A visit of a parent is always a joyful experience for children living in US. However, there are some things if taken care of will make their stay much more pleasant and comfortable.
1. Orientation
The first and foremost thing is to orient them of the US lifestyle, as that would be a big differentiators from Indian way of living. A good idea is to provide them with some basic but useful Information to bring them in sync with the life here. Basic information (which may not seem like a big deal for us) like the rules of crossing the road, the right way of walking on the road, throwing the garbage in proper place or greeting people can make them more comfortable with US lifestyle. Also, it always better not to be too loud in their appearances - be it the way they talk or dress, as it will invite unnecessary attention. Also, make them aware of things to say at their port of entry in US.
2.Get the best flight plan available
A long flight or a bad flight or even bad service in the flight can prove to a damper in their mood. Since the parents would be traveling alone, it always better to do some research and find out the flights, which have a good history of on time and hospitality. The lesser stops the better. In addition, keep in mind that few flights serve good Indian and vegetarian food. Just for saving few dollars, don't overlook your parent's comfort. For more information, do some research on the internet or contact your local travel agents.
3. Prepare them about jet lag
Jet lag is very common thing for anyone traveling long-distance by air, especially when you are crossing multiple time zones, which tends to disturb your natural body clock. Inform them beforehand that they might experience the common symptoms of jet lag like fatigue, insomnia, disorientation, swollen hands and feet, headaches, digestive problems, lightheadedness and more. Advise them to drink a lot of water and try avoiding alcohol or caffeine during the flight (as it may cause dehydration) and have lots of sleep to beat jet lags. They should also try stretching their limps to have good circulation. Give them enough time to adjust with the time zone.
4. Places to visit
Haste is waste, do not make any hectic plans and spoil their trip. Always plan their trip to places within US in advance and that too, to those that match their interest and are very hectic. Though taking them to popular destinations like Niagara falls, Grand Canyon or Disney world might be a choice, always check you budget, time you can spend and their health in mind. Also, taking them to malls might not always a good choice, as they might not be so interested in window-shopping all the time.
5. Keep them occupied
After the first few days of excitement, the parents may start getting bored, especially if there is not much for them to do. Keep them occupied, and get them involved in the local events. If possible, try subscribing to home country TV channels or getting Indian Movies from libraries or your Indian store. Take them to the libraries, so they can pick up magazine or a book of their choice.
6. Keep them healthy
Sitting at home, suddenly without much activity make them feel low. Take them to the near by park or places, where they can go for walks. Or, make them comfortable with your surroundings that they can go for strolls on their own. Help them adapt themselves with the climate.
7. Take them to local fairs
To see a slice of the life in US, take them to local fairs or gatherings. All parents agree that seeing the people and their life enthralls them and they will have something to talk about also when they go back to India.
8. Visit/invite friends and relatives
Take them to your friends or relatives places; if not, invite them over. It is a very good way to entertain them. You can arrange potluck dinners, so that they get to meet more people.
9. Keep track of the local religious places
If your parents are the religious kinds, keep track of the local places of worship and community gatherings and take them there. If they are staying for long, they might join the local community center too, which will keep them occupied.
10. Get a good health insurance plan
Having a good health insurance plan is always necessary in US, as the health costs are really high in this country. Its always better to invest in a good insurance policy purchased from US, as it will help in case of a sudden illness or mishap. Remember, just trying to save some bucks, might take a heavy toll on the wallet later, so always get an appropriate insurance. For more information on visitors insurance, please Visitors Health Insurance
