Kyiv's Hidden Gem: Luxury Aparthotel New England Awaits!
Kyiv's Hidden Gem: New England Aparthotel – My Honest, Messy, and Utterly Human Review!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the tea - the STRONG, Ukrainian tea, mind you - on the New England Aparthotel in Kyiv. Forget the glossy brochure promises; this is a real-deal, warts-and-all report from yours truly. And let me tell you, after a week of Kyiv adventures (and a fair amount of pyvka), I've got opinions.
Accessibility – A Mixed Bag with a Surprisingly Helpful Twist
First things first: getting to New England. Kyiv isn't exactly known for its seamless accessibility. Navigating those cobblestone streets on a rainy day after a few shots of Medovukha… let's just say it's an experience. This aparthotel itself fares better. While I didn't personally need specific accessibility features, I noticed elevator access, which is a HUGE win. They also have facilities for disabled guests, which is fantastic. Now, I saw no specific ramps to the restaurants, so that might be a potential hurdle for some. But the staff? Oh, the staff! They're genuinely helpful, and I suspect they'd bend over backwards to assist anyone needing extra help. Think of them as your personal cobblestone-crossing angels.
Cleanliness and Safety: Breathe Easy, Even if You're a Germaphobe (Like Me!)
COVID is still a thing, right? And I'm a bit (okay, a lot) of a clean freak. New England gets a serious gold star here. They've got the works: Anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection in common areas, professional-grade sanitizing services, and rooms sanitized between stays. They even offered a room sanitization opt-out, which I found… interesting. Like, "Please, contaminate my space as much as possible!" It’s reassuring. The staff are trained in safety protocol, and I saw them constantly wiping down surfaces. Hand sanitizer was readily available, and everything felt… safe. And let me tell you, after a week of eating street food (delicious, but…), that peace of mind was golden.
Rooms: My Cozy Kyiv Castle (With a Few Quirks!)
Okay, the rooms themselves! Chef’s kiss. Super comfortable, and a welcome respite from the hustle of Kyiv. The blackout curtains were my best friend, allowing me to sleep off the effects of long nights exploring the night life (or getting lost in the metro). Air conditioning was a godsend, especially in the heat. I loved the complimentary tea and coffee/tea maker, perfect for those late-night chats with my travel buddy. Free Wi-Fi in the rooms worked like a dream, even when the Ukrainian internet gods decided to take a nap. The Internet access – LAN was a nice backup, and the laptop workspace was perfect for catching up on emails and posting those envy-inducing travel photos (take that, Instagram!). My favourite was the separate shower/bathtub – long baths filled with that lovely Ukrainian water was what I needed after a long day.
Now, the quirks? Yeah, there’s a few. The decor is… well, ‘New England’ . I'm not sure how many people in the Ukraine have ever seen New England, but the homage is there, even if it's a little … interprative. And my room had a slightly wonky window that opens, which made me feel like I was living in a dramatic theatre, but was very welcomed. The scale didn't lie, either. My favourite feature was the mini-bar, and the refrigerator.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Fueling the Adventures!
Alright, let's talk food! The breakfast situation was a highlight. A generous buffet in restaurant with Asian breakfast and Western breakfast options (I'm more of a bacon-and-eggs kind of person, myself.) The Coffee/tea in restaurant was good and consistent. Room service [24-hour] was a lifesaver after those late nights. But seriously, the best part? The poolside bar and the Happy hour. Picture this: a long day of exploring, a dip in the swimming pool [outdoor] (with a pool with a view, mind you!), and a perfectly crafted cocktail as the sun sets. Pure bliss. They have a Snack bar (perfect for those mid-afternoon cravings), and the Restaurants offer a decent menu. A la carte in restaurant was a nice option, too, if you want a more intimate experience. No complaints here at all - I felt well-fed and happy.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Beyond the Borscht!
This is where New England really shines. They've got a full-blown spa! Now, I’m not usually a spa guy, but after a week of pounding the pavement, I caved. I got a massage, a body scrub (felt amazing, despite my initial skepticism), and I even bravely tried the Sauna. It was a revelation. Highly recommend! They have a Fitness center if you're feeling ambitious (I was not!), and a Steamroom (which I did not, either.) They've got the goods.
Services and Conveniences: Makes Life Easy-Peasy!
This place is all about convenience. Daily housekeeping was impeccable. Laundry service was super handy. The Concierge was always willing to help me. The Doorman was so welcoming. The Car park [free of charge] saved me a fortune (taxi fares in Kyiv can add up!). The Cash withdrawal was super handy when I was starting to run low on cash. But yeah, all the usual suspects, and they did them well.
For the Kids: Family-Friendly Fun
I don't have kids, but I noticed they had Babysitting service and seemed genuinely Family/child friendly.
Getting Around: Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy
The Airport transfer was a massive help, especially after a long flight. They also offer a Taxi service.
The Little Things That Matter
- Smoke alarms and Fire extinguisher made me feel safe.
- The Front desk [24-hour] was super convenient.
- The Elevator was crucial after a long day of walking around the city.
- The Luggage storage was a lifesaver.
My Overall Verdict?
New England Aparthotel is a winner. Yes, some of the design choices are… unique. And yes, Kyiv’s still a work in progress when it comes to accessibility. But the cleanliness, the comfort, the amazing staff, the spa, the food, and the convenience make it a fantastic base for exploring this incredible city.
But here's the thing: I really felt like they were looking after me.. It’s the kind of place where you feel genuinely cared for, not just a nameless guest.
And now, for the offer… (Because You Deserve a Treat!)
Kyiv Awaits! Unwind in Luxury at New England Aparthotel!
Tired of Generic Hotels? Craving an Authentic Kyiv Experience?
Book your stay at the New England Aparthotel within the next [Insert timeframe – e.g., 72 hours] and receive:
- A complimentary bottle of Ukrainian wine to toast your arrival!
- 15% off a relaxing spa treatment of your choice! (Because you deserve it!)
- Free Airport Transfer to kick off your adventure hassle-free!
- Early Check-in or Late Check-out (based on availability) so you can maximize your Kyiv experience!
- Free Wi-Fi while you are getting ready to write your own review!
Why New England?
- Immaculate Cleanliness: Your health is their priority.
- Unbeatable Comfort: Relax in stylish, well-equipped apartments.
- Prime Location: Explore Kyiv's top attractions with ease.
- Warm Ukrainian Hospitality: Experience the true meaning of welcome.
- All the conveniences needed for a stress-free trip!
Don't Miss Out!
This offer is only available for a limited time. Book your stay at the New England Aparthotel now and prepare for an unforgettable Kyiv adventure! Click here [Insert Booking Link Here] and use code [Insert Code Here] at checkout!
Trust me, you won't regret it. And if you do? Well, just blame me. But I'm betting you'll be too busy enjoying yourself to even think about it! Slava Ukraini!
Chennai's Hidden Gem: Keys Prima by Lemon Tree Hotels (Katti-Ma) - Unbelievable!
Kyiv Kraziness: A Whirlwind Tour of Heartbreak and Happiness at the Aparthotel New England (or, How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love Perogies)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your average itinerary. This is my itinerary, and it's gonna be… well, it's gonna be something. Think a chaotic cocktail of cultural enlightenment, questionable food choices, and a healthy dose of existential dread.
Pre-Trip Shenanigans (and the Flight of Doom):
- Weeks Before: Panic buying phrasebooks. Mastering the pronunciation of "Dyakuyu" (thank you!), which, I swear, sounds more like a dying seagull than a polite expression. Downloading Duolingo and feeling supremely smug for about 3 hours before forgetting everything.
- Day Before: Packing! Or, rather, attempting to. Result: suitcase explosion. Found myself staring at a mountain of clothes questioning everything. "Do I really need five different shades of black leggings? YES. Yes, I do."
- The Flight (Don't Ask): Let's just say airplane food is an insult to the word "food" and my assigned seat was next to a chap who spent the entire flight aggressively crocheting. I swear I could feel the yarn judging me.
Day 1: Arrival & Aparthotel Ambush!
- Morning: Landed in Kyiv, bleary-eyed and questioning my life choices. Airport customs: surprisingly smooth. Maybe the grumpy customs official sensed I was on the verge of a nervous breakdown.
- Afternoon: Taxi ride to the Aparthotel New England. Gorgeous building, though slightly imposing. Felt like I was arriving at Hogwarts. Wandered around the lobby like a lost sheep, convinced I was going to accidentally set off some kind of alarm. Finally, checked in: "Welcome to your apartment, madam!" … Apartment? More like a palace! This place is swanky.
- Late Afternoon: The Great Apartment Exploration. Found myself staring at the washing machine like it was a cryptic puzzle. Then, the fridge. Oh, sweet, sweet fridge. Victory! (Successfully located the beer.)
- Evening: Wandered aimlessly around the neighborhood, overwhelmed but also kind of thrilled. Found a tiny, hole-in-the-wall "Puzata Hata" (Ukrainian fast food chain). Ordered… well, I tried to order something. Pointing and gesturing is a universal language, right? Ended up with something vaguely resembling a potato pancake and a side of beetroot salad. It was… an experience. Let's just say my taste buds are still recovering. Emotional reaction: a mix of confusion, mild disgust, and grudging respect for the sheer weirdness of it all.
Day 2: History Hysteria & Perogy Paradise:
- Morning: Decided to be cultured. Hit up St. Sophia's Cathedral. Jaw-droppingly beautiful. Standing there, surrounded by all this history, I felt… tiny. And a little bit like I needed a nap. Admired the mosaics, wandered around in a daze, feeling the weight of centuries. Then, wandered out and promptly got lost.
- Afternoon: The Golden Gate – stunning. Absolutely stunning. Tried to take a photo, but my battery died. Classic. Feeling increasingly inept, I decided to embrace the chaos.
- Evening – The Perogy Revelation: THIS. THIS IS WHAT I CAME FOR. Found a little restaurant (I won't tell you the name because I want it all to myself) that promised authentic Ukrainian food. Holy. Mother. Of. Perogies. These were no ordinary dumplings. These were… fluffy clouds of potato-y, cheesy, onion-y goodness. I ordered a mountains of them. Then another. And another! Each bite was an explosion of flavor. Seriously, I think I almost cried. I ate them with sour cream. I bathed in sour cream. I emerged from that restaurant a changed woman. Emotional reaction: pure, unadulterated bliss. I swear, I might have levitated. This single restaurant experience was the anchor of my Kyiv trip, the highlight I'll remember forever!
- Night: Stumbled back to the hotel, slightly delirious from happiness and the sheer volume of perogies. Passed out in a food coma.
Day 3: Market Mayhem, Monastery Mysticism & (More) Food Adventures
- Morning: Exploring the Besarabsky Market. Sensory overload! The sights, the smells, the sheer energy of it all. Tried to haggle for some souvenirs, failed miserably (I have the negotiating skills of a newborn kitten). Ended up buying a ridiculously large, fluffy hat, which I now love.
- Afternoon: Pechersk Lavra Monastery. The scale of it all is breathtaking. The gold domes gleamed in the sunlight. Feeling overcome by piety, I awkwardly prayed in front of a gilded icon. Then, promptly tripped over my own feet. Humbling experience, indeed.
- Evening: Determined to find some more culinary treasures, despite my stomach's protesting. Found a restaurant that served varenyky (different version of perogies with different fillings). Again, devoured them. Had some amazing borscht (a beetroot soup). Almost perfect night.
- Night: Started journaling, still high on feelings and food.
Day 4: Remembrance, Refection and Farewell…ish.
- Morning: Visited the National Museum of the History of the Great Patriotic War. It was solemn and heavy, but it's important to remember. I was moved, but also confused by some of the exhibits.
- Afternoon: A final walk through Andriyivskyy Descent, feeling sad that the trip was ending. Bought a painting from a street artist (probably overpriced, but who cares!).
- Evening: Packing. Another suitcase explosion. Found a half-eaten perogy in my pocket.
- Night: Last dinner. Ate, you guessed it, more perogies. This time I ordered fried perogies. The taste was new, but with the same familiar perogy experience.
Day 5: Departure Disaster… and a Promise
- Morning: Woke up late. Rushed to the airport. Got stuck in traffic. Panicked. Barely made the flight.
- The aftermath: Sitting on the plane, still processing everything, the good the bad the ugly. The history, the people, the food (oh, the food!). Knowing I left a piece of myself in Kyiv.
- Final Thoughts: Ukraine is a beautiful, complicated, and utterly captivating country. It’s a place that will challenge you, humble you, and fill your belly with the best dumplings you've ever tasted. And I'm already planning my return.
- And the promise: I will return to that perogy restaurant. I swear it!
Kyiv's Hidden Gem: Luxury Aparthotel New England Awaits! - FAQs (Because Seriously, You Need Them)
Okay, So What *Is* This "New England" Thing? Is It, Like, Actually New England? In Kyiv?
Look, I’ll level with you. My first thought was, “Uh, are they building a clam shack on the Dnipro?” Nope. No lobster rolls (sad face). Instead, it's...well, it's *inspired* by New England. Think charming architecture, red brick, pretty trees. It’s a surprisingly beautiful oasis tucked away. I remember walking in and just thinking..."Wow, did someone accidentally teleport me? I mean, clearly not, because I’m still speaking Ukrainian at reception, but still...it's a very thoughtful aesthetic. It makes you feel like you're on a different continent, far, far away from any lingering Soviet architecture!"
"Luxury Aparthotel" – Does the 'Luxury' Part Really Hold Up? I've Been Burned Before.
Okay, so here’s the brutal truth. Luxury is subjective. It's not the Four Seasons (sadly, I've dreamed of that. Always). But YES, for Kyiv, it's pretty darn luxurious. The apartments are spacious, with ridiculously comfortable beds. I once spent a whole day just... existing in bed. It was a glorious waste of time. And the kitchens! Fully equipped. You can realistically cook a decent meal, even if, like me, your skills peak somewhere around "cereal with milk." There's a balcony, which, let's be real, is crucial for morning coffee/evening wine/general pondering of life. Plus, it's clean. REALLY clean. Which is saying something in a city, you know?
Is it Safe? (Look, I'm Asking the Obvious, But Kyiv's Got a… History… you know?)
Look, safety is always a concern, right? Kyiv has had its moments. I walked around the property myself, looking for any visible issues. The area seems really safe. There's 24-hour security, gated access. I felt, personally, very secure every time I was in the area. I'm not going to pretend to be the World's Most Profound Expert on geopolitics, but my experience was positive. They seem really keen on keeping their guests safe.
What's the Vibe, Dude? Like, Chill? Romantic? Loud Tourists?
Okay, the vibe is… *refined chill.* It’s not a party hotel. There are families, couples, business travelers. You won’t hear any loud pool parties (because there isn’t one...I think...). It feels...peaceful. I was there during a bit of a family outing (the in-laws, ugh). Even *they* chilled out, which is saying something. Honestly, it’s the kind of place where you can actually relax. I spent one afternoon on my balcony with a book and a bottle of wine. Pure bliss. Try it. Seriously. Treat yourself.
Location, Location, Location! How Far Away is 'Far Away?'
Okay, good question. It's not *right* in the middle of Khreshchatyk (the main street), but it's also not in the boonies. The metro is close (that's a MAJOR win in Kyiv – the metro is amazing). You're also within a reasonable distance of some great restaurants, and the cool stuff like the botanical gardens. I'd say it's central enough to be convenient without being completely overrun by noise and chaos. I'm terrible at judging actual distances, but I never felt stranded.
What's the Wi-Fi Like? Because, You Know, Gotta Stay Connected.
The Wi-Fi... is... good! I worked from my apartment for a few days, and I had no problems, which is shocking. Seriously, I'm used to wrestling with hotel Wi-Fi like it's a rabid badger. This was super-smooth. Reliable enough that I could actually, you know, *do* work. Video calls? No problem. Streaming my guilty pleasure shows? Also no problem. Excellent, really.
Any Quirks? Little Annoyances to Watch Out For?
Alright, I'll be real. No place is perfect. Here's the thing: The breakfast (included, woohoo!) is...fine. Not amazing, not terrible, but predictable. I'm not a big breakfast eater so no big deal to me! It gets the job done. I'd advise snagging some fruit or something extra from the nearby shop if you're really, really picky about your morning meal. I am not. The other thing: It's an apartment. So you kind of do everything yourself. You clean up, you are responsible for the laundry (there's a washing machine – another win!). The tradeoff is that you get more space and privacy, so it's worth it.
Okay, But *Really*, Would You Recommend It?
Absolutely. 100%. Despite my little nitpicks, it's a winner. It's a great base for exploring Kyiv – comfortable, stylish, safe, and (relatively) affordable. I'd go back in a heartbeat. If you're looking for a luxurious, spacious, and reliable place to stay, you can do much, much, much worse. Take my word for it, it's worth it.
Is there a Pool? I Like Pools.
I'm getting a complex. No pool. Although, on a really hot day, I did consider filling up the bathtub and pretending it was a pool. The thought entertained me for a good ten minutes. No pool...so, if you are after that, maybe look elsewhere.
What About Restaurants Around the Aparthotel? I'm a Foodie!
Okay, food is important. I'd say the area has decent restaurant choices. Not the *best* food scene in Kyiv (that's probably near the Golden Gate, go for a wander around there). You have options, though! There are a few cafes and restaurants within walkingHotel Price Compare
