Currency

[NewbieVisitor]

Hello, first post here and it's probably one that gets asked a lot.

I'll be visiting Kyiv in July the week after the euros have finished and I know that currently Hryvnia (sp?) cannot be - or is very difficult to - buy in the UK before traveling. Are there plans to make UAH available outside Ukraine this year to help make it easier for people who are going to the football?

[AkMike]

Exchanging money is not a problem! All you need to do is stop by almost any banl or exchange kiosk and do it. The ATB (ATM)'s will allow you to easily get cash from your credit card also. There's language menus to guide you along.

[NewbieVisitor]

I meant will UAH be available in the UK in the summer.

[AkMike]

If you need it ahead of time I'm sure you can scout around to find currency comapnys than can order it for you.

[Gotno Gizmo]

I have never found the Ukraine Hryvnia (UAH) readily available at exchange kiosks in the UK, but it may be available via banks ordered in advance. However, as has already been said, money changing is not a problem. I usually change up some UK Pounds at Kiev airport on arrival, but just enough for my bus ticket and immediate needs, because the exchange rate there is not good. I later draw Hryvnia from the "holes in the wall" (ATMs) using the selected English language option menu.

You should contact your bank before leaving the UK, advising them of your journey, otherwise there is a high risk such ATM transactions may be denied. You will pay an additional transaction fee and some banks also charge a currency conversion fee, so ask your bank about such charges. I would advise you to set a maximum daily withdrawal facility with your bank. That way if by some card theft, cloning, or other electronic mishap your entire acount cannot be emptied before you have a chance to find out. If you take your bank cards with you ensure you have your banks special number to telephone whilst abroad ASAP to let them know your card(s) must be cancelled. It is best to take our the card insurance scheme with free telephone number facility. I tell you this because I was jostled by three guys whilst entering a busy Kiev Metro train who made off with my wallet, so keep your money well inside your clothing!

If you do decide to risk walking around with a wad of notes, take US Dollars, or Euros. It's suprising how many banks and other money change kiosks will refuse to change Pounds Sterling (GBP).

This is sound advice from a British guy who has now clocked up many months in Ukraine and I love the place. It grows on you but it is a complete culture shock for a Brit with no previous experience of former Soviet Europe.

[AkMike]

AND if you bring cash MAKE SURE it's very fresh or new bills! They don't accept old folded, torn, or money with marks on the notes.
I can easliy see where GG got nailed by pick pockets.. Those metros are crowded!
I lost out to pick pockets once at Mardi Gras in New Orleans too. No fun being a very long ways from Home w/o license cash or CC.

[NewbieVisitor]

thanks. i think i'll split my funds into three. i'll take my bank card, a travelex card and the rest in cash.

I'm planning on £1500 for a week - including paying for my apartment. will this be enough?