(1) peso vs dollar, (2) travel agent/agency, (3) int'l flight
I am planning on a trip to Buenos Aires for 2-2005, and I have a number of questions (indeed, a 'deluge' of questions). I have done my research, and I am currently at the point of nearly putting some money into this trip (yes - I do plan 'way in advance'). Thank you in advance for any help that you can provide:
(1) I have heard that the Argentine Peso will have another tumble within the next year. Apparently, too many people are on credit and the gov't is 'in over their heads' in debt. I have also heard that the rate may go even back to 4 ARG PESOS per 1 US DOLLAR.
Now, as I've mentioned, I'm going to travel to Argentina in February of 2005. Are there others that can confirm this? I was originally considering on purchasing my apartment/within-Argentina plane tickets for 2-2005 right now, but would it be better to wait for prices to change? What is the likelihood of a better PESO-DOLLAR rate by the spring of '05? Or will the rate worsen for us?
(2) I have only heard excellent reviews on Mayra Brill's service (independent - mayrabrill@argentina.com) as a travel agent in putting together one's ticket/apartment reservations. I am planning on getting an apartment in Recoleta for a month and, also, taking a couple trips to Iguazu, El Calafate, Tierra del Fuego, and Colonia (Uruguay). In terms of (a) economics and (b) satisfaction of service, would Mayra be the best way to go? If so, how much commision does she make? Or would you use services such as Bytarg, Alojargentina, and/or Argentinago?
(3) In purchasing a ticket from the states to EZE, from your experience, what has been the best place to purchase from? I have found that Carbone has great deals, and United Airlines recently had a good deal, but does anyone know of a travel agent or other service who can purchase a better deal (ie. < $600 US for JFK-EZE roundtrip)? Again, would Mayra Brill be a good agent for this?
Gracias!