Ukraine. People hear it and generally, if they’ve never visited, their mind immediately thinks of harsh winters and dreary landscapes. However, those who have traveled here soon discover a secret magnificence that somehow has eluded much of the outside world. From ski-towns nestled into the Carpathians in the West and beaches framed by lush hills and the clear waters of the Black Sea in the South; to the cobblestoned and cafe-lined streets of Lviv over to the thriving metropolis that is Kyiv: Ukraine’s diversity is astounding.

Not for the subdued traveler, Ukraine challenges it’s visitors with experiences that make even the most competent of backpackers go “oh my god I’m in a foreign country.” It’s that rarely felt, in today’s modern-world, realization that makes adventure seekers fall in love with Ukraine. Bordering Russia, Belarus, Poland, Slovakia, Romania, Hungary and Moldova, Ukraine is the perfect spot for border-crossing addicts. Western visitors are still a rare site here so get ready endless amounts of homemade Horilka and start practicing your Ukrainian toasts. Ukrainians will welcome you with open arms and a full shot glass. Bud’mo! Welcome to Ukraine.

A Must Read
I've never had any desire to visit Ukraine ... until I read Hardaway's book. The way she describes the country -- through witty, conversational writing -- made me want to add it to my list of places to visit.

- "EMK" - Amazon customer

Culture for Thought
Informative, yet quirky at times. As someone who's spent time in the "Soviet-bloc", I could appreciate the level of humor when describing the country's culture and transition from the communist umbrella. Hardaway also did a great job of distancing herself from the Lonely Planet series, adding colorful backgrounds to locales and a thoughtful approach to everyday life that could only come from a person who lived in the region.

- "SCB" - Amazon customer

An Honest Guide
I bought this book on recommendation from a friend when I began planning a trip to Ukraine. I usually dread picking up a travel guide, feeling overwhelmed by too much information, but this one has been a pleasant read. Ashley Hardaway writes with a bit of humor and complete honesty. She provides the kind of knowledge beyond tourist attractions that only someone with her experience and attitude can provide.

I have had my copy for a week and already it is covered in notes, highlighting and earmarked pages. Ashley's book has been a great tool for planning our trip, which we couldn't be more excited about. She has provided a lot of great tips and insider information for questions I didn't know to ask. This isn't a book full of shiny advertisements of places to visit in Ukraine, it's an honest interpretation of actual experience that has left me feeling confident about our upcoming travels.

- "Brandirenee" - Amazon customer