Hey fatcat,
If you are planning to go the non-AI route, why do you feel that you need a travel agent? Just curious.
After a few trips to the DR I found that I could really do it all myself, mostly online. I book the flights, villa/hotel rentals online, and any extra travel or "excursions" once I get there. I have found it to be a much better experience.
What part of the country are you interested in seeing? What do you like to do? Where are you travelling from? How many in your group, or are you doing it solo? When would you like to travel? etc. etc. etc.
There are lots of folks here who can give you good advice no matter what your interests are, many of whom actually live in the country.
Rose