I have traveled to Korea every December since 1997. As a Korean adoptee and an adoptive mom of a Korean daughter, I’ve escorted five children from Seoul to the U.S. (including my daughter), and Korea will always be one of my favorite destinations as a traveler.

That said, I think it’s only fair that I begin with a disclaimer: I put comfort before frugality when I go to Korea, and I believe that adoptive parents who are not seasoned international travelers should do the same. This is a once-in-a-lifetime trip and spending a few extra dollars to insure that you have 1) access to good food, 2) a western bed, a western toilet and English-speaking hotel personnel, and 3) familiar surroundings could mean the difference between an enjoyable stay and discomfort.

The one exception is staying in the guesthouses located at the Korean agencies. SWS (Social Welfare Society) is building a beautiful new guesthouse that should be completed at the end of 2000 or early 2001. Holt and Eastern also have comfortable, affordable accommodations.