Anyone still use travel agents? (Africa travel)

[orangello]

I haven't used one, but try Travel & Leisure online as a resource - they regularly do articles about good travel agents for all budgets, and most of their content is available online. It seems that Africa is a popular place to use their services since it is so large and diverse, and not as "touristy" in most locations.

Sounds like a fantastic trip!

[ijack]

if you're not going to book hotels ahead of time and don't want to go with a group trek, then I don't think they'd be that much use to you.

[mudslide]

People still use travel agents. I am one.

Some agents charge planning fees, others do not.

Eta: a good agent will do all the research for you and will find/build itineraries to meet your needs.

[ijack]

Well they make their money off booking things for you, so I don't see them being terribly helpful. I've always liked internet forums (big surprise!) to ask about neighborhoods and activities and such.
Sounds like a lot of fun!

[kaylie]

I recommend contacting Rhino Safaris for Africa travel www.rhinoafrica.com/. They work with all budgets and have really good connections with hotels/vendors that can save you money, so you don't really end up spending any extra by having them do the work for you. They're VERY good and I haven't met anyone who wasn't thrilled with their work.

ETA- sorry, wrong link before.

[lahoagie]

I would suggest getting a travel book for the country/area that you are looking at travelling to. We usually use Lonely Planet. It will give you suggestions on where to stay, what to do, and where to eat.