Before coming to Ukraine Pakistanis should be mindful of following Do’s and Don’ts for your security and image of Pakistan. Do not have expectations for things to be the same as back home. Some things in Ukraine are done differently and some do not seem to make sense for an outside person, but there is always a reason and logic why things are different.

• To visit Ukraine, you should have a valid passport and visa. At the border / airport have you documents ready for interview like purpose of the visit, arrangements for residence, availability of funds etc.
• Once in Ukraine, register yourself with the Embassy of Pakistan Kyiv. Details are provided on the Embassy website https://embassyofpakistanukraine.org/
• Buy and install a SIM card for your phone from a Ukrainian cell phone provider such as Kyivtsar. It starts from as low as USD 5 per month.
• Install Google Translate app on your phone, it is useful while trying to understand menus at restaurants and cafes and for conversation.
• Activate Geolocation feature on your phone and share your Google Maps location with your family back home. With your unlimited data plan and excellent cell phone coverage in Ukraine, your family will always know where you are.
• Bring an adapter for power outlets in Ukraine, they are different from Pakistan but are the same as in the rest of continental Europe. Most gadget chargers these days are made to be compatible with European 220 Voltage.
• Carry cash as many places in the Ukrainian do not accept credit / debit cards.
• Memorize a few words in Ukrainian, such as Hello and Thank you for initiating polite conversations.
• If visiting for official / business reasons bring small gifts. Think of something original that characterized your country or yourself.
• When visiting a local church or places of religious significance follow the customs and leave a small donation. There a few mosques in Kyiv where you can offer your prayers.
• There are a number of Halal shops and restaurants where you can dine and buy food. Tap water is not potable everywhere. Avoid eating unwashed fruit and vegetables.
• Ukraine is generally safe but do not put your valuables, such as passports, wallet and credit cards in a back pocket of your rucksack, or in your shirt or pants’ pockets where it is visible.
• Avoid awkward conversation subjects. People do not like to discuss pay, emoluments and relationship status etc.
• Be prepared as some pavements may be poorly maintained and watch out for withered balconies from where debris may fall and cause injury.
• Tips for taxi drivers, servers in restaurants and for guides etc are appreciated if offered. However, there is generally no tipping culture in Ukraine. A tipping rule of thumb in Ukraine would be about 20% of a bill, or a round-up. This depends on quality of service and the total amount.
• Do not take photos of every horse drawn cart in Ukraine’s countryside. But if this is necessary, do so discretely rather than into people’s faces. Many people feel embarrassed having their photos taken without permission.
• In case of emergency reach out to the embassy on emergency contact details listed on the Embassy website.
• Before leaving Ukraine inform the Embassy.