About This Article Series This is the first in a series of articles on identity building and international adoption. Over the past 20 years, we have learned a LOT about what is important to adoptees as they take the giant step of visiting their birth country. We hope you enjoy the series from Adoptive Family Travel by The Ties Program … Read More
Vietnam Ties: A View From the Inside Out
Vietnam Ties: A View From the Inside Out by guest author Michaelyn Sloan “Travel changes you. As you move through this life and this world, you change things slightly. You leave marks behind, however small. And in return, life – and travel – leaves marks on you.”― Anthony Bourdain Shortly after returning from Vietnam Ties, this quote caught my eye. … Read More
Zhailau Kazakhstan Heritage Camp
Zhailau Kazakhstan Heritage Camp: July 22-27, 2013 Zhailau is the only word I’ve ever googled, and been unable to find a correct pronunciation. So, I went to the real experts, and emailed some of the amazing teachers from the Zhailau Kazakhstan Heritage Camp, and asked them to provide me a phonetic pronunciation. Dilara Shomayeva, a professional ballerina who performs with … Read More
Birth Country Travel Creates Perspective Change
It is impossible to travel and not be touched by the amazing people and cultures that make up our global experience. Kids soak this in as they travel to their birth country, often times fueling compassion that all parents hope to see develop in their children. Perspective change is indeed at play during a homeland journey. Nicky, 13 years old,and … Read More