eurobrat wrote:Your right $20 is a little slim, but I wanted to put that as an average. I can understand how some women wouldn't want to meet some American guy for a first date at his apartment and cook dinner but after maybe 2 dates they might be open to it right?
Unless they are working girls or semi-pros, I do not think such is likely. But I could be wrong.
eurobrat wrote:
Is it possible to do some day trips out of Kiev by train? Or maybe rent a car? I prefer the train so I can have a few drinks and enjoy myself.
Of course. You might want to do your itinerary beforehand. Be mindful of the age of the trains they use, because older ones might be quite uncomfortable. Finally, guard your stuff on the train because pick pockets abound especially if you nod off.
eurobrat wrote:
Do Europeans get more respect in the Ukraine than Americans?
That is a question best addressed by Ladislav who was born there. My opinion would be yes, European men do tend to have a slight cultural advantage apart from the sloppy Brits. Not because of being European, but American men have the tendency to lack the panache and sophistication of Euro men around women. Speak at an easy pace with simple English and in a lower pitch voice than usual and use no slang. American men tend to ramble in that frantic, slang-ridden way to keep American girls entertained. Eastern European women often tell me that they usually cannot fully understand most Americans because of the frenetic pace of speech, however they understand me because I speak international English at a moderate pace and no slang terms.
American men sometimes expect to go around in a baseball cap, tennis shoes and expect to pull quality women. If you wear a simple blazer and nice (but comfortable shoes) you will do as well as the Euros. Women over there also look at things like your watch, your mobile phone and they get cues as to whether or not you are worth indulging. That does not mean go wear a 1000 dollar watch and buy an expensive phone. It means that if you wear a $50 classic watch over that $200 casio digital thing, it will go farther.
Also, try ordering a glass of red wine instead of drinking a beer. That sends a message too. All in all, project worldliness and not the typical American stereotypes and you will be rewarded.
Try to keep your distance from local men, unless they are on the staff. Befriend all bartenders, bouncers, valets and they will protect and offer friendly advice. The male patrons are another story, be polite but distant especially when they get drunk. Enjoy your cocktails, but do not ever get drunk as a foreigner overseas. You are making yourself into a target for robbery or theft.
Take a look at this link where I gave more insight on how to travel:
http://thedeclineofmyamerica.blogspot.c ... q=bourdain