Summer Vacations During War: Where to Go?
The ongoing war in Ukraine has brought significant changes to the lives of its citizens, including their travel plans. The thought of taking a vacation abroad may seem inappropriate amidst the hostilities, not to mention the imposed ban on men between 18 and 60 years old from leaving the country.
However, psychologists believe that taking a break from the stress is crucial for maintaining one's mental and physical health. Rest helps individuals endure difficult times and reduces anxiety. Moreover, supporting the economy by taking a vacation abroad is also important for the country's recovery. And of course, children's recreation should not be forgotten, as the health of the younger generation is of utmost importance.
Organizing a Vacation: What has Changed?
The "TurpoisK" agency has been supporting fellow citizens since the start of the war by offering assistance in choosing safe and comfortable resorts for summer vacations. In cooperation with trustworthy tour operators, they have been helping travelers plan their trips without any difficulties.
Package tours remain the best option for travelers, as they include everything from flights and transfers, medical insurance, and accommodation. In light of the no-fly zone over Ukraine, tourists have the option of flying from neighboring airports such as Moldova, Poland, or the Baltic countries or traveling by bus from Ukrainian cities. The mode of transportation depends on the distance of the resort, with travelers opting for flights from Moldova for destinations like Turkey, Egypt, Italy, and Cyprus, while bus tours from Kyiv are popular for closer resorts.
Top Resorts for Summer 2023
Many Ukrainians have been forced to seek refuge abroad, and have received a warm welcome from their host countries. The same can be said for popular vacation destinations, where comfortable conditions have been arranged for Ukrainian travelers. A vacation abroad offers a temporary escape from the sound of air raid sirens and the threat of rocket attacks.
The most popular destinations for a beach vacation, with last-minute tours departing from Poland, Moldova, Latvia, or Romania, include:
- Turkey (Kemer, Belek, Side, Alanya)
- Egypt (Sharm el-Sheikh, Hurghada)
- Spain (Costa Dorada, Salou, Calella, Costa Brava)
- Greece (Crete, Halkidiki, Rhodes)
- Cyprus (Ayia Napa, Protaras, Paphos, Larnaca)
The prices for tours to Turkish resorts, including flights, start from 20-25 thousand UAH for 7 nights for two and are not much different from pre-war prices. The same is true for other listed countries.
If you opt for bus tours from Odessa, Kyiv, or Lvov, the prices are even more affordable, with a week's vacation for two costing from 15-17 thousand UAH. The top 5 countries preferred by Ukrainians for bus tours are: Bulgaria, Albania, Turkey, Greece, Montenegro.
