Frequently Asked Questions

We have done our best to accurately answer all your questions. Please understand that international missions is not an exact science. We will update this information if any details change.

What will the schedule consist of?

You will receive a daily schedule during the orientation before we leave for St. Petersburg and again when we arrive. Russian schedules change often so we ask you to be flexible at all times. During our week our team we will spend our time in the following areas:

• doing a summer day camp for foster children. Many of these children are orphans.
• do sports, crafts, and group leaders for about 100 - 150 children during day camp.
• program set up and take down
• enjoying camp activities
• exploring the beautiful area around the camp
• family devotions

Do we need passports and visas?

You must have a passport to travel outside the USA. Apply for one as soon as possible here. Visas and letters of invitation (LOI) are required to travel to Russia. We will take care of this for you but you must have an active passport before this can be done. Your passport must be renewed if it is within six months of expiration. Contact us as soon as you have an active passport and we will give you instructions on what comes next.

How will we get around?

Transportation will be a combination of subway, local bus (not glamorous) and hired vans when needed. This means that there will be daily walking involved.

What is the weather like in the summer?

Days are mild and can be in the mid 80's and the evenings and mornings are cool and can be in the 50's.  It will also be "White Nights" and that means that it will be light 24 hours.

Can we raise support/funds for this mission trip?

Yes, Pine Cove is a 501(c)3 non profit organization.  So, we can receive contributions designated to for your mission trip. It is a great idea to include friends, family and your church in supporting you to go on mission.  All contributions to Pine Cove are tax deductible.

What type of accommodations will we stay in?

Our team will stay in a combination of locations. During our time in St. Petersburg we will stay at the Christian University not a hotel. This is a great way for you to experience living in a small flat during your stay. Our team will be a family and this atmosphere allows us to have evening and morning fellowship around the table. This is a big part of the Russian culture experience.

Our Day Camp outreach will be near a town called Gatchnia, Russia. We will be staying in a hotel or rented flats while in Gotchnia. It is a wonderful city with interesting Russian history. We will travel each day to the day camp site from 10AM - 6PM.

What is the dress code?

Russian culture is more conservative, so make sure to have conservative dress. Jeans, shorts and t-shirts are fine. Modesty is key. It is cool in the mornings and evenings so make sure you have a jacket or sweatshirt for these times. If we are able to swim a modest swimsuit will be helpful. More info on activities will be given during orientation.

Can we do laundry?

Do not expect laundry facilities on this trip. However, during our time in the hotel you will probably be able to send your clothes out for laundry. Washing machines take about 3x the amount of time to wash in Russia so this is a time consuming extra.

What will my children do?

It is our hope that your children will work along side you as much of the time as they are able. Some of the older children may be assigned to serve the team by leading activities with the younger children. We will be doing activities that our children will be able to participate. The Russian children and families will be blessed to have your children along to play with them.

What is the food like?

Russian food is not too different from North American food, but there will be some local twists that will be new for your tastes. We will either go to the store and buy breakfast options or have this meal included in the hotel. We will also have the opportunity to eat out in local restaurants at times to experience the regional culture. Menus in restaurants will be pre-arranged for our group with American preferences in mind. Days will be long ("White Nights") so expect your meal times to be much different than at home. Russians eat late in the evening.

Will I be able to speak to anyone in English?

Some of the full time staff are fluent in English, but most people and children will not speak English. We will have interpreters with our team, but you will be amazed to see how communication can happen without speaking with words.

What kind of power supply does Russia use?

Like most of Europe Russia uses 220 volt power supply. You will need a converter or adapter depending what you are plugging in. The plug style will require an adapter at least.

What cultural/tourist sites will we see?

We will visit the Hermitage, St. Isaac's Cathedral (Russian Orthodox church) and sights in the city of Gotchnia as time allows. It is important that you understand the Russian culture so visiting some sights is an important part of understanding those you will be ministering to.

What is the currency in Russia?

The Ruble is the common currency in Russia. You can use Rubels, Euros or $s to buy things at most of the locations that sell souvenirs. In some locations you can use a credit card if you wish and they will automatically do the exchange rate for you. You will have assistance to exchange some money when we arrive. All the cost for transportation, meals and fees are covered in your mission.

Will we have email access at camp?

There are internet cafes throughout the city and wireless access is available in many restaurants and cafes. However, do not depend on internet access during our time of doing camp. If you have internet access it will be a bonus but not an expectation.

What about a medical emergency?

There will be a nurse on site for first aid, and San Jose is about 30 minutes away. The best emergency hospital in San Jose is about 45 minutes away. Each person will be covered by a supplementary trip insurance that handles emergency evacuation needs.

What about immunizations?

Check with your Doctor about recommended immunizations before traveling abroad. A helpful website for learning about traveler's health is located here.

What if I want to use my airline miles/points or depart from the trip itinerary?

You are welcome to secure your own airfare and join our itinerary at the airport in Frankfurt. You are also able to depart from us at the airport to do other travels in Europe after the mission trip. The price for your trip will be less the airfare portion which is about $1000.

Can I leave the team at anytime while we are in Russia?

It will not be possible for you to venture away from the group to do any personal sightseeing or interaction during our time in Russia.