IS IT STILL POSSIBLE TO TRAVEL TO UKRAINE?
During the last months, we have received continued requests for travel to Ukraine. The country is still at war, but despite the conflict on its Eastern border, travelers are still drawn to Ukraine’s rich heritage.
Is it possible to travel to Ukraine? The answer is yes, and in this blog, we will share insights and considerations for those contemplating visits to Ukraine while the conflict continues with Russia.
Is it safe to travel to Ukraine? The country is at war, so any travel will be combined with uncertainty and danger. However, Ukraine is a large country, and while travel to the Eastern part of the country is strongly discouraged, the Western part, including the Transcarpathian Mountains, is considered safer. There have been almost no attacks there since the war began. For instance, the Central part of Ukraine, Zhytomir and Berdichev, is also generally distant from conflict. However, Kyiv is a target.
For the Jewish traveler in particular, Ukraine is the homeland of many Hasidic communities, and thousands of Jews continue to make pilgrimages to the graves of the Hasidic Masters – in particular, the “Ohels” of Rabbi Nachman in Uman and the Ba’al Shem Tov (“Besht”), founder of Hasidism, in Medzhybozh.
These sites are considered holy, and visitors leave prayers and petitions to the sages there, conveying their deepest wishes (as many do at Jerusalem’s Kotel). Many other traditional Jewish towns are located in the Western and Central parts of the country; these are generally distant from conflict zones.
Before you leave on a journey to Ukraine, a good amount of planning is necessary. These are our recommendations:
ENTRY REQUIREMENT
A visa is not required for U.S. and many other passport holders. However, each traveler must carry comprehensive travel insurance to enter the country.
STAY INFORMED
Before planning a trip to Ukraine, check official travel advisories, news updates, and relevant government websites to understand the current situation and ensure your safety.
GETTING TO UKRAINE
There are no flights to Ukraine. Entry can take place by train or by road from the bordering countries of Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, and Romania. If you have specific places to visit, our recommendation is to hire a professional driver from a reliable company. Ukrainian drivers can pick up travelers in the neighboring countries and take you to the towns and sites of interest within Ukraine.
WHILE TRAVELING IN UKRAINE
As a country at war, supplies are inconsistent, and travelers should be prepared for services that might not be up to the usual standard. While hotels are still open, pre-booking is strongly recommended. Be aware that restaurants may offer more limited choices.
PAYMENT FOR SERVICES IN UKRAINE
Debit and credit cards are widely used in Ukraine. The local currency is the Ukrainian Hryvnia. Exchange to the hryvnia can be made at banks and exchange places. While credit card payments are common, carrying some local currency is still essential.
CHANGES IN TRAVEL PLANS
The local situation can change rapidly, and travelers should always be cautious and vigilant. Follow local guidelines and listen to warnings. Many hotels have alarm systems that are activated if missile or drone attacks are imminent. Always prioritize your safety.
HOW TO ORGANIZE TRAVEL TO UKRAINE?
Currently, we do not offer group tours to Ukraine. However, we can assist with providing travel services to those interested in visiting.
Travel to Ukraine © 2024, Momentum Tours & Travel