Ukraine

Capital of Ukraine: Kiev
Population of Ukraine: 45,134,707
Total area of Ukraine: 603,550 km2

The Ukraine is a moderately large country located in the Southeastern portion of Europe. Its flag consists of two horizontal stripes. The top stripe is a turquoise blue and the bottom stripe is yellow. Its coat of arms is also turquoise with a stylized yellow design in the middle of it.

Ukraine population

The population of the Ukraine is mostly Ukrainian at 78 percent. There are a number of minority ethnic groups, including the Russians, Belarusians, Moldovans, Jews, Romanians and Polish. There has been a drastic drop in population because of a high death rate and low birth rate since 1980. It is the fourth most declining population in the world. People are dying because of poor healthcare, alcoholism, a high smoking rate and a poor diet. Infant mortality is also higher than most countries of Europe. The birth rate is still only about half of the death rate. The fertility rate is only about 1.3 children per woman. The country has increased child support payments over the years to try and increase the birth rate. Kiev is the largest city. The major religion is Orthodox Christianity, including the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.  

History of Ukraine

The country was first established in the 800s by the Varangians. It was a powerful region in the Middle Ages but fell apart in the 1200s. It was under the control of three other powers by the 14th century, including the Kingdom of Poland, the Golden Horde and Lithuania. It was assimilated into the Russian Empire in the 1800s. There was a great deal of warfare during that time and the country attempted to be independent after WWI. In 1922, it became part of the Soviet Union. The country took on territory after WWII. It became an independent country again in 1991, following the fall of communism in the USSR.

Ukraine Tourism

There is an air of mystery surrounding Ukraine that makes you want to unravel it. Like a detective trying to solve a case, you delve inside this place and then you uncover a quiet charm that goes beyond its mere façade. In Kiev, one its major attractions,  you will find ancient cave cities to explore and architectural wonders like Russian and Ukrainian Orthodox cathedrals, its golden domes gleaming  like a beacon of hope against the backdrop of Ukraine’s tumultuous politics. Fire up your sense of adventure and explore the spooky catacombs of Caves Monastery, which showcases Kiev’s religious heritage. Yalta, the 'Pearl of the Crimea' has a wine tasting hall where you sample cheap but good quality wine that is produced from the region’s vineyards. A breathtaking sight that should not be missed is the 11th-century St Sofia Cathedral. Situated in beautiful grounds, this church features impressive icons and frescoes that will awe visitors.

It is not unusual for Ukrainian people to invite strangers into their homes as their general attitude towards visitors is warm and friendly. Before entering a home, you must remove your shoes. There is hardly any reason for the people to wear formal attire; however, they like to dress up when they decide to hit the theatre. Visitors are advised to avoid displaying their wealth in public. The etiquette for shaking hands is that men should wait for a woman to offer her hand before they shake it. When women enter a church or mosque, they are required to cover their heads.