Name: Joao Ribeiro.
Hometown: Lisbon, Portugal.
Time in Kyiv: 2 1/2 years.
What he’s doing in Kyiv: Trying to bring a Western touch to Ukrainian tourism working as a management consultant at the Dnipro Hotel
What he was doing when Ukraine declared independence: Working as managing director of three hotels on Madeira.
Future plans: “The future is today.”
Greatest fear: “To lose my personal independence.”
Special talent: Adaptation.
First impression of Ukraine: “How nice.” – The autumn of 1996 in Kyiv.
Funniest Ukrainian experience: “Not paying attention to the fact that many toilets are unisex results in some funny situations.”
Most important characteristic of a significant other: Loyalty.
One thing he can’t live without: Coffee, cigarettes and mineral water with gas.
Best quality: Understanding
Worst quality: Placing career above private life.
Favorite autumn activity: Eating and drinking in open spaces (parks, forests, etc.).
Dream job: Retired with a fat pension.
Best place he’s traveled: Cabinda in Africa.
First job: Junior accountant with the biggest Portuguese newspaper.
Goal in life: “To achieve that dream job.”
Best reason for staying in Ukraine: “The professional challenge – together with an exceptional girlfriend.”
Best reason for leaving Ukraine: A poorly paid job.
What he’s most proud of: “My professional achievements.”
What he’s least proud of: “Failings in my private life.”
Favorite film: “Gone With the Wind.”
Key to success in life: Work.
Pet-peeve: Smelly people.
Overindulgence: Tasty food and quality drinks.
Underindulgence: Stupidity.
One place he would spend $1 million: On traveling.