Accommodations

Your agency works with the facilitators on your behalf until you are in Ukraine. Then, you work directly with the facilitators and Larissa checks in with you periodically while you are in Ukraine. While you are in the States, communicate to Larissa what you are expecting as far as accommodations. If you have special needs or requests, make them known. Things like handicap accessibility are difficult in Ukraine and if you are dealing with this type of concern, make it known to your agency immediately. Since it is uncommon for places (including government buildings) to have air conditioning, which might be a good request if you are traveling during the summer. Other requests might be in regards to the type of internet connection you want, having an apartment with a washing machine (most apartments don’t and being here approximately 1 month will ensure your need to wash clothes) or even your location in Kyiv. Only the very wealthy own dryers. The dryers here do not use hot air anyway. Plan to hang dry your clothing upon washing. Regarding your location in Kyiv; it is very probable that you will change apartments at least twice. Your first apartment will be used for when you are in Kyiv and attending your SDA appointment. Your second apartment will be in the region of the children’s referral you accepted. The third apartment will back to Kyiv for your appointments at the U.S. Embassy. So unless your children are in the Kyiv Region, plan to change your apartment.

Also, do not try and book an apartment through an online booking agency. There are many reputable companies to choose from for leisure travel, but allow your facilitator to set your apartment up for you in relation to your family’s specific needs.