Learning Russian abroad in Kiev, Ukraine is one of many language immersion programs offered by AmeriSpan. Visitors to Ukraine, a former part of the Soviet Union, will be delighted to find a country in transition from Soviet Union bureaucracy to a more modern European way of life. Since the revolution in 2004, Ukraine has welcomed a freer press, more open attitude, and an improving economy. This new, emerging national identity has been realized by hosting the Eurovision Song Contest in 2005, being named co-host of the 2012 European Football Championship, and perhaps bidding for the 2018 Winter Olympics. .
Overflowing with Gothic, Byzantine and Baroque architecture and art, nearly every city and town has its centuries-old cathedral. Although Ukraine is one of Europe’s poorest nations, it is home to some incredible art and architecture, namely its golden-domed Russian and Ukrainian Orthodox cathedrals and preponderance of gold-laden Byzantine mosaics. For those interested in religious culture, travel to Ukraine during Easter week to witness some incredible Orthodox rituals. .
Ukraine has dozens of villages with picket fences, duck ponds and overloaded horse carts where time seems to stand still among the smoggy industrial cities. A major player in the region’s economy, this country is situated on the southeastern part of Central Europe..
The climate in Ukraine varies from stunningly beautiful springs and autumns to hot summers and freezing winters. Ukrainians delight in the outdoors, and excellent skiing can be found in the Carpathian Mountains during winter, along with top-notch hiking opportunities during spring and autumn in the Carpathian and Crimean Mountains. During summer, everybody flocks to the beautiful Black Sea Coast for some rest and relaxation.
Learn Russian Language in Ukraine:
Kiev (also spelled Kyiv), the capital and largest city of Ukraine, has a population of about 2.7 million. Set in a naturally beautiful location on the banks of the Dnipro River, in north central Ukraine, the numerous golden-domed cathedrals glitter in the sunlight as you stroll along Khreshchatyk, Kiev’s main street. A charming mix of old and new architecture and culture, and excellent food, drink, and nightlife greet travelers, as do the city beaches at Hydropark.
One of the oldest cities in Eastern Europe, Russian is widely spoken in Kiev, including shops and restaurants. While in Kiev, make sure to see the fascinating Chernobyl Museum, the impressive Motherland Statue and WWII memorials. Another intriguing site is the Percherska Lavra, a cave monestary where priests dug out caves and lived as hermits. You can see mummified monks, and there is still an underground church in use today. Finally, make sure to stop by St. Sophia’s Cathedral, one of the oldest remaining churches in Kiev, filled with exquisite mosaics.
