Why do you need a state-side rep for Africa trips?

Ask anyone who has hunted/toured in Africa if they think it is beneficial to have a representative in the United States to aid in the travel process and they are most likely to say, “Definitely!”  Whether it is your 5^th trip or your first trip, knowing that you have a local (That is someone in the United States) watching your trip is an asset and here are the reasons why:

1. Communications: Yes, the internet, cell service and skype are available all over the world!  But most African outfitters have satellite driven communications!  They also travel to extremely remote areas for weeks at a time.  With a US representative, most of your questions and concerns can be answered by them since they are very familiar with their operations.  Your first few trips to Africa are typically filled with “unknowns”.  Having someone that you can pick up the phone and call is a “Stress Reliever”.   For no extra expense, why wouldn’t you want to have someone that you can visit with all the way up until the day you leave and then share your experience with upon your return?
2. Gun Forms and travel services: A good US booking agent will handle all of the details on your behalf!  They will assist you with all your questions concerning the handling of guns for travel including gun forms and assistance upon arrival with your guns.  They will also walk you through the timeline and how to’s before a trip to Africa.  For instance, what are the passport regulations, who will meet me at the airport, when should I buy my travel insurance, what is the best flight for this trip, will I have communications once I arrive and on and on.  The details are so important on this type of trip.  You want someone that you can call easily!
3. What to wear and how to pack: You will want to know what you need to take on such a trip?  Are you going to be in the swamps in Mozamibque?  You will want to take Skin so soft by Avon ( for Tetse fly's ).  How do you know if you need malaria pills, what type of boots and on and on.   Knowing how to pack for an adventure can make or break your experience.  There are no convenient stores to go and by equipment once you arrive in Africa.
4. Safety of your deposit and recourse: When you use a good US booking agent, they are watching out for you!  They understand the ever changing issues that African citizens face daily.  You will want to protect yourself in a number of ways.  The first is with travel insurance and Global Rescue!  In the world we live in with the crazy economic and weather opportunities, Travel insurance is your best protection.  Second, placing your funds with a reputable company that will use their considerable influence to ensure that your money is protected is critical.  Not to mention that wiring money internationally is a complete hassle!
5. Peace of mind: Don’t spend the months leading up to your dream trip wondering if everything will go smoothly and will your experience meet your expectations!  By using a great US representative, they will give you confidence in the process that you need to have a seamless and stress free experience from the moment you book your trip to the moment you return home to share your amazing memories of Africa.

It is a benefit to have someone from home on your side when you travel anywhere in the world!  Africa is an ever changing opportunity.  It is addicting and amazing!  Peace of mind can make or break your trip.