After much research based on suggestions here, I'm finalizing my arrangements (for airport pick-ups, car/driver and guides) with Compass for our trip to Rajasthan in December. I requested Joginder Singh as driver but he's not available. Who else would you recommend? How about recommendations for good guides in Udaipur, Jodhpur and Varanasi?
Compass is about 20% higher than other operators but the solid recommendations on this board will insure my peace of mind for a small increase.
Did any of you find that Compass could get better domestic air fares rates and hotel rates than you could on your own? I've done all my own hotel bookings. Only at UdaiVilas am I getting no better than the rack rate and thought about asking Compass if they can do better.
Any other advise (besides being specific to the point of OCD) in dealing with Compass? Thanks all.

Robbie, the only thing I can answer re: Compass is hotel rates. When I used them (way back in 2004 for our 2005 trip) their prices for the Oberoi properties were significantly lower than the rack rates.

OCD = obsessive-compulsive disorder?

robbie---loved meeting you and fred at the GTG.....why don't you come to boston for one of our GTG's---next one oct 13...

B&K

Thanx Craig, I'll ask them re UdaiVilas. Do you know what % the customary pre-payment is? I really enjoyed visiting with you. (Yes,, OCD is obsessive compulsive disorder; we all have to have a bit of it or we couldn't plan all these wonderful trips!)
Hi Bob, so enjoyed meeting you and Karen and Boston in October sounds rather interesting. I imagine the specifics will (or already have been) posted. Fred and I have some United tickets to use or lose in the next few months. This could be a delightful solution!

Sorry, Robbie I do not know what Compass is asking these days for prepayment. I am sure it is higher than the 10% that I paid.

Thanks Craig .... and thanx for your nice note.
Any recent travelers to India know about customary pre-payments??

We just received an e-mail today, asking for 20% prepayment. Other companies we considered wanted more. We've been very pleased with their assistance so far.