You have many safe and affordable options. Kyiv has a wonderful Metro system (subway). It is safe, affordable and easy to use. One ride costs the equivalent to an American 25 cents; cheap. The Metro’s website is: http://www.metro.kiev.ua/ it is in Ukrainian so if you want to read it in English, you will have to copy/paste this web address into Google’s language tools here: http://www.google.com/language_tools?hl=en Scroll down to “Translate a Webpage” Make sure “http//” isn’t in the text field twice. Plus, I have attached a copy of the English and Ukrainian map versions. It will be important to have both copies with you when using the Metro because if you get turned around, all the signs are in Ukrainian. While you may not be able to read them, you can at least match the names of the stops to the names on your Ukrainian map in order to find your way. Don’t be intimidated by the Cyrillic alphabet, just familiarize yourself somewhat before you travel and you will be fine.
Another safe method is by Taxi. However, utilize your translator/facilitator to make taxi arrangements for you. Do not hail a cab yourself. Also, taxi drivers in Ukraine are not tipped.
There is also the bus. The bus wasn’t recommended to us because in the summer they are too hot and stink really bad. However, in the winter they are more utilized and a safe method of travel through the snow.
All of these travel methods would be easier to use if your translator/facilitator shows you how to use them. Even if you can’t speak Russian or Ukrainian, you will still be able to utilize public transportation if you are shown how. Also, unless you are doing personal travel, most places that are of driving distance your facilitator will drive you. If not your facilitator, he/she will have already arranged a driver for you to be used for adoption-related activity and this should be included in your fees.
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