Other

Toys:
toys for child You may want to pack some small, easily packable, things for your child to play with (coloring books, etc.), they may also enjoy seeing some pictures of your house and family, this will help pass the time for them

Optional gifts:
A gift for the orphanage director is a very nice gesture in a country where gifts are often exchanged. You may want to bring something nice from your region of the US. It's also nice to bring smaller gifts to other people who assist you along the way.

Documents

Make two copies of all your essential documents, passports, visas, etc. Keep one copy with you separate from your actual documents and leave another copy with a friend or relative at home in case they get lost or stolen. Make sure that your relatives and friends know the toll free numbers of your credit cards, so they can contact the bank and notify them in case your credit cards got lost or stolen.

Note: The U.S. Embassy in Moscow will now require copies of your last three years of tax returns (per child)and a xerox copy of your home study.

Finances

In addition to the balance of your service fee, bring a certain amount of cash with you. You can use travelers& checks at a limited number of banks which will charge you a 4% fee. The same rate applies to credit card cash advances. Visa and MasterCard are the most accepted. Few ATMs are available in Moscow, however their number is growing. Stores will not accept any currency/travelers& checks but rubles. The exchange rate now is about 28 rubles for $1. Of course, it is subject to change. For an updated rate check financial web sites or business section of any major US newspaper or on line.

Transportation and Accommodation

The adoptive families who proceed Russian or Kazakhstan adoption usually fly through Moscow. Aeroflot and Delta are the only airlines that fly to Moscow non-stop. Delta's fares usually a lot more expensive than those of Aeroflot. All major European airlines fly to Moscow via their hubs in Europe. Generally, round trip coach fares range from $500 to $1,500 per person. Naturally tickets in the low seasons are much cheaper. A lot of hotels in Moscow now accept credit cards. Usually families spend on average $30 - $100 per night Please bring cash to pay for the hotels in the regions of Russia and Kazakhstan.

Meeting Your Child

Be prepared that your child will probably be smaller and thinner in person than on the video tape. This is due to the illusion of video, which makes everyone look larger than they really are. Also, be prepared for the worst situation as well as the best when meeting your child. Your child may run into your arms when you meet them, but they also may be very shy, very afraid, and even cry. Don't take this personally if your child doesn't bond to you right away. Remember your child has been through a lot in his/her young life. He/she has lived an institutional life and he/she may have been a victim of neglect, and/or physical or sexual abuse (some of which be known only by the child). Thus, it may take some time for your child to feel comfortable with you. On the other hand, many children are so happy to finally have parents that they trust you and feel comfortable with you right away. Remember, even though your child may not appreciate the huge sacrifices you are making for him/her, you can feel safe knowing that you are doing the best thing for your child by taking them into your family and giving them the love they deserve.