Greenock couple defend trip to country on do-not-travel list
Nicole Docherty and Jordan Sinnamon travelled to Russian-backed Transnistria in September, a breakaway and unrecognised state between Moldova and Ukraine.
Because it’s not internationally recognised as an independent state, it is sometimes dubbed ‘the country that doesn’t exist’.
The UK government advises against all travel to Transnistria because it is outside the control of Moldova.
According to the UK Government website, the FCDO’s ability to offer support to anyone who gets into trouble here is extremely limited.
Despite the political tensions, Nicole claimed that walking the streets of Transnistria felt safer than in the UK.
Despite the warnings, the couple flew from Istanbul to Chisinau, Moldova, and took a £2.50 bus to the separatist region.
After sharing the trip online, the 34-year-old admits people said they were ‘stupid’ for going and even accused them of supporting Russia due to Putin’s influence in the region.
However, Nicole said entering the area is not as hard as it is often portrayed in the media, with the Scottish travellers only having to show their passports at the border.
The banker said Transnistria was calm, friendly, and unlike any other place in Europe.
Discussing their experience here, Nicole said: “In our experience, the western media makes it sound far more dangerous than it actually is.
“For us, it was calm, friendly, and nothing like the scary headlines.
“While the Soviet vibe is definitely real, it’s not all grey or dominated by huge brutalist buildings.
“Instead, you’ll spot Lenin statues, old buses, and plenty of Soviet emblems, murals, and mosaics everywhere. It honestly feels like stepping back in time, which is pretty surreal.”
The couple said they wanted to visit the country to tick it off their bucket list and urged other travellers to make the same trip, despite the potential risks.
Speaking of the reaction they received after announcing their trip to the unrecognised country, Nicole said: “Some people called us stupid for going against travel advice. Others said we were supporting Russia because Russia helps the region a lot.
“But loads of people were curious and excited, some even added it to their bucket list after seeing our posts.
“It’s not for everyone, but if you love unique places, go while you can because Transnistria might not be around forever.
“If Moldova takes back control or Russia steps away, the region could look very different. Visiting now feels like seeing a piece of history before it disappears.”
She added: “It felt frozen in time with Soviet symbols and quiet streets, but also modern in some ways – clean streets, nice cars, and decent buildings. Overall, a great experience.”
Nicole’s online video has gathered more than 280,000 views, as well as hundreds of comments
One person wrote: “What a terrible place to vacation.”
A second added: “Incredible place. Went in 2012.”
A third said: “Good Lord, I hate this. Then, if God forbid something happens to you, it’s on your country to try and help with public pleas. Just stop.”
Another penned: “That advice is there because the UK has no diplomatic presence or Embassy to assist you if you need help.”
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