Atlantis, 2003

Ukrainian-Slovak border 3 years before the introduction of Slovakia to the Schengen area. Aside from the smuggling of cheap cigarettes and alcohol there are increasing numbers of human trafficking. The first reports of the possibility of Slovakia's accession to the Schengen area are causing enormous increase of illegal trafficking of people through the borders, because this entry would tighten border controls, so passing through deep forests will come almost impossible.

First day. 25-year old Zoia and 22-year old Denisija are traveling through west Ukraine. Everything indicates that they are only going somewhere on holiday – all they have are two rucksacks, packed in the back of their old Lada. They sleep in cheap motels, purchasing food in big markets and anonymous gas stations and avoiding populated areas. Outwardly, they act as happy amorous couple, traveling somewhere to the sea. (excerpt)