Who is going?

It is highly recommended that the adopting parent(s) travel to pick up their child. Most countries require at least one parent (if married) to travel, and some require that both parents travel.

Traveling to your child's birth country can be one of the most important, and most enjoyable experiences of your life and your child's life. It enables you to experience your child's culture firsthand, and you will gain stories to share with your child. You may be able to meet the people who have been caring for your child, and who can share with you important information about your child. You may also be able to see the environment in which your child has been living, which may help you to make your child's adjustment easier. As an example, if you understand the sleeping conditions your child has experienced thus far, you can integrate the conditions and schedule into your own routine, so your child has a sense of familiarity.

Learning the language

Of course you don't need to be fluent or even close to it. Nevertheless, you should learn a few helpful phrases such as:

• Please.
• Thank you.
• Where is the bathroom?
• How do I get to …?
• Can you help me?

If you are adopting a toddler or older child, you should learn several calming phrases such as:

• Good girl/boy.
• Are you hungry?
• Are you thirsty?
• Are you tired?
• Do you need to go to the bathroom?
• Don't be afraid.
• I love you.

Social Etiquette

Although most people rely on their common sense, it is recommended that you speak with your agency about what is socially acceptable. What may seem normal to you might be considered rude or even offensive in some cultures. Your agency should let you know of any glaring differences (e.g. - wearing shorts in some countries).

Here are some things you should keep in mind:

• Try to be patient and as flexible as possible.
• Be considerate.
• Do not become argumentative. If you have a difference of opinion about something related to the adoption, express it in a calm manner. You can always call your agency and vent your frustration with them.
• If you have questions, you should definitely ask them, just in a nice way.
• Remember you are a visitor and a guest in their country.
• If given the opportunity, socialize with your hosts. You'll return with a much better understanding of their culture and you will appreciate the memories.
• Bring small gifts, if possible.
• Try not to overindulge in alcohol.
• Do not attempt to bribe or buy your way into faster service.
• Bring a translation book with you and try to speak a little bit of their language. Most likely, they will appreciate your effort.
• Most importantly, please remember that the impression you leave will affect other families who are adopting after you.

Health Precautions

Please make sure that all of your immunizations are up to date. Also, check with your agency or the Center for Disease Control (http://www.cdc.gov/) to see if any other immunizations are required or recommended.

Regarding the food, just use your best judgment. Food should be well cooked and boiled water is always best (bottled water with an unbroken seal is O.K. too). No matter how careful you are, you should bring some medicine to help deal with any potential problems.

Packing

Try to pack lightly! Not only do you have to carry everything, but airlines also enforce weight restrictions. Remember, if you are flying on different airlines (domestic US, international, and within another country) they may all have different restrictions. Also, ask your agency what you can purchase while you are in the foreign country.

The easiest way to remember everything is to break it down into categories:

Documents:

• Passport
• Visa
• I-600
• I-864 - You'll need an employer's letter and the past 3 years of your tax returns attached.
• POA - If traveling without your spouse.
• Dossier documents - Check with your agency to see if any additional documents are needed; a duplicate /copy of your dossier may also be helpful.

When you are packing, remember to put anything you cannot afford to lose in your carry on bag. Things like your documents, medicine and a change of clothes should always be with you.