July 2013 saw a group of travellers from the Camrose Veselka Ukrainian dancers embark on a life altering journey. After 4 years of planning and endless fundraising, a group of 14 dancers, family members, and an instructor travelled to Ukraine to spend 20 remarkable days discovering all that Ukraine had to offer. Beginning our travels in the historic city of Lviv, it was quickly apparent that Ukraine is a country full of history and culture. The days in Lviv were spent wandering the cobblestone streets, learning the history, significance and traditions of many of the ancient buildings that remain in use in this breathtaking city. Our Canadian fast-paced routine of rushing to go places soon disappeared as we adopted the laid back, slower pace that was evident everywhere throughout this city. It was immaculately clean and had a small town feel that instantly made you feel safe and comfortable. After a few days in Lviv, the group travelled for the next several days to Uzhhorod, Tulova, and Chernivtsi. As we wandered through the country side, through several different regions, high into the mountains then back into the farming districts, we were treated to the warm, generous hospitality that Ukrainians are noted for. The final leg of the journey was travelling on “the night train” to Kiev, as with most experiences on this remarkable trip, it was a night to remember. Kiev brought the weary travellers to the end of their journey. A few days were spent touring this very modern, metropolitan city; including visiting Independence (orange) Square and shopping in the underground mall before boarding the plane back to Canada.

Some of the travellers were blessed with the opportunity to visit the villages where their ancestors lived and meet relatives who remain in the area. It was very surreal to watch many of the farmers harvesting their crops as it had been described to us by our grandparents; although we witnessed very modern cities, old world tradition prevailed through the countryside. Dance workshops for the dancers, historical tours, special performances by local artisans, visiting homes and farms, shopping in the local markets, admiring the spectacular countryside, watching the horse drawn wagons travel through the streets in many towns, attending a traditional Ukrainian wedding, the warm, kind welcome we received everywhere we went and the food! Oh the food! These are memories that will live forever in the hearts and souls of those who were fortunate to be a part of this spectacular adventure.

This trip would not have been possible without the determination and hard work of everyone involved but even the kids agree, it was well worth the effort. We appreciate the support of our families, friends and the community who helped us attain our goal.

To say you have truly visited a place, you must immerse yourself in the people, their everyday traditions and their culture; we have visited Ukraine and we see the world differently now, it has opened our eyes, minds and hearts to our global neighbors. So different, yet the same. As they say in Ukraine – here is to love, friendship and new adventures; boodmo!