[sak9645]

Do be aware that adoption fares are based on discounts from the regular, unrestricted fares that you would be quoted if you called the airlines. In some cases, you may find that non-adoption fares available on-line -- either on airline sites or on sites like Expedia and Travelocity -- are actually LOWER than the adoption fares.

The non-adoption fares, of course, are usually based on restricted tickets, meaning that you would pay a hefty penalty if you had to change the date and time of your flights, or that the flights are non-refundable if you don't travel. If you don't expect to change or cancel your flights, or can find Internet fares with fairly low penalties, they may be a better option than adoption fares.

Adoption fares are sometimes unrestricted, meaning that you could change your ticket or get a refund, without a penalty. Some parents prefer unrestricted tickets, knowing how often "surprises" happen in the adoption world, and are willing to pay a little more for the flexibility. However, before buying a ticket based on an adoption fare, read the fine print carefully, to be sure that changes can be made without penalty.

Sharon