LONDON: The covid-19 pandemic had a huge economic, physical and psychological impact on the people and our civilisation across the globe.
As the lock down measures are being relaxed and hope of the world slowly returning to normal grows, we wanted to share with you top 5 destinations in Ukraine that you can visit post covid-19 pandemic to relax, reflect and heal.
1. Carpathian Mountains
The Carpathian Mountains are “Nature’s Paradise” on earth, blessed with a sea of mountains, lush forests, fast flowing rivers, incredible wildlife and breathtaking scenery that will reset your psychological well-being to its best.
Home to one of Ukraine’s culturally rich people, the Hutsuls, Boykos and Lemkos, the Carpathian Mountains region is a dream destination for lodgers, skiers, hikers and explorers.
Ukraine’s highest mountain peak Hoverla and its best known ski resort Bukovel are in the Carpathian Mountains. It is also one of Europe’s last stronghold of wolves as well as home to 300 species of birds and rare wild animals such as brown bear, European lynx and European bison. It is a must visit destination to experience nature, wildlife and the unique lifestyle of the local people.
2. Sofiyivsky Park in Uman
Sofiyivsky Park in Uman is the Taj Mahal of Europe, a symbol of love and one of the seven wonders of Ukraine that you can visit with your partner to bring back tranquillity to your life.
The park was built by the Polish nobleman Stanisław Potocki for his Greek wife Sofia as a birthday gift in early 19th century. It was then gifted by the Russian Emperor Nikolai I to his wife Alexandra Feodorovna.
The park is designed in a way to illustrate the events of the ancient Greek epic poems The Iliad and The Odyssey by Homer. It has some of the rarest plants, flowers and trees of the world. The park is a scenic natural paradise with wonderful lakes, fountains, waterfalls, statues, grottoes and pavilions, ideal for a romantic and relaxing walk or weekend.
3. Lviv
Lviv is the “Cultural Capital” of Ukraine, a UNESCO World Heritage Listed city and one of the hottest destinations to visit in Europe.
Lviv has a rich history and modern outlook where you can spend days, weeks and months without realising. Start your day with the unique Lviv coffee with must have Lvivski Plyatski, then set off for the old town to explore the wonderful architecture, markets, beautiful churches, museums and castles before heading to the lush parks. Lviv also offers visitors a great dining scene whether you need a brunch, a proper Ukrainian meal or a fusion of global cuisines.
The city has amazing local craft bears and a fantastic nightlife with outdoor events taking place in Rynok Square during the summer months.
4. Kyiv
The talk and trend of the world is “Skip Paris, Visit Kyiv”. One of Europe’s richest cities in history, culture and heritage. Kyiv is the crown in the jewel of Eastern Europe. It was the centre of Kievan Rus – the Federation of East Slavic and Finnic people of Europe, and is considered the ancestor home of modern Russia, Belarus and Ukraine.
It is home to charming churches with golden domes excellent for calm reflection and meditation, eclectic architecture, trendy cafes and coffee shops, brilliant art scene, exhilarating culinary revolution, incredible nightlife and club scene as well as iconic squares, gardens, parks and museums.
Some of the must visit places include Kiev Pechersk Lavra, Rodina Mat (Motherland Monument), Khreshchatyk, Maidan Nezalezhnosti, Saint Sophia’s Cathedral, Andriyivskyy Descent, National Opera House, Mystetskyi Arsenal Art Quarter and Pirogovo.
5. Chernivtsi
Chernivtsi is known as Little Vienna. It is one of the oldest towns in Ukraine, home to a 19th-century university building listed as UNESCO’s World Heritage site and probably Europe’s most beautiful hidden gem.
It has one of the most elegant architecture thanks to its Austro-Hungarian heritage, beautiful churches and stunning streets.
The UNESCO World Heritage listed Chernivtsi National University building (also known as Residence of Bukovinian and Dalmatian Metropolitans) designed by the Czech architect Joseph Hlavka and built in 1875 is a must-see. The Kobylyanska street is the beating heart of the city and ideal to explore shops, cafes, restaurants and take amazing pictures. Finally take a walk around the city to admire its wonderful churches, squares, galleries and parks.
