Expat Advice: Retiring in Kharkov, Ukraine

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Share Your Experiences with Retiring Abroad

Freedom Square in Kharkov, Ukraine

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Kharkov

Why did you choose to retire abroad?

For finding a partner /love, and a more laid back lifestyle with lower living costs and healthier habits.

Are you retired abroad all year or part of the year?

retired for 10 months here

Why did you choose the country you retired to?

Because of the dating possibilities

Did you ever live abroad before you retired abroad?

yes, for short periods in Florida

How long have you lived abroad since you retired abroad?

10 months with three or four return trips to Canada

How many countries (other than your home country) have you lived in as a retiree?

1

What have been the most challenging aspects of being retired abroad?

language here in Ukraine, loss of English cinema, coffee shops for conversation,

What have been the most rewarding aspects of being retired abroad?

Have developed a wonderful loving relationship with a fine woman. My health has improved eating fresh home cooked food rather than processed prepared meals, or over salted and processed restaurant meals. I have quit taking blood pressure and cholesterol meds. Walking daily, as exercise and have no car here.

What would you do differently if you were just starting the retire abroad process?

Make friends with one or two locals you can get to know. Have them assist you in all major spending as they can save you a great deal, from ordering a taxi, to where to buy the best food at the best price, to finding accommodation at local prices rather than internet prices.

What is life like for a retiree in your city and its surroundings? (Is there an active expat community? Cultural Attractions? Recreation? Nightlife?)

)))))) Interesting , I have been ice skating, bowling, billiards, karaoke, cinema, (Ukraine language) and have walked many miles in bitter cold this winter, but enjoyed it.Have also enjoyed visits to Russian sauna's and a major indoor aqua park. Even went tobogganing on a small hill.)))) I have yet to find an expat community here but would like to.

What residency documents or visas did you need to obtain to retire in your host country? How difficult was this process? (Please describe)

I am allowed 90 day stay without a visa,

Did you buy a home or apartment, or rent one? Is this a difficult process? (Please describe)

rented through an agent with the help of my partner. Very easy and did not even give first and last month rent , only first. We have 2 bedrooms , furnished nicely, flat screen tv, high speed internet, grocery shopping and parks in immediate vicinity as well as recreational facilities as mentioned above. Cost 550. to 600. US $ per month includes everything, except food of course.

Financially, has living abroad in your host country met your expectations? Exceeded them?

I have been very happy with my cost of living here and lifestyle. It is much better than I expected.

What are the most important financial considerations for retiring to your host country?

mmmmmmmm Not all atm machines recognize my Visa card, so I have to remember that. A visit to a bank with passport will get money for a fee of 2 or 3 % I fill up my visa with a credit balance and keep drawing off of those funds and replenish when I arrive home ))))

How much can a retiree live on comfortably in your host country?

I am not certain, but I think that a couple can find an apartment for 300, to 400 month US Live near subway and forget old idea about driving everywhere, get some much needed exercise on foot))) Taxi service is cheap 10. us$ for a 45 minute ride maximum. 15 hour train ride for $10.00 US with sleeping birth )))

Do you have access to quality medical care? (Please describe - is it close? Expensive?)

I go to a lab each month for INR and cholesterol blood check for 6 to 7 dollars, they e-mail me results with all the norms included for comparison. Lab is much cleaner and more professionally run than the lab I went to in Canada. A doctor visit here may be 10.00 US

Is there a lot of crime where you live? (Please describe)

I have not heard about any crime but I am sure it exists. I walk in well lit parks at night and have not frequented night clubs. It seems as safe to me as my neighborhood in Canada.There are corrupt peoples and police, so I keep a low profile, do not speak too much English in the wrong places where I would attract unwanted attention. I am in the suburbs and on occasion take the subway downtown Kharkov . People have been friendly and helpful when needed, even with language difficulties.

Describe available transportation where you live. Do you need a car? Is there access to safe public transportation?

I do not need a car. I do need one person to act as translator, but these services are readily available here.

Is there high-speed internet access where you live?

I have high speed , for $11. month have had very few interruptions of service, and they stem from my d-link router I think. But I am not certain about that.

Do you have any other thoughts you would like to share about retiring abroad?

If you do not mind accepting life and each day as it is, create your own adventure. My life had become predictable, boring, unhealthy, and less than satisfying. I am experiencing a new culture , slowly learning a little new language, have a beautiful loving companion, and the opportunity to visit much of Europe at reasonable costs from here. I do not mind bad service, and unpredictable experiences. Boredom is a killer for me.))) Good luck in your search for a wonderful life experience. Whatever that may be.))))

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