[phillc73]

I believe even better chances in Lviv, in terms of not feeling so isolated.

The West of Ukraine is more orientated to the European Union, than the East of Ukraine, which looks towards Russia and has a large ethnic Russian population.

My, albeit brief, experience in Lviv was that enough people spoke at least basic English enabling me to communicate. Knowing German also helped in many cases, as did learning at least the basics of Ukrainian for simple daily situations.

Housing is expensive, if you want something other than a badly fading Soviet era apartment on the edge of town. Food and entertainment is reasonably cheap.

[EarthLaunch]

I think you're right, and I'd love to visit Lviv someday! There is also a lot more art there.