[Carol Palmiter]

My husband John and I adopted a beautiful little 22-month old boy back in Dec. 2002 from Hungary.[EDITED TO REMOVE AGENCY DISCUSSION VIOLATION]

The process was quite smooth, it took about 11 months from beginning to end and required a 36-day stay in Hungary. Our lawyer worked directly w/ a Hungarian facilitator who walked us through everything and our stay in Budapest was very comfortable. (a truly beautiful, safe and democratic nation) The cost was on the high end of international adoptions - about $30,000 + travel. But the children are very well cared for and the health system good. Generally, you can choose the age and sex of the child, but most are a year or over. Many of the children are a mixed descent - and not 100% Hungarian (our son has dark hair, long eyelashes, and looks part Greek or Italian) Absolutely the cutest kids you'll see!

We are so pleased with our son that we are going back for a little sister. Although I know the work entailed, I also know that it all works out in the end! You get a wonderful addition to your family

I would tell ANYONE to adopt. There is nothing like it in the world and being a parent is awesome! Should have done it sooner!!!

Carol

[Melissa M]

Hi Carol,

I think we are working with the same attorney .[EDITED TO REMOVE AGENCY DISCUSSION VIOLATION] I'm so glad to see your post b/c it's difficult to connect with others who have or are in the process of adopting from Hungary.

We just had our USCIS fingerprints done a week ago. We are in NJ and are not sure how long untill we get the 171 (I've heard anywere from 6-12 weeks). We submitted about 4 weeks ago.

I would love to communicate with you going forward. I most need advice on what to bring vs. what to buy when you get there.

When do you think you will travel for your daughter? We are hoping to travel this winter.

You can feel free to email me at mchalem@optonline.net.

Thanks!

Melissa

[BrandyHagz]

Reminder From the Moderator: Please remember that recommendations, comments and URL’s to websites about fee based adoption services must be made via Private Message.

Homestudy Providers, attorneys, dossier preparation service, International Adoption Physicians, Travel Agencies and all other fee-based adoption related services fall under this same rule. If you have a question about its permissibility here on the forums, don't hesitate to send me an email or Private Message!

This is the SECOND violation on this thread which contains TWO posts.

[kim362]

Carol,

It's nice to hear about a nice adoption experience from Hungary. You said that you paid $30,000 plus travel expenses. What exactly is included in "travel" expenses (lodging, food, transportation, etc.)?

Thanks,
Kim