into New Year 2018 with a fantastic party!

On New Year’s Eve, the Coyote Ugly bar will be transformed into a hot version of Lapland, with beautiful coyote dancers, warming cocktails, special gifts, and an exciting, fun and convivial atmosphere. Get ready for a brilliant show with one of the cutest DJs in Kiev keeping you wide awake into the wee hours with an unforgettably festive celebration right in the heart of the capital.

You are very welcome at 9a Mechnykova Str.!

An admission fee will be charged, and you’ll need to make a deposit to reserve a table for New Year’s Eve. DC|FC 18+ Call for a table reservation: +38 044 363 06 88 www.coyoteugly.com.ua #coyoteuglykiev

December 31, 8 p.m.

Plunge into the New Year’s Carnival!

Caribbean Club 4 Symona Petlyury Str. Jan 12-13 NEW YEAR’S ICE SHOW

Palace of Sports (1 Sportyvna Square)

A perfect combination of opera singers and figure skating stars in the accompaniment of the “Naoni” orchestra will lead you through an exciting journey into the world of the classical melodies and New Year’s atmosphere. A chic of Renaissance ballrooms and palaces of Europe from the XVIII-XIX centuries will come alive right there, in 2018. kiev.karabas.com/ua/novogodnee-ledovoe-shou

Jan 27 VIVA VIVALDI

Architect’s House (7 Borysa Hrinchenka Str.)

The project of “Kyiv Orchestra Metropolis” gives inspiration and joyful mood to the audience with their splendid show – Viva Vivaldi.

The concert program will consist of the greatest melodies written by Antonio Vivaldi, operas performed by Ukrainian opera singer Susanna Chakhoyan, the owner of the charming and strong voice is going to perform arias with her soprano timbre. kiev.karabas.com/ua/viva-vivaldi

10 Kiev Check-In

www.kievcheckin.com

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

ENTERTAINMENT

New Year holidays in City Holiday Resort & Spa Charge yourself with positive energy for the next year!

Kiev, 5 Velyka Kiltseva Str. +38 044 3716888 +38 067 4668410 cityholiday.com.ua www.kievcheckin.com

Kiev Check-In

11

ENTERTAINMENT

12 Kiev Check-In

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

www.kievcheckin.com

Top Events Calendar ENTERTAINMENT

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

SPORTS

Dec 7 FC DINAMO – FK PARTIZAN

Dec 14 WWFC 9

On December 14 at 8 p.m., Olimpiyskiy National Sports Complex will gather 70 thousand sports fans under the same roof to watch the 2017/18 UEFA Europa League group stage matchday 6 game between FC Dynamo Kyiv and a Serbian professional football club Partizan. www.nsc-olimpiyskiy.com.ua/events/dinamo-partizan

The prestigious International Mixed Martial Arts Tournament will be held at the Kiev Sports Palace. There will be two title fights for the WWFC belt of world champions, as well as fights with the participation of the leading professional fighters of Ukraine, Europe, America and Central Asia. wwfc.in.ua

Dec 16 MAN ON THE RING

Dec 24 NEW YEAR’S YOL HALF MARATHON

The trendy Caribbean Club will host the debut show of the Ukrainian league of amateur boxing “Men in the ring”. Among participants are the representatives of medicine, security, construction and IT business from Kiev, Kharkiv, and Zaporizhia. Among the guests you will see a former WBO super welterweight champion Serhiy Dzyndzyruk, EBU European Champion Max Bursak who held the European middleweight title in 2013. www.concert.ua/ru/eventpage/men-on-the-ring

Yol Marathon is the funniest event of the New Year’s holidays due to the rule that claims - every runner should have a witty Christmasthemed costume. In order to participate, you need to buy a ticket (UAH 350-2000) that includes a set of surprises: winner’s medal, a brand bag, Santa Claus red hat and presents from the Half Marathon creators. gonka.com.ua/events/yule

Olimpiyskiy National Sports Complex (55 Velyka Vasylkivska Str.)

Caribbean Club (4 Symona Petlyury Str.)

www.kievcheckin.com

Palace of Sports (1 Sportyvna Square)

Vyshgorod embankment

Kiev Check-In

13

ENTERTAINMENT

Top Events Calendar

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

BUSINESS & EXHIBITIONS

Oct 27–Jan 6 “ANONYMOUS SOCIETY”

Pinchuk Art Centre (1/3-2 Velyka Vasylkivska Str.)

Dec 4 TOP FORUM UKRAINE

Hilton hotel (30 Tarasa Shevchenko Blvd)

The provocative exhibition tells a story about Ukrainians who try to find their identity after Soviet Union collapse and includes works of fifteen artists. Eccentric works highlight challenges Ukrainians face after they have become an independent part of international community. The exhibition “Anonymous society” highlights that people should find their own uniqueness instead of living under the ghosts of the past, Soviet Union. pinchukartcentre.org/ru/exhibitions/ doslidnitska-platforma_-anonimnesuspilstvo

Business representatives, financial, auditing companies will gather on the conference that will become a platform to expand the professional network, share experience, and learn fresh tendencies in the professional area.

Top Forum speakers are going to discuss international banking, global real estate, opening accounts for Ukrainian citizens challenges as well as recent tendencies and projects for attracting foreign investments, taxation system of Ukraine, crypto-currency and blockchain progress. topforum.info

Nov 21 – Jan 21 MODERN JEWELRY ART

Dec 8 UKRAINIAN GAMING SUMMIT 2017

Ukrainian Museum of Historical Treasures (9 Lavrska Str. / 21 Ivan Mazepa Str.)

Logo of the event “Fragile moment touches eternity” represents a concept of the contemporary unconventional method of jewelry making. During the exhibition, participants can enjoy artworks of the best Ukrainian jewelers who are famous all over the world. Before you visit Ukrainian Museum of Historical The registration is required. www.facebook.com/events/356674008126917

14 Kiev Check-In

Hyatt Regency Kiev (5 Alla Tarasova Str.)

More than 100 participants of Ukrainian Gaming Summit 2017 will discuss information and technology trends, bitcoin system in the Eastern Europe and approaches to governmental industry regulation. Among the speakers are Iryna Sergienko (President of the Ukrainian Association of the Gaming Industry), Nina Yuzhanina (Head of the Committee on Tax and Customs Policy), Serhiy Marchenko (Deputy Minister of Finances), Jerome Vacher (IMF Representative in Ukraine). ugs2017.com.ua www.kievcheckin.com

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

What’s new in the city TRAVEL&TOURISM

What’s New in the City?

NEW DIRECT FLIGHTS CONNECTING KIEV AND LJUBLJANA!

Adria Airways has just relaunched a route connecting Kiev and Ljubljana after a five-year break. Currently, there are three flights per week, allowing travel to Kiev on Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays departing at 10:35 p.m. and arriving at 1:40 a.m. local time. Flights to Ljubljana depart on Mondays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 5 a.m., arriving at 6:20 a.m. local time. There have been no direct UkraineSlovenia routes since 2012, so passengers have had to fly through Budapest or Venice. “We believe that with this new service, not only do our passengers gain better connections to Kiev, but we will also be connecting Ukraine to other European destinations via Ljubljana,” says Adria Airways managing director Arno Schuster. www.adria.si/en

UKRAINIAN DOCUMENTARY WINS FIRST PLACE AT WARSAW FESTIVAL

The Ukrainian film Air Defenders was recognized as the best in the documentary category at the VIII Fly Film Festival of aviation films, held Oct. 26–28 in Warsaw. It tells the story of the crew of the AN-26 military transport aircraft that was shot down over Luhansk (Eastern Ukraine) on July 14, 2014. It was a support flight meant to bring food and other supplies to government forces in the Eastern Ukraine. The movie has already been screened in Poland, France, Germany, and Austria.

www.kievcheckin.com

150TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE NATIONAL OPERA OF UKRAINE

On Nov. 8, the National Opera House of Ukraine celebrated its 150th anniversary. On this day in 1867 the first performance, the opera Askold’s Tomb by Alexey Verstovsky, debuted there. Since then, the National Opera has become beloved by locals and foreigners alike, and every year performances there amaze and win the hearts of appreciative audiences. To commemorate this significant anniversary, new coins (UAH 5 and UAH 20) have been struck with the image of the National Opera House of Ukraine. In addition, the first volume of the encyclopedia The National Opera of Ukraine was presented in Kiev on Nov. 7. To order the сommemorative coins online, visit bank.gov.ua/WebSelling

LOCAL LEGISLATION NEWS

As Ukraine is a developing country, the legislation here is constantly changing. Among the recent legislation updates are the approvement of the Medical, the Pension, and the Judicial reforms

by Ukrainian Parliament.

Also, the Ukrainian Parliament passed a bill according to which December 25 (Western Christmas) will become a day off and, thus, in Ukraine Christmas will be officially celebrated twice (December 25 and January 07). Besides, the holiday of May 02 was canceled so the total number of official days off remains the same.

Kiev Check-In

15

ENTERTAINMENT

Top ideas for this winter

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

KIEV WINTER FUN

WHERE TO GO? WHAT TO SEE? HOW TO CELEBRATE NEW YEAR’S EVE? Yes, it is winter. Feel like going into hibernation mode?

Instead, enjoy it as much as you can. What does it take?

Free time and an urge to have fun! The options of outdoor and indoor activities in Kiev include skiing, beaching (seriously) and everything in between. Here are some cool ideas for your consideration.

PHOTO: «Selfish Club», Bor yspil Raion, v. Kuiliv, 21 Naberezhna Str., +38 (068) 221 12 2, www.selfish.ua

Your perfect New Year at SELFISH CLUB - a winter fairytale amid pristine wilderness Welcome to the country resort known as Selfish Club, located in an incredibly charming natural setting just 55 km from Kiev. Notable for its impressive views of the Dnipro River and the beauty of its surroundings—particularly at this time of year, when the spruce forest sparkles with a frosting of fluffy snow—Selfish Club is ready to create an unforgettable New Year’s celebration and make all your festive dreams come true.

A cosy restaurant serving European cuisine, well-equipped winterized cosy gazebo, and Scandinavian-style houseboats that can host up to 50 people are at your disposal at Selfish Club. If you’re keen on an active holiday, you can enjoy a range of fun activities here, including a steam-bath, laser tag, paintball, several kinds of winter fishing, and barbecues where lucky fishermen can prepare and eat the catch of the day.

For its New Year 2018 celebration, Selfish Club has prepared a special festive

16 Kiev Check-In

program with fireworks, live band, and a traditional dinner.

Overall, this is a fantastic place to enjoy a family vacation during the Christmas holidays, a magical celebration of New Year’s Eve, or any kind of joyful event you’re planning to hold this winter.

What’s more, some believe that New Year’s wishes made in the cosy houseboat here are certain to come true!

Why not come and find out for yourself?

Kiev oblast, v. Kuiliv, 21 Naberezhna Str. +38 068 221 12 21 selfish.ua www.instagram.com/selfish.ua www.facebook.com/selfishclubkiylov www.kievcheckin.com

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

Top ideas for this winter

ENTERTAINMENT

WHISKY CORNER - a true piece of Scotland in the capital of Ukraine The Scottish house-restaurant Whisky Corner is a place where Сhristmas miracles will happen for you this winter! In addition to a great variety of meat and fish dishes served year-round, Whisky Corner’s talented chef has prepared an exclusive holiday menu with culinary delights to please gourmet diners throughout the festive season.

For those fond of old holiday traditions, including paying visits to friends and relatives, Whisky Corner has something special to offer: a juicy roast of beef prepared according to the best home-style recipe—just the dish to cheer your loved ones and enrich the New Year celebration (marked joyously as Hogmanay in Scotland) with delicious flavors.

And what would a Scottish-style holiday celebration be without the legendary whisky? Every day, Whisky Corner’s sommeliers organize a whisky tasting to introduce this legendary drink to beginners and to amaze aficionados with novelty varieties. If you are looking for the perfect hostess gift, this is the place to go!

Personalized bottles of whisky, testing sets, refreshing whisky samples (40, 100 and 200 ml) and much more are waiting for you at Whisky Corner.

16/16 Sophiivska Str. +38 050 480 38 03 +38 044 279 02 15 Open: noon to midnight www.facebook.com/WhiskyCorner www.whiskycorner.kiev.ua

• The New’ Years show on January 1st from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

• Christmas procession 12 p.m.–3 p.m., and Christmas concert 5 p.m. –8:30 p.m. on January 7.

What else to expect: varied live stage shows and evening concerts on January 2, 6, 8, 9 and 13 offering classical and modern music for every taste; charming outdoor Christmas decorations, merry-go-round, slides and more entertainment for the little ones; extensive food courts serving the

most delicious dishes of Ukrainian cuisine (yum!) and a variety of drinks including mulled wine (yay!); an interactive map for visitors to point out where they are from; a lively Christmas market with plenty of stalls full to the brim with handcrafted goodies, festive delights, and more.

Looks like a perfect place to wish your dear ones a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

CELEBRATE NEW YEAR at the heart of Ukraine From mid-December for a whole month, Kiev’s Sofiyska and Mykhailivska Squares will host the New Year celebrations – a fine blend of the best Ukrainian and European traditions, both Christmas and New Year’s.

This season’s highlight is an impressive set of neon illuminations and installations.

Just imagine standing in an amphitheatre under a bright starry sky made of a 33 kilometre-long garland! The Christmas tree will also be special: almost 30-metrehigh and changing a different colour every day, it will turn multicoloured on the New Year’s Eve. Lifehack: the place can get really crowded on days off, so if you wish to admire the two squares in their full Christmas glory with more elbow room, go on a working day around 4 p.m.

The festivities run from December 16, 2017 to January 14, 2018. Events not to be missed: • The Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Sofiyska Square on St. Nicholas Day, December 19, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

• The New Year’s celebrations on December 31st from 9 p.m. to midnight. www.kievcheckin.com

Kiev Check-In

17

ENTERTAINMENT

Top ideas for this winter

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

LANGUAGE CENTER TOP WAY invites you to join!

Top Way Language Center focuses on teaching Ukrainian, Russian, English, Spanish, German, Italian and French. It is located near Zoloti Vorota (Golden Gate) metro station, in the very heart of Kiev.

The language center offers courses for both adults and children. The 3 formats of training available are individual, pair and group lessons.

The duration of a course depends on the language and the level. For example, a Beginner`s course of Russian (level A1 according to the European Framework of Reference for Languages) lasts about 80 hours. You can choose between a standard course (typically 2 lessons per week) and an intensive course if you are limited in time (e.g. preparation for an exam or a short visit to Ukraine). Prices are competitive and free testing and trial lessons are offered here before each course.

The teachers at Top Way are qualified philologists with teaching experience.

Many of them have international certificates and experience of living or studying abroad. Because they are using a communicative approach, students start speaking the language after taking just a

• Russian and Ukrainian for foreigners • English • German • Spanish • Italian • French • Translation services • Excursions around Kiev

few lessons at our school. However, if you want to speak the language fluently you need to be ready to spend time and effort.

Top Way also provides translation services and excursions around Kiev in Russian, Ukrainian or English.

No doubt, Kiev is amazingly beautiful in winter so we would not hesitate to recommend you an excursion around the city in December 2017 or January 2018 when

the city is celebrating Christmas and New Year and is full of lights and decorations.

TOP WAY wishes you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2018!

37A, O. Honchara Str., office 1 +38 093 580 82 28 +38 067 799 82 28 +38 050 770 82 28 contact@topway.in.ua www.topway.in.ua

Hit the slopes!

PROTASIV YAR If you are an avid skier but currently can’t afford the time to leave the city, grab your skis or snowboard and head to Protasiv Yar. Kiev’s only ski complex with a proven 20-year track record of winter sports activities, Protasiv Yar offers its visitors four slopes which will satisfy the needs of beginners and experts alike. A 150-metrelong slope is reserved for kids, while you can choose between a 275-metre slope with a 60-metre elevation difference for beginners, a 500-metre slope for those skiers and snowboarders who’d like to improve their skills, and the 320-metre trail certified by the International Ski Federation, with an 80-metre altitude difference for professional skiers and experienced amateurs.

Especially dedicated ski fans will enjoy illuminated slopes for night skiing available every Saturday night.

The Protasiv Yar ski complex has two ski lifts accessible to the Skipass holders (free for children under the age of six), and all trails are equipped with snow cannons. It also features an excellent ski

18 Kiev Check-In

school with professional coaches, a wellequipped Snow Park for adventurous skiers and snowboarders, a zorbing centre, and a creative “DoSki” restaurant.

Lifehack: if you want your kids to learn how to ski, this is where Kiev’s best schools for children and youth are operating.

Last but not least: Protasiv Yar is the venue for the Ukrainian Olympic ski and snowboard team’s trainings, as well as for major national and international ski/ snowboarding competitions.

23a Protasiv Yar Str. Mon: small slope 2 p.m. –10 p.m., big slope 2 p.m. –3:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. –10 p.m.; TueThu: small slope 10:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m., big slope 10:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. –10 p.m.; Fri-Sun: small and big slopes 10 a.m.– 10 p.m.; Saturday night skiing 10:30 p.m.–4 a.m.; “DoSki” restaurant open daily until 10 p.m., and until 5 a.m. on the skiing nights. +38 044 33 82 6 82 www.gora.com.ua www.kievcheckin.com

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

Top ideas for this winter

ENTERTAINMENT

NOYABR RESTAURANT Rich Kiev cuisine steeped in numerous exciting stories On one of the coziest streets in the historic Podil district, you will find the gourmet restaurant Noyabr, owned by the famous TV presenter Ilya Noyabryov. The restaurant’s ambience and decor reflect Noyabryov’s love for his native city, with an atmosphere of fireside comfort.

The menu is based on unique recipes from Noyabryov’s book Kiev Cuisine, and brings together the delicacies of Old and New Podil, steeped in amusing stories. Among the rich variety of dishes presented here are local favorites such as Chicken Kiev (kotleta po-kyivsky) and Vorschmack, traditional red borscht soup, and green borscht with stockfish.

Additionally, this place is famous for homemade nastoyanka (an alcoholic beverage) and wonderful doughnuts at a symbolic price of UAH 10.

Every evening, diners can enjoy performances by the Harmonia musical duo, a married couple. The walls at Noyabr are adorned with works by the brilliant painter and artistic director of the 1988 Soviet animated film Treasure Island, which are for sale on site.

41 P. Sagaydachnogo Str. +38 096 707 25 25 www.facebook.com/novemberrestaurant restaurant-15684.business.site

Follow the summerDREAM ISLAND Dream Island – that’s the name of the very popular Jurassic Aqua Park – is an easy solution if you’ve missed beaching, swimming, tanning, the air at +30°C and the water at +28°C. One of Ukraine’s largest indoors aqua parks, it covers over 20,000 square metres and can accommodate 3,500 visitors at the same time.

Based on the Lost World’s concept, it boasts exotic plants and life-size dinosaur models (no prehistoric creatures were harmed during the making of this park).

There are 14 water-slides, a blue lagoon featuring an aqua bar, five swimming pools, two of them with waves and three with currents, spa areas, Jacuzzi, and a 700-square-metre area for the youngest water explorers.

Some like it hot, so will definitely enjoy the Dream Island’s nine multicultural baths, including Roman, Egyptian, Finnish saunas and Turkish hammam. If it gets too hot, you can cool down in an ice grotto!

After an hour of swimming and other water activities you will feel as hungry as a dinosaur. No worries: Hakuna Matata www.kievcheckin.com

aqua bar, several restaurants, a pizzeria and a sushi bar will quickly fix the issue.

Lifehack: along with your swimsuit and beach sandals, bring a hairdryer and two towels (leave one in your locker).

21-B Obolonsky Ave, Dream Town Part 2 Mon: small slope 2 p.m. –10 p.m. Admission UAH 140-250 depending on the age, day of the week and number of hours, free for children under the age of three; 30-day packages available from UAH 700-900.

There is a range of special deals UAH 110460 (families, groups of school pupils, students etc) Daily 11:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m aqua.dreamtown.ua

Kiev Check-In

19

SHOPPING DESTINATIONS

KASTORIA

Looking for exquisite fur goods of premium quality?

Welcome to the world of high-grade offerings produced by Greek and Italian factories: the Kastoria fur salon at Olimpiysky shopping mall.

The salon boasts a rich selection of goods, from classic American mink short fur coats to luxurious floor-length ones made of Barguzin sable, from short Arctic fox vests to long ones made of the fiery Red Fox. It’s the perfect place for fur junkies!

Kastoria guarantees high quality and is an official representative of prestigious Greek and Italian manufacturers in Ukraine that are ready to create exclusive items that best fit your size, taste and desires.

Olimpiysky shopping mall (72 Velyka Vasylkivska Str., 1st floor) 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. +38 098 996 42 00 www.instagram.com/kastoria_ua www.facebook.com/kastoriacomua kastoria.com.ua

LUCHYNSKA

LUCHYNSKA is the Ukrainian brand of accessories created by stylist Elena Luchinskaya in 2016. Bags of this brand are perfect finishing touch for the woman who wants to look vivid, fashionable and confident, but not brassy. Luchynska pays special attention to quality and comfort, often with handmade elements that make every piece absolutely individual and unique. The main points of shape and color always complement each other and are perfectly highlighted in Luchynska’s creations. Don’t look for a merely classic handbag in this collection; rather these pieces are timely and impressive, modern and playful.

LUCHYNSKA brand notes that every bag, every detail is created with love and to bring joy and favor to others. As the holiday season approaches, the best gift for someone special is the LUCHYNSKA accessories!

TsUM Shopping mall, CORNER WOOD (38 Khreschatyk Str., 2nd floor) 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. +38 097 186 86 86 www.facebook.com/luchynska.accessories www.instagram.com/luchynska_accessories www.luchynska.com

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

www.kievcheckin.com

ENTERTAINMENT

Kiev Check-In

21

ENTERTAINMENT

Top Ideas for This Winter

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

th to th a p

bath!

Beat

a

e

In a beloved 1976 New Year’s romantic comedy, The Irony of Fate, or Enjoy Your Bath, one of the characters proclaims: «You know, every year on December 31, we go to the bathhouse with friends.

This is our tradition ...» It is indeed a great tradition in Ukraine, a significant aspect of Slavic culture. So why not follow the example of the characters in the film and pay a visit to one of the Kiev area’s delightfully steamy bathhouses, a perfect way to escape winter’s deep freeze. Enjoy your bath, and let the miracles happen!

TSARSKAIA BANIA Tsarskaia Bania is a large, three-story complex near Kiev about 850 square meters in size.

Located in an ecologically pristine area among pine forests, it includes spacious, landscaped grounds dotted with picturesque buildings and cozy gazebos.

There is an Old Slavonic steam room, a font (cold plunge pool), cedar barrel sauna, phyto-room (for relaxing herbal aromatherapy), a spa-salon, a massage parlor and many other options to help restore soul and body, as well as space for celebrations and business meetings.

Tsarskaia Bania offers a wide range of services, including various steam-bath options in Slavic, Siberian, and Old Russian style, developed by qualified experts.

All procedures are performed by certified practitioners who studied at the International Academy of Bath Art. While men are taking a steam bath with their friends, women can discover a wonderful variety of spa procedures: chocolate or milk-honey wraps, cold steam, peels, fruit scrubs, etc.

22 Kiev Check-In

5 Brovarska Str., Prolisky (the village is 29 km from Kiev) +38 044 291 05 93 +38 067 812 73 73 8 a.m. - 1 a.m. www.facebook.com/tsarskaya.banya.kiev царская-баня.com

Men may join them later, as all of these procedures are available for them, too.

Also available to patrons are more than 10 types of massage, an open pool, gazebos in the open air, and a restaurant serving traditional Slavic cuisine, plus a grill-bar where you can chill out afterwards.

www.kievcheckin.com

Top Ideas for This Winter ENTERTAINMENT

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

ALEKSEEVSKIE BANI The sauna complex known as Alekseevskie Bani is a “secret” but homey place hidden from curious eyes. Guests are warmly welcomed by the owner, Alexеi, and his wife, Irina, both of whom speak English fluently. They are certified spa masters who specialize in preserving the ancient healing traditions of the Slavic people. Alexei built and supplied his own bathhouse using fragrant varieties of wood, ancient clay bricks, stones, and herbs prepared according to the recipes of our Slavic ancestors.

The interior is very warm and cozy, imbued with the comforting scents of a fairytale forest. For ancient Slavs, the bathhouse was a sacred place with many special sauna rituals. Alexeeevskie Bani is a successful modern recreation of these ancestral traditions, so it’s a good idea to discuss in advance what you would like to have done on your visit. If you’d simply like to relax, your visit might include sitting in a steam room, aromatherapy, and a tea ceremony in which tea is drawn from a real samovar on pine cones (from UAH 660 per/hour for two people). Also you may try a more rigorous traditional sauna that in-

cludes a stimulating dive in an ice cut, followed by a hot soak in a birchwood bath (from UAH 730 per/hour for two people).

A full relaxation detox program—perfect after all that over-indulging during party season—consists of purifying the body with pleasantly soft steam procedures, warming salt wraps, and honey scrubs (from UAH 900 per/hour for two people).

Individual packages are available; just tell the owner or bathhouse attendants what you’d like. Maximum capacity in the bath-

house is just 10 people, so expect personal attention here. The owner of Alexeevskie Bani doesn’t refer to his visitors as clients; everyone who visits this place becomes a friend and returns here again and again.

11 A Tsentralna Str. (400 m from Slavutych metro station - green line) +38 066 879 79 05 9 a.m. - 11.30 p.m. www.facebook.com/alexsauna aleksauna.com

SLAVIANSKAIA BANIA (SLAVIC BATH) Slavianskaia Bania is a truly historic place, situated in Vyshgorod (17 km from Kiev), where absolutely all the traditions of the bath are maintained.

This is the place to go for total relaxation and relief of mental stress.

Here, you’ll forget the bustle of everyday life and enter a fabulous state of mind that will leave you feeling inspired and even a little surprised. Guests are welcome in spite of age or physical condition, as the staff applies an individual approach to each client.

Slavianskia Bania offers a unique mix of practices drawn from the Turkish hammam, the Roman bath, and the Slavic approach, employing the strong hands of bathhouse attendants and fragrant bath brooms. Among the services, you can enjoy a deep soak (UAH 1500 for three hours); order a mixture of herbs and milk for an additional price (UAH 2500 for three hours); take a classic steam bath with two specialists (UAH 1050 per person/three hours); or a combination of bath services plus cleansing with herbal infusions (UAH 1400 per person/ two hours) etc. All bath products used are included in these prices. To prolong that pampered feeling afterwards, enjoy a complimentary hot cup of herbal tea, with bagels and honey.

Slavianskaia Bania also offers visitors the opportunity to stay overnight in one of four guest rooms located on the second floor of the house, which offers a beautiful view of the picturesque surroundings, including hills, ponds, and fruit trees.

The rooms, designed in the rustic style of a “wooden hut,” are decorated in warm colors that radiate a homey and comfortable feeling.

You’ll be wearing a happy face after being scrubbed with a fragrant birch broom, sipping herbal tea and enjoying the rural scenery. www.kievcheckin.com

16 А Vatutina Str., Vyshgorod (10 minutes from Kiltseva Str. or Bogatyrska Str. in Kiev) +38 067 400 80 60 8 a.m. - 12 a.m. s-b.kiev.ua

Kiev Check-In

23

ENTERTAINMENT

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

4 Cool Hotels to Explore Make the best of your stay in Ukraine In the first quarter of 2017, the number of foreign tourists to Kiev increased by 33%, compared with the same period last year. Great news for Ukraine’s tourism industry! It’s nice to realize that our country, and Kiev in particular, provokes such interest among visitors from abroad. A properly selected hotel is at least 90 percent of what makes for a successful stay. There are plenty of them in Ukraine, but we have made a selection of some of the greatest ones, in the biggest Ukrainian cities, to save you time and ease the agony of choosing.

Where will you stay next time? What hotel will you choose in Kiev or Odessa?

We have a few ideas…

24 Kiev Check-In

www.kievcheckin.com

Top Ideas for This Winter ENTERTAINMENT

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

1

Panorama De Luxe *****

A gem on the Black Sea

The Panorama De Luxe hotel is a real pearl on the Black Sea coast; in the resort area of Odessa. One of its advantages is the great location; both the beach and the city center, with its many entertainment options, are within walking distance. Its modern interior, decorated in Art Nouveau style, complements a magical atmosphere of hospitality and friendliness. This is in combination with an amazing panoramic view of the sea which opens out before you from the hotel’s terrace. The hotel features

2

32 rooms, offering five different levels of comfort. All rooms are spacious, with high ceilings, large panoramic windows and all equipped with the latest technology. Delicious and healthy Mediterranean, European and local cuisine are all available in the hotel’s restaurant which is open 24/7. From the lobby bar, there is an access to an open terrace with a large swimming pool, where you can fully enjoy the view of the sea with a refreshing cocktail or a cup of coffee. The rooftop terrace of the Panorama De Luxe

Vozdvyzhensky Boutique Hotel **** The amiable charm is everywhere

Vozdvyzhensky Boutique Hotel is conveniently located in Vozdvyzhensky Art District, just a stone’s throw from Andriyivsky Descent. This is the heart of touristic Kiev: galleries, museums, theaters, boutiques, coffee houses, restaurants. Staying at this hotel gives you an excellent opportunity to plunge into this lively and vivid atmosphere, right from your doorstep. The Vozdvyzhensky hotel is known for its special atmosphere of hospitality, where every guest is www.kievcheckin.com

special. The hotel offers 32 rooms with a unique design, including five suites. A standard room for two starts at €194; a double suite, €344; a themed suite with terrace, €464. Each room is done in its own color scheme and decorated with art objects. A breakfast buffet is an available option and can be served in your room if desired. You can also reserve a table for a pleasant dinner in the Terrace restaurant, and take pleasure in brioche with shrimps or pate made from

hotel is an ideal place to hold a wedding banquet or private event that will be long remembered by your guests. A conference hall and a well-equipped meeting room are at your disposal for business meetings, negotiations, and various other functions. To make your stay even more pleasant, experience the total relaxation of a visit to the Panorama De Luxe’s bath complex, where the options include a Finnish sauna, Turkish hammam, an indoor pool, and various types of massage.

On the eve of the Christmas holidays, we welcome you to celebrate New Year 2018 at the Panorama De Luxe hotel.

We will present a festive menu, entertainment, funny contests, gifts, and, of course, a meeting with Santa Claus!

This special New Year’s celebration takes place at the Panorama De Luxe restaurant from 10:30 p.m. December 31, New Year’s Eve, through to 4 a.m.

6/8 Mukachevskii Lane, Odessa +380 48 705 70 55 +380 99 555 55 88 reception@panoramadeluxe.com www.instagram.com/panoramadeluxe www.facebook.com/рanoramadeluxehotel www.panoramadeluxe.com

farm chicken with apples, from the chef’s menu. Don’t forget to taste the restaurant’s handmade sweets, which will add a memorable honeyed note to the evening. The hotel offers a hall for business events and banquets, seating up to 80 people; a summer panoramic terrace on the roof; a garden with terraces; and a cozy patio with a street menu. Everything is filled with romance at Vozdvyzhensky Boutique Hotel. No wonder it’s a favorite spot for wedding ceremonies. The hotel staff speaks English and readily offers advice regarding entertainment in the capital. During winter holidays, Vozdvyzhensky Boutique Hotel is transformed into a fairytale setting, imbued with the aroma of tangerines and pine needles, and coziness thanks to the blazing fireplace in the lobby. On New Year’s Eve, the hotel invites guests to a festive dinner with a show program lasting from 9:30 p.m.

December 31 through to 3 a.m. Feel the magic together with Vozdvyzhensky Boutique Hotel.

60 Vozdvyzhneska Str., Kiev +38 067 242 90 01 +38 044 365 99 55 reservation@vozd-hotel.com info@vozd-hotel.com www.instagram.com/vozd_hotel www.facebook.com/Vozdvyzhensky vozd-hotel.com

Kiev Check-In

25

ENTERTAINMENT Top Ideas for This Winter

3

Premier Hotel Lybid *** Your reliable travel partner

Premier Hotel Lybid is one of three hotels in Kiev that are part of the Ukrainian Premier Hotels and Resorts chain. Located on Peremohy Square, it’s not far from the city center and Kiev’s central railway station. Guests at the Premier Hotel Lybid enjoy a magnificent panoramic view, especially from rooms on the higher floors, of Peremohy Square and Shevchenko Avenue. The hotel has 274 cozy rooms equipped with everything integral to a comfortable stay, including air condition-

4

ing, satellite TV, and a modern bathroom.

A buffet breakfast is served daily in the hotel’s ground-floor restaurant, offering a great variety of traditional dishes from European and Ukrainian cuisine. Lybid restaurant is also a great place for a business meeting, a banquet or a family dinner. The lobby bar is open 24 hours a day, offering a place to relax after a long walk around Kiev or important negotiations.

There are also several separate conference rooms available to conduct business

Dnipro Hotel ***

Classic traditions in the heart of Kiev

The Dnipro Hotel boasts one of the best locations in Kiev, in the heart of the city where European Square meets Khreschatyk, a major street.

Guests of this hotel are rewarded with easy access to the main attractions of the city—its museums, grand churches, and memorials, department stores, cinemas, and cafes—as well as the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the Dnipro River from the rooms and the hotel’s aptly named Panorama Club restaurant.

26 Kiev Check-In

The Dnipro Hotel is a national symbol of hospitality and one of the best threestar hotels in Ukraine. The interior is decorated in a classic traditional style, with many luxurious and elegant details. There are 186 rooms, with rates ranging from UAH 750 to UAH 3000. Some 46 of the rooms are classed as deluxe, offering luxurious furnishings and amenities as well as a wide range of additional services.

The Dnipro Hotel also pleases visitors with its wellness center (where seven

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18 or hold informal events: the bright and elegant Galitsky hall can be divided into sections “A” and “B” to hold 50/110 people; the Slavyansky conference hall, decorated with terracotta panels and artistic frescoes, is meant to accommodate 120 participants.

The cost of accommodation starts from UAH 890 per day, depending on the category of the room: classic, luxe or apartment. Premier Hotel Lybid is in Shevchenkivskyi District, an excellent choice if you are interested in walks, history, and architecture. It is next to the Ukraina shopping center, just 2 km from Khreshchatyk Street and Maidan Nezalezhnosti.

This year, on December 31, Premier Hotel Lybid will create a New Year’s Eve program in the style of the acclaimed television series Game of Thrones, with a Ukrainian twist. The themed evening will feature a star presenter, competitions, and valuable gifts, as well as a special menu that will guarantee an unforgettable celebration!

1 Peremohy Square, Kiev (the nearest metro stations are Universytet, Vokzalna - red line) +38 044 597 90 27 www.instagram.com/premier_hotel_lybid www.facebook.com/PremierHotelLybid lybid-hotel.phnr.com

types of massage are available), Vibrosaun and Finnish sauna, a swimming pool, and a gym.

The hotel has a multilingual staff and also has free Wi-Fi, conference halls suited for groups of 10 to 50, and banquet space for up to 150 guests.

The top-floor Panorama Club restaurant offers fine dining featuring both classic European and traditional Ukrainian cuisine. In addition, there’s the Restaurant Dnipro, the perfect place to enjoy a buffet breakfast; the Munich Bar, popular among football fans for its vibrant choice of beers and hearty dishes; and the Lobby Bar, an ideal place to linger with friends over a cup of fragrant coffee. ½ Khreshchatyk Str., Kiev (the nearest metro station is Maidan Nezalezhnosti, blue line) +380 44 254 67 77 info@dniprohotel.ua www.facebook.com/DniproHotel?fref=ts www.dniprohotel.ua www.kievcheckin.com

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

ENTERTAINMENT

Your retinol solution should be too

www.kievcheckin.com

Kiev Check-In

27

CULTURE & ACTIVITIES ENTERTAINMENT

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

r a h k u K a n y Kater h prima Interview wit chenko of Taras Shev

ballerina

National

allet Theatre Opera and B

of Ukraine

January 18 marks the birthday of Kateryna Kukhar, prima ballerina of the Taras Shevchenko National Opera and Ballet Theatre of Ukraine, an Honored Artist of Ukraine, and “Black Swan” of the show Dancing with the Stars. This famed dancer began studying ballet at the age of 5 and has devoted her life to the art ever since. Among her many roles, Kateryna has performed Juliet in the tragedy Romeo and Juliet, Mashenka from the Nutcracker, and both Carmen and Scheherezade. We asked Kateryna about her career, her sources of inspiration, and what character traits she feels have contributed to her success.

1. Kateryna, you’re a world-famous ballet dancer. No doubt you have received lots of opportunities to work abroad. Why have you decided to stay in Ukraine?

I’m not the kind of person who believes “the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence.” The most important thing is to find people who breathe with you in unison. I love my country, I adore Kiev, and, as much as I would like New York or Paris, I do not plan to move anywhere.

2. It is obvious that one of the most important places for you in Kiev is Taras Shevchenko National Opera and Ballet Theatre of Ukraine, where you dance. What

28 Kiev Check-In

other places or streets in the city are special for you?

Obolon Quay, where I enjoy walking with my children and friends; Kiev Passage in the city center; and Andriyivsky Descent.

3. You often go on tours abroad. To your mind, is Ukraine a truly European country?

If not, what must be done to become so?

It seems to me that people have created a stereotype that Europe is a kind of ideal world without problems, and that it’s filled with happy pensioners who travel all year round, and that every European citizen has a successful career. However, there are many variations within Europe. Many Latvians, for

example, emigrate to more prosperous England. France has big problems with immigrants (who have not been fully welcomed into French society).

It is safe to walk along the central streets of Paris, but if you find yourself in some other districts, you will become acquainted with an unknown world filled with refugees, where you cannot feel as protected.

Everywhere there are advantages and disadvantages. But that’s what we really need to learn from European people — an ability to respect traditions, culture, and architecture. We need to learn how to cherish and appreciate what we already have. It’s also an art. www.kievcheckin.com

Interview ENTERTAINMENT

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18 4. Nowadays, it is not that easy to get into the National Opera of Ukraine to watch a performance if you didn’t buy tickets in advance. Why has the demand for arts recently increased?

People need a source of strength and positive emotions. The theater gives audiences an opportunity to escape from everyday life.

What better way to spend some leisure time than at the opera house, where you are surrounded by wonderful things: inspiring music, skilled performers, new ideas, rich emotions, and luxurious surroundings — marble staircases, velvet chairs, excellent architecture, a glass of champagne during the intermission. No doubt, people who experience it find that enjoying this atmosphere for a few hours offers a positive energy that sticks with them for a long time to come.

5. As we’ve seen on broadcasts of the show Dancing with the Stars, you aren’t afraid to express sincere opinions and defend your point of view. Do you ever worry that this will have an effect on your authority or relationship with the participants?

Do you have favorite dancers on the show?

The participants understand that this is a show first of all, and we all need to work for the delight of the audience! My task is to motivate the celebrities with comments and assessments so that they dance better and better, and the audience gets the maximum pleasure from the beautiful dancing of our stars. You’ll never be able to please everyone; there can only be one winner, and that should be the most worthy dancer.

6. I associate the word “ballerina” with something airy, flying; but at the same time, it’s a very hard work. Have you ever felt you wanted to quit and start doing something else in life?

Ballet is my LIFE, with all its joys and complexities. So I’ve never contemplated quitting, even when life played some tricks on me and I had to leave the stage for some time.

7. Were the tricks pleasant?

Both pleasant and unpleasant.

8. Can you explain what unpleasant surprises forced you to take a break from dancing?

When I came to the theater for the first time, I started preparing for the premiere of The Capella. Once, when my father was driving me home from rehearsal, I was tired and forgot to buckle up. When our car got into an accident, I was seriously injured.

At that time, I couldn’t dance for almost half a year. The crash occurred right next to the National Opera of Ukraine. After this incident, road signs were changed at this intersection. www.kievcheckin.com

9. The pleasant surprises are the births of two children, aren’t they?

Yes, the birth of my son Timur, who is now 8 years old, and daughter Nastenka, who will be 3 years old in November.

10. Was it difficult to recover after the pregnancy?

It was really difficult. Pregnancy and childbirth not only means a maternity leave and an inability to perform but also carries the risk that you won’t be able to return to your previous physical form. No one can say with certainty how your body will react to motherhood and how quickly you will be able to recover. If not, your career may be at an end. It was difficult for me, physically and in terms of morale. Looking at my reflection in the mirror was upsetting. At first, my body and muscles categorically refused to obey and return to their usual form. During the first pregnancy, I gained 13 kilograms.

What can be worse for a ballerina than to get completely out of shape and not be able to get into your costumes? However, I had concerts and contracts already signed.

In that situation, I couldn’t say, “I cannot.” It was just “I have to.” I returned to the stage three months after the birth of my first and second child.

11. Which heroine of the ballet is the closest to you in nature? Have there been any roles in your repertoire that somehow influenced your life?

In fact, I have some similarities to all my heroines. Throughout the day, I can be completely different. The role that seemed destined for me and really influenced my personal life and career

was Mashenka. Abroad, it’s the role of Clara in The Nutcracker. Speaking of my personal life, at the theater I was paired with Alexander Stoyanov in this performance, and since then we have been together in life and on stage. In terms of my career, before I met Sasha, I had made my debut as Mashenka while still a student, at one of the best venues in Japan.

12. What inspires you, and how do you recharge after a hard work week, month, season?

Healthy sleep, rest, change of activities, and completely staying off the Internet can easily recharge me. I am inspired by my husband, children, ballet, shopping, and driving around with the windows open listening to loud music.

13. I understand that it’s all very individual, but which of your performances would you most want our readers to see?

It all depends on what emotions the viewer wants to “get” from the performance. If it’s an explosion of passion, then I highly recommend the Carmen Suite or Scheherazade; if you want something classic, I’d advise you to watch The Nutcracker or Sleeping Beauty. If the soul requires something modern, then Master and Margarita — but before this performance, it is better to read Bulgakov. By the way, there are also sometimes weekend performances for children, such as Cipollino and Snow White, performed at noon. Personally, I do not dance in these productions, but children love them very much. They watch with great interest, especially when their parents have explained the plot in advance.

Additionally, I would like to invite all readers to visit the premiere of Children of the Night performance that is supposed to be on March 18.

14. This year you have received the “Pride of Ukraine” award, and in 2012 you became the Honored Artist of Ukraine. What factor or trait do you believe has contributed to your success?

Ever since my early childhood, my grandmother, who devoted all her time to my development and my future, would tell me: “Your destiny is your character.” She was a great example of this. She woke up at 6 a.m. to cook breakfast, was as busy as a bee during the day, and was always the last member of the family to go to bed. Ballet taught me to follow rules of strict discipline and diligence, and helped me understand the importance of never feeling sorry for yourself.

Kiev Check-In

29

ENTERTAINMENT

Interview

FASCINATED BY UKRAINE Interview with Sinan Ertemel

SINAN at the NATIONAL OPERA

during the intermission in «GISELLE»

O

n the eve of the 150th anniversary of the Taras Shevchenko National Opera and Ballet Theatre of Ukraine, we decided to attend the National Opera House to see what foreigners think of the artistic traditions and performances they’ve experienced in Ukraine. Sitting in the front row near us, Sinan Ertemel caught my interest immediately. I will never forget the visible enthusiasm on his face and delight in his eyes after the first act of the brilliant Giselle ballet. During the intermission, he heartily shared with us his impressions and rich experiences in Kiev.

Sinan, tell us where you are from, what you do for a living, and how you came to be in Kiev.

Originally I am from a small city in southeastern Turkey, and my family moved to Istanbul when I was five. Currently, I am an assistant professor of economics at Istanbul Technical University. My research and teaching interests include game theory, matching and market design, fair allocation, social choice theory, and energy economics. Besides my academic activities, I am a vice honorary consul for the Republic of Vanuatu in Istanbul. I can say that traveling is my passion. And I am very glad that my academic and consulting career is compatible with that. In fact, I am working on some interesting research projects during my travels, which have always been my intention. Since my last visit, I have started investigating university admissions in Ukraine, within a project developed cooperatively with the Kyiv School of Economics. I have traveled to more than 60 countries around the world, so far, but Ukraine has a special place in my heart. This is my fifth visit to this fabulous country, but every time I find something to be fascinated and surprised by!

30 Kiev Check-In

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18 Is this your first visit to the National Opera and Ballet of Ukraine? How do you like the performances and the general atmosphere here?

The first ballet that I saw in Kiev (and in my life) was The Forest Song (in Ukrainian, Lisova Pisnya), with a wonderful cast, including my favorite dancers: Kateryna Kukhar and Aleksander Stoyanov. I was mesmerized by the amazing performance and beautiful story

by Lesya Ukrainka. As ballet is a language that transcends cultures, this Ukrainian fairytale had a strong influence on me. Since then, I’ve become a huge fan of Ukrainian culture and in particular the National Opera and Ballet of Ukraine. In fact, I have seen most of the company’s repertoire. Let me assure you that even before buying my flight tickets and booking my accommodation, I book my ballet and opera tickets (smiling). I also want to note that a ballet performance at the National Opera and Ballet of Ukraine is much less expensive than at its counterparts around the world (the ticket price varies from USD 1 to USD 20). In my opinion, the National Opera and Ballet of Ukraine could attract even more visitors with a more effective marketing campaign. I also believe that management would do well to organize more events, such as workshops and behind-the-scenes tours, in order to better educate and engage the audience.

Please, tell us about the project you are running in Kiev now.

In the summer, I visited the Kyiv School of Economics for a research project on university admissions in Ukraine. In this project, together with my team, we are working on implementation of an optimal assignment mechanism for scholarship places in Ukrainian universities, trying to restore efficiency in admissions while ensuring a fair outcome.

During my research visit, I also established cooperation opportunities between Istanbul Technical University and various universities in Ukraine, such as Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv and Kyiv National Economic University. Beginning from the next year, students from these universities will be able to spend a semester or a year at Istanbul Technical University via Erasmus+ Student Mobility.

What is the cost of living in Kiev?

Being an economist, I enjoy traveling on a budget. And I have to admit that Ukraine is one of the most affordable countries I have ever visited. In particular, accommodation, food, and transportation are all reasonably priced. For example, a decent lunch in a local and tasty chain such as Puzata Hata, a self-service restaurant offering Ukrainian cuisine, would cost your around 80 UAH. Also, Kiev has very tasty international cuisines. I especially like Italian food and sushi here.

What are the best places for foreigners to socialize and find friends in the capital of Ukraine?

I always check the events calendar in Kiev Check-in Magazine to find out what is going on in Kiev. In general, Kiev is so lively and vibrant—there are many networking events to choose from. Also, Kiev has a lot of nice networking cafes. My favorite one is Ziferblat, which is an “anti-café” with a community feeling, where I love working on my research and have made many good friends. People are very open and friendly, and it feels like an extension of home. My own experience in Ukraine is that, with a positive attitude, you can meet and make new friends anywhere.

Tell us about your favorite place in Kiev.

My favorite place is Podil, particularly Andriyivsky Uzviz. I love walking down the descent and enjoy cafes and beautiful, colorful architecture. I remember, during my first visit to Ukraine, my friend took me to Andriyivsky Uzviz, where we climbed up a hill and watched the sunset, enjoying the charming views of Podil. At that instant, I knew that Kiev was a special city and that I should come here again. As you know now, I am a big fan of Kiev ballet. So, obviously, the Kiev Opera is my favorite building in Kiev. www.kievcheckin.com

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

www.kievcheckin.com

ENTERTAINMENT

Kiev Check-In

31

BUSINESS Special focus

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

TAKE ME TO SLOVENIA Predjama Castle

Slovenia is one of the most forested countries in the European Union, famous for mountain ski resorts and competitions. It also boasts romantic islands, castles, caves, waterfalls, extensive wine-growing areas and delicious food, healing thermal waters and spas. Slovenia is a jewel in Central Europe, eagerly waiting for you to feel, taste, and love it—and come back over and over again!

As soon as I heard the news of the new direct flights from Ukraine to Slovenia, which began in October 2017, I decided to hit the road to find out what this country has to offer. Let me take you to the brightest corners and share 5 fascinating reasons to visit Slovenia that I discovered during my four-day trip. Who knows? Maybe your next adventure will begin in Slovenia too!

Capital and largest city: Ljubljana Local currency: Euro Visa: Visa-free travel for a 90-day period within any 180-day period for purposes other than work, for Ukrainian citizens holding biometric passports (as Slovenia is a Schengen Area Member State) Connection: Direct flight from Kiev to Ljubljana (duration 2:05 h, distance 634 miles)

FANTASTIC SKI SLOPES

Kranjska Gora An alpine resort in northwestern Slovenia, Kranjska Gora is one of the most beloved skitourism destinations in the country. A daily adult ski pass will cost you 32,5 Euro here; you can save money by ordering, for example, a five-day ski pass for 140 Euro

32 Kiev Check-In

Slovenia’s mountain ranges are a part of the Alps and the Dinarides.

Well-equipped ski slopes suitable for beginners, children and experienced skiers, one of the world’s largest ski jumps, and well-developed infrastructure make this country very attractive for winter sports lovers and a venue for international skiing competitions such as the Ski Jumping World Cup in Planica and the women’s Alpine skiing competition in Maribor.

Our Editor in Chief in Ljubljana www.kievcheckin.com

Slovenia TRAVEL&TOURISM

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18 Lake Bled Slovenia’s most popular tourist attraction.

Interesting fact: According to the local custom, in order to be wed at the Bled Island Church, the groom must prove his love by carrying his bride up all 99 of its steps!

DIVERSIFIED SCENERY

Slovenia is a small country just one-thirtieth the size of Ukraine, but it encompasses a beautifully varied environment that ranges from the Alps to the Adriatic Sea. Within its 20,273 square kilometers, there are a great many sights and diverse attractions for visitors to explore. While the most typical feature of the Slovenian landscape is its mix of charming mountains and lush forests (covering 58% of the territory) uniquely inhabited by more than 500 brown bears, it is also a fairytale land of castles shrouded in romantic legends and charming old superstitions that will enrich your visit. Add to the mix a staggering number of interesting places to visit: religious monuments, mysterious caves, sandy beaches along the Slovenian coastline, and almost 27,000 kilometers of rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water. Imagine all that in just one small country—and this is only the beginning of Slovenia’s story!

Places that should be on your bucket list: Lake Bled, Ljubljana Old Town, Postojna Caves and the UNESCO-listed Skocjan Caves, Predjama Castle, Lake Bohinj, Triglav National Park.

Ljubljana

PEOPLE & LANGUAGE

It’s always the people who make any travel experience unique and memorable, leaving that warm afterglow in your heart after you go home. Both Ukraine and Slovenia are Slavic countries with strong multifaceted friendship ties between our nations. I’ll always remember Slovenia for the open, frugal, helpful, and friendly people, with a good sense of humour, whom I met along the way. Slovenians have a strong sense of “home,” are eager to develop and promote their country and are looking forward to seeing many more tourists visiting their beloved homeland.

I should add that the Ukrainian and Slovenian languages are quite similar. So, if your English is not proficient, you can always try your luck in Ukrainian and the main point of what you’re saying will be understood. Before the trip, I would recommend learning several essential Slovenian phrases that may help you feel a bit more like a local and even meet new friends. Here are the Top 3 that were the most useful for me: Dober dan – Good afternoon Hvala! – Thank you!

Prosim – Please

Terme Olimia My favourite pumpkin soup along with pumpkin seeds. Heaven!

IT’S FINGER-LICKING GOOD

The gastronomic world of Slovenian dishes and wines deserves special attention. And no wonder! With a population of only 2.06 million, Slovenia is a small market, and all producers try their best to satisfy customers by offering only quality products for sale. You may be pleasantly surprised to see numerous dishes made of pumpkin and other healthy seasonal ingredients. Kranjska klobasa (Kranjska sausage) is a typical Slovenian meat product that also makes a great souvenir gift to bring back to friends and relatives. Delicious homemade cheese, complemented by local honey and wine, is a finishing touch on this yummy slice of the Slovenian wonderland. www.kievcheckin.com

SPAS AND THERMAL RESORTS

With water quality considered to be among the best in Europe, Slovenia offers guests the possibility of a relaxing vacation or a successful recovery at numerous spas and thermal resorts. Bursting from a depth of 1000 meters, crystal mineral water springs are present in many parts of the country. If you’re planning a spa visit, pay special attention to Olimje thermal spa; one of the most prestigious wellness centers, Orhidelia; and Rogaška Slatina resort, with Donat Mg, natural mineral water extremely rich in magnesium.

What’s left to say? Put on your most comfortable pair of shoes and tread your own path to this green, active, healthy, and lesser-known European destination called Slovenia!

Photos credit to www.slovenia.info

Kiev Check-In

33

BUSINESS IT

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

IT TRENDS Automation and You

Global IT industry is expected to grow past $3.5 trillion mark by the end of 2017.

By just about every measure, technology continues to shape the world around us in evermore interesting and sometimes unsettling ways. With the groundwork of cloud, mobility, data, and connectivity laid, the coming years will see speedy advances on many fronts. Digital business transformation remains a driving force for small and large enterprises alike.

Those playing catch-up will face growing and potentially new forms of competitive pressures, while those on the right path will have the opportunity to explore advances in areas such as virtual reality, artificial intelligence, advanced analytics, the internet of things, and inevitably, a few unexpected breakthroughs. Change is coming faster today than ever before and companies must adapt or disappear.

step for AI. Most people wouldn’t trust a computer to make decisions for them, but they do look for information to help make those decisions.

While automation will have a major impact on the future of employment, the outlook is not all bad. Machines may be rendering many skills useless, but creativity is where humans still have an edge. Jobs such as “managing others” and “applying expertise” are the least susceptible to automation. Likewise, cognitive skills could be the most important to have going forward.

Research by McKinsey & Company predicts that around 60% of occupations could see a third of the activities they currently do being farmed out to machines. This will mean that most of us will probably be able to cling onto our jobs, but the way we do them is going to change significantly.

So what are the key trends in the IT industry that current and future IT workers, IT firms, and other businesses must pay attention to in order to stay competitive?

In this article, I will highlight three of the key trends that I believe will affect you.

Learning how to work alongside smart computer systems and machines would become an essential skill. The way we currently structure education may no longer be fit for purpose in the world where technology is changing so rapidly.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE & AUTOMATION

BUSINESSES More companies are turning to smart machines to save money on slow, expensive human employees. The automation is bringing many new low-cost and intelligent tools into the picture for your business that will radically affect your business processes and operating models.

Without a clear strategy for how you’re going to leverage the new automation tools and approaches, your business may suffer from being noncompetitive soon.

Artificial Intelligence...Machine Learning...

Automation - these words are becoming a part of our daily vocabulary these days.

Machines, you may have heard, are coming for all the jobs. Robots flip burgers and work warehouses. Artificial intelligence handles insurance claims and basic bookkeeping, manages investment portfolios, does legal research, and performs basic HR tasks.

And it will affect jobs, careers, and businesses in a big way.

JOBS AND CAREERS As automation kills some jobs, it creates others. Computer systems will get better at presenting the relevant data to optimize our experience in every situation - at the right place, at the right time.

We need to think of such systems as supporting systems for our decision process.

We won’t yet be using AI to eliminate our decisions and automate them, but to enhance the ability to make a decision in any situation. I also think this is the next likely

34 Kiev Check-In

The new ‘smart components’ that are beginning to impact business today – chatbots, ‘intelligent’ analyzers and assistants, automated tasks in business process workflows and so on – although automate certain activities but the endgame and experience is not one of a completely self-contained automated system that works in isolation on an end-to-end business process; but rather of software agents of various kinds working alongside people to augment particular work tasks and processes.

Even smart systems need to be trained, and in many cases, you’ll need to develop

PRADEEP BOPARAI Singapore-based entrepreneur and investor in technology-driven business ventures.

and apply some specialist skills to really get the most out of the technology. You have to thoroughly understand the business domain you’re working in, the nature of individual tasks and have a very intentional approach to how you insert the technology into work.

SHIFT TO CLOUD COMPUTING

Cloud computing is expected to be the infrastructure upon which all IT platforms are built and operated on. We are entering the world where everything we do on our computers will be hosted in large redundant data centers provided by companies like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft. Organizations that move to the cloud do so to capitalize on its benefits, such as scalability, agility and, most notably, cost-efficiency.

Cloud computing is a paradigm shift from the traditional model of hosting applications and business software in local offices to hosting them in a cloud environment. Vendors pay for what they need and take charge of configuration and management of applications while the cloud provider manages the underlying infrastructure.

Some of the key benefits of cloud computing include: • Reduced in-house IT infrastructure.

The cloud-hosted browser-based applications you access over the internet greatly reduce the need for complex servers, firewalls and routers that in-house IT and network engineers are traditionally charged with supporting.

• Reduced risk of data loss.

Most small to mid-size businesses do not have adequate in-house data backup www.kievcheckin.com

BUSINESS

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

and recovery procedure in place. As such, when the in-house server or client PC crashes, they are at a high-risk of losing critical business data. Cloud computing and cloud data storage significantly minimize this risk because proper data backup and recovery is often a built-in feature of cloud computing.

• Highly scalable.

In-house systems come with fixed features and capacity limits. They cannot scale up to match the growing needs of small businesses. Cloud computing enables businesses to grow and expand their systems and capabilities quickly.

Businesses can add users and whatever features they need without having to buy more hardware or expensive software.

Scaling back is easy as well without being stuck paying for resources the business no longer needs.

•Cost-Savings.

Moving to the cloud eliminates the need to buy and manage dedicated servers and other network infrastructure. Additionally, it eliminates the need to hire in-house specialists to setup and maintain business applications and systems.

•Increased mobility and collaboration.

Cloud computing effectually eliminates the challenge posed by a geowww.kievcheckin.com

graphic barrier and time-space continuum. Staff can go anywhere and still be able to communicate effectively with each other via online audio/video conferencing tools and work collaboratively using tools such as Google Docs.

BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY

In recent years, Bitcoin has captured headlines for becoming the leading digital currency. Will Bitcoin succeed? The jury’s still out. But now the underlying technology – an encrypted, distributed digital ledger called blockchain – is riding a wave of adoption for many new use cases.

Developed by the founders of Bitcoin, blockchain is an open source peer-to-peer system that allows users to transact directly using digital assets and without an intermediary. The transactions are verified by network nodes and recorded in an encrypted public distributed ledger called the blockchain.

Blockchain can secure any digital transaction, not just payments, and the race is on to identify, develop – and invest in – use cases outside the Bitcoin ecosystem.

Blockchain has broad potential to transform how business, government, and individuals conduct any kind of digital business. Blockchain technology has a large

potential to transform business operating models in the long term. Major applications of blockchain include cryptocurrencies—including bitcoin, BlackCoin, Dash, and Nxt—and blockchain platforms such as Factom as a distributed registry, Gems for decentralized messaging, Storj and Sia for distributed cloud storage, and Tezos for decentralized voting.

Cryptocurrencies are a new asset class that enables decentralized applications.

In general, a decentralized application allows you to do something you can already do today (like payments) but without an intermediary.

Initial coin offerings (ICOs) have become the preferred fundraising method for players in the cryptocurrency and blockchain space, enabling entrepreneurs and projects to raise over US$2 billion in 2017 alone.

Frameworks and trials are taking place in property registry in countries like Sweden, Georgia, and Ukraine to demonstrate the effectiveness of the blockchain in securing and speeding property sale deals.

TAKE NOTE AND BE PREPARED FOR THE FUTURE! Kiev Check-In

35

BUSINESS

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

ARE YOU AN ENTREPRENEUR? Contrary to conventional wisdom, you don’t have to be a Type A, an extrovert or a workaholic to launch a successful business venture. Entrepreneurs possess an eclectic variety of complex and sometimes contradictory characteristics, ranging from tenacity and charisma to empathy and humility. However while every business owner is different, entrepreneurs do share some common character traits: some positive, others less so. Before you dive into a new business, it’s important to think about how many of these traits are part of your personality and how many you’d like to cultivate in the future. This guide will help you decide if becoming an entrepreneur is the right calling for you.

36 Kiev Check-In

www.kievcheckin.com

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

KEY TRAITS

The results of various studies that looked into personality traits of successful entrepreneurs can be summarized as follows: •At their core, the best entrepreneurs are great problem solvers with an insatiable drive for learning and solving what they set out to accomplish.

•Entrepreneurs are achievement-oriented, want to take responsibility for decisions, and dislike routine work.

•They possess high levels of energy and great perseverance. They are creative, willing to take calculated risks, and comfortable with ambiguity.

•They have strong social skills and can instill contagious enthusiasm and sense of purpose to others in an organization.

•Successful entrepreneurs are experts at managing their time, ensuring that they do everything required to stay competitive.

•The best entrepreneurs are tenacious to a fault, willing to pursue their dream no matter what existing systems they have to break in the process; they are comfortable being nonconformists.

A DEEPER LOOK

TOLERANCE OF AMBIGUITY Entrepreneurs are comfortable with ambiguity and often thrive in it.

Most humans perceive ambiguity as threatening, whereas entrepreneurs view uncertainty as “an exciting stimulus rather than a severe threat”.

Ambiguity tolerance is also linked with creativity and leads to superior performance on complex tasks.

RISK TAKING AND CURIOSITY Entrepreneurs score very high on their propensity to engage in risk taking.

Entrepreneurs exist to defy conventional wisdom, to do that which the majority of people are not doing.

If they did not believe that their way of doing things was in some way superior to the status quo in their chosen industry, there would be no reason for their business to exist.

For the entrepreneurs with truly revolutionary levels of insightfulness, this can be a lonely, thankless task.

Entrepreneurs are hard-wired to identify the gaps in the market, which requires high levels of alertness and an obsession with novelty.

CONTROL People with “external locus of control” believe that most of the events in their lives result from being lucky, being at the right place at the right time, and the behavior of other powerful individuals. Entrepreneurs have an opposite belief set and believe in an internal locus of control. They www.kievcheckin.com

Entrepreneurship BUSINESS believe they can shape and control most events in their life and their surrounding.

Many entrepreneurs have a strong desire to create their own environment. They find it difficult to work in structured situations unless the structure is of their own making. They experience structure and corporate hierarchies as stifling.

Often entrepreneurs have difficulty in addressing issues of dominance and submission and are suspicious of authority.

Even when they are in a superior role, their desire for control can result in conflicts with their subordinates and “micro-management”.

MULTI-TASKING AND TIME MANAGEMENT Excellent time management skills are a prerequisite for becoming an entrepreneur.

Put simply, companies that do not get essential tasks done on time will go out of business. In the early stages of a startup’s life, business owners take responsibility for recruitment, marketing, product development, finances and more!

This is extremely challenging to cope with all those items alone.

As a result, some entrepreneurs work with mentors, mastermind groups and partners to make ensure they stay focused.

The best entrepreneurs manage their time exceptionally well and avoid micromanagement.

They understand that humans, in general, do not take well to having their sense of autonomy taken away from them.

The key to becoming this type of boss is having enough self-awareness to know what skills you do not possess and delegate accordingly.

COMMUNICATION Good communication skills are one of the most important skills an entrepreneur can possess. Successful entrepreneurs think about what they say and how they say it.

They are aware that more than half of communication is nonverbal and pay attention to their body language and vocal inflection as a result.

They treat employees, investors, and clients with respect, avoiding manipulation, threats and aggression and ensuring that the people around them get their needs met.

Fortunately, communication is a skill that you can learn and it’s more “art” than science. Mastering an art requires skill and skill is only developed through practice, regardless of the field.

RESILIENCE There are many adjectives for this trait – perseverance, persistence, determination, commitment, resilience – but the

ability to continue to persevere in the face of multiple setbacks or failures is a very essential trait for a successful entrepreneur.

At its root, their tenacity is undergirded by their strong self-confidence. As an entrepreneur, you are going to make mistakes and go through hard times.

Entrepreneurship requires the ability to fail frequently, dust yourself off, learn from what went wrong and try again.

This demands incredible levels of tenacity. It all comes down to being able to successfully manage fear.

Many early-stage startups go through periods when failure is only a few months away. Persevering when money is tight and clients are irregular requires entrepreneurs to have a tremendous amount of confidence in both their venture and themselves.

FOCUSED PASSION How is it that entrepreneurs are able to persist in tough times and work insane hours? It is commonly assumed that business leaders are motivated by money, but more frequently, they persevere because they believe that their mission is worth the struggle. Most entrepreneurs believe they are going to change the world. No matter how hard things get, this passion motivates them between paychecks and during all the times when other people tell them to quit.

There is a downside to this too. Entrepreneurs frequently work long hours; this intensity and focus sometimes mean that there is no time for personal life. In the most extreme cases, entrepreneurs become blind to everything else in their life apart from their business venture, skipping meals, failing to sleep and withdrawing from socializing.

DO YOU HAVE IT?

Not everyone is cut out to be an entrepreneur. Starting a new venture requires emotional and financial sacrifices on a scale that many people cannot relate to, and the entrepreneurial personality has its dark side too. However, those that do succeed are some of the most emotionally intelligent, resilient, innovative and organized human beings out there.

Articles in Entrepreneurship and IT sections are courtesy of Pradeep Boparai - a Singapore-based entrepreneur and investor in technology-driven business ventures.

Kiev Check-In

37

BUSINESS Entrepreneurship

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

Guide to Private Entrepreneurship in Ukraine

Interview with Tetiana Yakovenko In today’s society, more and more people in Ukraine are deciding to work on a freelance basis or to build a small business of their own instead of taking on traditional employment.

In Ukraine, the Private Entrepreneur (PE) business structure allows you to do business legally without incorporation of a legal entity and to enjoy very favorable taxation rules.

This form of business registration is popular in Ukraine among self-employed people and freelancers, such as IT professionals.

We decided to ask Director of Contact Ukraine LLC Tetiana Yakovenko about this popular business structure and its tax advantages.

Who is the PE business structure appropriate for, and how is it different from a limited liability company (LLC)?

Private Entrepreneur is a good option for self-employed specialists and small businesses who want to enjoy a favorable tax regime and simplified reporting procedures and are engaged in non-risky business activities. This form of business is simple to register and maintain; additionally, it can offer tax savings through the Simplified Tax Regime that applies to such structures.

PE has become a widespread alternative to employment in Ukraine, as the taxes accrued on the income of Private Entrepreneur businesses through the Simplified Tax Scheme is much lower (5% or even less) than that accrued by salaried employees (roughly 40%). Its key drawback is the lack of limited liability.

With a PE designation, the individual is personally responsible for any business liabilities; that’s not the case for an incorporated company, which is a separate legal entity in the form of LLC. So, while the PE business form is an excellent choice for individuals carrying on business activities that have minimal risks (IT professionals, independent consultants, etc.), this structure is not a suitable choice for businesses and startups that plan to grow big or that carry higher business risks and potential liabilities.

38 Kiev Check-In

How is PE taxed?

A Private Entrepreneur can opt for one of the following two tax assessment schemes.

Under the Standard Tax Scheme, the standard taxes and tax rates apply on net profit, including net income tax (18%), military tax (1.5%), social security tax (22%) and VAT tax (if registered as a VAT-payer).

This option can be beneficial if the PE has not only income but also significant associated costs, as the income tax rate applies only to net profit.

Under the Simplified Tax Scheme, the PE pays only one Unified Tax (instead of different types of taxes) at a rate that depends on the specific category to which the PE belongs.

The Unified Tax rate is considerably lower than the Standard Tax rate, which can result in significant tax savings.

However, to qualify, the PE has to satisfy certain conditions as to annual income.

Choosing the appropriate category under the Simplified Tax Scheme.

Ukrainian law sets out four different categories under the Simplified Tax Scheme, each with its own requirements and taxation rules. When selecting the appropriate category, you should take into consideration the amount of annual income, type of business activity, and number of employees (if any) of the business.

The first category is for PEs that have no employees and annual income up to UAH 300,000. The PE is limited to selling goods at market or providing personal customer services to the population. The tax rate for this group is 10% of the “living wage” (minimum full-time income necessary to meet basic needs) as set on Jan. 1 of the reporting year.

The second category allows up to 10 employees, annual income up to UAH 1,500,000, and a broader range of business activities, including production/sale of goods, restaurant businesses, and services to individual customers or other PEs/ companies. The tax rate is 20% from the monthly minimum wage, as set by the government on Jan. 1 of the reporting year.

TETIANA YAKOVENKO Director of ContactUkraine LLC ​www.contactukraine.com The third category is limited only as to annual income, with a maximum of UAH 5,000,000. There are no limitations on the number of employees or type of business activity. The tax rate is 3% from gross income (providing the PE is registered as VAT-payer) and 5% from gross income in the case of non-VAT-payers.

The fourth category is for agricultural producers whose share of agricultural production equals or exceeds 75% of the total production. The tax rate depends on the type and size of the land plot used by the PE. In addition, PEs in every category are obliged to pay social security contributions.

The amount can be at their own discretion within a particular range. For 2017, the amount cannot be less than UAH 704 or more than UAH 9,262 per month (these minimum and maximum limits are set according to the current minimal wage in Ukraine).

While the first two categories are designed for retail businesses and the fourth for agricultural production businesses, the third is the most appropriate for IT specialists and other freelancers in Ukraine who sell goods or render services to companies.

Can foreign nationals be registered as a private entrepreneur in Ukraine on the Simplified Tax Scheme?

Both citizens of Ukraine and foreign individuals can be registered as Private Entrepreneurs in Ukraine and use the simplified tax regime, subject to the conditions mentioned earlier. It may be possible for such PEs to receive funds from their business activities in Ukraine as well as from overseas. However, registration as a Private Entrepreneur cannot be used as www.kievcheckin.com

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18 grounds for obtaining a residence permit in Ukraine. Such permits are required if you want to reside in Ukraine for more than 90 days in every 180-day period. On the other hand, according to the Ukrainian Tax Code, a foreign national who registers as a private entrepreneur becomes a Ukrainian tax resident – which means he or she is obliged to pay taxes in Ukraine on his/her worldwide income, unless otherwise specified by a tax treaty with the other country or countries involved. What’s more, all receivables from business activity by a PE in Ukraine must pass through a business bank account opened with one of the Ukrainian banks. Therefore, before making a decision about PE status, foreign nationals should consider Ukrainian banking and currency-control rules, as well as the taxation rules of the country where they are permanent residents (if not Ukraine).

What is the procedure for PE registration?

A PE business structure must be registered in the State Registry of Legal Entities, Private Entrepreneurs and Public Formations. PE registration is free of charge and can be completed within 24 hours of filing the application (or on the next working day after application is made). To register, you’ll need to complete an application form and provide a valid passport and tax code. If the application is made through an attorney, certified power of attorney is

www.kievcheckin.com

Entrepreneurship BUSINESS required. A foreign national who wishes to register as a PE in Ukraine must first obtain a Ukrainian tax number and provide an address in Ukraine (a registered residential address or other address for communication with state authorities).

Registration of a PE with state statistics and tax authorities is automatic under the Standard Tax Scheme and requires no additional actions. But to register under the Simplified Tax Scheme you’ll need to file the proper application to the tax authorities. Alternatively, you can apply for the Simplified Tax Scheme and registration as a VAT-payer to the registrar at the same time you apply for PE registration.

Once registered, you’ll have online access to your PE registration information through the State Registry of Legal Entities, Private Entrepreneurs and Public Formations.

Information on registration for the Simplified Tax Scheme can be seen online as well, through the website https://cabinet. sfs.gov.ua Recent changes have allowed for PE registration to be done online. What’s your practical experience with online registrations?

Yes, at present, registration of a PE in Ukraine can be done online, through the website of Ukraine’s Ministry of Justice.

However, to start the process, such an

individual has to obtain an electronic digital signature, which can be obtained free of charge through the special electronic signature division of the tax authorities.

But it’s not possible to get an electronic signature online, so you or your attorney will have to go to tax authorities in person for this purpose. Upon PE registration, you will be able to use such a signature for online reporting through Electronic Cabinet of taxpayers.

From our experience, online registration can be quite inefficient, unfortunately. The online registration platform remains in the test mode, which can lead to possible system errors. As an example, you cannot expect timely registration (the 24-hour rule can be violated here) or guaranteed simultaneous registration for the Simplified Tax Scheme (so, as a result, you may have to file an application for the Simplified Tax Scheme all over again, by visiting the local tax authority in person). We hope these issues will be fixed in the near future, to bring our business registration process in line with international standards.

Our company, ContactUkraine LLC, will be pleased to assist individuals who want to be registered as a PE with consultation and assistance in the registration process. If you are interested in our services, please visit our website www.contactukraine.com or contact us at info@contactukraine.com

Kiev Check-In

39

BUSINESS Business Tourism

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

ORGANIZING CONFERENCES IN UKRAINE

What you need to know

BY MARYNA SKRYPNYK

“When I moved to Canada in 2011 (to study event management and work in the field), the event industry didn’t really exist yet in Ukraine. Such activities were not nearly as popular then as they are now. My mother wondered: ”What do you need this specialty for? What are you going to do with it? How much better it would be to go into law!

When I returned to Ukraine five years later, I saw a completely different picture. Nowadays, events are popular, and not just children’s holiday celebrations and weddings, but as an instrument of communication.

By creating opportunities for discussion, we are attracting many new players and representatives of international business to Ukraine, giving them an opportunity to study our market and better understand its prospects and opportunities. And this is an excellent trend, I believe.”

Being an event organizer and PR consultant to both foreign and domestic companies, Maryna Skrypnyk has a unique perspective and a wealth of practical experience in organizing various events and conferences in Ukraine and abroad, such as TIFF-2012, International Investment Business Forums, social projects in support of Youth Canada, and many others.

MARYNA SKRYPNYK So we seized the opportunity to ask her about some important Communications Advisor to the Deputy Minister of aspects of organizing conferences in Ukraine, including some of the Infrastructure of Ukraine for European Integration, event organizer pros and cons and her secret tips. In addition, Marуna shares her and PR consultant for Ukrainian and foreign companies (Canada, the USA, the European countries). favourite venues for conferences and her views on the overall state of the Ukrainian event market.

What is the advantage of conducting conferences? Is this something we need?

In modern society, we are always in a hurry and never have enough time to communicate. Holding сonferences helps to compensate for that lack of communication. They’re an ideal platform for negotiations, one which the West has embraced for a long time now.

When organizing a conference, remember that people come not only to listen to the speakers but also to communicate among themselves during lunch and coffee breaks, so giving them good opportunities to do that is a priority for a successful event organizer.

What are the main differences between Ukraine and Canada, or abroad in general, in how conferences are organized?

The conference itself is pretty standard everywhere, but there are some differences in the organizational approach.

Foreigners, first of all, should take into account the differences in mentality and clearly understand that their usual style of operating doesn’t work in Ukraine. Overall, Ukrainian conferences are more chaotic, active, and unpredictable, but more interesting as a result!

40 Kiev Check-In

1) The first difference involves time constraints on preparation. In Europe and Canada, where event preparation takes more time and the process is strictly structured, companies and organizers tend to adhere to the original plan. In Ukraine, we don’t follow such a structured approach.

We work in a more chaotic way; we often go against the rules, changing plans to suit the circumstances.

But this tendency makes us more flexible, and it takes less time in Ukraine to plan and organize a conference. (For example, a conference involving 300-400 people can be organized within two months.) We are not afraid to experiment and take risks.

If you think that it’s too late to change something — not in Ukraine!

2) Take into account that Ukrainians often ignore deadlines. Time management exists in Ukraine, of course, but we are not used to being as structured as the Europeans. Don’t be afraid of this point, as we will do our work properly, though not always according to the plan. So don’t worry about those shifts in deadlines, just do take that possibility into account.

3) Moreover, Ukrainians do not stick to the concept of weekly reports, and do not see a need to have wide agreement on every item. Generally, foreigners are more organized but at the same time linger

over every decision longer. It is obligatory abroad that every point is agreed upon a hundred times with all divisions, starting from the marketing department on out to the time-schedule of cleaning lady.

Also, if you are interested in ensuring the presence of certain speakers from Ukraine, consider that some of them might only confirm their participation at the very last moment. In Ukraine, people have less standardized schedules compared with many European countries. In Canada, for example, where work typically starts at 9 a.m. and finishes on the stroke of 5 p.m., people certainly know their work schedule, while Ukrainians are not able to plan too far ahead.

4) Sometimes we put less urgent work on the back burner until the last moment.

For example, if the event company is responsible for organizing several conferences at the same time, even if you came to an agreement about your event a year in advance, the company may well devote its attention to the more urgent, “burning” projects. I personally have faced that dilemma a good many times. That’s why it’s essential to ask in advance what plans and projects the company has in its purview and ask about the real deadlines.

5) Speaking of the budget: While in Europe and Canada the budget is pre-signed, www.kievcheckin.com

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18 often a year before the event is to take place, not all Ukrainian companies are so prudent. I contend that there is some advantage in this. If you urgently need to connect with a company as a partner, it is possible to do so at the last moment.

One last thing that should be highlighted: While more attention is paid to content abroad, in our country the great emphasis should be on publicity. If you want your conference to be successful in Ukraine, invite state agents and bureaucrats!

What are the advantages and disadvantages of organizing conferences in Ukraine?

I have already mentioned some advantages, such as flexibility, getting everything done at railway speed, and an opportunity to attract partners at any stage of the event. We can do everything very quickly. Yes, not always on time, but we are hard-working and always do our best!

There are several more points I would like to highlight here: •The position of Ukraine in both economic and geopolitical terms is attractive for new players. First of all, the current political situation of the country sometimes works in our favor. Ukraine is perceived by other countries with a degree of sympathy and support. Reforms are being actively implemented, and new business structures and startups are developing in Ukraine. This is an advantageous time not only for Ukraine but also for foreigners focused on doing business in the Ukrainian market. The easiest way to gain knowledge from experts, better understand the industry, and better communicate your own message to the largest possible target audience is to hold a conference. In addition, the central geographical location of Ukraine is a huge plus.

•We really offer a turnkey service. If you contract with an agency or company organizer to plan your conference, they’ll handle everything from all fine points of organizing the event to the promotional campaign.

The only thing the client needs to work with the planners on (besides financial matters) is the involvement of speakers.

•We are unconventional. In Ukraine, you’re less likely to hear the word “standard,” in contrast to many foreign countries, where following “standard” patterns are seen as an assurance of safety. Ukrainians are very creative, willing to take risks, unafraid to experiment. They always ask the client: “What would you like?”

•As to the cost, it depends on the scale of the event and the commission charged by the event organizer. A full-day conference at a five-star hotel, plus the planning company’s commission, would cost somewhere around UAH 700,000–800,000.

Commissions are agreed upon individuwww.kievcheckin.com

Business Tourism BUSINESS ally, but if the company is handling both content and speakers, it is typically about UAH 450,000 (EUR 15,000).

Among the disadvantages to holding conferences in Ukraine are the above-mentioned issues with deadlines and a risk of cost overruns, which are more likely to occur in Ukraine than abroad. (In Ukraine, while the key costs are all accounted for and calculated in advance, “trifles” can be added to the bill along the way.) Unfortunately, not all companies communicate properly with the client.

What useful tips would you give to foreigners who are considering Kiev as a prospective location for a conference? What should be kept in mind?

Where should they start?

In general, it is better to be clear and vocal about your expectations beforehand.

Some details that foreigners assume are a matter of course can be perceived quite differently in Ukraine.

•Find a company that is primarily engaged in planning events similar to yours or can work with a local partner. Most of the planning process requires somebody on site, and if you’re abroad it will be difficult for you to provide oversight directly.

It’s important to choose an excellent company that can provide services according to your desired format. If you are going to hold a business conference, look for a company experienced with such gatherings, not an event agency that primarily organizes celebrations. There are very few companies experienced in planning largescale conferences; among the top ones are Arena CS and Adam Smith Conferences.

•Pay attention as to whom your partner company is “partnering” and working with.

It is better if it actively works with medium and large businesses and the public sector.

State support tends to attract more attention from media and raises the profile of the event. Ask your chosen company to try to attract state agents and bureaucrats to your event.

•When choosing the conference venue, pay attention to logistics: How will guests move, enter, exit; where are the emergency doors; how will catering be provided?

Note, the organizer doesn’t typically deal with parking, but this should also be taken into account if you care for the comfort of the guests.

•Monitor the process. If you would like to be informed about which stage the project is in at any given time, how your money is being spent, where the project is getting bogged down, and what is planned for the next week, it’s better to specify all that in detail, in advance.

•Conclude the contract. Alas, everything in Ukraine is done on a wing and a prayer, rather than on paper. To avoid misunder-

standings, it is better to write down all the requirements and expectations clearly in the contract. Believe me, I observed a good many cases when the client wanted to see one result but got the opposite, only because, in his company, everything is done according to certain principles, while in Ukraine, it’s done the opposite way. It’s not necessarily someone’s fault, but rather the result of not communicating clearly and explicitly what’s expected and desired. I strongly advise written agreements.

What would you say are the Top 5 locations for conferences (in Kiev or Ukraine generally) and what are the competitive advantages of each?

Which locations are waning or growing in popularity, and why?

Congress-exhibition center Parkovy is number 1 for me, as it is modernized, the halls are large and convenient, and it really looks like a conference hall! People who come there realize that it’s a place where you can talk about business, and not just stare at mirrors and shining chandeliers.

Moreover, there is a wonderful view from the balcony. I like the Fairmont Grand Hotel, as it has just one big hall, and people don’t get lost. There is enough space, but not so many zones; this is very important, especially at coffee breaks. The Intercontinental Hotel is nice and cozy. However, the halls connect several corridors, so that guests often scatter into various corners and it’s difficult to drive everyone back into the hall when the panel begins.

Speaking of other cities, there is the Menorah cultural and business center in Dnipro. It has well-equipped rooms that can accommodate from 70 to 1,300 people.

All the major conferences are held at the Bristol hotel in Odessa. It has a comfortable and spacious hall and is convenient for guests, as they rarely come to Odessa for just one day. It accommodates up to 300 people.

In general, you can also consider some country complexes that have conference rooms, for example the Bartolomeo complex in Dnipro; it’s a hotel-restaurant. In Kiev, there is the Pushcha-Voditsa complex, which has a cozy location near the forest, without any fuss.

Conference halls at hotels remain very popular because there aren’t many locations suited to large-scale events. I’m not counting here the exhibition centers, which are created for exhibitions. Such events are held in business centers or more modernized hotels abroad. I think that our hotels will soon take a back seat to other venues. They are beautiful and cozy, but that atmosphere distracts from the main theme — business. They’re a perfect fit for weddings and less formal events.

Kiev Check-In

41

PROS AND CONS OF BUYING

BUSINESS Real Estate

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

a New Apartment in Ukraine

An advantageous location in Eastern Europe, low cost of living, and a significant fall in property prices since 2013 make Ukraine very attractive for local and foreign real estate investors alike. When considering purchasing an apartment, each investor faces the perennial dilemma: Should I buy an apartment in an old or a new building?

With the market having taken a hit during the financial crisis of 2008-2009, when construction in Ukraine was essentially frozen, and in light of stories about builder fraud and construction delays, most people are very cautious about investing in construction projects in Ukraine.

However, comfortable, modern design, attractive prices, well-developed infrastructure and a pleasant sparkle of the new property may reward those willing to take some risks.

In this article, we will shed light on the main advantages and risks to be aware of when buying a new apartment. Check out the pros and cons to ensure that your property investment in Ukraine is safe and the most suitable option for you.

42 Kiev Check-In

www.kievcheckin.com

Real Estate BUSINESS

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

PROS: NOVELTY AND CLEAN TITLE It is a great pleasure to inhabit an apartment that’s never been lived in. You will be the first to use all the facilities and appliances in your new home. Another benefit is that new properties are generally characterized by clean title to the real estate, which contributes to the safety of the transaction and may mean the apartment is more marketable and highly valued if you decide to sell down the road.

GREATER CHOICE, RELIABILITY, AND EFFICIENCY Modern properties offer a great choice of apartment sizes and layouts, boast more comfortable design, modern heating and ventilation systems, better pipes and a longer lifetime compared to older ones. Innovative technology and new materials improve the reliability of your new home. New buildings have modern utility connections that can withstand a large load, eliminating the risk of failure of the wiring or water supply.

APARTMENT REDEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY Thanks to the modern approach, it’s often possible to redevelop the apartment plan to suit the investor’s desires. This is a great advantage of buying a new apartment, in contrast to old buildings, where renovations

www.kievcheckin.com

might be risky in terms of sustainability of the construction. Please note that major changes (such as removal of supporting walls) are subject to approval by the building’s engineering and construction experts.

ness class, USD 1,200; and for the elite class, USD 2,010. Note that purchase prices rise quickly once new buildings are operating and occupied, and are significantly higher than for older properties.

ATTRACTIVE PRICES Since 2013, due to the political and resulting economic crisis in the country, real estate prices are down by an average of 20% to 50%, depending on the type and location of the property. Additionally, you can notice considerable savings if you buy the property in the construction stage.

The price of the apartment increases proportionally as it is completed, with the biggest savings available if you buy at the time of groundbreaking (which secures savings between 25% and 40% compared to buying the same apartment when the construction process is complete).

However, keep in mind that you may have to bear the construction risk and wait several years for completion and a closing date.

As of October 2017, the average price per square meter of a new building in Kiev was around USD 800, compared with an average price of USD 1,150 for Kiev properties in general.

This does vary greatly depending on location and window view. In the new building, the average price for an economy-class apartment was USD 610 per square meter; for the comfort class, USD 710; for the busi-

HIGHER RENTAL FEE Those purchasing an apartment they expect to lease out may be interested to learn that rental fees are generally 10% to 30% higher in new buildings compared to old ones, depending on the number of rooms and the class of the apartment.

DIFFERENT PAYMENT SCHEMES While in the secondary housing market full payment is required, in the new-home market real estate developers usually offer a variety of payment plans, such as payment in installments, soft lending with the engagement of partner banks, and trade-ins (though not common in Ukraine).

DEVELOPED INFRASTRUCTURE New buildings in Ukraine usually have first-floor stores and underground parking lots. On the territory of property, you’ll often find a bright, well-groomed playground for children, garden pathways, bicycle trails, carefully manicured trees, flower beds, and grasses. Generally, the landscaped areas around a new building complex are well-lit and sometimes with security system and limited access.

Kiev Check-In

43

BUSINESS Real Estate SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT Residents in new buildings are typically young people and families who are socio-economically similar. Such similarities may help you find like-minded people in your neighborhood and decrease the likelihood of crime or social problems.

CONS: ECONOMIC INSTABILITY Due to economic instability in the country, choosing a reliable developer with a perfect reputation is crucial when investing in real-estate construction in Ukraine.

As a result of rising costs for real-estate construction and the devaluation of local currency, the Ukrainian real-estate market has seen numerous scandals involving developer bankruptcy. Such situations were especially widespread during the global economic crisis of 2008-2009 and even afterwards, when the real estate market took a huge hit and construction was frozen on many building projects.

RISK OF FRAUD Fraud by an unscrupulous developer is the main risk while buying a new apartment in Ukraine, especially given the country’s inefficient and corrupt legal and court systems.

The most massive example of a scam in Ukraine’s real estate market was revealed in 2006 when more than 1,759 people were defrauded of about UAH 400 million by the large building company Elita-Center Group.

It had collected money from investors for the construction of 40 housing complexes in Kiev that were not built.

As of the beginning of 2017, a list of construction violations in Kiev encompassed 62 residential complexes. An updated list, identifying the problems with each project, is available on monitor.mkk.kga.gov. ua. Among the main violations are discrepancies between the approved project and what was actually built; secondly, buildings that were not being used according to their intended function; and third, developers started construction without clear land title.

Therefore, before making any real estate investments in new buildings, investors should pay close attention to: 1. the reputation of real estate developer. First of all, it is necessary to check the reliability of the developer, the number of projects the company has already built, and any court disputes related to the projects. It is also a good idea to check feedback about the company on the Internet, to understand the image of the company on the market.

2. the availability of proper documentation. Be sure to read the construction permit; documents confirming land title with

44 Kiev Check-In

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18 appropriate type of use; documents on town-planning conditions and restrictions, in particular, the “class of consequences” under which the project construction is classified; and documents pertaining to the connection of utility services.

3.the formulation of the contract. As it is impossible to acquire title to the new apartment immediately, the investor should enter into a contract with the real estate developer. Under this agreement, the buyer will gain the right to property for the selected apartment after the new building goes into operation. The most widespread and legally possible ways of buying an apartment at the time of construction for a natural person include: •Participation in a Fund of Financing of Construction •Buying of special purpose bonds •Buying property rights for real-estate in construction •Preliminary sale-purchase agreement Each of these schemes has its advantages and disadvantages, as well as particular risks. However, the safest and most government-regulated means are considered to be participating in a Fund and buying special purpose bonds. In any case, it is very important that the agreement on participation in construction contains all the necessary provisions and obligations of the construction company as well as guarantees of your rights as an investor.

REPAIRING CONCERNS Generally, newly built apartments are sold in a completely unfinished state (“shell and core”), which means: •an investor should be prepared to spend time, money, and effort on large capital repairs and renovations, decoration of the apartment, selection and purchase of furniture etc. This might be a concern, especially for foreign buyers who are not able to spend much time in the country. In such a case, it’s important to have a reliable partner in Ukraine who will control the renovation and design processes in your place.

•as a rule, repair works in other apartments in the building continue for three to four years after the building is completed, so you might have to cope with the noise from a neighbor’s renovation after the settlement.

HIGH PROPERTY SERVICE CHARGES When buying an apartment is a luxury complex, you can expect service and maintenance charges that will be higher than for other buildings in the city. It is very likely that before signing off on the delivery and acceptance of your new apartment, you will be required to execute a contract with a private housing maintenance company, often related to the real estate developer,

that demands sometimes artificially high prices for its services. The minimum is usually five to ten services, including cleaning of the grounds, communal areas, and rubbish removal, but sometimes it may extend to 40 to 50 clauses.

While initially the developer gladly announces the list of provided services, it is rather difficult to learn ahead of time how much those pleasures will cost, so as to calculate the affordability of the apartment. In such cases, it’s helpful to buy into a residential complex where some units are already built and occupied, so you can get some idea of the utility and operation costs before buying.

EXTRA FLOOR SPACE While buying an apartment in a new building, the stated size of the flat and, thus, the number of square meters for which you are paying are estimated ones.

The total apartment space is set after an official measurement is made by the Bureau of Technical Inventory (BTI), and is usually one to two square meters more than announced by the developer.

The investor may have to pay for these extra meters at a price that differs from the one at which the initial investment was made, depending on the description of this clause in the contract.

DELAY IN COMPLETION The investor should accept the probability of frequent delays in construction and handover. Even when you’re working with a reliable developer, the date of substantial completion may be extended.

CONCLUSION The decision on property investment is always about your individual goals, needs, tastes, and possibilities. Buying a new apartment in Ukraine is a very attractive but at the same time rather risky investment opportunity. If you are interested in obtaining a new property in Ukraine, make sure you have worked through the pros and cons carefully, and hire a credible consultant in real-estate matters to provide you with quality legal support and necessary assistance.

This article is brought to you by Contact Ukraine LLC — a Kyiv-based boutique firm that provides consulting and professional services to international clients in the areas of real-estate investment, business setup, immigration, taxation, banking, and living in Ukraine.

If you need our services, please contact us at info@contactukraine.com or visit our website at www.contactukraine.com.

www.kievcheckin.com

BUSINESS Business listings

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18

WE RECOMMEND! ACCOMMODATION ACCOMMODATION

4* Holiday Inn Kyiv Hotel

Hotels

Hyatt Regency Kyiv 5-star business hotel +38 044 581 1234 kiev.regency.hyatt.com 5 Ally Tarasovoi St. Fairmont Grand Hotel 5-star business hotel +38 044 322 8888 www.fairmont.com 1 NaberezhnoKhreshchatytska St. Hilton Kyiv 5-star business hotel +38 044 393 5400 kyiv.hilton.com 30 Tarasa Shevchenko Blvd.

City Holiday resort&spa

Ideal place for rest and business trip +38 044 371 68 88 +380 67 466 85 20 cityholiday.com.ua 5, Velyka Kiltseva str, Radisson Blu Hotel 4-star business hotel +38 044 492 2200 www.radissonblu.com/en/ hotel-kiev 22 Yaroslaviv Val St. Radisson Blu Hotel in Podil 4-star business hotel +38 044 393 1373 www.radissonblu.com/en/ hotel-kyiv-podil 17-19 Bratska St. Khreschatyk Hotel 4-star business hotel +38 044 596 8004 www.hotel-khreschatyk.kiev.ua 14 Khreschatyk St.

Your Home away from Home +38 044 363 3020 www.holidayinn.com/Kiev 100 Velyka Vasylkivska Str. Boutique hotel Vozdvyzhensky Modern boutique hotel in Andrew descent +38 044 585 99 00 +38 067 242 90 01 Vozd-hotel.com 60 А, Vozdvyzhenska St. Hotel Dnipro 3-star local budget hotel +38 044 254 6777 www.ukraine-hotel.kiev.ua 1/2 Khreschatyk St. Royal Olympic Hotel 3-star business hotel +38 093 377 77 81, www.rhg.com.ua 12 D Hospitalna St.

Rent of apartment Kiev Apartments Good selection of short-stay furnished apartments +38 050 926 7104 kievapartment.com

KievInn Apartments Complex Apartments for daily rent in the city center +38 050 079 2844 www.kievinn.ua 9, Mykhailivska St. Вars/Pubs/Clubs ВARS/PUBS/CLUBS

Hotel Ukraine 4-star local budget hotel +38 044 590 5474 www.ukraine-hotel.kiev.ua 4 Institutskaya St.

Arena City Complex of night clubs, bars and restaurants in the city center +38 068 387 1702 arena-city.com 2a, Baseina St.

Podol Plaza 4 star hotel in Podil +38 044 503 9201 podolplazahotel.com.ua 7-A Konstantinovskaya st.

Avalon Lounge bar, karaoke and nightclub +38 044 234 7494

46 Kiev Check-In

www.avalon.ua 3, Leontovycha St. Disco Radio Hall Great club with the best ‘80s songs +38 044 428 7388 disco-club.kiev.ua/en/ 32 Moskovskyi Ave. Caribbean club Various concerts, crazy parties and dancing workshops +38 067 224 4111 caribbean.com.ua/en/ 4 Symona Petlyury St. Le Cosmopolite High quality beer and european food +38 044 278 7278 peesboy.com/ru/restaurants/ le-cosmopolite/ 47 Volodymyrska St. O’Brien’s Pub Irish pub +38 044 279 1584 obriens.kiev.ua 17a, Mykhailivs’ka St. Docker’s ABC Atmospheric Irish pub with concerts of rock bands +38 044 278 1717 abc.docker.com.ua 15/4 KhreschatykZankovetska St. Coyote Ugly Popular bar with crazy parties and dancing on the bar +38 044 363 06 88 www.coyoteuglysaloon.com/kiev 9a, Mechnykova St Shato Robert Doms 24-hours open restaurant-brewery with great location +38 044 279 3704 kiev.shato.com.ua 24 Khreschatyk St. Golden Gate Pub Irish pub with live music on Friday and Saturday evening +38 044 235 5188 www.karta.ua/restoran/restaurants_kiev/golden_gate.html Zotolovoritska St, 15

Mozgi Bar & Shop It’s all about food and cocktails +38 050 629 5555 mozgibar.com 2-A Basseynaya St. Sunduk pub Great place to meet friends in a cosy atmosphere sunduk-pub.kiev.ua a) 16 Mykhailivs’ka St. +38 044 279 1465 b) 22 Prorizna St. +38 093 015 3016 c) 7 Leontovycha St. +38 044 270 55 19 FOG AREA Lounge Hookah Bar in Podil district +38 068 3543176 www.facebook.com/fogarea.bar/ 2 Voloska St.

RESTAURANTS Ukrainian cuisine

O’Panas Good place to try pancakes while walking in Shevchenko park +38 044 235 2132 www.opanas.com.ua/en/ 10 Tereshchenkivs’ka St. Tsarske Selo Cozy warm atmosphere and live local music +38 044 288 9775 tsarske.kiev.ua 22 Lavrska St. Pervak Delicious Ukrainian dishes at mid-range prices +38 044 235 0952 www.pervak.kiev.ua 2 Rohnidynska St.

Turkish cuisine

TIKE Turkish restaurant in Podil +38 044 482 4819 tike.com.ua/en 31a, Sagaydachnogo St.

European cuisine

Terrace Restaurant Panoramic summer terrace on the roof with the street food menu www.kievcheckin.com

Business listings BUSINESS

DECEMBER 17-JANUARY 18 +38 044 5859933 +38 067 2429003 Vozd-hotel.com Boutique hotel Vozdvyzhensky 60 a Vozdvyzhenska St.

Lebanese & European Cuisine

Mon Cher Lebanese restaurant with great location close to Golden Gates +38 044 235 1596 moncher.in.ua 11 Yaroslaviv Val St.

Mexican Cuisine

La Cantina Tex-Mex Texan and Mexican Restaurant in city center +38 044 278 2214 La-cantina.com.ua 23A Prorizna St.

Fish Restaurant

Fish Market Restaurant Good selection of fish dishes +38 044 278 2265 fishmarket.in.ua 24a, Volodymyrska St.

Italian cuisine

Fellini The world of gourmet Italian dishes +38 067 43 00202 fellini.in.ua 5 Architect Gorodetsky VA BENE bistro High-end Italian restaurant near the National Opera House +38 044-377-75-65 +38 067 480 61 61 carteblanche.ua/restaurants/ VaBene.html 19-21 Bogdana Khmelnitskogo St. La Cantina Italian Cafe and wine room +38 044 234 7074 La-cantina.com.ua 20 Yaroslaviv Val.

www.kievcheckin.com

Babene Italian home-style cooking restaurant in Pechersk +38 044 585 9651 www.babene.com.ua/ 18/7 Kutuzova St.

L`KAFFA CAFE Cafe and restaurant close to Bessarabska square 2 Lesi Ukrainky Blvd +38 044 360 76 21 Lkafa-cafe.com.ua

Mansarda Cafe Wonderful Italian restaurant in Obolon +38 067 407 6565 facebook/mansardacafekyiv 49-A Vyshhorodska St.

Cafe L`etage Cafe and restaurant with live music +38 067 171 16 16 etage.kiev.ua 16-A, Shota Ruslavelli

Cafes CAFES Coffee House (network of cafes) Great place to relax, have a meeting or even work a)24 Lesi Ukrainky Blvd. +38 044 284 25 49 b)72 a Velyka Vasylkivska Str. ( Olimpiysky Mall) +38 044 206 84 04 Lviv Handmade Chocolate Cafe Chain of cosy cafes with good coffee & sweets selection +38 044 425 0320 www.chocolate.lviv.ua 2Б Andriivs’kyi descent BaoBab cafe Cosy atmospheric cafe with great selection of coffee just near Sofiivska square +38 096 451 0101 18/2 Volodymyrska St. Kaffa Cafe Two oriental cafes in center to enjoy kaffa.ua a) 3 Shevchenka lane (near Maidan) +38 044 270 6505 b) 5 Hryhoriya Skovorody St. (Podil) +38 044 425 3845

Dom Bergonie Art Cafe Art cafe near Teatralna metro +38 044 234-22-02 www.dombergonie.com.ua 17 Pushkinska St. Videnski Bulochky Network of Vienna-style cafes in city center www.videnski-bulochky.com.ua a) 14-a, Instytutska St. +38 044 253 3129 b) 14/1, Mechnykova St. +38 044 246 4525 c) 107/47, Saksaganskogo St. +38 044 289 1365 d) 44/42, Shovkovychna St. +38 044 221 2472 e) 1-3/5, Pushkinska St. +38 044 270 53 90

LANGUAGE COURSES TOP WAY Language Center

Quality language courses near Zoloti Vorota metro station +38 093 580​ ​82​ ​28 +​​38 067 799​ ​82​ ​28 +38 050 770​ ​82​ ​28 www.topway.in.ua 37A,​ ​O.​ ​Honchara​ ​street,​ ​office​ ​1

BUSINESS SERVICES Contact Ukraine LLC Business and investment consulting services for foreigners info@contactukraine.com www.contactukraine.com

City Tours CITY TOURS Kiev Check-in

Kiev tours and travel services +38 093 253 9048 (Viber; Whatsapp) kievcheckin@contactukraine.com www.kievcheckin.com Health & Fitness HEALTH & WELLBEING

Clinics

American Medical Centers

Wide range of high-quality medical treatment, all doctors speak English +38 044 490 7600 amcenters.com 1 Berdychivska St.

Yoga & dance studios

Kiev Wellness International

7 days/WEEK x 365 days/YEAR Wellness support for foreigners +38 098 8285247 www.kiev-wellness.com 7/14 Mykilsko-Botanichna Str.

Kiev Check-In

47