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Goodbye (1997)  Organising a graceful departure  KYIV DESTINATION: Boryspil Departures Lounge All good things come to an end.  So here is some information about the departure hall of Boryspil Airport http://www.visitkievukraine.com/businesses/borispol-airport/ . Try to get there two hours in advance. Ukrainians are even better queuers than the British, and like to arrive early to check in. If you are early there is a new restaurant in the checking in area with a very comprehensive menu. Once into the departure lounge you come to an international duty free area. Aside from Ukrainian vodka, there's not a great range of Ukrainian goods, so don't leave anything to chance. If you see something in town that you like - buy it there. There are four eating options: The Sprito di Italiano is a restaurant that does what it says on the tin. Another restaurant on the other side of the departure lounge is called Gourmet Kitchen and Bar. Both restaurants have wait...

Here Today, Gone Tomorrow (1982)  Things you shouldn't try to bring home  Ukraine is a country on high alert and security at airports is tight. There are a number of things that scanners will check for as you enter the airport. So even before you get to check-in you may be asked to hand over certain items. Before you pack your bag to come home, please check you don't have any of the following: 1. Items from the conflict zones (known here as the ATO).   August organisations such as Kyiv's town hall occasionally hold craft fairs and events for people living, fighting, wounded by or displaced by the conflict in the east of the country. Some crafters paint spent bullets as souvenirs and fundraisers. These will not get through airport security. Certain chocolate shops in Kyiv also sell solid chocolate hand grenades and revolvers. These are life-size and again are not recommended when testing the patience of airport security staff. 2. Antiques Be careful w...

Arrival  KYIV DESTINATION: Boryspil Airport  Kyiv has two airports and both have international flights. Let's start with Boryspol Airport arrivals hall. This is a modern functional airport. You come off the plane, go through passport control, descend to the baggage hall and collect your bags.   There are good toilet facilities in the baggage hall and as you get off the plane. Once through customs you will emerge into the bustle of the Arrivals Hall.    Taxi desk I f you want a taxi into town then just to your left is a taxi reception area. The receptionists speak English. If you give your destination, then a screen will show you an estimate of the fare. Fares are considerably lower than most West European capital cities.  Expect to pay €10-20. If you agree, then you will be escorted out to the taxi driver and set off.  It can take between 30 minutes to 50 minutes to get into the centre, depending on the time of day a...