I was flying through Kyiv on my way to Turkey, and for an extra $20, had a 36 hour layover which gave me some time to explore Ukraine’s gorgeous capital.

I must admit that I had rather low expectations for the city, but was pleasantly surprised by the architecture and the feel of the old streets. With the temperature below 0 both days, I was amused by the fashionable coats and heeled boots a lot of women wore.

I left my suitcase at the airport’s Left Luggage and set out on a shuttle bus. On this bus, I met one of the few people who spoke English–he was a sweetheart and helped me figure out which way to take the subway.

When I emerged from the subway in Independence Square, it was to this:

The square was the place of many revolutions, including one two years ago, and I was intrigued to see one building being reconstructed that had pink paint splotches symoblising those that had died.

I was excited to see a Christmas market being constructed between St. Sophia’s and St. Michael’s, and would have loved to be back in a week to see how it looked with all the vendors selling.

St. Michael’s with its golden domes was one of the most marvellous cathedrals I’d ever seen, glittering in the sun.

I stayed at the hostel TIU Kreschatik and totally recommend it–though small, it was in a fantastic location and the staff was friendly.