Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely! Our itineraries include designated free time where participants can explore independently, relax, or pursue personal interests. This allows adoptees and their loved ones to customize their experience and make the most of their journey. Costs are adjusted accordingly based on the activities participants choose. Travelers are not required to attend every activity on the itinerary. You are welcome to opt out of an activity or day as long as you inform your group guide. Additionally, some of our trips offer days with options to choose between activities or to enjoy free time instead. Please note that the program fee covers all planned activities, and opting out of certain activities is a personal decision that does not affect the program fee.

Some meals are included in the program fee. Details about which meals are included will be provided in the detailed itinerary that you will receive after requesting information about a specific trip. This itinerary will outline all meal arrangements and provide clarity on what to expect during the trip.

Our partner organization, Gift of Identity offers grants specifically for adoptees traveling on our group travel FLAGSHIP, LITE, or Next Gen trips. You can find more information about this grant and how to apply on the Gift of Identity website. Additionally, please visit our Financial Assistance page for more ideas and resources to support your travel plans.

Cancellation policies varies by trip, and is included in the information packet you will receive when submitting an Information Request form.

Ties is both a group and an adoptee + loved ones travel experience. Planning involves coordinating group activities and services AND customizing for each adoptee and those traveling with them.

Customizing individual adoptee connections involves gathering information from adoptees and their loved ones related to their personalized desires; contacting them to confirm understanding of their desires; gathering further information, if necessary; asking questions; assembling this information in a format our in-country partner prefers; exchanging correspondence with the in-country partner related to individual requests; communicating information with each adoptee and their loved ones which may lead to further requests; communicating with our in-country partner on additional requests; working with our in-country partner on customized individual itineraries that mesh with larger group activities; monitoring these arrangements; and accommodating changes that may need to be made. This work begins shortly after registration is received and continues through departure.

We strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance and highly suggest obtaining cancel-for-any-reason coverage.

Throughout your journey, Ties staff will facilitate informal, optional discussions and activities for adoptees and adult loved ones traveling.

Connect & Chat provides a space for adoptees and internationally adopted siblings to form connections and build community, with adoptees. These gatherings aim to strengthen bonds, foster inclusivity, and ensure everyone has a good time. Some Connect & Chat sessions delve deeper into personal reflections based on participant needs. Our skilled staff are adept at facilitating these organic discussions.

Adult loved ones traveling with adoptees are invited to our signature Talk Time sessions, which are more discussion-based than activity-based. While all activities are optional, Connect & Chat and Talk Times are highly rated by participants, and we encourage your participation.

*Groups of 25 or fewer people may be accompanied by a well-trained staff member with adoption expertise serving as the group leader. For groups with less than 10 participants, an in-country guide will accompany the group. In this scenario, your program will not include Talk Time or Connect & Chat sessions.