A hit with backpackers for a long time, the Ukraine has been experiencing a surge in popularity in general as a holiday destination over the last few years.

Between 2002 and 2004, tourist arrivals in the eastern European country rose from 10.5 million to 15.6 million, a rise of around 50 per cent.

It is no surprise that holiday companies are seeking to capitalise on this burgeoning interest in the Ukraine, and luxury hotel chain Hilton is opening its first five-star hotel in the country, in Kiev.

The $70 million, 257 room hotel, will be ideally located for the well-heeled traveller in Kiev’s cultural centre, near the opera house and the Golden Gate, and with room views of the city’s botanical gardens.

In addition to the ‘standard’ rooms, the luxury hotel will include executive suites, diplomatic suites and a presidential suite.

Plentiful leisure facilities will also be available for those who want to relax after exploring St Sophia Cathedral and the city’s old town, including a large gym, spa and swimming pool.

Wolfgang Neumann, president of Hilton for Europe and Africa, said: “It is no secret that we have been looking for years to find an appropriate project in Kiev and are convinced that the Hilton Kiev hotel will meet and exceed the expectations of our customers and guests.”

The building of the hotel is scheduled to be completed by mid-2009.

For information on Hilton, visit http://hiltonworldwide.hilton.com