Key Facts
Time
Local time is GMT +2 (GMT +3 between March and October). This means when it's 12 noon in London it is 14:00 hrs in Kiev.
Currency
Hryvnia (pronounced 'Grivna'); currency code - UAH.
Currency Converter
Money Exchange
Most hotels have a Bureau De Change and there are many exchange booths throughout Kiev where you can exchange all major currencies such as Euro, US Dollars and Sterling.
ATM's
It is possible to use your bank card or credit card to withdraw local currency (Hryvnia) from ATM's in Ukraine provided it has a 'Cirrus' ; 'Maestro' Visa/Mastercard logo. It is possible to re-convert Hryvnia but you may be asked to produce the receipt from the ATM.
Capital
Kiev (officially spelt 'Kyiv')
Area
603,700 square kilometres (approx the size of France)
Population
Approximately 47 million, with nearly 3 million living in Kiev
Independence Day
August, 24, 1991
Electricity
Electrical current is 220 volts AC; 50Hz. Plugs are round pin attachment variety with two pins.
Language
Ukrainian is the sole official language, but Russian is also widely spoken. Most restaurants have an English version of the menu and many Ukrainians speak a foreign language such as English, German, Spanish or French.
Health
There are no mandatory health related requirements for short term visitors although comprehensive medical insurance is advised, and visitors are advised to bring a supply of personal medication.
Tipping
Tipping is expected in restaurants, and is usually 10% of the bill.
Safety
As in most large cities foreigners are lucrative targets for petty theft and street crime, and valuables should be kept out of sight, especially in crowded areas and at tourist spots. In this regard Kiev is as safe as any other large European city.
Communications
The international dialling code for Ukraine is +380. The outgoing code is 810 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 81044 for the United Kingdom).
International Direct Dialling is available in most cities. The GSM 900/1800 network coverage is limited to Kiev and other main urban centres. If you wish to avoid roaming charges you can buy a pre-paid SIM card on arrival.
Most hotels have a Business Centre and there are Internet cafes available in Kiev and larger cities and towns.
