I've used travel agents, and they work fine if set up properly, but are a pain in the rear to set up properly iirc. I know there are some good short-reach brake levers out there (Cane Creeks work fine), and combined with a decent cantilever brake (like newer Avid Shorty 6 or Shimano's) you should have more than enough stopping power.

I would also wonder what brakes you are currently using, and what shape are they in?