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.