Any countries left who dont require travel?

South Korea encourages but does not require travel.

Pretty sure Korea require travel now - they changed the rules. OP if you are afraid to fly how could you ever take your future child on a homeland tour to learn about and understand where she/he is from? Kind regards,Dickons

There are still a few agencies that permit escorting from Korea, e,g., [url=http://www.aacadoption.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=42&Itemid=45]Korea Program Requirements[/url]

Korea allows escort, but most agencies don't, especially for people who have never been to Korea. China allows one spouse in a two-parent family to travel, but the China program now is almost entirely special needs. The healthy infant program has wait times in excess of five years. If you are open to special needs, it is possible that your husband could travel, while you stay at home. I don't recommend it, as it is a marriage enriching experience to meet your child together, and many people who have not parented would find it difficult to begin new parenthood when alone in a foreign country. Still, it is an option. Travel is such an important part of the adoption experience that I would urge you to overcome your fears. Most countries and most agencies want families to develop an appreciation for their children's birth countries, as well as memories that they can share with their children as they grow up. Most countries also have legal systems that want direct dealings with the family, when finalizing an adoption. Boat travel is not feasible for most countries from which Americans adopt, and when bringing home a small child who may be sick and grieving, you want to shorten the travel time as much as possible. Jamaica is probably the closest country from which to adopt, but the process is complex and very few Americans manage to complete adoptions there. Mexico is also an option, but be very careful about choosing an agency, as there has been a good deal of corruption. Also, with Mexico, the rules vary by jurisdiction, and change frequently. Sharon

This might be the opportunity for you to take steps to conquer your fear of flying for a good cause. I know that sounds trite, and I'm sorry -- I'm having to deal with my issues with needles in order to adopt, however, so I know where you're coming from.

Miraclegirl, I understand and respect that you have a phobia of flying. When a person has true phobia, arguments like "it is important to see the child's birth place", "the child will be sick on the boat" do not count. You will do anything, ANYTHING, just not to fly! Having this limitation in mind, you could: 1. Adopt domestically from your state or e.g. a neighboring state. 2. Adopt from Korea - seek out an agency who is sensitive to your situation and will understand where you are coming from. 3. You could also look into the Hispaniola Island. I looked up how Haiti or the Domenican Republic can be reached via boat. Seems like Haiti is close to impossible, and only a few cruise ships have access to a private port. Situation is different in the Domenican Republic. Seems like their adoption process is not easy though, to say the least. 4. You can try to find help to overcome the fear. As a resource, the various countries' requirements are found on adoption.state.gov Agencies may have requirements in addition to the country requirements. Don't confuse the two! Agencies sometimes may make their requirements sound as if they are country requirements when they are really not. Do not be discouraged if you do not satisfy an agency's requirements. If you satisfy the country requirements on adoption.state.gov, then just look for a different agency. Last but not least - only you know your situation and what is best for you. All the best :)