One thing that inspires me the most is traveling. It is not just about places, but the new vision.

My first time on a plane was when I was four years old. Unfortunately, I cannot tell you much about it. However, I do remember how I dumped the cookies on my cousin’s head when we were in the airport because she refused to share.

Going to other countries was a dream come true. When I was 10 years old, we flew to historic Armenia. When we arrived, a crowd of people was waiting for us. To be honest, I did not know half of them. Everybody started kissing us and, when I say “everybody,” I mean it! And not just a “cheek-to-check” kiss, but a firm and genuine one.

At first it was bizarre, but the more you learn about people the better you understand that they have a big heart and endless love for their families – regardless how far of a distant relative you are, how often you see each other and how far you live from each other.

In Ukraine, we love to dress up. We never leave the house without at least putting lip gloss on. My friend and I decided to go to one of Europe’s most charming cities: Prague. The first day, we went out to have dinner and people kept staring at us and giving looks.

Good thing we had Sketchers with us. Prague is known for its cobbled lanes, walled courtyards and love of comfort. It turned out that they consider girls who are wearing high heels as seducers. Good to know, right? Not wearing heels in Prague anymore.

The police in Ukraine sometimes can be beyond creative. Get ready; this is a true story! The scene took place in the subway. I was going to pick up my paycheck – my salary in the envelope to be more exact. Suddenly, a police officer in his 20s comes up to me and says that something happened and now they are questioning all women.

With my Ukrainian suspicion, I agreed to answer a few questions. I followed him to the kiosk. He asked for my ID, wrote down my information, and said that now we need to wait for a confirmation call. Meanwhile, he started asking personal questions.

Thirty minutes passed, no call. I really could not wait any longer, so I told him that it seems that nobody is calling him back, why not just call himself. He called and said that everything was okay and I could go. Finally!

At the second I left, this person followed me again. I said, “Now what?” And he goes, “May I ask you to have a coffee with me or perhaps your number?” Imagine my expression! Actually don’t. I just spent 30 precious minutes of my life on this fake nonsense when the whole deal was about getting my number. That is why I do not trust police.

Every culture has a different identity, and it is important to come prepared when visiting a new place.