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# Valeriya Goffe

Travel, sports and family activities

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## Posts

- [Our Summer Escape to Warsaw, Poland](https://valeriyagoffe.com/our-summer-escape-to-a-great-city-warsaw-poland/) - How did we end up in Warsaw this summer? I first visited Warsaw, the capital of Poland, many years ago to get my green card. Back then, such services were not offered in Ukraine, and you needed to travel as far as Poland. My Dad and I took a lovely trip to Warsaw during one
- [Beautiful Kyiv-Forever in my Heart](https://valeriyagoffe.com/beautiful-kyiv-forever-in-my-heart/) - Introduction The golden domes of the Saint Sophia Cathedral glittering in the sun. The snow-white flowers crowning the mighty chestnut trees in the spring. The gorgeous lilac and peonies blooming in the vast parks and gardens, their incredible aroma making your head spin. The bright lights of the magnificent Khreschatyk street illuminating the night sky.
- [War in Ukraine-a Glimpse of Hope in the Darkness](https://valeriyagoffe.com/war-in-ukraine-a-glimpse-of-hope-in-the-darkness/) - Ever since February 24, 2022 happened, the lives of all Ukrainians changed forever. We found out what the word "war" actually means. The relentless Russian missiles and drones started falling from the sky, destroying our beautiful cities, breaking our hearts and cutting many innocent lives short.
- [Crimea--the Beautiful Gem You'd Want to Visit Some Day](https://valeriyagoffe.com/crimea-the-beautiful-gem-youd-want-to-visit-some-day/) - Introduction Crimea has always been a very special place for me and my family. We used to go to the southern coast of Crimea for summer vacation pretty much every year since I was 3 years old. Crimea is true gem which has many gorgeous beaches and tall mountains, a rich history, beautiful weather, lovely
- [Best Time to Visit Uzbekistan](https://valeriyagoffe.com/best-time-to-visit-uzbekistan/) - The best time to visit Uzbekistan will depend on two main factors. First, the objectives of your trip. Are you coming to see the major historical landmarks (e.g., Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva) and take some photos? Or are you simply looking to explore the country, meet local people, eat some yummy food and admire nature? Perhaps
- [Top Ten Things to Do with Kids in Tashkent, Uzbekistan](https://valeriyagoffe.com/top-ten-things-to-do-with-kids-in-tashkent-uzbekistan/) - Tashkent has a lot of great places to visit with kids. This is not surprising, given that Uzbekistan has a very young population and many kids. Having lived in Tashkent as an expat for 3 years, I’ve had an opportunity to explore many kids’ attractions with my daughter. We’ve gone to most of these places
- [Where to Find the Best Plov in Tashkent, Uzbekistan](https://valeriyagoffe.com/where-to-find-the-best-plov-in-tashkent-uzbekistan/) - Uzbekistan is famous for its plov. Both locals and foreigners enjoy eating it. In Tashkent, there are so many places where you can try this amazing dish, from local market to large plov centers to refined restaurants. Check out some suggestions below on where to find the best plov in Tashkent. What is plov? Plov
- [Institute of Sun - Interesting Day Trip from Tashkent](https://valeriyagoffe.com/institute-of-sun-interesting-day-trip-from-tashkent/) - Tashkent offers ample opportunities for day trips. One of the attractions which you can see while visiting Parkent is the Institute of Sun. The drive is about 1-1.5 hours from Tashkent (depending on traffic). Why was the Institute of Sun created? The Institute of Sun is a scientific laboratory which is also quite unique: there
- [Living in Tashkent: Comprehensive Guide for Expats](https://valeriyagoffe.com/getting-settled-in-tashkent-tips-for-foreigners/) - When our family was planning to move from the US to Uzbekistan for a couple of years, we read a lot of information on Internet. Some of it was useful, but none of it was detailed enough to fully prepare us for comfortably settling in. Living in Tashkent is interesting, but it sure isn't easy.
- [Rano Eco Village - Lovely Day Trip from Tashkent, Uzbekistan](https://valeriyagoffe.com/rano-eco-village-perfect-day-trip-from-tashkent-uzbekistan/) - Rano Eco Village is located about 40 km away from Tashkent in the Parkent district, making it ideal for a relaxing day trip from Uzbekistan's capital. It's a nice place for single adults, couples and families with kids. Basically, everyone who loves nature and believes in a healthy and sustainable lifestyle. A big advantage of
- [Sukok Forest - Perfect Day Trip from Tashkent](https://valeriyagoffe.com/sukok-forest-perfect-day-trip-from-tashkent/) - Sukok Forest is a great place to visit if you want to go hiking near Tashkent. Everyone will agree: Tashkent is a nice place to live for both locals and expats, but it does not offer many hiking opportunities. If you want to go hiking and enjoy nature and fresh air, you need to get
- [Detailed Guide to Visiting Fergana Valley, Uzbekistan](https://valeriyagoffe.com/detailed-guide-to-visiting-fergana-valley-uzbekistan/) - Uzbekistan is famous for many impressive historical landmarks, so Samarkand and Bukhara are some of the first cities you’d normally visit. But if you want to explore more of this country and get a better grasp of history, there are plenty of other interesting areas which Uzbekistan has to offer. The gorgeous Fergana Valley, which
- [Pyramids of Giza & Cairo Tour - Detailed Guide](https://valeriyagoffe.com/pyramids-of-giza-cairo-tour-detailed-guide/) - Are you interested in visiting the Egyptian pyramids? If so, our recent experience with the Pyramids of Giza and Cairo 1-day tour may be useful. We had so many fun adventures on this day trip that it feels we were there for at least a week. We learned all about the incredible treasure (and "curse")
- [Fifteen Interesting Facts about Uzbekistan (by an Expat)](https://valeriyagoffe.com/fifteen-interesting-facts-about-uzbekistan-by-an-expat/) - Are you considering visiting or relocating to Uzbekistan? If so, it's a good idea to learn some basic facts about this country. In this post, I've compiled a list of 15 most interesting facts about Uzbekistan which I learned while living here. I relocated to Tashkent, Uzbekistan from the US back in 2023 due to
- [From Travel to Fiction: How I Wrote a Novel Inspired by my Trips](https://valeriyagoffe.com/from-travel-to-fiction-how-i-wrote-a-novel-inspired-by-my-trips/) - What prompted me to start writing fiction? I've always been an avid traveler, but the idea of writing fiction novels inspired by my travel only came to my mind a few years ago. So, what prompted me to start writing fiction? Well, two things. First, reading the Crazy Rich Asians series by Kevin Kwan. This
- [Amirsoy Ski Resort in Uzbekistan- Detailed Visitor's Guide](https://valeriyagoffe.com/amirsoy-ski-resort-in-tashkent-detailed-visitors-guide/) - About Amirsoy ski resort If you happen to be in Tashkent in winter and like alpine skiing or snowboarding, you are in luck. An international ski resort called Amirsoy is located just 65 km away from Tashkent (1.5 hour drive), making it a perfect day trip. If you want to stay there overnight, it’s also
- [Ten Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting Dubai](https://valeriyagoffe.com/ten-mistakes-to-avoid-when-visiting-dubai/) - Everyone who has been to Dubai will agree: this place is incredible. It’s a city like no other. A tourist paradise with millions of things to do. However, Dubai has its own set of rules which need to be closely followed. In case you haven’t been to Dubai yet, it’s good to get familiar with
- [Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi](https://valeriyagoffe.com/sheikh-zayed-grand-mosque-in-abu-dhabi/) - I immediately spotted this masterpiece when I was in a taxi, going to my hotel from the airport in Abu Dhabi. The snow white domes and minarets of uncommon beauty at the distance, seemingly floating in the light blue sky. This architectural wonder was impossible not to notice. Even when one was jetlagged and sleepy,
- [Five Things to Do and See in Abu Dhabi](https://valeriyagoffe.com/five-things-to-do-and-see-in-abu-dhabi/) - When I think about Abu Dhabi, several things immediately come to mind. Stunning mosques. Gorgeous palaces. Tremendous hospitality. An ability to relax and not to worry about anything because somebody else has already carefully planned everything for you. Abu Dhabi is an incredible place. You will fall in love with it at the first sight.
- [Top Ten Things to Do with Kids in Dubai](https://valeriyagoffe.com/top-ten-things-to-do-with-kids-in-dubai/) - The rules of the game Dubai is a paradise for families with kids. If you want to have fun and are willing to pay for it, you’re definitely in the right place. Don't go any further:) Dubai offers a ton of incredible things for kids. You'll find excellent activities for both the smallest members of
- [Best Hotels and Resorts in Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt](https://valeriyagoffe.com/best-hotels-and-resorts-in-sharm-el-sheikh-egypt/) - Sharm el Sheikh boasts many excellent hotels and resorts to choose from. Here, you will find large resorts of major hotel chains (e.g., Four Seasons), small boutique hotels, and anything in between. There are many family friendly hotels which offer a lot of activities for the little ones. Of course, you can expect many little
- [Jaz Belvedere Resort, Sharm el Sheikh - Hotel Review](https://valeriyagoffe.com/jaz-belvedere-resort-sharm-el-sheikh-hotel-review/) - Our family stayed at the Jaz Belvedere Resort, Sharm el Sheikh in the fall of 2024. This five star resort is part of the Jaz hotel chain which owns many hotels in Egypt and some other countries, including Zanzibar. We found Jaz Belvedere Resort excellent for families with kids. Not surprisingly, the vast majority of
- [Diving and Snorkeling with Kids in Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt](https://valeriyagoffe.com/diving-and-snorkeling-with-kids-in-sharm-el-sheikh-egypt/) - Choosing the right tour Sharm el Sheikh is a world famous snorkeling and diving destination. Consequently, if you come here, you want to make sure you and your kids try either diving or snorkeling or both. The easiest way to do this is at your hotel. Many hotels have diving clubs and beaches where you’ll
- [Bukhara, Uzbekistan: The Ultimate Visitor's Guide](https://valeriyagoffe.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-visiting-bukhara-uzbekistan/) - About Bukhara Bukhara is an ancient city which strikes the visitors by its beautiful architecture and relaxed atmosphere. As soon as you make your way to the Old Town, the fairy-tale will begin. You won’t know where you found yourself - in Uzbekistan or may be somewhere in the Middle East. When I first visited
- [Top Ten Reasons to Visit Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt](https://valeriyagoffe.com/top-ten-reasons-to-visit-sharm-el-sheikh-egypt/) - Sharm el Sheikh is a renowned tourist destination on the Red Sea coast of Egypt. I visited it multiple times and always marveled at the number and diversity of people who come to this city. What makes Sharm el Sheikh so popular? Well, there are many reasons to visit Sharm el Sheikh. Below are the
- [Titanic - the Artifact Exhibition in Orlando, Florida](https://valeriyagoffe.com/titanic-the-artifact-exhibition-in-orlando-florida/) - About the exhibition The Titanic artifact exhibition in Orlando is a great place to visit if you want to take a little break from amusement parks, the noise and the hot sun. The exhibition is located fully indoors and it’s not usually crowded. It’s a perfect place to relax and learn something new - even
- [Chateau de Fontainebleau: Ultimate Visitor's Guide](https://valeriyagoffe.com/guide-to-visiting-the-chateau-de-fontainebleau/) - If you are visiting Paris, one of the best day trips you can take is to see the Royal Chateau de Fontainebleau. Brief history of the Chateau de Fontainebleau Historians do not know the exact date when the Chateau de Fontainebleau was established. The earliest reference to it dates to 1137 under the King Louis
- [7 Day Ultimate Orlando Itinerary for Families](https://valeriyagoffe.com/7-day-ultimate-orlando-itinerary-for-families/) - Orlando, FL is a magnet for families with kids. The city houses over 18 different amusement parks which will appeal to every taste. These include Disney World, Universal Studios, Sea World, Legoland, Fun Sport America and many others. Disney's Magic Kingdom theme park is the most visited amusement park in the whole world. In 2022,
- [Tips for Visiting Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History](https://valeriyagoffe.com/smithsonian-national-museum-of-natural-history-and-its-treasures/) - About the Museum Without doubt, Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is one of the best museums in DC. Its vast collection will take you on a tour of the fascinating history of our planet, from its beginning and through many years of transformation. According to Tripadvisor, it's actually the #1 museum in DC. I
- [First Junior Tennis Tournament in the US- Tips for Parents](https://valeriyagoffe.com/first-junior-tennis-tournament-what-to-expect/) - At 7 years of age, my daughter Elizabeth has just completed her first junior tennis tournament in the Washington DC area. She played at the Montgomery Tennisplex. It was an interesting day. Some things went exactly as planned. Others were quite unexpected. I think our experience might be interesting for other families who are planning
- [Landmarks of Paris: The Pantheon](https://valeriyagoffe.com/landmarks-of-paris-the-pantheon/) - The Pantheon is a monumental structure with a large stone dome situated in the Latin Quarter of Paris. This landmark is famous for its grandiose Greco-Roman architecture and stunning frescos inside depicting the French monarchy. Interestingly, the use of this building (and some of its elements) changed back and forth through the centuries. Different French
- [3 Days in Paris: The Perfect Itinerary for Your Visit](https://valeriyagoffe.com/3-days-in-paris-the-perfect-itinerary-for-your-first-visit/) - Paris is a perfect city to spend a couple of days. The challenge is, there are so many things to do. Without careful planning, you might end up rushing in different directions and seeing less than you could otherwise. So, you need a well-planned itinerary. Seeing all the landmarks of Paris during three days would
- [5 Day Washington DC Itinerary - History, Hiking, Art and Culture](https://valeriyagoffe.com/5-day-washington-dc-itinerary-history-hiking-art-and-culture/) - I moved to DC about two decades ago and never regretted it. Washington is a wonderful place to live in. It's also a great city to visit for a few days. It’s not as large as some other capitals and you can cover a lot of ground even during a short trip. You can always
- [Complete Guide to Smithsonian National Zoo in DC](https://valeriyagoffe.com/smithsonians-national-zoo-in-washington-dc/) - About the National Zoo The National Zoological Park (or simply National Zoo) is one of the best places families can visit in Washington DC. This 163-acre zoo is one of the largest in the US. It's situated on the slopes of the Rock Creek Park. The zoo boasts a wide selection of animals, wealth of
- [The Cost of Living in Uzbekistan](https://valeriyagoffe.com/the-cost-of-living-in-uzbekistan/) - The cost of living in Uzbekistan has historically been relatively low, but prices have been going up in the recent years due to the war in the region and other factors. The official inflation rate amounted to 8.77% in 2023. In terms of exchange rate, 1 US$ = 12,600 Uzbek soums (local currency- UZS). Currently,
- [The Hope Diamond and other Famous Gems in Washington DC](https://valeriyagoffe.com/the-hope-diamond-and-other-famous-gems-in-washington-dc/) - You've probably heard of the iconic Hope Diamond. But do you know the incredible history behind it? And are you aware that the diamond is on public display in Washington DC? One might not think of the US capital as the place to view famous gems, but it very much is. The National Gem and
- [Guide to Visiting Bongoyo Island, Tanzania](https://valeriyagoffe.com/bongoyo-island-tanzania/) - Preparing for the trip Visiting Bongoyo Island is one of the best day trips you can take in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Bongoyo is a small uninhabited island with the crystal clear water and gorgeous white sand covered by unusual shells of all shapes and sizes. On the day when you are planning to go
- [Golf in Tashkent](https://valeriyagoffe.com/golf-in-tashkent/) - Tashkent offers great opportunities for playing golf. The weather in Uzbekistan is quite mild, with few rains and many warm days even throughout winter. Not surprisingly, the city boasts both a well-maintained 18-hole golf course and a training facility with a driving range and classes for kids. Since few Uzbeks play golf, the facilities are
- [Ten Must See Artworks in Paris and Amazing Stories Behind Them](https://valeriyagoffe.com/ten-must-see-artworks-in-paris-and-amazing-stories-behind-them/) - Paris has thousands and thousands of incredible artworks in its collections. It's impossible to see them all during your visit to Paris, no matter how much you love art and how hard you try. It's therefore a good idea to prepare a list of paintings and sculptures you'd want to see during your visit ahead
- [NOVA Wild - Interactive Zoo in Reston, VA](https://valeriyagoffe.com/nova-wild-interactive-zoo-in-reston-va/) - About the Zoo NOVA Wild is an interactive zoo located in Reston, VA (about 40 minute drive from DC). It's a good option for a day trip from DC. A while back, this place was called Roer’s Zoofari. We've gone to Roer's Zoofari a few times and enjoyed our experience there. About a year ago,
- [National Museum of the American Indian in Washington DC](https://valeriyagoffe.com/national-museum-of-the-american-indian-in-washington-dc/) - Visitor Information The National Museum of the American Indian is a great place for families to spend their morning or afternoon. This museum is part of the Smithsonian institution, the largest museum complex in the world. The National Museum of the American Indian is located centrally next to many other museums (National Art Gallery, Air
- [Landmarks of Paris: La Madeleine](https://valeriyagoffe.com/landmarks-of-paris-la-madeleine/) - The Church of Saint-Marie-Madeleine (or simply La Madeleine) is a famous Catholic church in central Paris. It’s located on Place de la Madeleine in the 8th arrondissement of Paris. This church has been inspired by the classical Roman architecture, such as the Temple of Olympian Zeus in Athens. La Madeleine has 52 Corinthian columns, each
- [Disneyland Paris: One Day Itinerary](https://valeriyagoffe.com/disneyland-paris-one-day-itinerary/) - Is it worth visiting Disneyland Paris for just 1 day? Many families come to Paris for only one week, or even several days. Naturally, the question arises: should they take a day trip to Disneyland Paris, or better do something else? The good news is that Disneyland Paris is not nearly as large as Disney
- [Shastri Memorial in Tashkent, Uzbekistan](https://valeriyagoffe.com/shastri-memorial-in-tashkent-uzbekistan/) - The memorial to the Indian Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri is one of the famous landmarks in Tashkent. It’s located in a shady park, along the Shastri street in the central part of the city. Why would Tashkent have such a memorial and even a street named after an Indian premier? Well, there is a
- [Top Ten Things to Do in Paris with Kids](https://valeriyagoffe.com/top-ten-things-to-do-in-paris-with-kids/) - Paris is a fantastic city to visit with kids. In this post, I've listed ten activities which are fun, interesting and relatively light, so that kids can really enjoy them without getting super tired. Of course, the beauty of Paris is that many attractions can be visited with kids, one way or the other. But
- [Perfect Family Vacation in Jekyll Island, GA](https://valeriyagoffe.com/perfect-family-vacation-in-jekyll-island-ga/) - Jekyll Island is an amazing place to visit. It has rich history, great hotels, awesome restaurants, nice weather, fresh air, and a lot of things to do for those who like to stay active. We've been going to Jekyll Island annually for more than 10 years. When my daughter Elizabeth was born, she joined us
- [Guide to Visiting Uganda](https://valeriyagoffe.com/uganda-the-pearl-of-africa/) - When I think about Uganda, many things immediately come to mind. First, the gorgeous weather all year round. Uganda lies on the equator. The weather is always warm, but never dreadfully hot as in some other countries of Africa and Asia. It rains a lot, and quite heavily, but then the sun quickly comes out,
- [Hilton Tashkent](https://valeriyagoffe.com/hilton-tashkent-city/) - Tashkent Hotels I visited Tashkent several times in the past, but not recently. This June, I was heading there for the first time after a ten year break. Well, I can tell you, a lot has changed in those ten years. Many new, impressive buildings popped up. Amusement parks have been built. Lots of construction
- [Tashkent Zoo - History, Exhibits, Activities, Pictures of Animals](https://valeriyagoffe.com/tashkent-zoo/) - Visiting Tashkent Zoo is one of the best activities for families in Tashkent. It's perfect for kids. Adults will also find the trip to the zoo interesting and informative. The zoo is large, clean and well-organized. There are a lot of animal exhibits and many places to eat, rest, and play. The zoo works every
- [Winter in Tashkent](https://valeriyagoffe.com/winter-in-tashkent/) - New Year celebration in Uzbekistan This is our family's first winter in Tashkent. We moved to Tashkent from Washington DC in August of 2023. With all the settling in, time went by very quickly. Before we knew it, we found ourselves in December. It was time to start thinking about buying a Christmas tree and
- [An Unforgettable Trip to Zanzibar](https://valeriyagoffe.com/an-unforgettable-trip-to-zanzibar/) - When my work first took me on a trip to Zanzibar some years ago, I felt incredibly lucky. I was finally going to see the incredible island I had heard so much about! I later visited it several more times, and even managed to bring my Mom there on one occasion. It's nice to see
- [Our First Six Months in Tashkent](https://valeriyagoffe.com/our-first-six-months-in-tashkent/) - Moving to a new country is never easy. Saying goodbye to your friends, relatives and favorite places is heartbreaking. Packing all your belongings is a nightmare. And starting your life from scratch in a new country is a huge challenge. However, there are also many advantages. Upon arriving at your destination, you get an opportunity
- [Magic City Tashkent - All You Need to Know Before Your Visit](https://valeriyagoffe.com/magic-city-tashkent-all-you-need-to-know-before-your-visit/) - About Magic City Tashkent Magic City Tashkent ("Tashkent Disneyland") is a modern amusement park in Tashkent which was opened several years ago. Both adults and children will find the visit to this park interesting and enjoyable. You can easily spend half a day or even a full day there and not get bored. The park
- [Zaamin National Park in Uzbekistan - Tips for Your First Visit](https://valeriyagoffe.com/zaamin-national-park-in-uzbekistan-tips-for-your-first-visit/) - Why should you visit Zaamin National Park? Zaamin National Park is usually not on the radar of tourists who visit Uzbekistan. Let's face it: Uzbekistan is most widely known for its ancient history which is concentrated in cities like Khiva, Samarkand and Bukhara. Many tourists also spend a few days in the capital, Tashkent. It
- [Getting Ready for the Drive, Chip and Putt Tournament](https://valeriyagoffe.com/getting-ready-for-the-drive-chip-and-putt-tournament/) - This summer, my daughter Elizabeth participated in the Drive, Chip and Putt golf tournament for the first time. She won the local qualifying in her age category (7-9 years old) by a large margin, 30 points ahead of the second place. As I was applauding Elizabeth's great performance at her first golf tournament, I was
- [Ballet Classes for Kids in Washington DC](https://valeriyagoffe.com/ballet-classes-for-kids-in-washington-dc/) - My daughter Elizabeth started taking her ballet classes when she was 4 years old. We chose the studio based on advice from other families whose children took ballet classes before. The Ovations Studios came highly recommended and with a great variety of dance classes which kids could take. I also quickly discovered that this studio
- [Teaching Kids to Serve in Tennis](https://valeriyagoffe.com/teaching-kids-to-serve-in-tennis/) - A serve is extremely important in tennis. Good servers get many free points on their serve. When your service game is a breeze, you can better attack the opponent during his or her service game. Double faults can kill the momentum in the match. You really want to make sure your serve is a weapon,
- [Five Things Which Shook the Tennis World in 2022](https://valeriyagoffe.com/five-things-which-shook-the-tennis-world-in-2022/) - 2022 was a year like no other in tennis. So many exciting events happened, that it's hard to pick the top five. Tears of joy, tears of sadness, epic battles on court, new champions crowned, old champions departing forever... There was a little bit of everything. Here is my list. Retirement of Serena Williams and
- [Ice Skating Lessons in Washington DC](https://valeriyagoffe.com/skating-lessons-in-washington-dc/) - We have been going to the Washington Harbor Ice Rink for the last two years. It usually opens in mid-November and works through mid-March. A big advantage of this ice rink is that it's located in Georgetown. There are many places to eat and to shop in the area. You can bring your own skates
- [Hryhoriy Skovoroda-a Famous Ukrainian Writer, Minimalist, and Avid Traveler](https://valeriyagoffe.com/hryhoriy-skovoroda-a-famous-ukrainian-writer-minimalist-and-avid-traveler/) - Introduction Ukrainian literature is beautiful and rich. It boasts a long list of famous writers and poets. I was lucky enough to take classes from a great teacher in Ukrainian literature, Larysa, many years ago. She made me fall in love with many Ukrainian writers, including Taras Shevchenko, Vasyl Stus, Ivan Nechuy-Levyzky, Mykola Bazhan, Lesya
- [Ukrainian Dishes: Olivier Salad](https://valeriyagoffe.com/ukrainian-dishes-olivier-salad/) - Ukrainians always prepare the Olivier (or "Olivje") potato salad for various important occasions. It's simply unimaginable to have a birthday party or a New Year's Eve party without this famous dish. Every family has a slightly different recipe of the Olivier salad, which is perfectly normal, given its importance. Preparing the Olivier salad is an
- [Elizabeth's First Tennis Lessons-Simple, Fun and Free!](https://valeriyagoffe.com/first-tennis-lessons-for-elizabeth/) - Tennis in Washington DC Washington DC is no Florida, but nonetheless, I would call it a tennis city. We have a lot of recreational players and many tennis courts here. There are lots of options for tennis lessons and tennis camps in the summer. Both public and private tennis courts are usually quite busy, especially
- [Seven Great Ideas for Kids' Birthday Parties in Washington DC](https://valeriyagoffe.com/seven-great-ideas-for-kids-birthday-parties-in-washington-dc/) - Introduction Every time Elizabeth's birthday approaches, I start getting anxious. Where will we hold her birthday party this year? I bet this sounds very familiar for a lot of parents... Like me, you are desperately searching for kids' birthday parties ideas. Elizabeth was born in mid-November, and in Washington DC this unfortunately means zero control
- [How We Found a Great Tennis Coach for Elizabeth](https://valeriyagoffe.com/how-we-found-a-great-tennis-coach-for-elizabeth/) - The search for a tennis coach in Washington DC When Elizabeth was almost 6, we decided that it was time to get her a professional tennis coach. I kept training her at least once a week myself, but she also needed to have professional instruction to make sure I don't miss anything. Oh well, finding

## Pages

- [About Me](https://valeriyagoffe.com/about-me/) - Welcome! Hello everyone, welcome to my website! I’m Valeriya and I wear many different hats in life. I'm a finance professional, a fiction writer, a blogger and a mom. I love traveling around the world and getting to know people of different cultures and backgrounds. After living in Washington DC for almost two decades, I
- [Home](https://valeriyagoffe.com/home/) - Welcome Hello everyone! I'm Valeriya. I believe that our world is incredibly beautiful, and we need to try to visit every corner of the globe. There's always some amazing story, possibly even a mystery, hiding behind the surface. What’s my dream vacation? Someplace warm, with a long golden beach, palms swaying in the gentle breeze,
- [Contact](https://valeriyagoffe.com/contact/) - Work with Me! Valeriya writes about her home country Ukraine, her trips to different countries, and various activities for kids who like to be active, learn new things, and visit new places. Valeriya's debut fiction novel, Secrets We Keep, is coming out in 2024. This book tells the story of a former Ukrainian junior tennis
- [Blog](https://valeriyagoffe.com/blog/) - My Latest Posts
- [My Destinations](https://valeriyagoffe.com/destinations/) - Destinations Europe and Central Asia Asia Middle East and North Africa Sub-Saharan Africa partnerships Have a project in mind? Give me a call More details
- [My Books](https://valeriyagoffe.com/my-books/) - NEW RELEASE! About the book As war rages in Ukraine, Viktor Yurchenko flees to the United States together with his three young kids and an elderly mother.All he is looking for is a refuge for his family; falling in love is the last thing he expects on the other side of the Atlantic. What’s more,
- [Elementor #1502](https://valeriyagoffe.com/elementor-1502/) - Books About the Book A rising star that fell...Anna Levenko was set to become the next "it girl" in tennis. The first Ukrainian prophesied to win a Grand Slam… And then everything changed. Years later, with a business degree behind her, an unpaid job keeping her busy, and a family that means well, Anna can't
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## Categories

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- [Activities](https://valeriyagoffe.com/category/activities/) - Various activities for kids-sports, birthday parties, music and dance
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