Mezhyhirya (Ex-President's Residence) Tour

Vlad organized a fascinating solo tour of Mezhigirya for me despite it being “low season.” This place is the over-the-top former residence of the former president, and is styled as a “museum of corruption.” It is semi-privately run, so visits to interior of the house are essentially by appointment only, and even then only an expert guide can make such an appointment in Vlad organized a fascinating solo tour of Mezhigirya for me despite it being “low season.” This place is the over-the-top former residence of the former president, and is styled as a “museum of corruption.” It is semi-privately run, so visits to interior of the house are essentially by appointment only, and even then only an expert guide can make such an appointment in practice. Most people only visit the grounds (which are beautiful and interesting in their own right—gardens that would make LeNotre jealous, and impeccably maintained despite it being early spring/winter, when most of Kiev has dirt instead of grass.) The house is fascinating, with a bowling alley, stuffed lion, $300,000 music box, etc. live birds, etc, so you do NOT have to “imagine” the former opulence. Vlad acted as tour guide for the house and grounds and was very knowledgeable and made the tour fun (saying things to build anticipation such as “ok, this room here is only 5 out of 10, just wait til we get to a room that’s 10 out of 10” and he was right). Vlad also drove, safely but efficiently.

Visiting this crazy place with Vlad was a VIP experience. He opens every door and knows everyone there. Shares facts left and right and creates a really chill vibe (he always does). He’s a local with a global mind so he gets what us tourists find facinating. 10/10 would recommend doing this tour or any other trip with Vlad!

Vlad is one of the best! We went to Kiev for the marathon and it was a very nice 42 km. But what also was Vlad :) He helped us so much! Also the tour is a must when you are there!!!

We visited Kiev with a group of friends for a couple of days, including the New Year's Eve. First off, Vlad (one of the tour guides) met as at the airport and arranged transport to our apartment. In addition to simply being a great a guy, he talked a great deal about the city, its history and helped us better understand where Ukraine is coming from and where it is heading to. Visiting the "corruption museum" was a great a recommendation by Vlad. Firstly, it is not a long trip (again, Vlad arranged the transportation) so you can get out of the city but don't have to travel that long. Secondly, it looks that you might not get into the museum (inside the house itself) if you are not familiar with how "the system" of visiting it works (you can simply be left out in the cold). Now the estate itself is humongous with acres of land and plenty to see — we didn't even cover the whole lot (some of it is better to explore during warmer months). As to the villa itself, then be ready to be amazed with absolutely unique systems, decorations and interior design that you won't see anywhere else. Vlad also arranged several other activities for our group during the stay including private city tours and recommendations to bars/restaurants/nightclubs. (How about a secret restaurant under a crossing station?) All in all, I can't think of a better guide to help you get around Kiev than Vlad and their team is definitely on top of their game. Highly recommended!