Ukraine

Every side of Ukraine is fascinating, whether you leave the great stairs of Potemkin in Odessa to swim in the Black Sea or lose yourself in the Carpathians, Ukraine fascinates. With a history dating back to the seventh century B.C. the country has acquired a wealth of unusual influences through its different ages and civilizations. A venerable witness to a historical whirlwind, Kiev, the capital, impresses with its Slavic refinement giving it the privileged nickname of "Rome of the North". Like the eternal city, Kiev makes its visitors want to lose themselves in its picturesque neighborhoods, like Andriyivsky Uzviz where the charm is seen upon its cobblestones of disarming sweetness. In front of Kiev's St. Sophia Cathedral, a little further away, you'll completely lose track of time as you let your gaze fall onto the curves of the monument's emerald dome. In addition to the Kiev Cave Monastery, other architectural treasures await those give their heart to the city. And although you'll leave with a heavy heart, you should go and marvel at the splendor of Odessa, its cute little southern sister. A hedonistic and elegant port city, on the banks of which the Black Sea sketches out a coastline with sparkling beaches. Once you have walked up the unmissable Potemkin Stairs, head off to Deribasovskaya street to discover the opulence of a city that combines gentleness and civility. Wilder than all of Ukraine's other provinces, Crimea sings a beautiful natural melody, with its steep coasts and endless fertile plains. Like everywhere else in Ukraine, you'll taste the flavors of the passing day, with panache and elegance.