That’s it, folks! The Ukrainian language course in Lviv is officially over, and so my time in Lviv has ended. I’m looking back to the time of my life!
Excursions through time and industry 🏭
We had two days of excursions in the first half of the course, mostly focused on ancient history and the environment. In the second half of the course, we visited various (old) sites with a bit more focus on local industry.
History of Ukraine 📰
Ukraine has a very long but complicated history — closely intertwined with Austria-Hungary, Cossacks, Poles, the Golden Horde, and more recently through occupation by nazi-germany, russia and the soviet union.
Culturing along 🎭
More culturing happened recently! We had a vyshyvanka workshop and subsequently Ivana Kupala celebrations. We also visited the National Opera House to see a ballet and an opera.
More fun with friends 🎊
Once again I’ve been fortunate to experience Ukrainian culture via my Ukrainian friend: seeing a performance, buying a vyshyvanka, having a typical Ukrainian dinner, and visiting the open-air museum.
Excursions through time ⛰️
Over two different weekend days, we explored five historic sites around Lviv — ruins, a castle and multiple churches. We’re travelling from the 7th to the 20th century. Here are the highlights…
Heroiam Slava: the Price of Dignity 🦸
In the words of Yaroslav Hrytsak during his lecture: “Nations create war; war creates nations“. The Ukrainian people did not choose this war, but they did choose to respond with dignity. For those of us at peace, especially in the West, we must ponder: how do we retain our dignity?
Fun with friends 🤳
The language course itself offers a great many friends and excursions, but I also do fun stuff with friends not from the SOUL language course. One friend living in Lviv I’ve known for years and she is introducing me to her country, culture and other friends.
Making friends at school 🤝
All the Ukrainians I’ve met are incredibly hospitable and easy to talk to. My fellow language students are just as friendly. All in all, the vibes are good — helped along by a bit of stroopwafel-diplomacy. Let me explain…
The ancient city of Lviv 🦁
Lviv radiates history and culture. The city center mostly radiates liveliness and culture, whereas the cemeteries nearby invite us to learn the price to get here.