[Mailbox13]

We adopted our DS from Russia in 2003 prior to the reacredidation problems. We were LID in China July 2005. Here are my thoughts. As Stayjay indicated, ultimately you will have to follow your heart. For either country, choosing the right agency is a big part of the process. Do a lot of research, call references, interview the agencies, and weigh your options carefully. Choosing your agency may be the most important part of the process.

1. Cost wise, Russia is typically about 50% more than China. (30k versus 20K)
2. Russia requires two trips while China requires only one. (a big part of the increased costs)
3. We found the Russian paperwork process to be much more difficult and confusing. The Russian paperwork requirements can change in a heartbeat. China's paperwork doesn't change often.
4. I believe Russia still requires both parents to be at the court date. China only requires one parent to travel.
5. I am not sure how wait times compare currently. Our Russian adoption was about 7 or 8 months total. Our China adpoption will probably be 18 months total by the time we are done. (Agency application to child home)
6. If you are of European heritage, you will probably not have to deal with race issues when raising a Russian child. You will have to deal with this as you raise your Chinese child.
7. If you want a boy, you are much more likely to get one from Russia. Boys make up only 5% of the Chinese adoptions.

None of these things make Russia or China "better". Each are filled with beautiful children that could bless your life. You just have to go where you feel lead (and do a little research). We love our DS and we can't wait for his Mei Mei to come home.