Ukraine is a truly unique place to visit. The biggest European country, and located in its very heart, it is strikingly different from the majority of the European nations and is a real mystery for millions of tourists. Travelers from all over the world come here to not only to enjoy its rare nature, but also to be filled with the spirit of the Cossacks, to get to know its rich cultural legacy, and to try its famous borsht. Ukraine attracts with its mysteries and draws in adventurers, who strive to discover its highly complex character.

Each visitor feels like a treasure hunter because he never knows what treasures he may come across. In this sense, Ukraine is a treasure chest stuffed to its brim with wonderful riches. How magnificent is its natural beauty! It contains two majestic rivers - the Dnieper and Dniester, which are framed by the greenest banks. You can visit two very different, strikingly beautiful seas – the Black and the Azov. The only desert in Europe - Oleshky Sands – lies near the largest artificial forest in the world, with its ideally evenly planted trees and exotic flora. You can also visit nature reserves, where rare species of animals live and the Red Book flowers grow. Ancient mountain ranges (the Crimean Mountains and Carpathian Mountains), crystal lakes, charming waterfalls, mysterious backwaters, uninhibited islands, underground caves, and amazing daffodil valleys – all this natural diversity is concentrated on Ukraine’s territory.

Thanks to its unique natural gifts, Ukraine is the ideal place for resting and healing. People from all over the world come to resorts that feature therapeutic muds, minerals, springs, and a fantastic climate.

But, of course, the country’s main treasure is its people. The Ukrainian nation, despite its complicated history and uneasy present state, is distinguished with innate optimism, breadth of soul, and spirituality. This is probably because Ukrainians are very religious people. Ukraine is a home to many religions. The representatives of very different confessions live here in harmony: Orthodox temples stand next to Catholic cathedrals, mosques, and synagogues. And Ukrainian churches - the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, the Saint Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv, the Sviatohirsk Monastery - are not only symbols of spirituality, but are also unique landmarks, as well.

A trip to Ukraine is also an opportunity to learn about its interesting culture, which occupies a special place in European cultural heritage, and about its unique ancient customs. The traditions of each people that have lived on Ukraine’s territory have been interweaved in peculiar way.

Ukraine’s diversity is reflected in its cuisine, famous for its great taste. Borsht, vareniki, home-made sausages, pamushkas, and chicken Kyiv have grown famous across the world long ago, and are now served in the restaurants of many countries. But to discover how they really taste is possible only in Ukraine! And only here you can try the real Ukrainian salo (pork fat) – if when put it on a piece of dark bread and chase it with a shot of cold horilka (Ukrainian vodka), you will not want to leave! Each region of the country is famous for its unique culinary traditions. Ukrainian beverages are highly appreciated as well - stimulating 'varenukha', refreshing kvass, and, of course, the well known 'live’ beer.

Ukraine lives a festive life. Ukrainian and international music, art, and film festivals take place there each year, gathering a broad international audience. And very soon, Ukraine will become a paradise for millions of fans from different corners of Europe, who will come in Ukraine to watch the Euro 2012 soccer matches.

Whatever the goal of your visit is, you can rest assured knowing that a trip around Ukraine will be a real feast for you. To the person who manages to unlock this mysterious country’s secrets, Ukraine will dazzle with its beauty and challenge all preconceived notions.

Welcome!