Currency
Hryvnia, introduced on the 2nd of September, 1996, is the only legal currency in Ukraine today. One hryvnia (UAH) equals one hundred kopiykas.
Weather:
the climate in Ukraine is temperate continental. It is mainly characterized by significant precipitation and cloudiness in winter and fall. Winters are usually long and cold. Summers are short but can be pretty hot. The average temperature in winter is -8° to +1° C, in summer +18° to +27°.
Theatres
The extensive repertoire of Kiev theatres, stretching from the classics to the most innovative performances, caters for all tastes. Opera and ballet lovers are welcome to the renowned National Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet named after T.G. Shevchenko, which is the oldest musical theatre in Ukraine. Those who prefer comedies will surely appreciate plays performed at the Bravo Drama Theatre. Those bored with traditions and classics are invited to the experimental Cherny Kvadrat Theatre.
Please find on the following website the list of the most popular Kiev theatres: http://kiev.info/culture/theatres.htm
Museums
Kiev, this indisputable cultural center of Ukraine, boasts numerous museums and art galleries of an exceptional cultural and historical value. Treasuries of national art, more than 60 meseums represent thoroughly and comprehensively the rich culture of Ukraine from the old days to the recent past and present.
Please find some information about the museums on the following website: http://kiev.info/culture/museums.htm
Government
The municipality of the city of Kiev has a special legal status within Ukraine compared to the other administrative subdivisions of the country. The most significant difference is that the city is subordinated directly to the national-level branches of the Government of Ukraine, skipping the regional level authorities of Kiev Oblast. Additionally, the Head of City Administration - the leading executive position is held by a directly elected, rather than appointed, figure, who is also the Head of City Council - the Mayor of Kiev, and municipal institutions have a higher level of self governance than elsewhere in Ukraine.