Ukraine — Shopping
Shopping
Artwork is the best buy. Top-quality paintings, ceramics and jewelry may be purchased quite cheaply at galleries or direct from artists on the street. Avoid the state shops, which have dull merchandise.
Shopping hours: Large state or department stores tend to open Monday toFriday 0800-1900, whereas small boutiques are generally open 0900-1800.Some shops stay open as late as 2000. Smaller shops may close for an hour at lunch, usually from 1300-1400 or 1400-1500.
Currency
Hryvnya (UAH) = 100 kopiyok (singular: kopiyka). Notes are in denominations of UAH500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1. Coins are in denominations of UAH1 and 50, 25, 10, 5, 2 and 1 kopiyok.
Currency Exchange
Money should only be changed at currency booths on the street or in banks. It is advisable to keep receipts showing money changed. Changing money with black-market traders is not recommended and can be dangerous.
Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and ATMs
Not readily accepted. Only a few restaurants and hotels will accept them. Travelers should be aware there is a high level of credit card fraud.
Travelers Checks
Not generally advised. If taken, they should be made out in US Dollars.
Currency Restrictions
The import of local currency is limited to UAH1,000. Amounts over UAH1,000 require a customs form. The export of local currency is limited to UAH85. The import of foreign currency is limited to US$10,000 and any amounts exceeding US$1,000 require a customs form. The export of foreign currency is limited to US$1,000, or US$5,000 with permission of an authorized bank.
Banking Hours
Mon-Fri 0930-1730.
Exchange Rate
| 1.00 GBP = 12.85 UAH |
| 1.00 USD = 8 UAH |
| 1.00 EUR = 11.29 UAH |
| Currency conversion rates as of 19 July 2011 |
