How safe are the food and water?
Although no food can be guaranteed 100% safe, we make every effort to obtain access to food and water that is fit for the consumption of U.S. residents. When dealing with food, it is important to recognize the importance of habitually washing your hands before meals in order to prevent food contamination. If you are offered food that looks questionable, politely refuse to eat it or check with a team leader first. In general, participants should only drink from bottled water provided by the team unless instructed otherwise by team leadership. Please avoid allowing the water to enter your mouth when showering and use bottled water to brush your teeth to minimize the risk of illness.

What should I wear?
Local customs will determine what is appropriate to wear in certain settings. However, as a general rule, surgical scrubs will be provided by Hearts Afire to wear during times of ministry at the clinic. For church services, typical church attire is appropriate. In the evenings, long sleeves are preferable in most countries along with mid to long skirts or dresses for women. Also for women, pants are acceptable in most places unless it is a more formal event. Jeans are permitted for casual outings but should be avoided during church services as a matter of respect. It may be a good idea to bring a sweatshirt or light sweater depending on the weather. You should check your destination’s weather report prior to the trip.

What does the cost of the trip cover?
The total cost of the trip will cover airfare, lodging, and most meals in-country as well as any outings or tourist-type side trips that are pre-planned by Hearts Afire. Trip costs will usually be available six months in advance and will vary depending upon the trip location. Usually the greatest cost is represented by airfare, and we encourage these payments be made as soon as possible in order to find the best rate available. Airline reservations should be made three to four months prior to departure, and final payments toward the total trip cost MUST be made no later than 45 days before leaving the U.S. Any visas or entry fees will usually be covered. The cost of the trip does not cover souvenirs, additional snacks/meals, or any other personal purchases. Once you are committed to going on the missions field with Hearts Afire, we ask that you place a deposit to secure your position on the trip. The deposit will vary depending on the total trip cost and is non-refundable.

How much money should I bring?
Most trip costs cover complete lodging and airfare from the point of disembarking from the U.S. until the point of return. On occasion, some meals will not be covered and extra money will be needed. You will be notified about these details before departure. Additional cash will be needed primarily to purchase souvenirs, snacks, etc. Team members have been known to bring anywhere from $100 to $1,000 of personal spending money depending on how much they plan to purchase while in-country. Note that it may be beneficial to bring a combination of large and small denominations of newer, recently issued U.S. currency. Larger denominations can sometimes warrant a better exchange rate while smaller denominations such as $1’s or $5’s can be useful for craft market transactions. We will provide opportunities to exchange currency for places that will not accept U.S. currency.

Do I need Traveler’s Checks?
Although Traveler’s Checks were at one time advantageous for international travel, often times it is difficult to get them cashed overseas. Most large cities in foreign countries will accept credit cards nowadays. In general, we advise against Traveler’s Checks and encourage the use of cash, ATM’s, or credit cards. If you intend to use a debit/credit card, it is important to notify your bank or credit card company of your overseas travel and ask them about any potential fees.

Should I bring a camera?
We recommend you bring a camera to visually document your experience on the mission field. Digital cameras work well because when you take photos of the locals they can enjoy them with you. However, some people feel more comfortable bringing disposable cameras.

Can I bring my laptop?
As with all personal electronics, you are completely responsible for the care and safety of your computer. Unless it is absolutely necessary, it’s most likely best to leave it at home. If you do choose to bring any valuables such as a laptop, we encourage you keep them with you at all times to prevent any incident of theft.

Will I be able to plug in my phone charger or blow dryer?
Most countries do not use standard U.S. sockets. However, converters are available in most Wal-Mart’s and electronic stores.

What if I get sick?
Most of the time you will be traveling with physicians and often medication is available. A team leader should be notified immediately if someone happens to become ill. Keep in mind, most intestinal ailments can be avoided by proper hand washing and judicious choice of food. If you have any specific medical needs or concerns, be sure to adequately explain your condition on your application in order for us to care for those needs appropriately.

Do I have to pray with people?
No one is required to partake in the evangelistic or crusade-type events. However, we do recommend that if you do not intend to participate that you at least come, listen, and observe the impact that God is making through the Hearts Afire team.

Is there a problem with keeping in touch with the locals?
You will almost always “connect” with at least one person during your missions experience. This is a wonderful thing and as a ministry we look forward to developing worldwide friendships built on love and prayer. We acknowledge, however, that people may try to take advantage of citizens from more affluent countries. If you were to give a local your phone number or email, there is an increased likelihood that someone may try to contact you for financial assistance or help into the U.S. For this reason, we generally ask that when someone requests your contact information that you simply refer them to the local leader, pastor, or physician. You can let them know that Hearts Afire would be glad to receive any prayer requests that they may have through their local leadership.