Week 22: Air-raids and more in Kyiv

We made it! We're finally in Ukraine—the ‘mystery’ destination we hinted at last week.

Our first impression? The roads are a real adventure, a chaotic patchwork of deep potholes and rolling, uneven surfaces. I’m told this is a remnant from the Soviet era.

But the people? Absolutely extraordinary—warm, resilient, and endlessly welcoming.The border guards greeted us with smiles as they thoroughly inspected every inch of the car. Despite emptying it completely, they kept smiling, offering cheerful welcomes to Ukraine.What a contrast!

And what an incredible country.The landscapes are breathtaking, with vast, open fields and charming, historical architecture that tells the story of a nation that has stood the test of time. Everything here feels authentic and rich with heritage, from the quaint cobblestone streets to the grand cathedrals that seem to appear around every corner.

And let me tell you—everything is astonishingly inexpensive!

Petrol? Just 91p a litre.

We enjoyed a decadent three-course meal for two, and the bill was a mere €21.

Our accommodation, a luxurious 4-star hotel, cost only €23 a night. Unbelievable, right?

I even had the car serviced at a Toyota in Ukraine—oil and filter replacement, wheel alignment, and a full sensor check—all for just €110.

The efficiency and low cost were mind-blowing.We’ve already experienced two air-raids. One shook us awake in the early morning, and the second caught us just as night fell. The eerie wail of the sirens sends a chill down your spine, and you find yourself instinctively scanning the skies, bracing for something to fall from above.

Kyiv is undeniably on a war-footing. You see it in the reinforced military structures around every bridge, building, and road.

Despite this, the people here carry themselves with unshakeable determination. Their resilience is awe-inspiring—there’s no doubt in their minds that they will prevail. It’s a sense of fortitude we witnessed firsthand while attending a service at Hillsong Church in Kyiv, where the congregation gathered with hope in their hearts.

And let me tell you—Kyiv is a stunningly beautiful city. Its history radiates from every corner, with intricate, centuries-old architecture telling stories of a bygone era. You can’t walk a block without wanting to pull out your camera. Just when you think you’ve seen the most beautiful sight, you turn a corner and another jaw-dropping vista unfolds before you.

Next stop: heading down to Odessa and then into Moldova.Check out 2kiwisonthemove.com for videos and further content.