[sdsjdo]

Hello,
We need advice and input! We are in the early stages of international adoption and have narrowed down our choice of countries to China and Guatemala. Even after discussion with various agencies, we cannot come to a decision.
Here's what we know we want: a child 10 months or under with as little possibilty of birth-mother drug or alcohol related problems as possible. We are under the impression that developmental delays can usually be easily overcome with the correct stimulation, so aren't as concerned about that.
Culturally-- we already know more about and are more surrounded by Latin American culture, but are very open to learning as much as necessary about Chinese culture and traditions. Other than that, we really have no personal preferances, and really want advice from others who have been there.
Anyone out there with experience want to give us an opinion?? We are grateful!

[becky]

I guess I am a bit biased...since my beauty is from Guatemala.

When considering adoption we looked at many options and the reasons we chose Guatemala were as follows:
1. Age of child at homecoming (our daughter was 4 months when she came home)
2. Foster care VS institutional care (we preferred foster care)
3. Ease of travel...the trip from our home was 3.5 hours. We Traveled on Monday, went to the Embassy on Tuesday, and came home on Wednesday.
4. Cultural sensitivity...we have a large Hispanic population in our state...so we felt our daughter would always 'fit in' no matter where she went in our community.

So...in our mind Guatemala was a great fit for us.

Good Luck with your decision!

[Sean&Shan]

If you check back to some of the older threads this question has actually come up quite a bit. For us we new right away in our hearts that China was for us. I guess I take for granted that others must also feel a connection just as quickly and easily to their choice. There are a few differences to consider outside of culture:
Finances (Guat. is usually more expensive)
Travel (3 day avg. for Guat., 2 weeks for China)
Gender (most likely a girl for China, I have heard it is easier to get boys in Guat., more people want girls but this is just what I've heard)
Also, would your child have culturally similar peers and role models from either region in your area? Again, as a school teacher in my community I have a large population of Asian students, far less Latino.
I do know that even though we requested an infant we are not able to specify under 10 months. She will be between 8-14 months when we pick her up. Initially I wanted her to be as young as possible, now I just want her, period. A month or two isn't going to matter in the big picture. But it is all what you want, what is best for you and your family, and where your heart leads you. Good Luck

[annasdad]

From what I have read you are only in your 20's and do not meet the age requirements for a China adoption (You must be 30 when DTC), so Guatemala may be the choice for you!