Friends Across Borders offers two Orientation sessions done via Conference Call with all participants. When it is possible we will have instead two meetings with the Manager and or one of the guides. Usually, calls last 1 and a half hours and meetings last 2-3 hours.

During the Orientation session/meeting we will:

1. Pray together so that we become a community in journey, to share our “calls” to participate in this journey.

2. Go over some common cross-cultural norms, and provide specific understandings of the country reality and the situations we’ll be visiting.

3. Receive some concrete input about the reality where the experience will take place, particulars about the economic, political, religious and cultural realities of the country we’ll be visiting.

4. Go over trip logistics and itinerary.

5. Answer questions.

The following will be provided by FAB to the group:

1. Specific information such as:

• Current information regarding  immunizations.
• International Medical Insurance for groups
• Current information regarding Travel advisories.
• Packing List according to country and trip regulations.
• Weather Information at destination.

2. International travel arrangements suggestions.

3. Guides that speak English and the language of the host country; they will serve as translators.

4. A workbook that contains specifics about:

• Trip Tentative Itinerary.
• Geography, History and current issues of the country we’ll visit.
• History of Maryknoll in the host country
• Biography and current ministries of our Maryknoll Lay Missioners in the country we will visit.
• Some basic language phrases to use while on the trip.
• Some prayers and songs in English and in the language of the host country.

5. Follow Up Resources.

In order to participate in our trips each person needs:

1. Current Passport

2. Visa or tourist card for the host country

3. Required immunizations according to the  CDC

4. Medical Insurance

5. Fill out a Personal Information form that contains the Emergency Contact Information

6. To review and sign our Waiver of Liability and Emergency Medical Care Authorization

7. Notarized letter from parents when traveler is under 18 and traveling with other adult that’s different from his/her parents

8. United States and international  travel arrangements

9. To pack luggage according to country and airline regulations