It is understandable that arriving to an unknown country a person could feel himself lost and maybe even unsafe in different situations. Actually Odessa is very similar to many other larger cities of the World. Odessa has about 1.5 million residents in the city and in the surrounding areas.
You can be safe here if you follow common rules of behavior that are similar for all cities
- Don't walk along dark streets in the late night;
- Don't visit apartments of people that you just met;
- Don't go with with anyone you just met far from where you are at the moment;
- Don't get into cars of unknown people who invite you to do this;
- Don't invite people that you just met to the apartment
- Don't provide your address to strangers.
- Always be aware of your surroundings and where you are.
- Don't walk around late at night after a good night of drinking
- Don't leave your hotel or apartment with out a cell phone and our contact info as you will never know when you might need some help.
But if you still feel uncomfortable, Someone from our staff can be with you any time you need it. Our staff, interpreters and drivers are helpful and become caring and supportive friends. You can always feel safe any time you are with them here in Odessa Ukraine.
Invitation Letters - Ameican Citizens and EU Countries no longer need a invitation Letters for a visa to visit Ukraine
Some countries still require an official invitation before you can get an actual tourist or business travel visa. Citizens from the USA, Canada and Western Europe countries do NOT need any invitation or need a visa. As of the summer of 2005 But always check the Ukraine embassy Visa page as this can change and always has up to date information.
FAQ for Travel to Odessa Ukraine
Can I use my credit card in Ukraine?
Yes, however, we recommend that you bring a combination of cash and credit cards. Visa and MasterCard are accepted at many restaurants, but not at all. Discover and American Express credit card and Traveller Cheques are not recommended. If needed, cash advances (often with a 3-5% fee) are available at many hotels, banks and currency exchanges.
But keep a few things in mind:
- In general, Ukraine operates as a "cash economy". In most situations you will be expected to pay for goods and services in local currency, not with dollars or credit cards. However there are many currency exchange offices available. It is easy to exchange dollars for hyrivnas (UAH).
- The banking situation had been unstable in both Russia and Ukriane. In 1998, the August banking crisis hit with no warning, making credit cards useless overnight. Don't get caught short! Always have $ 300-500 cash in reserve, in case your credit cards suddenly don't work.
- Travelers Checks are for security and are not conveniet! Unlike in the States and many European cities, there are a very limited numbers of places to cash traveler's checks. There is a fee for cashing traveler's checks. It can take several hours.
- We recommend wearing a money belt and bringing mostly cash. Of course, it's completely up to you.
- We also want to remind you to also check with the Ukraine Embassy on how much cash you are alouded to bring into the Ukraine as if you go over that Limit you can and will loss that cash at customs before you leave the airport.
What will the weather be like in Odessa Ukraine?
It depends on the time of year that you travel, but generally the weather and temperatures in Odessa will be about the same as Many cities in Europe.
In both spring and autumn, you will need to bring some warm clothes. Expect daytime temperatures to be in the mid 50s-60s, and the night temperatures to drop into the low 40s or even 30s on occasion.
In wintertime, the coldest days hover around 32. However, snowfall is minimal so heavy snow boots are not needed.
Summertime weather is usually fantastic, with daytime temperatures in the upper / mid 80s to lower 70s, and night time temperatures in the mid 70s.
What kind of clothing should I bring?
Weather considerations aside, be yourself and be comfortable. Bring a mixture of both casual clothes for daytime and clothes you would normally wear out on a date. There is no "right" or "wrong" way to dress, so relax and wear what you want.
What kind of electricity do they have in Ukraine?
Electricity in Ukraine is 220 Volts, 50 Hz AC. You will need a Eastern European plug adapter (with round pins) to plug into electric sockets. Adapter kits can be purchased at Radio Shack, Wal-Mart, K-Mart and luggage stores.
American electrical appliances will also require a "step down" converter that adjusts the electricity from Ukraine's 220V down to 110V.
Note: Most new video camera Battery Chargers and laptop computer adapaters can be plugged into 220V or 110V sockets. Consult your Operating Manual for details for your camera and computer model.
Luggage
Check with the airlines since many are modifying their baggage allowances.
NOTE: We recommend that your carry-on bag contain a full change of dress clothing and toiletries. In the unlikely event that your check-in luggage doesn't arrive with you, you will need clothes for your first contacts. Occasionally, one of our clients has a problem with his luggage arriving late. This is normal for all international airlines, and luggage is usually delivered within the following 24 hours. If this happens, we will work to expedite the return of your luggage.
If you have other questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at Info@odessajudies.com and we hope you will enjoy your trip to Odessa and we look forward to meeting and helping you in your search for that lady of your dreams.
