I know that over the past few years I have come to rely on the ability to easily get cash from ATM's while traveling. With the current political and economic situation the national bank in Ukraine has put limitations on bank withdrawels. This means it can be almost impossible to get money from an ATM. In theory you are supposed to be able to withdraw up to 500 grivna each day, but in actuality it is often impossible to be able to get any money. This situation could last for at least the next month and possibly longer.
I have also heard reports of credit cards not being accepted but have no first hand experience with this.
By the way I just returned from Kiev. I had initially been going to cancel my trip due to work pressures but at the last minute (and after talking to various people in Kiev) I said to hell with it and went anyway (my apologies to you Dan).
I spent quite a bit of time at Maiden and Kreshatik. It was always peaceful. The schools and Universities were all closed so everyone was there having a good time.
I also spent 4 days outside of Kamyanets Podilsk (southwestern Ukraine). Great area, the castles are beautiful. Rented a house in the country for $60.00 a day. Three stories, 2 fireplaces, sauna, cook/maid (food was great). This place is really set up to accomodate larger groups, but is equally fine for a couple. By the way due to the mountains the weather is considerably warmer in this area of the country. It was in the 50's F a couple of days while I was there.
Also, contrary to what was reported before I left, the trains are running on schedule. I guess there was a couple of days immediately following the elections when they were refusing to sell tickets.
By the way, here is a rumor. Yanukovich supposedly beat the Ukrainian equivalent of a transportation secretary. This was reported to have happened last Wednesday. Reportedly the guy ended up in the hospital and had some teeth knocked out. This was supposed to have happened during a government meeting.
