OCDF China Tours Basics
- Are tours available for 2008? Yes - we have Spring, Summer and Fall Tours available. Tours for 2009 and 2010 are scheduled and accepting registrations, as well.
- Who can I talk to if I have questions? See the OCDF China Tours contact page.
- What's the process? See this easy 12-step info sheet (Word file).
- When is registration? Registration and payment are due 3 months prior to your tour program to assure space and availability, and also to make any additional arrangements such as an add-on visit to an orphanage or extra time in cities not on your itinerary. Your registration form should be sent to the Bloomington Office of OCDF - 109 West Monroe Street, Bloomington, IL 61701. Registration and payment questions: lynn@ocdf.org or call 309-829-8202 or toll free 1-800-460-OCDF.
- If we want to visit an orphanage, is it possible? Yes, most orphanages are open for return visits (but not open at the time of adoption), but you must get pre-approval from the Province and the Orphanage Director before you arrive, which OCDF can do for you. Some Provinces now have processing fees - FYI. You can download this fact sheet about orphanage visits (Word), or for more information, please contact Jenny Peng (jenny@ocdf.org). You will also need to complete this orphanage visit request form (Word).
- What if we want to travel on our own? Can we make arrangements through OCDF? Yes, we arrange customized family travel and customized group tours for families wishing to travel with their friends/relatives. Contact jenny@ocdf.org. See also this booklet (PDF).
- When do we apply for our visa? No earlier than 90 days prior to arrival in China. Be sure to check the validity of your passport! It must be valid for 6 months after your trip. Obtain a new or renewal passport by express services because delays in obtaining passports are very long in the US these days. You can download a visa application form here. Or contact www.mychinadocs.com
- Should we get travel insurance? Yes, you should have trip cancellation and travel medical insurance - check with your regular provider to see what medical coverage you have. Contact Medex for more information on travel insurance.
- Once I've decided to take a tour and have registered, then what? Welcome! Download this file (Word) to find out what you need to do next.
- What about packing? We've prepared a packing list for you to download (Word).
- Are there medical preparations, such as vaccinations, needed? Yes, please be sure to allow adequate time to have shots, obtain medications, and test for blood type. Download the Travel Information Fact Sheet (Word). At-home blood-typing kits are available from Right for your Type.
- I still have more questions! Please be sure you have downloaded all the documents listed under the category, "Essential Information for OCDF Travelers" (top of right-hand sidebar on every OCDF China Tours page). Please see our OCDF China Tours contact page for further questions. Thank you!