This can be a stressful experience if you or your partner is not ready for this step. I have seen too many men traveling overseas just so they can meet someone and desperate to get on with a "married life", which brought them and their partner much stress and disappointment. Both of you have to be ready for such level of connection; below are a few things to consider before jumping the plane.

How long do you know each other?

Of course, the thrill of meeting someone incredible may push you to plan your meeting as soon as possible, but that is not always a good idea. Initial buzz from communication can make everything look great, but it takes time to establish real trust and connection to make your meeting meaningful. It is individual for every couple, but on average this period is usually counted in months, not weeks. A good idea is to communicate from three to six months before meeting in person. This will give enough time for the initial "pink cloud" of excitement to wear off, leave both of you with enough time to get to know each other, be comfortable in your communication, as well as decide how serious your intentions are.

How serious is your relationship?

Most people coming to dating sites are interested in finding a husband or wife, so if you have considered your pen-pal as someone to share your life with - you should definitely start planning your visit. When meeting in person you will be able to form a different level of perception (not just letters through translators and her voice, but her mannerisms, surroundings, smell, etc) and it could be the final straw in deciding whether she is the one. For your Russian bride such a step will be a clear sign of you being serious in your intentions and interested in long-term commitment. Most Russian women, as women everywhere, prefer to see actions rather than just listen to men's promises; showing her that you are willing to take a big step to pursue your relationship will give her the additional confidence in your relationship and state your serious intentions.

Have you discussed it?

Paying attention to the dynamics of your communication with your Russian lady can be a big help in making the final decision to come and visit her. This can be done by simply noticing how your conversations touch on this subject: do both of you speak of meeting? Is only one person showing interest? Answering "yes" to the first question obviously is a clear sign that both of you are anticipating and ready for meeting in person. However, if you are the only one bringing up this subject, it is best to give your sweetheart time in order for her to be the one who mentions your meeting - to be certain that she is ready emotionally and that your decision is mutual.

Even if you are confident that your sweetheart is ready to see you, it is best to discuss your travel plans with her in advance. When you come to visit her, you will want to be able to spend as much time with her as possible; if you come unexpectedly, she might have some prior commitments, or be unable to take time off work. Being great hostesses and a hospitable nation, your Russian sweetheart will also want to be prepared for receiving such a special guest at her house - in woman's terms this means having a house cleaned, planning a good menu for the time she has you at her home, scheduling fun time, etc; if you plan to meet her relatives, notifying your Russian lady of your travel in advance is a good thing to make sure they are available and also prepared to welcome you in their house, etc.

Where should we meet?

It is extremely difficult for Russian women to travel to US or Europe, so there are only two other options for you to meet - at her home country, or on the neutral territory. Both options have many advantages, and it really is up to you as a couple to decide which you would prefer. Meeting at her home country is the best alternative if you know for certain that the lady you plan to meet is your future partner. If you are having any doubts about the future of your relationship, you might consider meeting on a neutral territory for the first time - to get to know each other better in a more informal setting. Meeting on a neutral territory can also be a great idea for a second or third meeting - once you have determined that both of you are committed to a relationship, once you have had the chance to see what your sweetheart is like at home, etc.

What else?

One other thing to consider is also having enough finances for the trip. While living in Russia might not be as expensive as in the US or Europe, you should consider carefully your travel expenses (ticket, renting a place to stay, etc), as well as having enough resources while you are with your sweetheart. Being on a new territory you will most likely be visiting some tourist attractions, engaging in entertainment activities, eating out, etc. - so you need to make sure you have enough cash (or access to money) to avoid being stuck in an awkward situation.

Dating someone who lives half-way across the world is a challenge, and planning your first visit is extremely important as it can make or break your relationship.