Well, I just completed a second trip to Ukraine (11/00) and this time I added in a side trip to Egypt. Here are some observations from this trip:

+ Natalie Koval made all of my arrangements in Kyiv, including those with Alexsey. See her contact information in my previous Ukraine related post.

+ Alexsey Gorshkov of Intours Kiev provided a very good “expeditor” service at Borispol. He met me at the entrance to the airport upon arrival and assisted me in quickly moving through the entry process. Based on my three arrivals into Borispol now, I don’t think his services are required but if you are concerned about being hassled or are intimidated by the system, he does provide a good service. Cheaper than the similar VIP service. 380-44-296-70-05.

+ The hotel at the Borispol airport has been remodeled and is a real value if you need to stay near the airport. $30/night for a double. Within walking distance of Terminal B but there is also a shuttle to the airport.

+ Twice police at the airports in Kyiv stopped me and neither time was I asked for a bribe and both encounters ended with smiles.

+ I had a very nice efficiency apartment in the heart of Kyiv for $40/ night. Satellite TV included.

+ Roundtrip airfare to Simferopol from Kyiv was $180. Business class was $10 extra and worth it for the extra legroom and space at a table. The baggage handling procedures ensure your luggage goes with you (you carry it to and from the airplane).

+ Daylong tours of Crimea can be arranged for $35/day for a driver with acceptable English and car.

+ The OVIR in Simferopol was closed every time I tried to register. Finally went to the Hotel Ukraine and got registered for $8 even though I was staying at my girlfriend’s flat.

+ Take a flashlight with you. Potholes, trenches, no streetlights, and no lights in apartment stairwells make walking at night hazardous.

+ The overnight 1^st class train from Simferopol to Kyiv was very good. Sleeper compartment for 2 was $100 one way. You buy food at the station and then have picnics during the trip. Hot water is available on the train but I never saw any other food sales. Restrooms are clean but get locked well prior to entering a station, so you need to time your visits well.

+ Trips to Egypt were very reasonable at $318 for her and $388 for me. Included roundtrip airfare from Kyiv, 7 nights hotel, and 2 meals a day. Would suggest upgrading to a better hotel. The 3 star Presidential in Hurghada left a lot to be desired.

+ Take interesting ballpoint pens to give or trade to people in Egypt and plenty of small bills for tips.

+ The weather in Hurghada was wonderful in Nov/Dec., sunny, moderate temperature, cooling off at night. Watch out for the mosquitoes at night. Luxor was hot but Cairo was cold. This was all within 3 days.

+ Egypt is a good place to vacation with a Ukrainian lady: visas are purchased at the airport ($15/each); everyone seems to speak multiple languages including English and Russian. Menus and signs are in Russian. Overall costs were low to moderate. Lots to see and do.

I hope these are helpful. Happy to answer any questions.