Research issues related to international travel

This section assumes a decision has already been made about the purpose of the trip, the destination, the rough time-frame, the size of the team, etc. This Planning Phase section describes things to consider when planning the details of the trip.

• Research health and safety issues
  • Overseas Travel Insurance
    • Foursquare Missions International provides oversees travel insurance for the duration of the trip.
      • This insurance can be provided automatically for any team associated with FMI.
      • A Master Team List must be sent to FMI along with payment so that they receive it 15 days prior to departure.
    • A travel site called Squaremouth.com provides international medical/travel insurance information and quick quotes
    • You may want to check out the "International Provider" plan from Insurance Services of America. This plan covers medical expenses and medical evacuation with a rate as low as $1.51 per day for anyone regardless of age. Also, expenses incurred as a result of an act of terrorism are covered at no additional charge. For details, a free quote and to apply for coverage go to MissionaryHealth.com
    • Provide the information to team members, so they can make informed decisions if they want additional insurance
  • Review the Center for Disease Control Traveler's Health site for the latest recommendations. Note that every recommendation may not be necessary. Always have team members consult with a physician
    • Vaccines: Inform your participants as to which vaccines are required and which are recommended.
    • Insect Protection: Consider bug repellants, DEET, Sleeping Nets, long pants, long sleeve shirts etc.
    • Skin Protection: Sun Screens, Hats.
    • Water: A large percentage of the world’s health problems can be attributed to water-borne infections. Discuss water quality with the host/missionary team and determine if special precautions will be necessary. Bottle Water, Filters, Iodine Pills.
  • Before confirming flights, look at AirSafe.com - Critial Information for the Traveling Public
  • A large percentage of the world’s health problems can be attributed to water-borne infections. Discuss water quality with the host/missionary team and determine if special precautions will be necessary

• Research travel issues, early in the process, and before departure
  • The U.S. Department of State provides International Travel Information and other travel abroad information
  • Review the US Department of Homeland Security Travel Spotlight guidelines and rules for international travel
  • Look at the US Embassy for the region you are going to. Does it give any travel cautions? (This is a non-government website with information about US Embassies in Washington DC)
  • Read through the Foreign Entry Requirements for your destination. Determine what type of entry VISAs are needed, and if it's a tourist, religious, etc. Having the wrong type of VISA can impact the team’s ability to minister, as well as the long-term ministry of the host missionary team.