[sak9645]

I think that a lot depends on what you want from your adoption experience.

As an example, other Eastern European countries will be an option if you want a Caucasian child. Kazakhstan, technically Asian, is also a possibility because it has both Asian and Caucasian children. With Kaz, a big drawback is the long time in-country, but many parents live with this because the children tend to get very good care.

China is a terrific option if you are looking for low to moderate fees and predictability of the process. However, you have to be open to an Asian child. Also, wait times have gotten long -- right now, about 14 months to referral. And because most of the children have been abandoned, you will not have any background information.

Guatemala is a good option if you want short or no travel and the possibility of a young child. It also tends to use private foster care, which many parents prefer because the children may get more love and attention. However, the process has always been a bit unpredictable, and there COULD be a closure in 2007, in conjunction with Hague implementation in the U.S., because Guatemala ratified the Hague but never implemented it. You will need to be open to a child of the indigenous (Indian) population, which tends to have black hair, tan skin, and Indian features. Guatemala is more expensive than many countries, though less than Russia.

South Korea is a terrific option for a young, married couple under about 43, willing to consider an Asian child and hoping for a young baby. Korea has been placing children with U.S. citizens for over 50 years, and the process is very well organized. Escort is possible. The number of available healthy infants has declined, however, so waits could be a problem. And Korea is VERY picky about things like parental health status.

Ethiopia has become very popular because of low fees, young babies, and short time frames. You can also adopt a sibling group if you wish. You must be open to raising a Black child. You will be able to use one of only about seven agencies accredited by the Ethiopian government.

Vietnam has recently reopened after being closed to Americans for several years. In the past, it was great for young babies and a short time frame, but there were some unsavory facilitators who caused problems for some families. At this point, the reopened program is too new for things like health status, age of referred children, and wait times to be clear. One can only hope that Vietnam has managed to clear out the unsavory facilitators.

Perhaps you should sit down and make a list of the things that are important to you. Then, if you share the list with the group, we may be able to share our thoughts on particular countries with you.

Sharon