Trans-mission Partnerships

Travelling to Romania and Ukraine

When travelling by road to Romania and Ukraine it takes around 3-4 days. Usually travelling though Belgium; Netherlands; Germany; Austria and Hungary we generally travel from around 8am until 7pm with short stops every 3 hours but a longer break for lunch. We finish early evening so we can relax over a meal and an early evening to bed. If travelling to Northern Ukraine we may travel across Germany; Czech Republic and Poland.

Transportation is usually in smaller vehicles such as a 'Sprinters' or mini bus. The largest is a 7.5 tonne. Why? Because they are faster, usually avoid lengthy delays at borders by using car channels and easier to get volunteer drivers with ordinary licences.

Travelling across Europe within the 3 days is physically challenging but can be great fun. Some travel abroad for the very first time. Each day we have time for 'sharing' our thoughts and concerns. This has proved vital for team building - especially while in Eastern Europe and on the return journey. The whole experience can be emotionally challenging as well as physically.

When taking humanitarian aid we always have another 'project' to involve team members while in Eastern Europe. Why? Because, after members have worked hard to collect the goods, drive all across Europe then come face to face with poverty, the delivering of the aid is like the peak of our trip. Unless we also have a 'project' to get our 'teeth into', members can soon feel homesick and like they 'have nothing else to offer'.

More recently, most visits to Ukraine have been short and by plane. The aims have not been to take humanitarian aid but opportunity to share skills. Recent projects include teams working with street children and taking a Scientist to meet with meet with Berdychev Water Authorities responsible for water quality and supplies.

Not all who travel to Romania or Ukraine have specific skills. Often it's people with a big heart and compassion. Is that you?