From Poland to Bielarus then Ukraine in 18 days
Follow this story by emailI'm Swiss with some Italian origin and this year I decided to travel in Eastern Europe, passing countries less common to travel and especially interesting in their heritage. This tour has confirmed the beauty of the landscapes of Eastern Europe and even if people are at first, a little discreet, they become very friendly and open from the moment the conversation begins. After having obtained a visa for a few days for Belarus, the transition from Poland to Belarus in destination of Ukraine is done quite easily. Only one small remark (which could disturb more than one), remains the waiting time at the border to enter the country => almost 5 hours between queuing and control for just some stamps and papers. The total course was around 3800 km, a correct distance for low averages of 280km, with three days of total (good break for the muscles and the mind).
In a team of two peoples, a friend who has the same passion, we had the opportunity to visit and travel throught beautiful countries, this sometimes in areas that have a captivating history as passage in the region of Chernobyl still partially Iradieted or many countries that are part of the former USSR. We strongly recommend visiting countries that are not yet filled with mass tourism and especially who has a welcomes.
1. Poland and Belarus
Just after arriving at Janow Podlaski in Poland, after a 1700km drive transporting two motorbikes BMW R1200GS Adventure, we prepared the machines and headed for Belarus at a resonable distance for a first day of travel. The administrative chicanery of the customs in Belarus made us lose 5 hours but finally, we took the road towards BARANOVICHI, then MINSK and before leaving Belarus, the last city of GOMEL (total of 3 days).
What's left in our minds: It's a wonderful country and looks well organized and rich. Country pretty flat landscape and empty vof cars (ideal for bikers, very well accepted).
2. Ukraine with surprise roads
We are quite surprised to have been able to cross the border with very less troubles but it must be said that there was no one on the way (no cars, no truck, no Bikers). The roads are really not very good and full of surprise, which confirms us once again, that our BMW was a good choice. After a short trip to Kiev and a short visit to the Chernobyl (the gost city of Prypiat), we continue towards Odessa, but only by normal roads (no highway). We wanted to enjoy the country landscape and less traffic, but on the other hand we have well tested our morbikes on roads sometimes "NO ROADS" and completely destroyed. Arrived in Odessa, we spent two days of rest and back massage for people who have not been 20 years old for 30 years.
What's left in our minds: There are many places to visit, especially the Kiev region and for those who like the landscape, towards Odessa it's the best. The roads on the other hand, it's just a disaster.
3. Short Moldova and beautiful Romania
To go from the Ukraine to Romania by the only road to the south, you have to go through Moldova, this on a small passage of 2.5km of road. Important: Here we may ask for money for insurance of other but by insisting, there is no problem. The crossing of the romania is done without any troubles and in a very beautiful country, still rural regions like the CARPATES and the passage of very olds city. The roads are very nice but there are many cars that roll like real criminals. They go out and press in the back to show the PS of their machine. For the rest, we really apreciated the very warm welcome of people and especially, the kitchen in general.
What's left in our minds: Beautiful roads, sometimes mountainous and flat landscape, as well as the good food.
4. Back to beautiful Ukraine
To complete our tour in Ukraine, we wanted to return to the West side of the country and take two days off in the beautiful city of Lviv, just a few km from the border of Romania and Poland. Some difference with the city of Kiev (capital a little stressful) and Odessa (seaside city), we found a small city very oriented Europe and which communicates much more than average. This passage towards Poland was a good choice and above all, the roads were in a good condition better than the center of Ukraine. The only minor mechanical problem was the small gasoline pump hose, which I had to repair with an adhesive band and some flanges. Fortunately I found a BMW agency in the center of the city, which immediately changed the damaged part. Repair, mechanical part exchange, small service maintenance and Motorbike cleaning for only 60 EUR (respect!).
What's left in our minds: Definitely, this country is plens of surprise and beautiful things to visit !
5. Back to Poland and end of trip
Our last return trip to Poland was a bit sad... of course... as it closed the fantastic tour new road experience in Eastern countries bordering Russia, without going there (unfortunately). Arrived at destination and after a night of rest, we put our two motorcycles on the trailer and we left for 1700km of road to Biel in Switzerland.
Hey guys ... I can only advise you to visit these countries of eastern europe, not only because they are not full of cars but especially to the eyes pleasure (and your wallet because cheaper as West Europe).
Rino the passionate motorbikers