Kiev!!!!
Trip Start
Aug 24, 2006
1
52
65
Trip End
Ongoing
Kiev, Ukraine
Sunday, November 5, 2006
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Well, at 10:30 this morning we finally arrived in Kiev! We weren't sure it was actually Kiev, but since everyone else was getting off the train, so did we! Next up was finding our hostel. I had directions from both a trolley and the subway. After about 20 minutes of walking, we finally found the subway - half our walk was in the wrong direction of course. We fought our way for tickets, figured out where we needed to go, then got on the train! I must remind you all that all this was done carrying everything we currently possess.
We made it to our proper subway stop and then had another 20 minute walk. The map they had online wasn't too bad, though it was Meghan who spotted the hidden "hostel" sign. Our hostel is in a brand new (well - parts are still being constructed) building. We have a private room since the hostel only has doubles and triples, no dorms. Though we do share a bathroom with the room next to us. I highly doubt anyone will be in it, November isn't exactly tourist season in Kiev. It was 3 degrees Celsius today, though it only snowed in the morning and at night!
Meghan and I got settled in our room before going to check out the city. I think a combination of my heavy bags, new boots, and a decent amount of walking carrying aforementioned baggage messed up my right foot (it has bad arches), so the rest of the walking we didn't today was just lovely (note the sarcasm).
First we stumbled upon ST. Michael's Monastery. The buildings were actually very unique. the entire complex was a pale blue! And the domes were of course, gold, in Russian style.
Across from that was the St. Sophia Complex which I didn't think was as pretty, but apparently it is UNESCO listed.
Then we set on our walk to find Khreshchatyk Street (yeah, I can't pronounce it either). Apparently it was one of the main streets and it closes to traffic on the weekends. WE walked for a while but had no idea where we were on the stupid map. Eventually we found a subway stop and decided just to pay the 50 kopeck (like 10 cents) and take it. Unfortunately, when I looked at a better map I realized the Gate of Kiev was right next to that stop - don't worry Heather, I'll go back tomorrow.
Eventually we made it to the K. street. But alas - there weren't very many restaurants. It was already 3 and all we had had was a shared apple to eat. Eventually, we just went to the 1st open restaurant, which of course was semi-expensive, but the food was fantastic! I had Ukrainian beer, green borsht (it had beets and spinach)!, mashed potatoes, and chicken Kiev! Woohoo! Cross that off the list, I ate chicken Kiev in Kiev and it was delicious!!!
Since I could barely walk because of my foot and it was 4:30 and therefore dark, Meghan and I decided to head back to the hostel. My foot really needs to be better by tomorrow 'cause we've got a lot to do!
Comments
duh duh duuuuhn
I missed those pictures before. Is there a picture coming back for me of you humming LOUDLY to the Great Gate at Kiev with an autograph of an onlooker to verify it's validity?