[sak9645]

Right now, Ethiopia and Korea allow escort. However, both countries and agencies are beginning to discourage this option. The reason is that it is becoming increasingly clear that parents who travel develop an appreciation of their child's birth country, which is really valuable as they strive to develop their child's pride in his/her heritage.

I must tell you that I traveled to adopt my daughter from China, and it was truly the trip of a lifetime. My memories of my trip are so overwhelmingly pleasant that I cannot help but convey this to her. I would strongly recommend travel, and I must tell you that employers are becoming increasingly sensitive to employees' needs in this area.

Do remember that some countries have relatively short travel times. Some countries also allow one parent to travel and finalize the adoption, if both cannot do so. While many married couples report that their travel was a truly marriage-enriching experience, having one parent travel is generally better than having neither parent travel.

Sharon