To help you make sensible gift giving decisions, we have compiled this list of tips:
• Gifts need not be extravagant, although gifts are not viewed as a bribe.

• Gift giving is important in the Ukraine culture, with generosity and politeness being very significant aspects in gift giving. Gift giving reinforces business relations as personal relations by displaying thoughtfulness and generosity. Remember, the people are helping you have a smoother trip to bring home your children.

• When meeting with a group of professionals who are helping you with your adoption, such as officials at the National Adoption Center, your facilitator/translator(s), and the orphanage director, be sure to give higher quality gifts.

• It is also nice to present the directors of these agencies with an additional small gift of flowers or chocolate. Ask your facilitator how many flowers to give and if there are varieties that have negative symbolism in the Ukraine culture.

• Downplay the importance of the gift. Convey the message that the relationship and the person's help during this lifetime event is more important than the gift

• Thoughtfulness in gift giving goes a long way - it demonstrates your awareness and respect. Choose gifts carefully by taking into consideration the tastes and interests of your Ukrainian colleague.

• Your facilitator will tell you WHEN to give the gift.

Gift Giving in Ukraine what is apreciated and what to avoid:
• Knives, letter openers and scissors are considered offensive, symbolizing the severing of a relationship.

• Alcohol, wine and gourmet foods are well-received gifts. Food, chocolates and liqueurs make wonderful gifts. (Avoid giving 13 or even numbers of flowers as it is believed they symbolize bad luck.)

• Try to enclose a card with a hand written note.

• Ukrainians also appreciate aesthetic gifts, tapes or CDs.

• Entertainment can sometimes take the place of gift giving. Lunch, dinner or a night of theater or ballet is all considered appropriate.

- Carolyn