A good bar for me is a cocktail of three ingredients: an original concept, the right atmosphere, delicious drinks. These three Kyiv bars are different in essence, but they have all of the above components.

Hitchcook Bar

Hitchcock Bar is an institution about cinema and for cinema. The bar is located on the seventh floor of the Gulliver shopping center next to the Oscar cinema. Here you can discuss the details of the new blockbuster or get inspired to watch an art-house movie. And also – to feel like the very heroes of the tapes who in the frame enjoyed the drinks that have already become legendary: Carrie from Sex and the City sipping Cosmopolitan, Darling performed by Marilyn Monroe mixing a Manhattan cocktail in an ordinary heating pad or Ingrid Bergman, drinking French 95 and reminiscing about Paris at Casablanca

Cocktail card

“What is our life? A game!” This statement was embodied in the concept of the Hitchcock Bar cocktail card. It is made in the form of a deck of cards of 53 drinks. There is also a Joker here – this is a signature cocktail from the bartender of the institution. The price of the drinks is 80 UAH. You can enjoy them at a chic bar counter almost the entire length of the institution. Behind it fits up to 30 people: so you can even arrange a friendly mini-dinner! By the way, you definitely won’t leave here hungry: what are the only eclairs with salmon mousse (75 UAH), pork on the bone with baked potatoes and cheese sauce (120 UAH), and Napoleon with strawberry coulis (85 UAH)

This bar is inspiring. It is very atmospheric: leather sofas and armchairs with velvet upholstery, twilight, glass hanging chandeliers, original Hitchcock movie posters. Here you want to change. Make up your lips with red lipstick, do your hair a la “cold wave” and find yourself in the era of a brilliant director. And also – watch Alfred’s films (which are on the screen) and listen to good music (DJ plays here on Friday, and cover bands on Saturday).

Alchemist Bar

Already the institution itself says that there will be plenty of magic here. She is in everything: in the mysterious waiters and bartenders, in the interior, and in the unusual menu. They did it smartly here: there are three halls in the institution: the first one has a bar counter, the second one has a stage for musicians, the third one is secret (in the literal sense, to get there, you need to enter a code).

Some patrons complain about a large number of people in the bar, but, as for me, this is the charm of the Alchemist. It is cramped here, but at the same time cozy, noisy, but this does not interfere with relaxation at all. Yes, and you will agree that the level of the institution is measured by the number of guests. Live music plays here every day – the style and format are very diverse. Although the establishment is small, you can choose exactly the place where you will be most comfortable. If you want noise, parties, and loud music – you are in a large hall or at the bar counter, you dream of seclusion with your soul mate – then ask to take you to a distant hall: intimacy, twilight, cozy tables, an old piano invites romance and kisses.

Cocktail card

It is very large here: for every taste and budget. A popular cocktail for girls is Lychee Martini and Salvia. The waiters recommend Basil Beauty. Well, the classic Negroni is beyond praise. Prices: average, from 100 UAH. But the stronger sex should take note – the Alchemist refused beer. You can compensate for the drink with delicious black rum (at least my husband did). If you want to eat, then here you can find spring rolls with duck, steaks, salad with duck breast, and even potatoes with garlic sauce. Everything is absolutely delicious. But my favorite dessert deserves special attention – an incredible chocolate fondant (85 UAH)

Zig Zag

Of these three, Zigzag is perhaps the most democratic bar. This does not apply to prices – they are the same here as in the other two. Democracy is manifested in the interior (called “Berlin”): simple “buffet” tables and chairs, cement floor, rough brick walls, simple crockery. All this does not require a special dress code or an important reason for the visit. But this is the “highlight” of the institution.

It is equally good to discuss a business idea here, meet a friend for a cocktail or drag the whole company to celebrate a successfully passed session. Also, very tasty food. The choice of dishes is small, but everything is original, and, apparently, made with soul. My favorites are potato gnocchi with chanterelles in a sour cream sauce (about UAH 120) and falafel (on the menu it is listed as chickpea balls, about UAH 80). By the way, recently they have had a children’s menu. The service is very good. And in Zigzag, they like to give delicious compliments – my husband and I, along with the bill, brought two cottage cheesecakes with berries.

Cocktail card

It is small but very diverse. The price of a cocktail starts from 115 UAH. One of the most popular is Amaro Syringe. They also decorate drinks beautifully: I liked the rose petals used in the decor. Well, one cannot fail to mention the bar wall – this is perhaps the main decoration of the Zigzag.

For some reason, this installation reminded me of a huge bookshelf with classic masterpieces and fashion bestsellers. And the librarian, that is, the bartender will definitely advise you something to your taste and mood. A book or a cocktail, I think both.

Generally, when we start planning our solo trip, the first thing that comes to mind is long trips to super exotic destinations on the other side of the planet. However, it doesn’t always have to be that way. In Spain, there are a large number of cities that are perfect for debuting in the art of traveling alone .

Discover the best destinations to travel alone for the first time in Spain. Thousands of tourists are attracted by our climate, gastronomy, and cultural heritage, why not take advantage of your first solo trip to also enjoy these wonders? Although we know that choosing the perfect destination is something very personal, when choosing destinations to travel alone for the first time in Spain, it is important to take into account some important aspects. For example, if you are afraid of feeling alone, we recommend staying in hostels or hostels where you can spend time in the common areas.

As for the ideal means of transport to reach these destinations to travel alone for the first time in Spain, forget about the car. Public transport is the best option for traveling alone. Buses, for example, are the best place to unwind and meet new people with whom you probably even share a destination ( tips for traveling alone by bus ).

Did you know that Spain was chosen as the best destination to travel alone in 2019? According to the “Danger Index for Women” ranking, carried out by Asher and Lyric Fergusson, Spain is the safest alternative for women traveling alone. Among the 50 countries analyzed, it has the lowest levels of attempted homicides against women, non-partner sexual violence, legal discrimination, the wage gap, and violence against feminism.

Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the most visited destinations in the world, and we are not surprised. Its multiculturalism, beauty, and great cultural and leisure offer make it a mandatory stop on any trip to Spain. Why is it one of the best destinations to travel alone for the first time in Spain? It is practically impossible to get bored and the possibilities of meeting new people are endless.

Lion

Perhaps it is not one of the most touristic cities in the country, but that is only an advantage to be able to enjoy all its charms with relative tranquility. For example, its Cathedral is one of the most impressive examples of Gothic art in all of Spain. If you like tapas and good wine, be sure to stop by the Barrio Húmedo.

Bilbao

Bilbao is said to be the perfect mix between modernity and tradition. The fusion of modern architecture and traditional Basque culture makes it an essential destination for lovers of design and culture. In addition, it is one of the tourist references both nationally and internationally and is 100% prepared for tourists. Surely you will not be alone!

Grenade

Granada is a truly monumental historical city. A large part of the city is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. For example, the Alhambra, the Cathedral, the Royal Chapel, or the Cartuja Monastery, among many others. It is a perfect city to get lost and open to all kinds of tourists.

Madrid

Madrid is known worldwide for the friendliness of its people, and therefore a perfect destination to travel alone for the first time in Spain. It is an easy city to get around and very popular so it will be easy to find many other women traveling alone. Although large cities are not exempt from risks, it can be said that Madrid is a very safe city.

Valencia

Valencia is a very safe city and therefore one of the best destinations to travel alone for the first time in Spain. Its 300 days of sunshine a year make it ideal to explore it on foot or by bicycle. Its Mediterranean gastronomy, its beaches, and its great traditional festivals will not leave you a minute free. In addition, the warmth and hospitality of the Valencians will make you feel at home.

Seville

It is one of the great tourist attractions in the country and, without a doubt, one of the best destinations to travel alone for the first time in Spain. Seville is a city of great panoramic views, rooftops, and terraces. Its importance throughout history has bequeathed a heritage of great cultural value. Enjoy the city with all five senses and let yourself go!

“Earth close to the sky” – this is the tourist slogan of Transcarpathia. Come and see for yourself that unearthly pleasures are really waiting for you here!

Transcarpathia is a very special region. Coming here, you feel a little bit abroad: this is facilitated by the unique dialect of local residents, Western architecture, international cuisine, and the European cleanliness of cities. It is simply impossible to list all the tourist attractions, highlights, and specialties of Transcarpathia, so today we will tell you only about some of them.

Vats In Lumshory

Being in Transcarpathia and not bathing in the famous hot tubs is an unforgivable mistake. In order to enjoy this Carpathian spa treatment, it is better to go to the mountain village of Lumshory, Perechyn region. This geothermal spa has been known since the times of Austria-Hungary. It was here that the first tub was cast from cast iron in 1600. Today, as in the old days, bathing vats are filled with healing mineral water from a spring, river stones are placed on the bottom, then the water is gradually heated over an open fire. When the temperature reaches 30–40 °C, you can start taking a bath, necessarily alternating immersion in hot water with cooling in an icy stream of a mountain river or pouring yourself from a bucket.

It is this contrast, coupled with the healing properties of hydrogen sulfide water, that provides a powerful healing, rejuvenating and tonic effect. Bathing in vats is indicated for people with disorders of the musculoskeletal system, diseases of the thyroid gland and gonads, malfunctions of the cardiovascular, nervous, and immune systems, and just for everyone – it’s not only useful but also pleasant!

Thermal Springs

The possibilities of hydrotherapy in Transcarpathia are not limited to vats. The famous thermal pools of Berehove and its environs are known far beyond the borders of Ukraine. All year round, visitors are invited to the outdoor pool “Transcarpathia” and indoor – in the hotel “Zhavoronok”. And in the village of Koson, not far from Beregovo, there is an elite recreational complex “Kasino”. Unique sodium chloride water, which comes from underground sources with a temperature of 50 °C and then cools down to 38-40 °C, has many modern pools of various types, outlandish saunas, and a high level of service make Kasino a great place for recreation and health improvement.

Local Delicacies

Transcarpathian cuisine is one of the most original in the world. It was formed over the centuries and absorbed the peculiarities of the cuisines of different peoples: Rusyns, Jews, Hungarians, Slovaks, Romanians, Gypsies. And to really get to know this region, you need to taste it. Be sure to try Hungarian bograch, Romanian tokens, Slovak straps, Czech dumplings, gypsy Gurka.

If possible, by all means, go on a tasting tour to the village of Botar, which is not far from the Hungarian border. There you will be shown a unique farm where semi-wild cows of a gray Hungarian breed and exotic curly Mangalitsa pigs are raised. Animals are freely grazing all year round, so the meat obtained from them is organic, environmentally friendly, and most importantly, does not contain cholesterol. Plus, it’s incredibly delicious! You can be convinced of this at a tasting at the local museum of the lekvar. And in addition to sausages and smoked meats, try the famous Transcarpathian jam – plum (actually lekvar), blackthorn, lingonberry, blueberry, cranberry, as well as delicious natural juices and strong tinctures. Be sure you won’t leave here without a tasty souvenir!

Wine Tastings

Yes, this is a completely separate item of the program. Transcarpathia is a land of winemakers: almost every yard has its own vineyard and wine cellar. Wine festivals here begin in October-November and end in May-June. From the nearest – the International Festival “White Wine” in Berehove in early March. But even if you didn’t get to the festival, you can enjoy fragrant Transcarpathian wine at numerous fairs and, of course, at wine tastings. Wine cellars of the Uzhgorod castle, tasting rooms of the Kotnar and Chizay factories, many private wineries are waiting for guests. Believe me, they know a lot about wine here.

Castles of Transcarpathia

Each of them has its own zest and its own unique history. In Uzhgorod castle you will be told the legend of the White Maiden, in Nevitsky – about the Bad Maiden, in Mukachevo Palanka you will learn about the heroic defense of the fortress, which lasted more than 3 years, and in the castle “St. he will conduct a theatrical torchlight tour and tell an amazing love story associated with this place … Transcarpathia has something to surprise and conquer you – come!

How to stop having boring sex and add pepper to intimate life?

Every time you have sex, do you want to get a book and read more? Can you pull to listen to podcast two to kill time? Well, this is a problem that every couple will face sooner or later: boring sex. In romance novels, everything is simple: he and she, converge in passion, rip off each other’s clothes, enjoy each other for hours, and then fall asleep in each other’s arms. But the reality may be… well, so-so. Three stars out of five.

How to stop having boring sex? We have 6 tips for those who want to add fire to regular sex.

1. Send him sexmsku

Sexting is a great opportunity to dilute your daily life as a couple. If he is at work, send him a spicy message, and make it clear that today you will not watch TV and eat soup. There will be sex today.

But be careful: it is better not to send him spicy photos if he is at work. Who knows who is looking over his shoulder in the office?

2. Try masturbation

This sounds like typical advice, but it’s typical because it works. Masturbation is useful for getting to know your body and the feelings you like. Masturbation as part of sex games can also help you both get started.

3. Try sex in an unusual place

Since it is already cold, try sex in unusual places in the apartment. The novelty of the place helps to feel the novelty of feelings and sensations as well. The brain produces more dopamine, so sex in some unusual, new place becomes just fantastic.

But be careful with sex in crowded places. You can be arrested for this, and at the age of smartphones with cameras, you can even accidentally become a star of the Internet. It is better not to risk it.

4. Use your fantasies

Everyone has their own sexual fantasies, and very often we do not use them to improve our sex lives. Of course, it’s very difficult to think about what you really want. And even more difficult – to share such information with someone. But if you share with your partner such personal as sexual fantasies, it will, firstly, strengthen the trust between you, and secondly – will help you improve your sex life.

If you are embarrassed to start this conversation first, just ask your partner about his sexual fantasies. This will help you unfold faster.

5. Remember that not wanting sex is normal

This advice saved many couples from boring everyday sex. Yes, sometimes people just don’t want to have sex. This is normal, and you don’t need to do it just for a tick. Always remember to communicate in pairs, the desires of your partner and your own.

6. Use a lubricant

No, it’s true. Lubricant should be used and it is very important for a quality sex life. And, let’s share a secret, lubricant can significantly change the quality of sex for the better. You can choose both a regular lubricant and those with specific qualities: for example – one that prolongs sexual intercourse or exacerbates the sensation. In addition, the use of lubricant avoids various injuries during sex, such as microcracks.

Advice from a sexologist: how to improve your sex life

If you think that bottles of wine and exotic fruits are enough to improve your sex life, you are wrong. In fact, you need to pay attention to your bedroom, because it is a place for love. You need to fill it with things that will help you have fun. Psychologist, sexologist of reality “Exi” (New Channel) Natalia Yezhova told how best to complete the bedroom.

“Take away your computer and desk,” says the psychologist. – After all, they will constantly remind about unfinished business. And certainly will not add romance.

• Comfortable bed and beautiful bedding. Choose light-colored linen without pictures. Make sure it smells nice.
• Candles or night light. Dim light will set you up for romance.
• Diffuser with aphrodisiac. Use oils that will improve your mood and excite you. I recommend: jasmine, rose, vanilla.
• Keep sex toys, lubricants and condoms in the bedside table.
• Pick music that sets you up for sex games.

And what are your secrets to improving your sex life?

August… The thermometer is going through the roof, there is nowhere for an apple to fall at the popular beach resorts, but you really want to take a break from the hustle and bustle, gain strength and new experiences.

We suggest you turn off popular routes and go on a tour of little-known, but very beautiful places in our country.

Aktovsky canyon (Voznesensky district, Mykolaiv region)

Getting to this place, it is not immediately believed that you are in Ukraine. High cliffs (sometimes reaching 90 m in height), picturesque banks, a river, waterfalls… In our opinion, this is one of the most beautiful and unusual places in Ukraine. Aktovsky Canyon is often called the Devil’s Valley.

According to an ancient legend, along the course of the Deadwater River, which meanders between the rocks, the Scythians sent their kings on their last journey. The landscapes here are incredibly beautiful, especially at dawn: with the first rays of the sun, the rocks turn peach-pink.

How to get there: by train Kyiv – Odesa to Voznesensk, and then to the canyon by minibus (20 km).

Bakota Bay (Kamenets-Podolsky district, Khmelnytsky region)

Bakota Bay is a protected lake surrounded by rocks that protect the shores of the bay from the wind. It has its own unique microclimate – warm, sunny, without sudden temperature changes. Of the sights – the remains of the Mikhailovsky Monastery. It is located inside the rock, there are two ways to get to it: go down the steps carved into the rock or swim up to the White Rock by boat. The height of the rock is 120 m. Near the monastery, there are three sources of mineral water. They are considered medicinal.

How to get there: by train to Chernivtsi or Kamenets-Podolsky, and then by minibus to the village of Kashtanovka, then on foot or by taxi.

Biruchiy Island (Kherson region)

If you are looking for unity with nature, then you will not find a better place. Biryuchy Island is located in the Sea of ​​Azov and is part of the Azov-Sivash National Natural Park. In these places, you can meet fallow deer, deer, wild asses, antelopes. There are few people here, so you can fully enjoy the solitude, silence, and beauty of seascapes. You can relax as a savage in tents or settle in a recreation center. Room rates are quite affordable.

How to get there: by train to Genichesk, then by boat. 40 minutes of boat trip – and you are in a paradise!

Kolochava (Mezhigorsky district, Transcarpathian region)

Beautiful mountain landscapes, clean air, mineral water, and the hospitality of the locals will make your stay in this amazingly beautiful mountainous place pleasant and full of impressions. In Kolochava there are museums, a parrot and pigeon farm (there are about 2000 of them here), as well as a trout farm. If you decide to take a break from the bustle of the city in this picturesque Transcarpathian village, be sure to climb Mount Strymba (1719 m). From there, you have an amazing view of the local surroundings.

How to get there: by train Kyiv – Uzhgorod to Volovets station. Then by minibus to Kolochava.

Migiya (Pervomaisky district, Mykolaiv region)

The picturesque village of Migiya is located on the banks of the Southern Bug, 10 km from Pervomaisk, on the territory of the Granite-Steppe Pobuzhie Reserve. For the beauty of the landscape and the specific climate, Media is often called little Switzerland. The main attraction is the radon lake with unusually turquoise water. In this unique place, everyone will find entertainment to their taste: rafting, rafting along with the Southern Bug, kayaking, kayaking, rock climbing.

How to get there: by train Kyiv – Odesa to the station Yuzhnoukrainsk, and then by minibus to Pervomaisk or Migiya.

Domestic violence is not an easy but very important topic. Many women only realize after many years how much time of their only life they gave to the rapist. Especially if it’s not about beatings, but other ways to show aggression. How to discern, how to protect yourself, what to do if you or a loved one has been subjected to domestic violence? Our expert, psychologist Elena Shpundra talks about these and other important things.

In Ukraine, a law on domestic violence was adopted last year. Moreover, in January 2019, a new amendment came into force to criminalize repeat cases or abuse of children.

However, according to La Strada statistics, out of 1,850,000 victims of domestic violence, only 83,000 go to the police every year. Less than 5%.

At the same time, according to the same data from La Strada, 38% of judges and 39% of prosecutors consider domestic violence a “personal matter”, and 55% of law enforcement officers regard information about domestic violence as untrue.

On the one hand, they can be understood – the victims often either refuse to submit an application themselves or withdraw the submitted application.

On the other hand, in such cases, her word goes against his word, if there are no obvious signs of physical damage and it is difficult to prove threats or psychological abuse.

On the third hand, in the fall, Netflix released the Unbelievable series based on a true story. And, although it is not about domestic violence, about rape committed by an unknown person, the mechanism of the work of the police with the victim is described perfectly – when she is not very convincing and gets confused in the description of the crime – you can simply not believe her.

And there is another side that is not customary to mention if they talk about it, then somehow in passing – even if the victim is ready to leave the rapist and fight in court for her rights, then she needs to be financially secure. Because shelters for victims of domestic violence exist only in large cities and stay in them is limited in time.

If you are lucky and the home tyrant is imprisoned, then in a few years he will be released and, quite possibly, will want to take revenge. For example, Dmitry Grachev, who chopped off both hands of his ex-wife, was given only 14 years. They will fly by quickly, and then Margarita Gracheva with her children may have to change not only their place of residence but also their names.

Therefore, the problems of domestic violence require a comprehensive and very structural approach, which, unfortunately, is unlikely to appear in the near future. But this does not mean that there is no need to talk about it or that nothing can be done.

How to recognize a domestic tyrant?

Many are concerned about the question of whether it is possible to somehow recognize a potential domestic tyrant or sadist while still on the shore. The problem is, no one hits you on the first date. Do not humiliate or insult also on the second or fifth. In every story that I know, violence started and happened in different ways.

For some, it happened shortly after marriage. There was alcohol, a quarrel, a blow, then – the husband’s repentance, forgiveness, and the so-called “honeymoon”, when the rapist makes amends in every possible way and literally envelops the victim with care, attention, gifts. Then – again some kind of quarrel, a push or a blow, a “honeymoon”, and so on in a circle. Only the honeymoon is getting shorter, and the blows and insults are getting stronger.

Some people were fine before having kids. A wedding, a honeymoon, pregnancy, a decree, perhaps one more – a woman isolates herself from society, she herself does not notice how everything increases her dependence on her husband, his control grows, but she still accepts him as a concern.

Problems begin when she finally wants to return to work, to her active life – and here a sadist is shown in a man. Someone may not have blows, but there is such humiliation, pressure, coercion to have sex, some kind of sexual experiments for which a woman is not ready, intimidation, financial dependence – all these are different forms of violence, but all this is violence.

Of course, it is impossible to consider all this in a potential chosen one, but there are “beacons” that should definitely alert:

• sudden mood swings: now he smiles and jokes, after a minute he withdraws into himself and becomes irritated for no reason;

• control, in which many at first tend to see care. Remember: when a man gets into your phone, wants to know who called you, when and why, your daily schedule is minute by minute, he asks why you returned home at 18:05, and you should have been at 18:00 – this is control. Control is also trying to dictate to you what to wear, how to make up, who to communicate with, what to eat. You can control a child – and then at a certain age – or a cat, more precisely, yourself in providing for the cat. But when one adult begins to control another and they are not in a vertical boss-subordinate relationship, this is violence;

• unreasonable jealousy. Again, at the beginning, many take it for passion and see it as their value for a partner. But if in the supermarket you smiled at the seller, and your man already sees this as a sign of a romance between you and starts to take out your brain with questions about who it is and why you are smiling, this is not a passion and not a sign of your supervalue, this is a male pathology. Any pathology is best left to a psychiatrist.

Why don’t victims leave their rapists?

Many also worry about the question: “Why don’t they leave?” Couch experts vying with each other rush to write advice “as it should be” on any story of abuse.

In addition to economic dependence, fear, psychological exhaustion, there is another moment that greatly splits the victims, and it is impossible to move in this splitting – they knew and remembered the rapist to others. They fell in love with his other – he was cheerful, kind, generous, caring, charming, beautiful, and then suddenly – a different person.

The woman does not believe that a man could change like that. If a man drinks, then she begins to blame alcohol. If she does not drink, the wife may justify such behavior by stress at work, business failures. When external excuses run out or they don’t exist, he will begin to blame himself – “It’s me who is behaving incorrectly, that’s why he is angry, it was I who gave me a reason to shout at me.”

Strengthens her in this opinion and the fact that she observes her husband with other people and again sees him charming, cheerful, kind. It turns out that only with her he is like that – it means, “she herself is to blame.” And the woman begins to try, does everything possible to return the man she fell in love with and married. But he does not understand that there is no one to return – he is in front of her as he is, just before he held back his impulses.

How can you help a victim of domestic violence?

And the main question is what to do, is it possible to somehow help the victim of violence, if, in principle, this problem is difficult to solve in our society? Unfortunately, many victims of domestic violence do not admit it not only to law enforcement agencies but also to their relatives and friends.

Women are silent primarily because they are ashamed. Judging by the photos on Instagram, everyone has everything in chocolate, but only she has pokes and bruises. In fact, it’s a shame to be a rapist and not a victim.

And they are also afraid that if they say, he will kill them altogether or take away their children. The same Margarita Gracheva submitted one statement to the police almost a month before the crime. The police did not respond.

Even though law enforcement doesn’t give us much ground to trust, there is one method that has proven effective time and time again: public exposure. Make the rapist “famous”, write about him on social networks, show his photo, hang this photo on all the poles in the area, contact a public organization that helps victims of domestic violence, in the same La Strada.

Of course, there will be those who will not believe you, there will be those who will accuse you, there will be those who will take the side of your rapist – the same Professor Sokolov has a lot of sympathizers – but there will be those, and there will be many of them, who will understand, support, help to you.

The problem of domestic violence can only be solved by taking it out of the house, ceasing to look at it as a private matter of individual men and women, the court and the police, and recognizing it as a disease of society and showing a common desire to improve.

We invite you to the westernmost, most European, and at the same time the smallest regional center of Ukraine. Welcome to Uzhgorod – the pearl of Transcarpathia! Uzhgorod is good at any time of the year. But in spring, when sakura and magnolia bloom, flowers of Japanese quince and rare varieties of apple trees bloom, and the whole city turns into a fragrant garden, it is especially wonderful here. “Liza” has compiled for you it’s own rating “7 wonders of Uzhgorod”. Take note!

1. Lime alley

Start your walk around Uzhgorod from the famous linden alley. It stretches along the Uzh River for 2 km and is considered the longest linden alley not only in Ukraine but throughout Europe. And it is also one of the most beautiful and favorite places for walks of residents and guests of the city and, of course, romantic dates. Be sure to walk along the stone pedestrian bridge connecting the old and new parts of the city. It offers magnificent panoramas of the embankments. And there is also a belief that passing through it, you need to make a cherished wish, and it will certainly come true!

2. Uzhgorod castle

Fans of the Middle Ages should definitely visit Uzhhorod Castle. It has been preserved in almost perfect condition, and the interior halls have turned into luxurious museums. Near the palace there is a unique open-air museum – a copy of an old village with wooden houses under straw and a magnificent log church.

3. Mini sculptures

Do you love quests? Then try to find 25 (and maybe even more) funny miniature sculptures in different parts of the city – Nikolaychik, Svobodka, Schweik, Mozart, Andy Warhol, created by local architect Mikhail Kolodko and which have become a kind of hallmark of Uzhgorod.

4. Hotel Emigrand

There are a lot of accommodation options in Uzhgorod, but we offer you something extraordinary. Pay attention to the new Emigrand concept hotel, located near the city center. Its name contains a hint at the eternal theme of emigration, which is so relevant for Transcarpathia, and Grand is a sign of the highest quality. And in the design of the exterior and interior – the triumph of pop art style. Actually, the king of pop art meets visitors at the entrance: a sculpture by the American artist Andy Warhol, made of more than 4 thousand metal rods, invites us to … take a selfie! Yes, yes, it was Andy Warhol who initiated this madness! But the main thing is that in fact, he is Andrei Vargola – the son of Rusyn emigrants from Transcarpathia. Therefore, the Emigrant Hotel and Restobar is to some extent a tribute to the memory and respect for the famous Ukrainian.

5. Cherry blossoms

In the second half of April, cherry blossoms bloom in Transcarpathia. The peak of its flowering occurs at the end of April – the beginning of May. Uzhgorod at this time is literally drowning in pink flower foam. You will find the most mature trees in the area of ​​​​A. Dovzhenko and F. Rakoczi streets, on A. Pushkin Square. Kievskaya and Slavyanskaya embankments are places for planting new seedlings. Every year fifty young cherries appear here. They say that the total length of sakura plantings in Uzhgorod has already exceeded four thousand meters!

6. Korzo Street

And to drink a cup of invigorating coffee or a glass of fragrant mulled wine stands on the oldest and most colorful street of the city – Korzo. Its name is translated from Italian as “street for walking.” By the way, about the coffee. Transcarpathian often jokes that there are coffee houses in Lviv, but coffee is available only in Uzhgorod. See for yourself!

7. Wine tasting

Being in Uzhgorod and not trying the famous Transcarpathian wine is an unforgivable mistake. Take the opportunity to visit a wine tasting. They take place in the cellars of the Uzhgorod castle, in the ethnic-wellness hotel “Ungvarskiy”, in the tasting wine room “Chardonnay”, as well as in many private wineries. Dry white wines deserve special fame: Leanca, Traminer, Rhine Riesling, Italian Riesling, Müller Thurgau. Of the red wines, the most popular are Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Carpathian cheeses and nuts are served with white wines, and prunes, raisins, and croutons are served with red wines. Be sure that you will not leave Uzhgorod without a bottle of good wine. And it will be the best Transcarpathian souvenir!

But there is nothing to throw back an authentic wanderlust spirit, be it a man or a woman. It’s about applying some tips and tricks to make some situations much easier to handle.

1. Common sense

Common sense is basic, here, there, and in Beijing. In my own city, it does not occur to me to go out alone to explore not very busy areas at night. In fact, I take such precautions, especially in my own city. I am from Algeciras, Cádiz, so when they tell me that if I go alone to such a country, that it is extremely dangerous… well, it makes me want to laugh.

Trust your instincts, analyze the place where you are to assess the situation, its environment, and the landscape. If you act, don’t let anything catch you off guard. It is not about going in fear, but awake. Enjoy to the fullest, but do not put yourself in risky situations. Unfortunately, we live in a macho world, it is simply a matter of accepting it and learning to cope.

2. Make allies

Establish friendly relationships with the locals: receptionists, shop assistants, tour guides, etc. If at any given moment you find yourself in trouble, you will always have someone to turn to explain the situation. I assure you that taking refuge in a store —for example— from an uncomfortable situation gives great peace of mind.

One afternoon I spent the entire afternoon at a little fruit stand in San José, Costa Rica, with a woman who could very well be my grandmother. Doña Rosa understood the situation right away: there was a guy I would meet when I turned every corner, and at every encounter she would look me up and down, making me feel uncomfortable and violent. At the time of being with her getting fine with juices, one of her children was already talking to the guy, whom I never saw again.

3. Start small and easy

The best way to start traveling alone is to go slowly, gently, gently. Do not launch yourself from 0 to a 3-month solo trip to an unknown continent, because the change may be too abrupt. I recommend you start with a weekend or long weekend in a nearby and easy destination. When I say “easy,” I think of a place that is culturally close, with tourist infrastructure, where it is not difficult for you to move or deal with the accommodation. And, of course, where there are no armed conflicts or risks of natural disasters.

It is not the same to go alone in Guatemala or Nepal than to go as a princess to Budapest. My first solo foray was to Croatia for a week. The “worst” thing was that I felt very strange at mealtimes, but very free and “connected” with myself the rest of the time. From that trip, the only thing my body asked for was MORE.

4. Wherever you go, do what you see

Finding out about the destination we are going to in advance will always make you enjoy the trip much more. Knowing the meaning of certain words, certain customs, knowing its history, radically changes the perception of a place. If you are also a woman, it is especially important to know about customs, religion and the role of women in society. These data are very important to not commit disrespect and attract attention.

For example, in some countries it is very frowned upon to touch people. Nobody told me that it was not okay to touch the head of Buddhist monks, and every time I saw a child I would die of love, but they seemed to not like it at all… Checking the appropriate clothing to enter public places and religious temples is also very important. I’m not one to wear miniskirts, but a tank top yes. So I usually wear a large scarf, pareo type, which serves both to cover my shoulders, and to improvise a long skirt in nothing.

5. Wear discreet and comfortable clothes

This point connects with the previous one. Within the customs of a place, the dress code is important. There are places where wearing very tight clothes or clothes that show a lot is not well seen. And since we also agree that attracting too much attention is not a good idea, so dress comfortably, with less garish colors. The more similar views to the locals, the better.

As a general rule of thumb when traveling, I always recommend putting comfort ahead of posture. First because this one is very lazy, and second because it takes up too much space in the backpack. I have seen girls with heels and heart-stopping platforms among the pyramids of Teotihuacán. I assumed that they were looking for the party in the pre-Columbian club… rather dead than simple.

6. Have copies of everything

Passport, visa, DNI and medical insurance, along with money, are the most important papers that you are going to take with you on the trip. Since money cannot be cloned (no, right?), it has a copy of everything else.

Carry the originals in your wallet, with a padlock, and therest, with an extra deposit of money, in a separate and safe place. I keep a ticket here and a ticket there, inside the tube of toothpaste, under the sole of the shoe, in rollers inside an empty tampax, in my socks…

7. Room with latch

Check that your room has a lock, and that it works! If it doesn’t go well, you can ask for a room change. This is one of the measures that, personally, helps me rest a little better. Although I have experienced situations of people trying to sneak through my window, in the absence of a door… But luckily they did not go for aggressive purposes, but rather for holidays.

If I stay in a hostel, I ask if they have rooms for women. If they only have mixed rooms, I choose the top bunks as they are more “private” and less intrusive.

8. Always carry a padlock

Both to close the backpack and to block lockers and cabinets as well as for the door of your room -if it does not have a latch-, a padlock is always very useful. For me it is a must, just like earplugs, but the latter for other reasons that have nothing to do with female safe Book the first nights of accommodatio

9. Book the first nights of accommodation

Even if you later travel as you go, drawing on recommendations en route and spontaneity, reserve the first few nights. Whether you stay in hostels, Airbnb or Couchsurf, check the reviews carefully, especially from other women. Once you land and get used to the environment and cultural codes of your destination, you can start to “let go”.

10. Move during the day

Try to always move during the day, take advantage of the bright hours. To begin with, make sure that your transport —plane, train, bus— always arrives at its destination in daylight. In this way, you will not be an easy target carrying your backpack or dragging your trolley alone at night through unknown streets.

I don’t even want to remember when coming from Costa Rica to Panama, the bus left me in the middle of the night and the Pan-American highway. I had to take a taxi to the bus station, which didn’t feel safer at night. Nothing serious happened, but I was tense for hours. Since then, I’ve been much more careful with schedules.

11. The classic fake ring trick

You are not married nor do you want to have or ever had, but how well the ring looks on your finger. Which is a lie, yes, but only you know that. There is no better way to “scare away” guys who get annoying or to quickly finish the questionnaire of the thousand classic questions: are you traveling alone? Are you married? Do you have children? And your boyfriend?

In addition to the ring, have a good life story as a couple prepared. I have already lost count of how many husbands I have come to have in a single life. Some of them I divorced, others died in accidents, poor people, and many of them “were yet to come.”

Lying is ugly, but uglier is stealing.

12. Keep your people informed

When I started traveling, about 20 years ago, I remember arriving at each destination and looking for the phone booth or inserting coins like a slot machine into hostel phones to let my mother know I was okay. Now that was hard work, and expensive!

Nowadays, with social networks, it is very easy to be located almost at any time. But perhaps it is not a bad idea, when you travel alone, to keep your family informed of your movements, with more specific data: hotel where you are staying, photo of the route you take every day; even, photo of the taxis you take.

It will be rare not to find accommodation and places with Wi-Fi, here and there, so contacting will not be complicated. But if you want to be absolutely sure, you can buy a local prepaid SIM.

13. Nobody has to know

No one has to know the details of your trip: if you are traveling alone or accompanied, where you sleep, where you are going, or what kind of luggage you are carrying. If they ask you, you can say that you are staying with a friend or relative or that you live in the city, as if to make that person understand that you know the place very well and are almost local. If fate does not lend itself to this joke, you can comment that you are with your partner, but at that moment you walk alone.

Look, make up whatever you want, but don’t give any specifics unless you feel completely confident. I once made the mistake of talking a lot and, although I didn’t have any serious mishap, I did have to endure the “insistence” at the door of the hostel.

14. Those days when you feel “happy” to be a woman

Yes, yes, super happy. You smell the things that don’t smell, you love the things you don’t, you see magical rainbows coming out from behind every corner… come on! The rule comes every month to make our existence a little uncomfortable. And no, you don’t see life in pink or smell like chocolate cake and strawberries. The rule is a pain and, to travel, much more still. Going with the rule in certain countries can be not only uncomfortable, but directly a big setback. Let’s see, who is the beauty who finds some tampons in the middle of the mountains of Nepal? Who is the bonica that takes hygiene one hundred percent to the point on the way to Machu Picchu along the Inca Trail? Three days of trekking “feeling happy to be a woman”. I assure you that I did not feel happy at all…

I am in favor of reducing luggage as much as possible and avoiding superfluous objects, but to that, friends, you have to pay attention because a quick trip annoys you. Although it is not the object that most convinces me, the truth is that when traveling the menstrual cup is much more practical than pads or tampons. I would also add some vaginal suppositories and other remedies against all kinds of infections, much more common than we think, to the women’s medicine cabinet.

And, while we’re at it, don’t forget the contraceptive par excellence: the condom. Not only to avoid unwanted pregnancies, but also sexually transmitted diseases. A lipstick is superfluous -although pretty-, but everything else I recommend is basic, a sign of respect and health towards you and your body.

The type of applicant communication can play a decisive role in the competition for skilled workers. Hitting the right note with candidates is a big step forward. HR managers can find out what is important here.

The forces in recruiting have shifted. Whereas in the past it was the companies that selected the applicants, today it is often the other way around. If specialists now register on their own initiative or in response to a job advertisement and are then shortlisted, they usually have the upper hand. This is due to the continuing lack of qualified personnel for demanding and managerial functions.

In addition, candidates often gather detailed information about their potential new employer before submitting their application. For example, they study online evaluation portals on which companies are evaluated by current and former employees. Or they use other Internet sources and research the general market situation in the respective industry and the individual situation of the company in question.

On the one hand, this makes the work of HR departments easier because they are dealing with well-prepared counterparts. On the other hand, they are aware of their strong position and are quite demanding when it comes to salary, work-life balance, and benefits, for example. Also possible: You ask critical questions. So some people dig deeper in the interview and want to know why a vacancy has become available. Companies have to adapt to this.

What is required is transparent and appreciative communication with applicants. This means not just treating candidates as “numbers”, but treating them as people with individual needs and treating them with respect. In the ongoing war for talent, and appreciative, professional approach to applicants is required. Today, being professional means responding to the candidate both factually and emotionally and, for example, enticing passive candidates into the company by addressing them directly.

Ultimately, it is about the following causal chain: Better applicant communication leads to a better candidate experience and a better image as an employer. This can be crucial in the decision of professionals for a position in your company.

The right attitude is so important

A prerequisite for up-to-date applicant communication is a rethinking in the HR departments. Those who work there must be aware that soft skills such as empathy are more important to them today than ever before. All executives should be (or become) convinced of this.

The common goal must be…

• to attract the attention of professionals.
• meet professionals in partnership.
• Support professionals throughout the application process.

Dealing with applicants: Be open and transparent

The appreciative communication with applicants begins with the formulation of your job advertisement, your presentation as a company on online career pages, and your (digital) exchange with the candidates. Supposed little things often play a big role. A message in the style of a mass email (and without a personal address) about the receipt of an application can already deter some applicants. Promising employees may even withdraw their applications. This can be a missed opportunity for the company. And it may also lead to negative comments and reviews on social media channels.

To avoid this, you should observe the following basic rules when dealing with applicants :

• Confirm receipt of an application as soon as possible.
• If there are delays during processing, please let us know.
• If you have questions or are unclear about certain points in the application, it is better to clarify them directly instead of possibly drawing the wrong conclusions from them.
• If candidates make it to the next round or shortlist, then inform them about the next steps.
• In particular, do not write refusals according to a formula. Try to formulate them personally and forgivingly. You may create different templates for this purpose that do not sound like the usual phrases.

As an HR manager, it is best if you put yourself in the position of the job seeker. Think about what questions they might have.

Job ad:

• What are the key responsibilities of the position?
• Is it more of an operational or conceptual/strategic activity?
• where is the place of work; e.g. B. inside or outside a city?
• Which tools and other work equipment are important?
• What does the immediate environment (colleagues, business partners and customers) look like?

Career Pages:

• What type of application is desired (by e-mail or application portal)?
• Who is the addressee of the application?
• Which papers and documents are expected? Can missing ones be handed in later?
• What happens after receipt of the application?

Invitation for an interview:

• What is the best way to reach the place of the interview?
• Are travel expenses covered?
• Is there a specific dress code?
• Who are the interlocutors? Are there potential team members among them?
• What are the key issues?
• Will the future workplace be shown?
• How long is the appointment?

As I said: treating applicants with respect is also about objectivity. But that doesn’t mean being stiff. Instead, keep your ads, emails, or letters more casual. Ideally, you express yourself as if you would not write to the applicants, but rather have a friendly conversation with them. This reduces the distance, takes away any fears, and creates a certain trust. In addition to designing career pages and job advertisements, a similar approach is also recommended for your communication via social media channels, by e-mail or letter, and for telephone calls.

A digital applicant management system can be a helpful tool here. Depending on the variant, it supports HR managers, among other things, in …

• to accept applications.
• to assess candidates.
• meeting dates and deadlines.
• Store and analyze applicant data.
• Formulate and publish job advertisements.
• to manage contacts.

This has consequences: Errors in applicant communication

So companies have to pay more attention to applicants. If they don’t do this and also make typical mistakes in recruiting, this can have unpleasant consequences in the long run:

• The number of applicants is falling.
• It takes longer to fill vacancies.
• Recruiting costs are increasing.
• The image as an employer suffers.

If you notice these or comparable developments, you should take countermeasures in the manner described above. It also helps to avoid the following common mistakes:

• Do not respond to receipt of an application.
• Keep postponing announced deadlines and putting applicants off.
• Confusing or incorrectly formulating salutations and names.
• Not answering questions from candidates.
• Enter wrong contact persons.
• Do not send cancellations.

Remember: In the current situation of a shortage of skilled workers, it cannot be taken for granted that someone will be interested in your company and want to work for you. And even if you don’t get a chance this time, you could be a good fit for an open position in the future. Therefore, she or he should keep you in good memory.

We would be happy to support you in your search for suitable new employees. If you wish, we can make a pre-selection for you and present you with good candidates at short notice. Simply send us your personnel request – we will get back to you as soon as possible.

No matter how many times you have been to Turkey, you want to come back here again and again – after all, this country always has something to surprise the most sophisticated tourist. Welcome to Antalya – the best resorts in Turkey are waiting for you! Among our tourists, this country is number one on the list of beach destinations. Everyone knows the charms of the Turkish Riviera: a long swimming season (from April to October), beautiful beaches, hotels with excellent infrastructure, and, last but not least, a short flight (approx. 2.5 hours). WINDROSE airline operates daily flights to Antalya.

Resorts for every taste

Many people have probably already had their favorites among the Antalya resorts. Some prefer the prestigious Lara district, which is not far from Antalya, someone managed to appreciate the landscapes of the young resort of Kundu, others do not change the sandy beaches of respectable Belek or the fun entertainment of the democratic Side.

Many travelers fell in love with the air of Kemer, filled with the aromas of coniferous forests. Alanya – the southernmost and, perhaps, the most budget resort in Turkey – also has a lot of fans: mostly families with children, because here the climate is the warmest in comparison with other resorts in Turkey.

Antalya itself is more of a city resort, where the beaches are not the best. But it is here that you can plunge into the daily life of Turkey, get acquainted with the culture and history, feel the oriental flavor, and, of course, go shopping.

All inclusive!

Another nice bonus of a holiday on the Antalya coast is the all-inclusive system, which allows you to reduce costs, especially for tourists with children, and enjoy your vacation carefree. By the way, Turkish hotels are constantly improving, developing infrastructure, and improving the level of service.

For example, Rixos Premium Belek in Belek, one of the most popular hotel complexes on the Antalya Riviera, completed a major upgrade in February this year and now offers guests an expanded range of services and improved infrastructure. Equipped with the latest technology and comfort, rooms and villas, a luxurious two-story spa center, the Rixos sports academy, which unites 20 different sports areas – the renovated hotel offers the most comfortable conditions for both active and relaxing secluded recreation.

For those who prefer a holiday in Kemer, the Rixos Sungate Hotel is ideal – a modern, stylish, high-level hotel with a rich infrastructure and active entertainment. Set on an area of ​​250,000 m2, surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea and the green hills of the Taurus Mountains, the Rixos Sungate offers its guests unrivaled comfort and exclusive entertainment. Here you can take part in themed parties and karaoke competitions, see world stars and world-famous DJs, enjoy dazzling shows and great live music.

Not only the beach

But besides the sea, hotel entertainment, and pleasant idleness, there are many interesting places in Turkey. The ancient cities of Myra and Ephesus, underground houses in Cappadocia, and hot springs in Pamukkale – excursions in the Antalya region will give you an unforgettable experience. But it is important to book them from a reliable tour operator. So you will receive quality service and will be protected from disappointment. Our choice both in ordering excursions and in selecting tours is Tez Tour.

What to see in Antalya itself? Many monuments from different times have been preserved in the Old City, but perhaps the most ancient is Hadrian’s Gate, erected in honor of the Roman emperor in 130 AD. e. The Duden Waterfalls National Park is located near the city. There will be time, to plan a boat trip here. And be sure to visit the magnificent Antalya Aquarium – both children and adults will be delighted!

And also the Roman amphitheater in Aspendos, where classical music festivals often take place, the ruins of the ancient city of Side, the picturesque Goynuk canyon, the fiery mountain Yanartas in the town of Cirali near Kemer … It seems that you cannot avoid the eternal dilemma of tourists – to go on an excursion or enjoy the sea. We can say one thing: choose smarter! And what you didn’t see this time, leave it for the next. After all, you will definitely come back here again!