ODESSA

Odessa is an administrative center situated in Southern Ukraine. It is a major seaport positioned on the shoreline of the Black Sea and the largest city of Ukraine with a population of 1,029,000. The place was established in 1240 and was named Khadjibey in the beginning.

Though Ukrainian is the only official language of the country, it is hardly spoken by the citizens as they mainly speak Russian. The place can easily be reached by ferries, bus, train or plane. Just near the Odessa, there are Romanian borders and Moldovian.

Odessa's culture is a blend of Ukrainian, Yiddish and Russian civilizations, and the place itself has performed a distinguished role in Yiddish and Russian folklore. Odessa humor is a notable part of both Russian as well as jewish humor. From the year 1972, Odessa has been organizing annual humor festival, Humorina. That is why Odessa is recognized as the Capital of Humor.

Sightseeing in Odessa

Tourists can find some beautiful parks and a nice opera house in this small city. The Potemkin Stairs is a popular destination for the tourists. It was named after a rebellious battleship and now is a recognized entrance to Ukraine when arriving from the sea. Next thing which is worth seeing in Odessa is the Odessa Opera & Ballet Theater. This building was built in the year 1800 and now is known as the oldest building in town.

Another attractive building is the City Hall which is the place where old stocks are exchanged. In this historic town, trading is the major source of people’s income. Finally, Svyato-Preobrazjenskiy Cathedral is also must see in Odessa. It was built on the 100th anniversary of Odessa. It is really a beautiful cathedral building is worth having a look at.

Airlines flying to Odessa

AeroSvit, Ukraine International Airlines, Turkish Airlines and Malev flights provide very cheap air fares to visit Odessa

Passport and Visa requirements for US Citizens

Starting July 1, 2005 visas are not required for the US citizens who enter Ukraine within six months after their previous trip to Ukraine or transit through its territory for a period of up to 90 days with a valid American travel passport.