About
Ukraine Travel Consultant, Genealogy Researcher and Guide
Two decades ago, I set out on a hiking trip to the Carpathian Mountains, captivated by the breathtaking scenery, I shared photos of my journey online. Soon after, I received numerous emails from individuals planning to visit Ukraine. Recognizing the potential for tourism, I decided to build a website and thus, Ukraine Roots (formerly known as Lviv Ecotour) was born.
Over time, my team and I have grown our business, providing travelers with various services such as genealogy research and customized tours of Ukraine. We take great pride in assisting individuals in their quest to connect with their ancestral roots and uncover their family history. Our team includes experienced tour guides and researchers such as Sophia, Adam, Serhiy, Taras, and other like-minded professionals.
Our goal is to provide exceptional service to our clients, ensuring they have a memorable experience during their visit to Ukraine. We offer tours and transfers with English-speaking drivers and interpreters, making it easy for travelers to explore the country and interact with the locals.
We have established partnerships with knowledgeable guides and researchers in Ukraine and Poland, allowing us to expand our services and offer a wider range of options for our clients. While we cannot share contact information through this platform, we encourage interested travelers to visit our website to learn more about our services and partners.
We are passionate about what we do and are committed to providing the best possible experience for our clients. Whether it’s exploring the stunning Carpathian Mountains or tracing one’s family history, we are here to help make those dreams a reality.
I Know Ukraine
As a native of Lviv, also known as Lwow and Lemberg, I have a deep understanding and appreciation for the city’s rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture. I am fluent in English, Ukrainian, Polish, and Russian, and have honed my language skills through my studies at Lviv University and my extensive travels.
Growing up, I was exposed to the Galician dialects through my grandparents, which helped me gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the region’s unique linguistic and cultural traditions. Additionally, living in close proximity to the Polish border allowed me to immerse myself in the Polish language and culture.
In my free time, I enjoy reading history books, exploring the Carpathian Mountains, and immersing myself in nature. One of my favorite authors is Timothy Snyder, who writes about East European history and politics, and I also love reading books about nature, such as The Hidden Life of Trees by Peter Wohlleben.
Through my experiences and passions, I have developed a deep knowledge and love for Ukraine and am excited to share it with others through my work on this website and as a tour guide.
I am a History and Culture Enthusiast Delighted to Share my Knowledge
Growing up in Western Ukraine fueled my passion for history. The turbulent events that occurred in this region during the Second World War have left an indelible mark on my life and homeland. My paternal grandfather had numerous siblings, and their families were scattered across North America, Australia, Europe, and even Russia during the 1940s. Meanwhile, my maternal grandparents lived in seven different countries without ever leaving their home near Lviv, a fact that many people find hard to believe. Throughout their lifetimes, the small Galician town where they resided was governed by Austria-Hungary, the West Ukrainian People’s Republic, Poland, pre-war USSR, Nazi Germany, post-war USSR, and Ukraine.
As a child, I resided in an ancient building with a breathtaking rooftop view of Lviv’s old town. During my research at the Lviv Archives, I discovered that my childhood home had belonged to a Jewish family named Samuel and Chaja Lande before the Second World War. Evidently, they had rented out the building’s apartments prior to the outbreak of war in Lviv in 1939. Did they survive the war? Do they have any living relatives? This mystery has yet to be solved.
My interests include exploring historical sites, visiting museums, and reading history books. I am passionate about sharing my knowledge with others and enjoy discussing various aspects of history and culture.
Ukraine Tours and Genealogy are My Passion
For almost two decades, I have been dedicated to assisting individuals in uncovering their ancestral roots in Ukraine and creating tailor-made tours that cater to their interests. I offer a range of services, including local tours, guided mountain walks, transfers, and English translation. Whether you’re looking to explore your family history, discover the hidden gems of Ukraine, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of this stunning country, I’m here to help. With my extensive knowledge and experience, I can provide you with an unforgettable experience that you’ll cherish for a lifetime. So why not join me and explore the wonders of Ukraine together?