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To continue with my previous post, I’ve lived in Kiev for 7 years and seen this city progress, grow and change. What’s positive for me now:

-    Regardless of economic problems, the number of real estate offers is very high – new apartment ads are placed on billboards everywhere across the city
-    Despite hard economic situation, people are calm and friendly, atmosphere is very peaceful
-    Some of my friends from other cities have managed to find jobs recently, though not very well-paid
-    Food prices have risen, but still there are good offers in big chain stores like Auchan

Finally now, when the weather is slowly changing to summer, I think Kiev’s a very good place for living and tourism. Lots of parks and cafes look welcoming to visitors. For me, who knows the city well, it’s clear – Ukraine’s capital is on the same line with European capitals. You can take tango lessons here or visit milongas, attend numerous English-speaking clubs or enjoy your holiday in the nature – Kiev’s got it all.

Living costs are not high - transportation is 3.5 - 5 UAH, bread is 6 - 10 UAH, fish - 40 - 50 UAH per kg, sausages - 80 - 100 UAH per kg, a visit to a cafe with a drink and a meal - 100 - 300 UAH per person.
I must admit many locals are concerned about rising prices for utility services and high bills for natural gas and heating, but everybody's trying to find some ways to save on expenses. If you're an outsider going to spend some time here, foreign exchange rates are very favourable and it'll probably be so for a long time until investments start flowing into this country.

That's why though Ukraine is currently known for its instability and military conflict in the media, visiting Kiev at present is highly recommended.