I've taken 2 trips to Madagascar-one in 2005 and the other in 2007. GO!!!! It is a fascinating, wonderful, unique destination. I travelled the "southern route" the first time from Tana to Tulear through the highlands visiting Antirabe, Fianarantsoa, Isalo park, and Ramonafana park. The second trip was primarily to the north- Montagne D'Ambre park, Diego Suarez, Anakarana special reserve and Isle Ste Marie - a gem of an island and we were there at the right time July/Aug to see humpback whale migration. I will take exception to the statement that there are no luxury accomodations on the island- perhaps not to the standard of Seychelles/ Mauritius but very good nonetheless. Princess Bora Lodge on Isle Ste Marie, Anjajavy on the northwest coast amongst others. If you love nature and want to visit a relatively non touristed country, then by all means go. The easiest way to get there is via Paris on AF direct to Tana five times weekly, which is usually expensive. Other less expensive but not as direct options are to fly to Reunion island from France.They often have good deals as it is a very popular destination for the French. There is reasonably good service connecting Reunion island to Madagascar and it is relatively inexpensive. I combined this trip with a side trip to Mauritius for five days. Lovely as well. Beautiful resorts but heavily touristed and worlds apart from Madagascar. PM me if you want some more details.