Planning a trip to South America?
Planning a trip to South America? I might be able to help.
First, there are plenty of tips here on this site.
Second, feel free to email or shoot me a question on Twitter – @vickybaker
Third, if you’re coming to Buenos Aires I’m happy to meet anyone in person. (I’m still paying back lots of Couchsurfing karma.)
But on top of that, if you want additional help planning your trip, I can also offer bespoke advice.
I get a lot of emails from friends and readers. The same questions often come up. South America is still a daunting place for many first-timers and it’s not nearly as well covered as other parts of the world. I’m making new discoveries here on a daily basis.
Where I can help
The rip-offs: I’ve seen travellers being charged crazy prices in US dollars for Spanish schools, shoddy accommodation and tacky tourist shows. I can show you where to find cheaper (and often better) alternatives.
The gringo trail: Travellers always go to the same places. I keep a step ahead of the guidebooks and can show you places where you won’t hear another foreign accent.
The fear factor: People are scared of South America. You’ve seen City of God, they’ve read Killing Pablo. What’s it like really? I have safety tips without scaremongering.
The sheer size of the place: This is one hell of a continent. Tell me a bit about how you like to travel (fast, slow, budget, luxury, must-sees or off-track) and I’ll help you prioritise.
My credentials
I have been traveling to South America since 2003 and have crossed the continent from deep Patagonia to the Guianan tropics. I am a professional travel writer specialising in South America for the Guardian and I am the editor of Time Out Perfect Argentina & Uruguay. It’s my job to find new, alternative places and keep up with trends, specifically those that involve an insight into local life. I have across-the-market knowledge, from backpackers’ hostels to high-end boutique hotels. I can help you decide where it’s worth splashing a bit of extra cash and where it wouldn’t ‘vale la pena’ (be worth it).
My motivations
I’m not doing this to break into new market. There are enough professional concierge companies out there (many of which I’d happily recommend). I am a journalist first and foremost. Beyond this, it’s simply a case of loving South America and enjoying sharing tips. Also, I’d like to talk one-on-one with the occasional traveller instead of providing general tips for a ‘readership’.
The cost?
I won’t put packages together that charge commission, but I will charge a reasonable fee for my time for tailor-making advice, helping you plan your trip and hopefully saving you a lot of money in the long run. Drop me a line for more details.
Who is the target?
I can work with any budget and can help with itineraries/bookings. This service could particularly appeal to travellers who want to travel independently but need some steers in the right direction. I can offer the most detailed advice on Argentina and Buenos Aires. Give me a shout if you fear a traditional travel agent might be too mainstream but don’t have time to research endless blogs and peer-to-peer sites. Or if you’re tired of their being too many voices out there and would rather seek advice that is personal and independent.
Contact me at goinglocaltravel [AT] gmail.com.
