QUICK TIPS FROM ADOPTION SOURCE FAMILIES FROM TYUMEN 1. Were there any stores (grocery/pharmacy, etc) nearby? Close to Quality Hotel there is a nice grocery store, a small pharmacy, and a shopping complex with limited goods. There is a park and kids clothing store within blocks. 2. Did you find any good restaurants? Any bad ones? The hotel has a nice restaurant with a breakfast buffet. 3. Is there anything you wished that you had packed or that you wouldn’t bring again? More warm clothes and sweater and more lounging outfits, long sleeve shirts. 4. Any suggestions or comments on the hotels/host families? (Should you bring anything?) better towels, toilet paper, etc.? Hotel has pretty good accommodations. Airports and public areas were poor. Always carry tissues, toilet seat covers, Purell wipes. Electrical converter is essential. 5. Were there any Internet cafes nearby? Yes, in the hotel. 6. Was there anything you did or saw in the region that you would recommend or discourage? The flea market/mall. 7. Any other general tips that you would like to share? Be prepared for a sometimes tedious journey...but worth every minute! Sleep as much as you can before getting your baby because he/she may have trouble sleeping later. Be patient with the process and have faith 8. Any comments about the orphanage or tips about speaking with the Minister of Education or Judge during court that could help future families? The orphanage in Tyumen was very nice. The caretakers were lovely. Bring them gifts and give to them personally. The Director and Minister were scary but nice. Shower them with gifts and respect. Our coordinators were wonderful to us. We loved them and the drivers were great. Be generous; stay calm, and go with the flow. In court, speak to the judge with respect and from your heart, assure her you will love and care deeply for your child.