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My name is Edward, I am a 33 year old electronic engineer from the UK. After many years of looking for a partner in England and some particularly bad experiences in past relationships, I came to the conclusion that perhaps I should broaden my horizons.
I have always been fascinated by Russian and Ukrainian culture and history so this had a strong influence on my decision to look for a soul mate in Ukraine. I was aware of the stereotypes of Slavic women but was still sceptical that the truth was as simple as these portrayals. This in itself was an intriguing question that motivated me to learn more about Ukrainian women.
I first learned of the Mordinson agency through a Youtube video interview with Michael which I watched out of sheer curiosity. When I heard Michael's description of how his agency worked I was interested because it sounded to me quite well designed to avoid any chance of foul play. I had of course read before in various news articles of the scams that could be perpetrated by disreputable companies in Ukraine, so the fact Michael's model seemed to be intrinsically resistance to these standard methods immediately stood out to me and caused me to do some further research.
I was actually surprised to find that the Mordinson business model was actualy quite unique among the international dating/marriage industry, when I examined the models of other companies I could find some way for their model to be exploited in a dishonest manner. With Mordinson's flat pricing system, personal service and established reputation I felt assured that I was dealing with a legitimate service from the outset.
When I selected ladies to contact, I focussed primarily on those who seemed a good match based on the man they were looking for. I also prioritised those with good English skills as these are an obvious advantage and show a clear desire to move abroad. In the very first reply to my introduction letter, Irina stood out to me. The subjects we talked about were broad and serious, we were speaking not of our favourite colours or music, but the practicalities of moving to another country and the differences between our cultures. Our discussions were often very long and complicated, but despite this they were always delivered promptly by Michael who was obviously working very hard to translate our letters.
Within a few days of communicating with Irina I decided to speak to her on Skype to see if our connection was as strong as it appeared. It would also allow me to get a clear understanding of her English skills which I had placed such high value upon. Again Michael worked hard to arrange a time convenient for both of us. The conversation itself went so well that I afterwards I immediately enquired with Michael about visiting Kharkiv.
Before I visited Kharkiv, I made a considerable effort to learn some Ukrainian and Russian, while I knew that Michael would be able to provide translation, I considered it to be wise to learn enough language to be able to do the basic tourist things, ordering food and drinks, asking where a place is, buying an item from a shop etc. I also regard learning the Cyrillic alphabet (both Ukrainian and Russian versions) extremely useful for any visitor to Ukraine.
The initial meetings themselves (I met four girls including Irina), went very well, the agency arranged everything in advance and provided translation when necessary. Of course my meeting with Irina stood out as it confirmed what we had both been suspecting during our previous communications, we did indeed have a deep connection and many things in common. I enjoyed meeting all four of the ladies but one week goes much faster than you may think, it is therefore wise to concentrate on a single lady to ensure you build as strong a relationship as possible in the little time you have. For me of course that lady was Irina.
Of Kharkiv, I can say I found in to be a pleasant city (even in January!), all the people I met were very friendly, although very few spoke any English. I was certainly glad I had learned at least some rudimentary Russian and Ukrainian. Many people in the west will have heard of Ukraine's current political situation and the ongoing armed conflict but any foreign visitor to Kharkiv would have to look quite carefully to find any signs of these troubles. This to me is a poignant example of the strength of Ukrainian people.
In conclusion I would offer the following advice to men looking for a woman in Ukraine: Follow your heart, you will feel when you have found the one, if you find her be willing to do what it takes to be with her. Be realistic in your expectations of women and life in Ukraine and cultivate a deep respect for both. Remember that this is only the beginning of your story, there will be many trials that you and your partner may face before you can be together, your relationship must be strong enough to endure these trials.
All the best in your search,
Edward
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