We don't really have anything new to report on the adoption. Our court hearing is tomorrow at 10:30 a.m. I thought I would just share a few things about Kiev and Donetsk.
One of the first things we noticed in Kiev is the incredible use of cell phones. Everyone walking, driving, running and shopping has one attached to their ear. Every way you turned there were people on cell phones. Also, not only does the traffic move fast in Kiev but so do the people. You really don't want to get in the way of someone who is trying to get somewhere. I don't believe it is a matter of being rude or pushy, it is just the pace that the city moves at. At every major intersection you have to go underground to cross the street and there are all kinds of stores down there. It's great for the avid shopper. The prices for things in Kiev seem to be higher than in Donetsk. We take a taxi to and from the orphanage every day, twice a day; so for 4 taxi rides it costs us $17.00 U.S. which is a lot less than at home. It is about 15 minutes one way. We found a nice restaurant that actually has an English menu (Cherry Pizza) and we had a pizza, a pint of beer, a glass of wine, an iced tea and a dessert and with a tip, it was $20.00. Groceries are quite a bit less for most things also.
That's my little tidbit for today. We have to get back to the apartment as it will soon be time to see "R". Bye for now.
3 comments:
This is great information for those of us waiting to travel. It is helpful to get some idea on our expenses while we are there. Thanks for the info.
I remember thinking that people were rude with their cell phones, taking a call right in the middle of a conversation, meal, meeting, etc. Then I read a blog that made sense. All incoming cell phone calls there are free, so people are quick to accept so that they don't have to call back & pay for it!
Don't you just love how reasonable the food is? Of course, for the locals I'm sure it doesn't seem that way with their limited budgets! We had a fave pizza place where we could get a pizza & 2 drinks for $5 - awesome!! Also, have you tried Patos chips? They come in a red bag with a chili pepper on them and look kind of like Doritos, but much better. We miss them so much!
Hope all goes well in court tomorrow!
I am so glad to hear that all is going so well, and little "R" sounds absolutely adorable! I wish you all the best on the rest of your amazing journey, and I look forward to meeting the little guy. Karen K.
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