The adoption trip is an unforgettable moment , a moment that finally brings a family together at last. When an adoptive parent travels to a distant country to meet a new child for the very first time, the event is incredibly memorable and -stressful . The unfamiliar culture , language and all surroundings may make the experience more stressful than it should be.

We at Cinderella Travel will try to make your acquaintance with Russia and all CIS countries as easy as possible, before you even set foot on a foreign land . By the time you actually do make a long trip to Russia, you will know as much as you need to know about the city of your destination, including all the travel guidance to make you feel most comfortable in your surroundings with a new member of your family!

We will provide all the adoptive parents with the best travel advice and suggestions that go beyond packing lists and sightseeing recommendations.

1. Bring your sense of adventure.
If you can face surprises and keep your composure, as well as keep an open mind, you will have a more enjoyable trip and be a better parent to your chilld. Think of international adoption travel as an adventure, a chance in a lifetime you were lucky and adventurous enough to undertake! Keep your sense of humor and the flexibility to adapt to a new world around you.

And even if things go wrong - you miss your connecting flight, you wind up with an unpleasant gastrointestinal bug, your baby throws up on his last clean outfit when you still have four hours of flying to go-you can console yourself with one thought: this trip will make a great story someday.

Carrie Howard is a writer and editor who lives in the Seattle area. She and her husband have two daughters who were adopted internationally.

2. Try to savor all the moments.
After the stress of being in a strange country and caring for a new child, you may not remember all the details of your journey. The photographs will not capture the sounds, smells, and feelings you've experienced. Take the time to keep a record of your trip. Keep a journal and try to record as much as you can. Keep ticket stubs , receipts and all the small reminders of the time you've spend on your trip . Some adoptive parents bring a hand-held tape recorder to record an audio journal: street sounds, taxi music, your observations of the scenes around you, and of course, the first coos, babbles and words.

3. Bring home the treasures to remember your trip.
When you travel to Russia or other cities within the CIS countries you should bring home something to remember the trip. If you see something you like-well-made jewelry, unusual artwork, crafts that are especially representative of your child's original home, definitely take those treasures with you. You can take an empty duffel bag with you or buy an inexpensive suitcase at your destination and pack new purchases in it.

4. Give your older child affection and appreciation.
If you take your older child with you, pack an ample supply of activities and treats. Books, toys and games, all these treats will keep your child preoccupied especially during the flight. Reassure the big sibling that you still have time for he/him and that you appreciate the help with the new child. Really involve the older child in the choices and process of the new baby. Have her/him pick out the clothes and toys for the baby . Let her pick out some special souvenirs for herself and special gifts for the people back home. It will definitely help your older child to remember the amazing journey and give him/her additional 'control' over the situation.

5. Research your destination ahead of time.
We at Cinderella Travel will help you find the best airlines and best connection for your destination. Determine how long it will take you to drive from your home to the airport and where you need to park when you get there. If you are using alternate means of transportation, ensure that it is available on short notice. We will find the best hotel location , closest to the hospital or the adoption agency. Having all of this information prior to the departure will help reduce your anxiety level when the call comes.

6. Make your stay more economical.
Russia and some of CIS countries require parents to make several trips or stay for long periods of time to complete an adoption process. We will assist all adoptive parents with finding affordable hotel accommodations as well as apartments for rent. You can also use your social contacts from home to make your stay more friendly.

7. Choose your traveling companion wisely.
Traveling alone is not recommended when going on such a distant journey. If you are not traveling with a spouse, you should consider bringing a friend or relative with you. Be sure to choose someone whose attitude health and enthusiasm are suited for this important and demanding trip. Someone you trust and know will be of help and support is a great choice for a travel companion.