Travel Agents: Specialists or Generalists?
Don't invite this guy to the wedding, but he might be welcome on the honeymoon. Travel agent Nina Wennersten caught him yawning while we were in the Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania.
Question from reader Lbriand:
"I read your recent article on travel specialists and need some advice. I am planning my honeymoon for summer 2009 to either Africa or the Galapagos, with a focus on wildlife while still having some time alone to relax. Is there one specialist you could recommend to give us options for both trips, or is it best to talk to two different agents? We are also on a mid-range budget, so we need someone who is mindful of that."
First of all, Lbriand, you're wise to start planning to far in advance. For a special trip like this, it's never too early.
The specialists recommended by Conde Nast Traveler have earned this honor by specializing in niche markets -- a particular destination, perhaps, or a type of travel. For this reason, you should have an initial conversation with two different agents in order to narrow down your destination, and I've got just the right specialists for you to contact, both of whom I've had personal experience with:
For Africa, talk to Nina Wennersten of Hippo Creek Safaris. We get rave reviews from her clients, to the point that I once followed her to East Africa just to see how she does what she does. Nina knew every waiter, every museum ticket taker, and certainly every camp manager that we ran into. She's also refreshingly honest about the pros and cons of different camps, different seasons, and different countries.
For the Galapagos, call Tom Damon of Southwind Adventures. He planned the trip that turned into my Peru Iconic Itinerary, published in Conde Nast Traveler last January. He was also a hugely valuable source when I was researching the best Galapagos cruise itinerary for this month's Cruise Booklet, since he knows the best boats to take to get to the most remote islands. Tom is very down-to-earth and understands how to fit your dreams into your budget.
When you speak to each agent, be as honest with them as you hope them to be with you. Explain to each that you're trying to decide between these two destinations. Don't expect them to draw up a detailed itinerary before you make up your mind, but do expect them to give you a sense of the flavor of each destination, and a sketch of what they might suggest for you. Finally, let us know how it goes! Reader feedback is one of the most important factors for Wendy and me in deciding who to keep on our top travel agent list each year.
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