10 TIPS ON TRAVELING RESPONSIBLY IN UKRAINE

2018-07-31 13:57:22

At Active Ukraine we pride ourselves on applying the principles of responsible tourism in all our tours and day-to-day operations. However, there is so much we can do to minimize our ecological and cultural footprint. And the big job of maximizing the benefits of tourism goes to you – our dear traveler!

 

In case you would love to travel more responsibly, but have no idea how to practically implement it, we’ve compiled for you some suggestions that will help you have a guilt-free sustainable vacation.

1. RESPECT LOCAL CULTURE & BE WILLING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT IT

Prepare. Spend your time to learn a bit about Ukraine, its people and their culture. Knowing small things or seemingly unimportant etiquette rules can help you blend in with the Ukrainians, and earn grateful smiles and support from them. See our Guide to Active Ukraine for more information about traditions in Ukraine!

 

2. FOLLOW THE GUIDELINES

While nature reserves in Ukraine are not yet crowded with mass tourists, they still need special care in order to maintain what has been preserved by previous generations. When hiking or visiting a reserve, follow the rules it set. Stay on trails, do not pick up plants or flowers, and remain quiet when advised, in order to minimize your impact on this fragile and unique environment.

 

3. LEARN SOME UKRAINIAN WORDS

It might be difficult to master the language with Ukrainians themselves divided on the language issue. Nevertheless, keep in mind that a few words in Ukrainian will definitely help you make some new friends!

 

4. SHOP AT BAZAARS

Contributing financially to the communities you visit is the surest way to travel responsibly and bring a positive impact to the area. Buy Ukrainian-made products, shop at bazaars instead of large supermarkets, drink local brands and dine in local eateries. When hiking in the Carpathians, don’t hesitate to buy fresh milk or sheep cheese ‘brynza’ from mountainous farmsteads. Keep in mind that Ukraine is not a bargaining country and the price will be reasonable unless your guide informs you otherwise.

 

5. BUY FROM LOCAL ARTISANS (THANK YOU, NATIONAL GEOGRAPHICS, FOR INSPIRATION!)

An easy ‘souvenir’ solution is to buy a bunch of machine-made sacks that each cost a euro. By doing so you are unintentionally supporting the mass market, cheap product, and moving people away from their traditional culture. Instead, invest in a 100 euro high-quality rug or embroidered tablecloth that use ancient techniques and help preserve local craft traditions.

 

6. MINIMIZE YOUR WASTE

Leave behind those plastic bags. Bring your own water bottle. Ukraine’s environment is already struggling with its industrial cities and unorganized ‘wild camping’. When trekking, cycling, rafting, or doing any other outdoor activity, make sure to leave nothing but your footprints.

 

7. CONSERVE RESOURCES

Be careful with natural resources. If you are staying in the Southern Ukraine that has limited water, don’t take long showers every day. Help conserve resources by turning off TVs, lights, air conditioning and heating when not in use and don’t get your linen changed daily if you can manage without.

 

8. ENGAGE IN LOCAL ACTIVITIES

Gain exclusive experience by participating in activities with local people. Try cooking Ukrainian dish, learn to ride a horse-cart, take a master class in carpet waiving or simply visit one of the numerous cultural summer festivals.

 

9. STAY SIMPLE

Keep in mind that while Ukraine’s economy has gone a long way since 1991, it might still be far from the level of comfort you are used to. Be patient and enjoy the benefits of the situation instead: eat home-baked bread, ride a rural horse-carriage or imagine how Europe used to be when staying in one of the countryside farmsteads.

 

10. LEND A HAND

Make a positive impact by giving back. Your contribution does not have to be large and complicated. A simple thing like picking up the trash you see when you walk down a beach helps the environment. You could also participate in an organized volunteer activity, or support the efforts of a local NGO. It really doesn’t take a lot to make a difference!

Check out our Responsible Tourism Policy and send us your suggestions on what else you (and we!) can do maximize the positive impact while traveling in Ukraine. 

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