Posted: 2005-03-23 00:32:00
In the case of East Africa I would recommend an european airline, they fly to much more destinations in Africa than from any other continent. Also, rule is: the more flights combining two places, the cheaper the ticket. For the open jaw you would need though to fly to the european hub first but incorporated into the ticket you will find the transatlantic flight almost inclusive, and anyway if not, you will have to fly to/from an american hub from Boston if you use an american airline! Via europe, get a connecting flight to one african destination and return easily from another. Most of the east african countries being of the commonwealth, im sure British Airways will make the best deal for you. Mixing airlines is generally very expensive, but do check the partnerships like "Star-Alliance", "One World", or "Sky Team" where an american airline could fly you into Africa and another airline back from another destination back (or vice-versa).
Direct and non-stop flights are expensive. The $1600 first quote seems a lot for this trip, I could do an around-the-world trip with that money. [Added: sorry I think in Euros sometimes, the price is OK, checking, saw one for $1400 from Boston to Nairobi, not open-jaw though, do check seasons for better prices, leaving a bit later in the season or during the week can also save some]
www.airtimetable.com offers info on the airline partnerships, destinations, maps and much more... to help you plan a the basics of your journey. First, also check which airlines fly directly out of Boston to Africa (if any?) or via Europe and start from there.
Open Jaw necessary? What about an overland-round-trip there? Also, some local tour operators offer round trips within East Africa covering more countries, most are based in Nairobi and their guests fly IN and OUT from there. Your local travel-agent will have details of such offers. Which countries/cities/places would you like to visit? [ This Message was edited by: rangutan on 2005-03-24 19:26 ] ---
Rudolf "Rangutan" Graspointner
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