I don't know whether it is the same in your case, but if i were new to escorting, i would probably think an agency was the way to go, to 'learn the ropes' as it were, especially if you were really green about the business, and knew no one who was involved in this industry. And it probably wouldn't even cross my mind that people did it independently!
The reason i think, why you will probably get no recommendations for agencies on the forum is because most of the ladies (and gentlemen) here may have at one time worked in an agency and and found independent work to be better. Though, im sure this is not the main or only reason for this!, someone may be along later to add to or rectify my reason!
The pros for an agency is that they do (or should) do the safety checks for you, advertise on your behalf ,answer the phonecall queries and take the bookings.
The cons are that they take a percentage of your money, you may feel that to keep your job you have to see all the drugged up, smelly, dirty clients., ( some are smelly and dirty, but there are some where you just can't handle it!!).
Some agencies are scams.
The pros of independent work is you keep your money, and you can pick and choose your clients.
Doing safety checks, you know that if you do them yourself, you are as confident as you can be in seeing the client.
The cons are paying for acommodation (unless you work from home), advertising, drivers if needed.
You may need to have some pics done and set up a website.
Im sure that there are more pros and cons for both agency and independent work, but can't think of anymore at the mo!
You may get alot more replies to this post where you can see other peoples opinions on this.
Also, as has already been said, do read the main site as it is a wealth of information. Also do a 'search' for anything you can't find on the main site as it may have already been discussed by the informative and experienced members here.
There are sc