Preparation. Many times, that is the difference between a very enlightening and successful trip and a not so successful one. It is even more important in the case of a trip involving genealogical pursuits.

Going to Lithuania, Latvia, or Belarus is not difficult in today's world. It is a simple matter of purchasing an airline ticket and getting on the plane. It is usually more enjoyable if a friend or family member goes with you. If a group tour is available, that may be another option. In that case, everything is usually planned in advance and requires less responsibility on your part. However, advance preparation by you is still very important.

TRAVEL AGENTS - Using a local travel agent is fine for making airline arrangements. If you can find an agent, experienced in making trips by air to the Baltic region, it can even be more advantageous. For land arrangements, I strongly suggest using a travel agent located in the country you plan to go to.

For Lithuania, I highly recommend Nijole Pakalniene, owner of Lithuanian Holidays, Ltd, Juozapaviciaus St. 6/2, Vilnius 2005, Lithuania. Tel: +370-5-2636064, Fax: +370-5-2726864. Email: travel@lithuanianholidays.lt Nijole can also handle travel in Belarus and Latvia. I have used Nijole for a number of years and she takes care of every little detail.

For a very comprehensive city guide to Vilnius, as well as many other cities in Eastern and Central Europe, go to: www.inyourpocket.com

For Latvia, the most prominent travel agent is Latvia Tours, 8 Kalku iela, Riga LV-1050, Latvia. Tel: +371-7085001, Fax: +371-7820020

For a very comprehensive guide to Riga, go on the internet to: http://www.guide.riga.lv/

RESTAURANTS - In the major cities there is no shortage of very good restaurants. Vilnius even has three McDonald restaurants!! When you are out in the small towns and villages, the food may be adequate but not gourmet.

ARCHIVES - Lithuanian State Historical Archives - Gerosios Vilties 10, 03134 Vilnius, Lithuania. Tel: +370-5-2137484. Fax: +370-5-2137612. At the present time, the archive is 11 months behind in their research. It will probably be that long before you receive a response.

Kaunas Regional Archives - Maironio 28a, LT 44249 Kaunas, Lithuania. Tel: +370-7-323074. Fax: +370-7-323111. Email: archyvas@kaunas.aiva.lt This archive is 5 or 6 months behind in their research requests.