I have to put this out there just to set it free.
My family lives in Russia (the Southern Urals). Dad voiced that he is not able to get a visa to the US or Europe but he is open to meeting in one of the countries who have a visa-free entry for Russian citizens. The attractive countries are (in terms of culture, safety, and ease of access for him and for us: zero. However, here are some viable options:
- Turkey. Not the best choice for Russian citizens safety-wise (recent news). Time in transit for dad: about 7 hours. For us, coming from the US: about 10 hours. Cost: average. Our interest in visiting: low.
- UAE, Dubai. A good choice for Russian citizens safety-wise. Time in transit for dad: about 10 hours. For us, coming from the US: about 18 hours. Cost: expensive! Our interest in visiting: high!
- Cuba: A great choice for Russian citizens! Time in transit for dad: about 20 hours. For us, coming from the US: about 10 hours. Cost: average. Our interest in visiting: high! Complexity for us as US citizens: also high 😦
- Thailand. A good choice for Russian citizens, visa free entry. Time in transit for dad to Bangkok- 10 hours. For us, coming from the US: about 22 hours (!!). Cost: average. Our interest in visiting: very high! Complexity for us as US citizens: easy!
- Do nothing and meet next year. This option just makes me sad.
Whew, here you have it. I’m really struggling with wanting to see dad, and bring the kids so they can see him, too. I am not willing to travel to Russia with the kids right now for two reasons: 1. the war; 2. visa to Russia process.
Mom of Children 