ABD cancelations

[tomandrobin]

Is there a thread or website that tracks the ABD trips that have been canceled?

Is there any particular ABD trip that seems to get canceled more often then others?

Are there any ABD trips that never get canceled?

[2GirlsMama]

I have the same questions! I also wondered how far in advance they let you know the trip has been cancelled. We have two collies and I worry that ABD won't let us know far enough in advance to make arrangements.

I contacted the travel agent and couldn't really get a straight answer other than "it looks good since the other available dates are already full". Does the trip have to be full for it to go? Do they have a certain number of people that makes the trip a sure thing?

We are going to China, and they have trips leaving every two weeks. It seems amazing to me that they get that many people to go.

[Carol]

Our May 24th Alpine Magic tour is cancelled. Now the decision of what to do. We were offered any other trip at the early rate, just like others have received. Now to find a trip we want at the same date we had??

[Skylarr29]

We got a call saying our April Costa Rica trip was cancelled. Last year we did two ABD trips, Imperial Cities and Flavors of France, and had no issues what so ever. Just book your air through ABD and you don't have too much to worry about as they will refund you the costs.

[Tozzie]

That is 5 trips and 1 entire itinerary that I know has been cancelled my Golden Path to Yosemite May 31, 1 Austrailia, 1 Ireland , 1 Costa Rica and now the Alpine Magic, in addition the Boston/NYC itenerary was pulled. There was also someone who posted on the DVC boards regarding the status of points because she booked with points and the trip was cancelled but I don't know what trip it was.

I personally think that they offer too many trips and need to trim them down and that would cut down on the number of cancellations.

The cancelled trips are not removed from the website, even trips that were reported as cancelled before they redesigned the website a week ago.

Yes it is great that they will offer you any other trip you want to take that works for you and pay the change fees for the airfare and such but that isn't the point. The problem for me, and I am sure I am not the only one who had issues, was I had a week booked after wards using DVC points and that couldn't be changed that easily. I was also bound by the two weeks I was going as I select my vacation at the begining of the year and can't switch the weeks and I doubt I am the only one with that problem.

They had another trip that was the same as mine and I figured okay see if we can switch the hotel around and I would do that portion first, but that trip wasn't available, not sure if it was cancelled or just full. I ended up doing the Backstage Magic as that was the only one that worked with my other plans but I am not that enthusiactic about it and I will look into other tours I doubt I would do ABD again there is just too much uncertainty.

[Tozzie]

We got a call saying our April Costa Rica trip was cancelled. Last year we did two ABD trips, Imperial Cities and Flavors of France, and had no issues what so ever. Just book your air through ABD and you don't have too much to worry about as they will refund you the costs.


I didn't book my air through ABD and they are still paying the costs to change it due to the cancellation of my trip.

[Skylarr29]

I didn't book my air through ABD and they are still paying the costs to change it due to the cancellation of my trip.

That's good to know. Since ABD can book the airfare you specify I find it easier to go with them. Also, if they have to change the itinerary or dates it is on them.

I think the economy has a lot to do with the cancellation of trips this year. Lots of people are worried and cancelling. It is unfortunate for people who can not change their dates etc.

[Carol]

I booked our flights with ABD but my situation with pricing is a different one. The trip we are thinking of now will be less than the cost of the flight we had with our cancelled trip. I'm waiting to hear back from ABD about a "refund". I'm sure the airline won't give us money back.

[Tozzie]

That's good to know. Since ABD can book the airfare you specify I find it easier to go with them. Also, if they have to change the itinerary or dates it is on them.

I think the economy has a lot to do with the cancellation of trips this year. Lots of people are worried and cancelling. It is unfortunate for people who can not change their dates etc.

I used miles to book my airfare so I had to book it myself.

[sayhello]

I have the same questions! I also wondered how far in advance they let you know the trip has been cancelled. We have two collies and I worry that ABD won't let us know far enough in advance to make arrangements.

I contacted the travel agent and couldn't really get a straight answer other than "it looks good since the other available dates are already full". Does the trip have to be full for it to go? Do they have a certain number of people that makes the trip a sure thing?

We are going to China, and they have trips leaving every two weeks. It seems amazing to me that they get that many people to go.They seem to be giving people 4 - 5 month's notice this year. I know last year, a trip was canceled 2 weeks before the trip. They seem to be much more conservative about it this year.

A trip does not have to be full to go. My Southwest Splendors tour last year went with 14 people (40 is "full"). But it really seems to vary by trip as to what the minimum they'll allow is.

I do think ABD is doing things a bit backwards, offering all the possible trips up front, then canceling if they don't book up. They figure they can just shift people from one date to another without taking into account that most people's lives aren't quite that flexible. Somebody on this board suggested that Disney should offer less trips up front, and then add extra trips if necessary. Fewer disappointments that way. We know of 5 or 6 trips that were canceled, but that's just of DISer's. How many other people out there, who don't post here, have had their trips canceled? Mine's not until Sep, and there is really no other time this year I can go. But if the 4 to 5 month thing is still the norm, I won't know until April or so. A bit nerve-wracking.

Sayhello

[kristilew]

That's good to know. Since ABD can book the airfare you specify I find it easier to go with them. Also, if they have to change the itinerary or dates it is on them.
.

Just FYI: they can't always book the airfare you specify. It depends on what is in their system. I live in a town served by a regional airport and they had a really hard time finding the flights I wanted on last year's ABD. This year, they couldn't help at all. The closest they could come would have added 5 hours travel time and almost $500 per person. I booked on my own, as even a change fee will cost me less than ABD's ticketing.

[kjd469]

Also, people who live outside of the United States have no choice but to book their own airfare...ABD will only book airfare for U.S. residents. However, I was assured that any charges from airlines that are the result of ABD cancelling a trip, etc. would be taken care of by them. They do try to accommodate for a cancellation.

Just a thought...I agree that ABD has offered perhaps too many dates for some of the itineraries. However, if I found out that I and whoever I was going with were the only ones booked for a certain date, I would want them to cancel the trip. I think it would be terribly disappointing to show up for a group trip to find out no one else was coming. Lets face it, a lot of the activities are made so much more fun with the group...it would be impossible for them to offer the same experience with just a few people. So while it is a terrible disappointment and inconvenience I don't really feel they have a choice but to cancel low booking trips. They really have no way of predicting ahead of time how many people will book on a specific day.

[Tozzie]

Also, people who live outside of the United States have no choice but to book their own airfare...ABD will only book airfare for U.S. residents. However, I was assured that any charges from airlines that are the result of ABD cancelling a trip, etc. would be taken care of by them. They do try to accommodate for a cancellation.

Just a thought...I agree that ABD has offered perhaps too many dates for some of the itineraries. However, if I found out that I and whoever I was going with were the only ones booked for a certain date, I would want them to cancel the trip. I think it would be terribly disappointing to show up for a group trip to find out no one else was coming. Lets face it, a lot of the activities are made so much more fun with the group...it would be impossible for them to offer the same experience with just a few people. So while it is a terrible disappointment and inconvenience I don't really feel they have a choice but to cancel low booking trips. They really have no way of predicting ahead of time how many people will book on a specific day.


I am sorry I don't agree with you, I don't need a whole lot of people around to enjoy myself and I think they could do something to prevent the cancelling the trips. There are just too many cancellations. It might be easy for some to rearrange their vacation time but not for me.

[sayhello]

I am sorry I don't agree with you, I don't need a whole lot of people around to enjoy myself and I think they could do something to prevent the cancelling the trips. There are just too many cancellations. It might be easy for some to rearrange their vacation time but not for me.I agree with you. I'd rather go on a teensy vacation (they'd likely only assign one guide) than have to try & re-arrange everything. That's very hard to do at my work. Lots of people make it fun, but I can have a good time in a small setting, also!

Sayhello

[crashbb]

I agree with you. I'd rather go on a teensy vacation (they'd likely only assign one guide) than have to try & re-arrange everything. That's very hard to do at my work. Lots of people make it fun, but I can have a good time in a small setting, also!

Sayhello

It wasn't with ABD, but years ago my father and I took a tour in Africa (Kenya and Tanzania). It turned out that we were the only people on our tour - it was like having a private driver through the various game parks. Now, on that trip, there were no big group events - it was a trip through various game parks with drives through the parks each day, so really don't feel we missed out (actually it was very nice having just the two of us).

[tomandrobin]

I appreciate the replies so far. We are in early planning stages for Italy trip in 2010. We are going end of August thru Labor Day, if offered. We are going to book airfare ourselves, using points. We are also planning on staying an additional 5 days after the ABD trip.

So this information is great for our planning purposes. We originally were going to do an Adult only tour, but there seems to be a disproportionate number of cancellations of those trips.

[kristilew]

Just adding that today they cancelled Southwest Splendors for the June 16 departure, and I think for one just earlier than that. :sad:

I had been hopeful they wouldn't, as we had 15 booked on it in December and SayHello's group went with 14 last year.

[nunzia]

Our Backstage Magic went with 12..it was great!

[sayhello]

Just adding that today they cancelled Southwest Splendors for the June 16 departure, and I think for one just earlier than that. :sad:

I had been hopeful they wouldn't, as we had 15 booked on it in December and SayHello's group went with 14 last year.Maybe somebody cancelled once they saw how things were going financially in 2009?

Sayhello

[knewton64]

Maybe somebody cancelled once they saw how things were going financially in 2009?

Sayhello

......any "Spirit of America" (October 2009) trips being canceled??? If so, please reply since I am NOT getting anywhere with ABD on this issue. They say "its a go" but REFUSE to say how many people have signed up (% of occupancy) so far.

Thanks!

[Turtlemom]

that must be a new policy, because I called in Mid January and was told that my 8/11 Quest for the West trip was at 49% and a "go." Of course, they didn't promise anything, because I guess cancellations are always possible.

It seems like the cancellations are rampant this year though. Last year, we did Southwest Splendors and we had one couple on our trip who had to re-schedule their vacation because their earlier adults only trip was cancelled. They were a delight to travel with and I think they enjoyed our group as much as we enjoyed them.

Now I'm worried though given the economy and the news of constant cancellations. It seems like even the most popular trips (Southwest Splendors and Costa Rica) are not immune from cancellation.

Turtlemom :sad2:

[Ivory]

It seems also that during the school year is when the cancellations occur.

Does anyone know if the July 1 to Aug 31 season has cancellations too?

Just wondering if some are not filling up as people don't want to take kids out of school.

We have a back to back ABD planned for the summer, and I'm hoping that it won't be cancelled, as we do live in Canada, and we had to book our own airfaire, and I doubt if they will refund it, as it was very expensive, and I know the contract reads, they will refund "within reason" what ever that means.

[kristilew]

Ivory, For most of the US, school is out the first week or early part of the second week of June. So these trips that are getting cancelled for mid and late June are during the summer.

Also, schools in the South start back in mid August. I think in the North it's after Labor Day in September, but it differs from region to region.

So it's hard to say if it's school considerations or not. I think more likely a bad economy overall and too rapid expansion by ABD.


turtlemom, I do think it's an new policy to not give out as much info as they used to. As late as December, I was getting at least some info, but as of two weeks ago they started being much more coy.

I think they're trying to put a good face on, and for most people who aren't on the boards, it's proably working. If I didn't know they were cancelling trips left and right, I might have believed them when they said they were only concerned about me not having as much fun with a smaller group and that's why they wanted to reschedule me. :rolleyes:

[WeLoveABD]

We've gone on three ABD--two in the summer (07-Italy and 08-China) and one over this last Christmas (London/Paris), all prime vacation times and all relatively full. We haven't been very interested in the US trips, even though I am sure they are full of Disney magic and great detail, because we are mostly interested in a worry-free foreign trip. Disney does a great job with eliminating the uncertainty that goes with travelling overseas--and while they bring detail to US trips that you wouldn't otherwise do on your own, we have weighed the costs and decided to do the US on our own. Are there many overseas trips being cancelled? (Hard to tell from these blogs--seems like most are off season/US trips getting the ax). I don't blame Disney--they can't control the economy nor do business in the red. But...is there a better way to address the panic creeping into all of this? I can't think of any--they do warn up front about cancellations, and advise to book air through them etc--so there is an element of risk taking if you book on your own. What if people cancel at the last minute--should Disney be forced to incur the fixed costs of a trip, which might drive up the costs of all trips? Or is the problem with the treatment by the folks on the reservation line? Would it help to know that for a trip in July that, as of Feb 3, it is 45 percent full? What if it goes 100 percent by April? What if by May it drops to 30 percent? Who should take on the risk/expense? I guess my bottom line on this: it is all an adventure, and the trips by Disney are worth the expense (assuming your personal budget can tolerate it in this economy). I assume the ABD people read these blogs--maybe we can offer constructive criticism?

[sayhello]

Well, personally, I'd love to know why Tauck and Backroads can guarantee not to cancel a tour, but ABD can't. Surely the expenses are pretty much the same for all 3 companies?

Sayhello

[knewton64]

....feel free to pm me and I will begin to keep a daily log of dates and names of what trips have been canceled. and if you feel compelled, tell me how you feel about it. I feel that this will help all of us who invested a lot of money, time and effort into this just to fear getting "that dreaded phone call" from ABD. Don't misunderstand, I love ABD, I too fear having my Oct. 9th Spirit of America trip canceled by them as well. And yes, rebooking is a big pain in my opinion. :confused3

- thanks for listening.

[Tozzie]

I firmly believe that there is something ABD can do to avoid cancelling so many vacations. NO I don't expect ADB to operate in the red but I do expect a level of service from Disney that I have not seen. I think they offer too many dates for each trip and if they offered fewer dates then they would have to cancel fewer trips. I can work around the dates they offer initially I just can't work round it when they cancel the trip and this is the second one they have cancelled on me I won't be a fool and book with them again. Not worth the aggravation they cause.

[kristilew]

I too love the ABDs. And I do think they are worth the expense, which is why when we weighed the cost, even a US trip that we could do on our own for less seemed worth it, to get the magic.

But with a husband who travels a couple of weeks every month, and a kid who has her own schedule to work around, finding a week or ten days to vacation in a year takes an act of congress in our house.

Once we lock something in, rescheduling six months later is just not possible, as the entire rest of the year has been planned around the vacation. (not to mention the 20 or so employees who then plan their vacation time around DH's) And it is desperately needed family time to allow us all to reconnect and have fun together.

I had a great experience on the adventure I did last year. But the bottom line is that my vacation time is far too precious to entrust to a company who seems so comfortable with overscheduling their inteneraries and then weeding out the unprofitable ones, even if the ones that do go are magical.

[kristilew]

I firmly believe that there is something ABD can do to avoid cancelling so many vacations. NO I don't expect ADB to operate in the red but I do expect a level of service from Disney that I have not seen. I think they offer too many dates for each trip and if they offered fewer dates then they would have to cancel fewer trips. I can work around the dates they offer initially I just can't work round it when they cancel the trip and this is the second one they have cancelled on me I won't be a fool and book with them again. Not worth the aggravation they cause.

::yes:: yes, what Tozzie said ::yes::

[WeLoveABD]

I agree with the sentiments--and understand the fear of cancellation! But what is the solution in a rotten economy? I would suspect that when Disney started planning the trips for this year, it was a while back (the China trip, for example, was several years in the making--and they are still exploring Japan as an option, rumor has it). The launch was successful and the feedback, I would guess, was great--look at how all of us feel about our past trips! So Disney got sideswiped by the dramatic downturn in the economy after committing to a large expansion--and now has to retrench. I'm with all of you regarding the frustration in not getting information out of the reservations folks, so maybe one thing Disney should do is be frank with everyone regarding the ABD trips planned for this year and the plan they have to deal with a sudden downturn in reservations. I've been on tours (not Disney) with one guide and one bus driver--OK as things go, but having two really makes a big difference (a lot more pampering--and switching off the "details" duty while the other tends to the guests is smart). I have heard of trips being scaled back with one Disney guide--anyone do one of those? I just don't think it would be the same. Maybe Disney could post for each trip what the minimum number is--I'm sure it varies with each designation given the fixed costs--and also post or have available general numbers, with ages of kids too. Just some thoughts on how all of this could be improved!

[kristilew]

Just got off the phone with Andrea at ABD, trying to rebook our trip.
She said there are only two senior speicalists authorized to deal with, in her words, "all these trips we've just cancelled."

So ouch! I bet there's been more cancellations than those reported here.

Anyway, she could not rebook me and in fact wouldn't talk about it at all, would only give me the direct line to the other two, both of whom, natch, were on another line.

So I'm guessing that the frustration guests are feeling has come to the attention of ABD and they are trying to do some damage control. I certainly think the girl who informed me of the cancellation yesterday should not have been the one to do it.

We'll see what happens.

[Tozzie]

I agree with the sentiments--and understand the fear of cancellation! But what is the solution in a rotten economy? I would suspect that when Disney started planning the trips for this year, it was a while back (the China trip, for example, was several years in the making--and they are still exploring Japan as an option, rumor has it). The launch was successful and the feedback, I would guess, was great--look at how all of us feel about our past trips! So Disney got sideswiped by the dramatic downturn in the economy after committing to a large expansion--and now has to retrench. I'm with all of you regarding the frustration in not getting information out of the reservations folks, so maybe one thing Disney should do is be frank with everyone regarding the ABD trips planned for this year and the plan they have to deal with a sudden downturn in reservations. I've been on tours (not Disney) with one guide and one bus driver--OK as things go, but having two really makes a big difference (a lot more pampering--and switching off the "details" duty while the other tends to the guests is smart). I have heard of trips being scaled back with one Disney guide--anyone do one of those? I just don't think it would be the same. Maybe Disney could post for each trip what the minimum number is--I'm sure it varies with each designation given the fixed costs--and also post or have available general numbers, with ages of kids too. Just some thoughts on how all of this could be improved!

The economy wasn't rotten last year when they cancelled my trip, and several others. The economy was starting to take a drastic turn prior to the release of the dates for 2009. I am usually a defender of disney but not this time, I booked my trip on August 14th and that is when I scheduled my vacation and up until January 5th I could have changed my vacation time, now after being told not to worry when I made a payment in early January the trip is cancelled three weeks later and I am stuck because I have post trip hotel arrangement booked with DVC points so I had to find a trip in Calfirornia that conicided with the dates as the dates are cemeted in. I am stuck with backstage magic, it is not the trip I wanted and it is a lot of money to pay for a trip that I am not enthusiasic at all about taking but I was stuck. SO while you want to defend disney's right to not operate in the red, I will say it again. Disney needs to find a better way because I should not be feeling the way I am about a vacation to disney but I am, I am not looking forward to it and yes they could do better. Again few trips, even before the downturn in the economy they should have had few trips.

[sayhello]

I had a great experience on the adventure I did last year. But the bottom line is that my vacation time is far too precious to entrust to a company who seems so comfortable with overscheduling their inteneraries and then weeding out the unprofitable ones, even if the ones that do go are magical.I think this is a wonderfully eloquent way to put it, and really mirrors what I feel & think.

Sayhello

[Tozzie]

Just got off the phone with Andrea at ABD, trying to rebook our trip.
She said there are only two senior speicalists authorized to deal with, in her words, "all these trips we've just cancelled."

So ouch! I bet there's been more cancellations than those reported here.

Anyway, she could not rebook me and in fact wouldn't talk about it at all, would only give me the direct line to the other two, both of whom, natch, were on another line.

So I'm guessing that the frustration guests are feeling has come to the attention of ABD and they are trying to do some damage control. I certainly think the girl who informed me of the cancellation yesterday should not have been the one to do it.

We'll see what happens.

I was prolly on the phone with one of them, sorry. The only good thing about this whole mess is that I thought I had to pay $2000 more on the trip and when all is said and done Disney owes me $103 dollars.

[knewton64]

I was prolly on the phone with one of them, sorry. The only good thing about this whole mess is that I thought I had to pay $2000 more on the trip and when all is said and done Disney owes me $103 dollars.

...now you for prompting me. I will be calling ABD AGAIN on WED and seeing just what's up on my trip - Oct 9th "Spririt of America".
Feel very nervous about getting "that call". Wondering if I shud just cancel and move on. Don't know. My phone isn't on at home - I only use it for outbound calls only so I don't know what is the REAL status of my trip. My TA hasn't e-mailed me about the status of it but.........

THIS STINKS!!!! THEY ARE BOOKING FOR NUMEROUS TRIPS YET ARE PLAYING WITH OUR VACATION SCHEDULES, TIME, EFFORT, MONEY, ETC....

RRRRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!! Small vent.

FEEDBACK????????

[Bobo912]

October is still a long way off. I booked a July Costa Rica trip in May last year. ABD sent out a promotion last year in May. If you want to cacenl, that's your business, of course, but just wanted to point out that there are people who don't make their vacation plans this early. Good luck!

[knewton64]

October is still a long way off. I booked a July Costa Rica trip in May last year. ABD sent out a promotion last year in May. If you want to cacenl, that's your business, of course, but just wanted to point out that there are people who don't make their vacation plans this early. Good luck!

......the issue of when the trip occurs has nothing to do with posters complaints. What they are upset about is ABD canceling their trips...be it 2 weeks from departure to 20 weeks from departure based upon occupany issues. This ways heavily on their minds as it does mine. So here I am in fear of getting that "dreaded phone call" whenever just because ABD can't be straight up honest with their customers. ***HINT HINT***** I am getting multiple upon multiple pm's being sent to me (per my request) from people who also share my concerns (since they are in the same position) and I am formulaing a list since out of these requests, there is one particualr individual who is wanting this from me who will in turn send this high up the chain at ABD. Can't say a whole lot more as I want to respect this one individual. Needless to say, this is making me very nervous as it is obvious I am not alone on this issue. So again, I stress, It is not the issue of when the trip occurs, its the issue that ABD has an issue here of controlling the flood gates and they are doing a laughable and quite poor job of maintaining it all in trying to "finess" their way through a Titanical situation. Yes, I am on the verge of throwing in the towel here and moving my money on over to a company that I can trust. ****TAKE NOTE **** that last sentence has NOTHING TO DO with when a trip is canceled.

[Bobo912]

Ooops. Accidentally posted a duplicate. Deleting.

[knewton64]

......the issue of when the trip occurs has nothing to do with posters complaints. What they are upset about is ABD canceling their trips...be it 2 weeks from departure to 20 weeks from departure based upon occupany issues. This ways heavily on their minds as it does mine. So here I am in fear of getting that "dreaded phone call" whenever just because ABD can't be straight up honest with their customers. ***HINT HINT***** I am getting multiple upon multiple pm's being sent to me (per my request) from people who also share my concerns (since they are in the same position) and I am formulaing a list since out of these requests, there is one particualr individual who is wanting this from me who will in turn send this high up the chain at ABD. Can't say a whole lot more as I want to respect this one individual. Needless to say, this is making me very nervous as it is obvious I am not alone on this issue. So again, I stress, It is not the issue of when the trip occurs, its the issue that ABD has an issue here of controlling the flood gates and they are doing a laughable and quite poor job of maintaining it all in trying to "finess" their way through a Titanical situation. Yes, I am on the verge of throwing in the towel here and moving my money on over to a company that I can trust. ****TAKE NOTE **** that last sentence has NOTHING TO DO with when a trip is canceled.


.....asked her how many people were going on this trip. ** SHE REFUSED TO SAY.***** 2) I asked her is it fair to say that at this time is the trip 50% or more booked or is it 50% or less booked. ****AGAIN----SHE REFUSED TO SAY***** Now my question to all of you is......WHY????
Is this how we service the guest??? BY being coy and not coming out with the real answer? Again, I am beginning to sense a "run on the bank" mentality by the huddled masses and you know what?? I DON'T BLAME THEM. WHY?? IT'S A MATTER OF TRUST.

Again - I point back to what I quoted earlier.....this is a matter of trust and this company has no clue how to earn a guest's trust. This company really needs to go back to the drawing board on how they were founded and concentrate on this as a building block to how to run a company. Just my "two cents worth" from this "valued" ABD guest. :rolleyes2

[Pakey]

I got my call yesterday. My Costa Rican trip for the end of September has been cancelled. It was an adults only and the early booking discounts were gone by the tme I booked it so I'm not sure how "empty" this one was. That's 8 months out that they are already cancelling.

We thoroughly enjoyed our AbD trip last year but I too have concerns on whether or not I want to rebook with them. I do not have great flexibility in vacation planning with my work either and I don't want to find myself 4 weeks from vacation time and getting cancelled again.

[Surfindude]

If there is still 'early booking' available, is that a way to tell if the trip still has a lot of openings?

[knewton64]

Just got off the phone with Andrea at ABD, trying to rebook our trip.
She said there are only two senior speicalists authorized to deal with, in her words, "all these trips we've just cancelled."

So ouch! I bet there's been more cancellations than those reported here.

Anyway, she could not rebook me and in fact wouldn't talk about it at all, would only give me the direct line to the other two, both of whom, natch, were on another line.

So I'm guessing that the frustration guests are feeling has come to the attention of ABD and they are trying to do some damage control. I certainly think the girl who informed me of the cancellation yesterday should not have been the one to do it.

We'll see what happens.

.......as I had reported in earlier, I spoke with a "Vergie" female rep this am at ABD. She said that they ARE still taking bookings (after I let her know I have a ressie for that trip & for that date) for the October 9th 2009 ABD "Spirit of America" trip but REFUSED to say how many people have booked it & she also refuse to say if the trip is 50% or more booked or 50% or less than booked.
So....had some fun today and had somone else call in to ABD call center and inquire about a new resevation for the very same trip and the very same date. WELL WELL WELL...Wouldn't ya know it..........
"Vergie" CHANGED her story (all in the span of about 90 minutes!) and said that they ARE NOT taking any more reservations for this particular date ! :confused3 But when pressed, this call center rep "gave such highly regarded customer service" by once again REFUSING to say how many people have signed upf for this trip!!! And to think, we are paying them good money for this kind of customer service?? OH MY *******
So, again I ask......and please for all of you who CHOOSE to still stick with this wonderful company, how much "fun" was it to rearrange everything (time off from work, babysitter, someone to look after your pets, rearrange airline flights, posibly face the real treat of having to pay more because of a difference in airfare as a few of you have said in some earlier postings, etc) just to save your pp deposit pixiedust: IF YOU GOT "THE DREADED PHONE CALL." KEEP IN MIND, SOME POSTERS RECEIVED THE CALL 4 WEEKS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE. How wonderful and magical was that?????????????
I understand that they will offer you an alterative date of departure, that isn't the issue, the issue is having the REAL threat of having to rearrange YOUR schedule at the last possible moment just because some "company" wants to engage in shady business practices in not telling their guests (upfront) answers through HONESTY. Through honesty, WE the guest decide but where it stands now, ABD is using "power and control" here and in a very ghestapo like manner. And I understand all too well about occupancy issues because Good grief!, I also work in the hospitality industry and this is just the nature of the beast. And yes, look at the previous postings on this board and the other 2 under Adventures by Disney via DISboards website and you will notice a lot of unhappy guests / customers who are constantly receive evasive answers from ABD. Am I incorrect in saying this???? Feedback would be appreciated because I honestly feel that this isn't a subsidiary company of Disney worthy enough to carry the Disney name. :crowded:

P.S. keep your pm's coming as I am still compiling a list of all trips that have been canceled. I can't really say whether or not to conduct business with this company. I would rather say to please read all the postings about ABD trip cancelations THEN make up your own mind. It should be a fairly easy decision to make - just the hard part is having to make that decision. Good luck to all.

[PatriciaH]

I am getting multiple upon multiple pm's being sent to me (per my request) from people who also share my concerns (since they are in the same position) and I am formulaing a list since out of these requests, there is one particualr individual who is wanting this from me who will in turn send this high up the chain at ABD. Can't say a whole lot more as I want to respect this one individual. [/B]

I asked knewton64 to send me the list of canceled ABD trips and I am printing out this thread. DH works in Public Relations/Marketing for Disney and I was in Marketing. We really loved the two ABD trips we took last year (paid full price too-no discounts) and I am very upset by this thread and others like it. I used to manage a travel agency and know how this must be effecting travel agents out there as well. Not good. I am hoping to pass on this info to someone who will see how upset people are. At least they will have it on record. :thumbsup2

[knewton64]

1) That is 5 trips and 1 entire itinerary that I know has been cancelled my Golden Path to Yosemite May 31, 1 Austrailia, 1 Ireland , 1 Costa Rica and now the Alpine Magic, in addition the Boston/NYC itenerary was pulled. There was also someone who posted on the DVC boards regarding the status of points because she booked with points and the trip was cancelled but I don't know what trip it was.

6) Just adding that today they cancelled Southwest Splendors for the June 16 departure, and I think for one just earlier than that. ...

7)Just got off the phone with Andrea at ABD, trying to rebook our trip.
She said there are only two senior speicalists authorized to deal with, in her words, "all these trips we've just cancelled."

So ouch! I bet there's been more cancellations than those reported here.

8)The economy wasn't rotten last year when they cancelled my trip, and several others. The economy was starting to take a drastic turn prior to the release of the dates for 2009. I am usually a defender of disney but not this time, I booked my trip on August 14th and that is when I scheduled my vacation and up until January 5th I could have changed my vacation time, now after being told not to worry when I made a payment in early January the trip is cancelled three weeks later and I am stuck because I have post trip hotel arrangement booked with DVC points so I had to find a trip in Calfirornia that conicided with the dates as the dates are cemeted in. I am stuck with backstage magic, it is not the trip I wanted and it is a lot of money to pay for a trip that I am not enthusiasic at all about taking but I was stuck. SO while you want to defend disney's right to not operate in the red, I will say it again. Disney needs to find a better way because I should not be feeling the way I am about a vacation to disney but I am, I am not looking forward to it and yes they could do better. Again few trips, even before the downturn in the economy they should have had few trips.

9)I got my call yesterday. My Costa Rican trip for the end of September has been cancelled. It was an adults only and the early booking discounts were gone by the tme I booked it so I'm not sure how "empty" this one was. That's 8 months out that they are already cancelling.

We thoroughly enjoyed our AbD trip last year but I too have concerns on whether or not I want to rebook

10) Another one bites the dust

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Our Germany trip for June was just cancelled today. Funny - I just talked to them yesterday and they said they were still taking bookings for that trip. Oh well...
They did offer to book us on any other date (even during peak season) for the price that we were already booked at. I guess I'm just a little leary of setting yet another date and having it cancelled. That could go on all summer!

11)Yes you dodged a bullet, they cancelled the adults only Yosemite. I only booked the Signature trip insead of the regular trip because that was the 1 adults only trip they had scheduled. The upgrades don't really mean much.

I haven't tried to make alternate arrangements yet as I am still irked by a comment from one of the cast members I spoke to. I am writting a letter and will make my decision in the next day or two. I feel like I am trapped because I used the DVC points to book the GCH and I will lose them if they are not used before September.
12) HI, I just called ABD. Was told it is indeed cancelled. The only trip available on those dates is the Viva Italia trip at over $3000.00/person. I told them since they cancelled my trip after I paid in full that they should offer me whatever trip is available for the dates I want to go and they should accept the payment I have already made. They are checking with their supervisor but I won't hold my breath!

13) HI, I just got a call from ABD. Since my Costa Rica trip was cancelled they have offered me the Viva Italia trip for the same dates at the same price that I paid for Costa Rica. I had got the early booking rate plus $100.00 off each person because I went on the Backsatge Magic trip last year. They will not honor what I paid for Airfare. I had got such a great deal on airfare to Costa Rica. $594.00/person. Airfare to Italy via Delta/Air France is $2334.00 for two. I have not decided yet. My daughter really wanted to do something adventureous such as the zipline and white water rafting!

14)Well, now they've cancelled Southwest Splendors for June 16 departure.

15) Hi, I got ABD to offer me the Viva Italia trip because I was persistent and angry with ABD since I was told two weeks prior that my trip was just about full. I asked them which trips were a definite go for the week that I had booked Costa Rica .

16) ABD called today and our Discovery Down Under trip has been cancelled.

17) Our May 16th Ireland trip was cancelled today too

18) Our May 16th Ireland trip was cancelled today too
---------------------------------------------------------------------
and yes, I feel that this best says it all and no, I didn't write it:


Two things that disturbed me the most about this ABD cancellation:

"1) other than the original 'bad news cancellation' call, I received no other call, letter or anything from ABD saying we are sorry this happened and we apologize. That really bothered me. I expected some kind of formal follow up letter stating what had happened with an apology.
2) I also wrote them an online feedback suggesting ideas and ways to improve the cancellation process and possibly reduce cancellations. I received no reply to that either.

My wife and I had booked an ABD trip for later in 2009 for Austria. I am seriously debating what to do as we have zero confidence this will actually happen. We are considering cancelling the ABD trip and planning our own vacation knowing full well it WILL occur and we can count on everything happening.

We are going to decide what to do in the next couple of months. With the economy as it is and lots of travel cut backs happening, I am in no way going to plan on that trip happening and build other travel arrangements around an ABD trip when such high cancellations seem to be happening.

There's got to be a better way of scheduling these trips than the current, roll the dice and at 60 days see what happens, roulette wheel. "

Now yes, this is now from me. What I am upset at is ABD's unwillingness to be honest with their guests and yes, I am intitled to have my own opinion. What is quite odd here is that I am not alone in feeling this way as all you have do do is reread the 4 posting sections that pertain to this subject inside the DISboards website. Why can't ABD just say, "yes mr / mrs customer, at this time your reservation is 'X' % full. It should be up to the guest to decide if there is an issue here - NOT ABD. I understnd if ABD is tryng to hold down a possible rush to judgement in deciding whether or not we should cancel. Ok fine. I will give them that. then there should be no penalty to us if we do cancel BASED UPON LOW OCCUPANCY. It's like ABD is trying to have it both ways and well.....just re-read all the previous postings on the Advetures by Disney dection of the Disboards wesite that pertain this very issue and well.... you have a LOT of upset guests. Question: Am I wong here with that assesment?????
In closing, I do feel that we the above 17 some odd people listed DO have a valid issue with ABD and we all need one voice. Who is that one voice for all of us?? I wish you well whomever you are.

[slg]

This thread is causing me to panic. Since our ABD is part of a larger vacation, and since I have already booked non-refundable airfare from Portugal to Ireland, I'm scared to answer my phone or check messages.

This very,very expensive trip for us (being Canadians whose dollar has gone downhill since we booked and being a family of 5)and a trip of a lifetime. My 3 kids saved up their money to contribute, and we were the second people to book any ABD trip when they became available. While I understand its not Disney's fault that the economy has collapsed, and I can see that they are cancelling trips quite far out now, I think a lot of confidence has been lost in the company.

As a family we decided that as long as there is another ABD to Ireland within a two week period, and as long as Disney coughs up the change fees on our tickets, we'll move to another date. However, it will mess up other plans, and I'm worried that they won't get in touch with us in time! We are leaving for Europe one month before our ABD!

The whole situation is nerve-wracking. I wish they just posted what the minimum numbers needed for each trip were, and actually posted how many people had already booked. I suppose that would be a deterrent to some folks, but at least you knew where you stood!

I wish I knew right now if it was yes or no. Does anyone know if there are any dates on any itineraries that are for sures?

[Grifdog22]

I think folks are getting a bit too upset over remote possibilities. I would also be upset if my trip were cancelled - not trying to minimize that. It is always a risk - earthquakes, social unrest, strikes, etc. too.

However, given the literally hundreds of tours offered, this isn't a lot - it sounds instead like they have paired down some trips, but are otherwise working to fill the slots.

Indeed, I was just told that at least one week's tour in Peru is "on sale" and offered rates are $200.00 less than the Early Booking rates. It is clear they are not just pulling the rug out, but instead are trying to consolidate a few trips to make more go and keep the big picture viable.

Additionally, the CS says that trip insurance COVERS you if you have to cancel due to layoff. That is NOT something they mentioned in the past.

Thus, I respectfully disagree with those posts that indicate the Disney brand is sinking fast in customer service. Things happen. A visit to WDW for a week no longer guarantees shows or fireworks every night. My last day at WDW two years ago the Tower of Terror shut down for the day due to technical difficulties. We had been saving this day to enjoy riding this multiple times - and it didn't happen. We weren't given a ticket extension, etc., but we also didn't ask. Things happen! We were disappointed, but returned to EPCOT and found a "show" in China we didn't know about and ended up having the best day of the trip.

If the number of tours offered this year doubled, and we go from 3-4 cancellations of weekly trips to 6-8, they really haven't changed anything percentage wise. If 8 trips are bumped with 20 already signed up in each, and these people reschedule, that may be enough to make "enough" for 32 additional trips to have enough to go. That's 160 people rescheduled so that
12,800 folks go on a trip of a lifetime.

Several folks posting would be very happy with a semi - private tour with few people. I do not think this is the reason most of us sign up with Disney - the people on the trip also make this a success. Folks seeking solitude generally would not be seeking out this type of a trip! I for one prefer to see a good working tour group!

I think folks need to relax, and take a breather. At the rate you are going, you won't be able to enjoy anything!

[Tozzie]

I think folks are getting a bit too upset over remote possibilities. I would also be upset if my trip were cancelled - not trying to minimize that. It is always a risk - earthquakes, social unrest, strikes, etc. too.

However, given the literally hundreds of tours offered, this isn't a lot - it sounds instead like they have paired down some trips, but are otherwise working to fill the slots.

Indeed, I was just told that at least one week's tour in Peru is "on sale" and offered rates are $200.00 less than the Early Booking rates. It is clear they are not just pulling the rug out, but instead are trying to consolidate a few trips to make more go and keep the big picture viable.

Additionally, the CS says that trip insurance COVERS you if you have to cancel due to layoff. That is NOT something they mentioned in the past.

Thus, I respectfully disagree with those posts that indicate the Disney brand is sinking fast in customer service. Things happen. A visit to WDW for a week no longer guarantees shows or fireworks every night. My last day at WDW two years ago the Tower of Terror shut down for the day due to technical difficulties. We had been saving this day to enjoy riding this multiple times - and it didn't happen. We weren't given a ticket extension, etc., but we also didn't ask. Things happen! We were disappointed, but returned to EPCOT and found a "show" in China we didn't know about and ended up having the best day of the trip.

If the number of tours offered this year doubled, and we go from 3-4 cancellations of weekly trips to 6-8, they really haven't changed anything percentage wise. If 8 trips are bumped with 20 already signed up in each, and these people reschedule, that may be enough to make "enough" for 32 additional trips to have enough to go. That's 160 people rescheduled so that
12,800 folks go on a trip of a lifetime.

Several folks posting would be very happy with a semi - private tour with few people. I do not think this is the reason most of us sign up with Disney - the people on the trip also make this a success. Folks seeking solitude generally would not be seeking out this type of a trip! I for one prefer to see a good working tour group!

I think folks need to relax, and take a breather. At the rate you are going, you won't be able to enjoy anything!

I am not looking for solitude but I don't need 40 people to enjoy myself and I looked at what was included in the vaction not how many people were included.

Comparing apples to oranges such as equating a entire vaction being cancelled to not being able to see fireworks is silly.

Sorry you have the ability to re arrange your life at a moments notice I don't and my vacation time is firm and can't be changed. I for one, and I am not the only one, who thinks that Disney's customer service is sub par, and as this is the second time they have cancelled a trip on me I have every right to be angry about their lack of customer service. Please don't tell me to relax and take a breather, I don't need one I need Disney to provide the service that I am paying for and they are not . One thing is, I am not looking forward to a trip that I was basically backed into by Disney.

[knewton64]

I think folks are getting a bit too upset over remote possibilities. I would also be upset if my trip were cancelled - not trying to minimize that. It is always a risk - earthquakes, social unrest, strikes, etc. too.

However, given the literally hundreds of tours offered, this isn't a lot - it sounds instead like they have paired down some trips, but are otherwise working to fill the slots.

Indeed, I was just told that at least one week's tour in Peru is "on sale" and offered rates are $200.00 less than the Early Booking rates. It is clear they are not just pulling the rug out, but instead are trying to consolidate a few trips to make more go and keep the big picture viable.

Additionally, the CS says that trip insurance COVERS you if you have to cancel due to layoff. That is NOT something they mentioned in the past.

Thus, I respectfully disagree with those posts that indicate the Disney brand is sinking fast in customer service. Things happen. A visit to WDW for a week no longer guarantees shows or fireworks every night. My last day at WDW two years ago the Tower of Terror shut down for the day due to technical difficulties. We had been saving this day to enjoy riding this multiple times - and it didn't happen. We weren't given a ticket extension, etc., but we also didn't ask. Things happen! We were disappointed, but returned to EPCOT and found a "show" in China we didn't know about and ended up having the best day of the trip.

If the number of tours offered this year doubled, and we go from 3-4 cancellations of weekly trips to 6-8, they really haven't changed anything percentage wise. If 8 trips are bumped with 20 already signed up in each, and these people reschedule, that may be enough to make "enough" for 32 additional trips to have enough to go. That's 160 people rescheduled so that
12,800 folks go on a trip of a lifetime.

Several folks posting would be very happy with a semi - private tour with few people. I do not think this is the reason most of us sign up with Disney - the people on the trip also make this a success. Folks seeking solitude generally would not be seeking out this type of a trip! I for one prefer to see a good working tour group!

I think folks need to relax, and take a breather. At the rate you are going, you won't be able to enjoy anything!

...for those of you unlucky enough to experience a "run on the bank" like I did at my local bank in the mid 1980's, you won't be able to experience the joys of what the previous 17 people are stating in my last posting. Per se, not denying that "things happen" and to be prepared..Ok I can go with that. It's when it is being done at the last second and the onus is being put on YOU - well...until you experience that "joy," you will not know what we 18 people are talking about. :upsidedow
Moreover, when "that small percentage of effected guests just happens to include you...well..feel free to leave us YOUR screen name so we can add you to the list that is ONLY 3 weeks old.
And to further add, y-e-s , I would love a private screening of the Spririt of America trip....but what you choose to not see is that the ABD reps are CHOOSING to remain evasive when it comes to the answer of how many people have booked x trip, y trip or z trip. therefore I implore back to you the following question:

IS THAT PROVIDING EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE TO THE GUEST?????


Please re-read all the postings on this subject on the 4 sub sites under Adventures by Disney sub section under the DIS boads website & I firmly believe that others speak much more vocally than me. Me? I am just a small little person here but nontheless, I respect everyone's opinion here in this obvious much spirited debate. I wish you all the best of luck.

[WeLoveABD]

I'm concerned about cancellation as well (we have one booked for the end of 2009)--but my approach to this whole mess is to first assume and believe that Disney is doing what it can for its customers in light of the economy (and its stock--I'm sure you all saw that Disney was down 34 percent or so this past quarter)--and offer up suggestions on how to improve things. When we took our first ABD tour in 2007, folks from the Burbank ABD office came out and listened to our suggestions--and followed up with responses. So, (1) these are great trips, (2) Disney is a solid, customer-based company and (3) nothing is perfect--especially in the risky travel biz.

That said, what should be done? Clearly the dreaded calls are causing heartbreak and are extremely disruptive to those with limited vacation time opportunities. I agree with those asking for more information up front--take some of the mystery out of this process, if possible. Such as posting the minimum number for each trip--and letting people know the numbers. (Now, would this cause people to panic too early and cancel or not sign up, thus being a self-fulfilling prediction? Maybe there is a middle ground on this?).

Other ideas??? I think our interests are all the same, and it is what brought us to ABD in the first place: quality itinerary, Disney detail, no-one-else-has-it surprises and security. Well--all of that is still there, so how do we help fix the panic/last-minute cancellations?

I'm reluctant to jump into blog sites--and having to use disclaimers is unfortunate (but I'll say it again: I'm only trying to suggest things to improve ABD, and mean no disrespect to those now facing termination of their trips)--but I really believe in the quality of ABD and want it to be successful. (And the ABD blog is relatively small in numbers--take a look at the Disney Cruise Line blogs--those people talk about silverware patterns at dinner!) (No disrespect to those of you who blog on DCL) (I hate disclaimers).

Enough from me--but really, other constructive ideas for ABD??

[knewton64]

..... you can officially add October 9th 2009 ABD 'Spirit of America" trip to the ever growing list of canceled trips!! RRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!! :bitelip: SMALL VENT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I specifically planned for that day so I would have enough vacation time rebuilt up.
So, gotta ask..........rebook or go with DCL / WDW ??

options with DCL / WDW:

1) 7 day Eastern or Western Caribbean cruise (with a pre-day at POR) in October 2009.

2) 4-day land or 4 day sea WDW/ DCL vacation in October 2009.

3) push out 7 day DCL sea vacation to next year.

4) ??

Suggestions please -

Not a very pleasant feeling to go through this. This is very frustrating getting three different answers to one simple question all in the span of 4 hours. TOTALLY UNBELIEVABLE & VERY POOR CUSTOMER SERVICING OF THE PUBLIC A.B.D. Question..what's to NOT say that any future ABD bookings face the same potential of a cancelation due to "low occupancy?"

Question: Why did I have to experience all this melo-drama just to have ABD FINALLY come out and reveal the truth???? - This is pathetic.

[kristilew]

knewton, I appreciate that you are trying to keep tabs, but I also wanted to clarify: You've quoted me several times in the list that you refer to as "17 people." So that knocks it down a little if you are counting each quote as an individual person.


I also think it is the correct choice to limit what the individual phone reps may say to callers. I think if we want more answers, it would be better to keep going up the chain of comand until we get someone who can explain, rather than playing tricks on someone who after all is just reading from a script and has no authority.

I'm frustrated, but I'm not incensed over this. I think it's an important distinction.

JMHO

[knewton64]

knewton, I appreciate that you are trying to keep tabs, but I also wanted to clarify: You've quoted me several times in the list that you refer to as "17 people." So that knocks it down a little if you are counting each quote as an individual person.


I also think it is the correct choice to limit what the individual phone reps may say to callers. I think if we want more answers, it would be better to keep going up the chain of comand until we get someone who can explain, rather than playing tricks on someone who after all is just reading from a script and has no authority.

I'm frustrated, but I'm not incensed over this. I think it's an important distinction.

JMHO
........you have seen now what a change the ABD call center reps have done in just one month. Per se, you will see in my late December 2008 posting they replied that my trip was 8 % full. Ok..eight percent..I could handle that answer. That's honesty.
Now jump forward 6 weeks later and suddendly ABD changes tatics with their guests and becomes evasive in their answers (and I am not the only one who has noticed this change in ABD). So, please keep in mind that I am in the hotel hospitality industry and yes - it should be very obvious to anyone reading my postings of my compassion to my profession and yes - very fair to say I won't hesitate to be constuctive in my assesement of someone's customer service skills.
It is to wit that I respond to say that my compassion was very evident in my correspondings with ABD today as well as my contact who helped me as well on this issue. I simply wish all of you the best of luck in this situation as I wish no ill will on anyone and gosh forbid if anyone of you should also "get that phone call.":upsidedow

[Bobo912]

I am the person who was booked on the Discovery Down Under trip that was reported cancelled on this forum. I don't mean to minimize anyone frustration, but I don't want to be included in the group. I have had a good experience with ABD. They have answered my questions when I asked about the percentage of bookings. They were polite and helpful when my trip was cancelled and I needed to rebook. When I rebooked I told them I was interested in a trip with at least a few kids. I gave them 4 possible dates and was told the number of kids who were booked and their exact ages for each date. I'm sorry for those of you who have been disappointed, but for those of you reading these post and becoming concerned, just wanted to let you know that not everyone has had the same negative experience.

[knewton64]

I am the person who was booked on the Discovery Down Under trip that was reported cancelled on this forum. I don't mean to minimize anyone frustration, but I don't want to be included in the group. I have had a good experience with ABD. They have answered my questions when I asked about the percentage of bookings. They were polite and helpful when my trip was cancelled and I needed to rebook. When I rebooked I told them I was interested in a trip with at least a few kids. I gave them 4 possible dates and was told the number of kids who were booked and their exact ages for each date. I'm sorry for those of you who have been disappointed, but for those of you reading these post and becoming concerned, just wanted to let you know that not everyone has had the same negative experience.

....I want very badly to ALSO rebook for the September 19th 2009 Spririt of America trip that was offered to me lieu on my now canceled trip. And yes, I do want to also share in your positive opinion of ABD. I am unpholding my end of the situation here just to be left in the dark. No e-mail, no correspondence what so ever as to them notifying me of the cancelation. I had to be the one to do all the legwork here as I also unfortunately had to be labeled by some as a "bad person" here just to obtain a proper and correct answer from ABD.
This level of servicing of customer would leave anyone scratching their heads and saying,

HUH?? :confused3 . This level of servicing the custmer shouldn't have to come from "high up the food chain" either. It begins from when the rep says their introduction to you - the guest.

So again, I respect your opinion and wish you the best of luck on your rebooking. No ill will here.

[clarabelle]

Have you done a DCL cruise before? We love them. If you want a relaxing kind of trip they are great.

[sayhello]

Wellp, I got the dreaded call today. My Sep 5, Adults Only Glacier National Park and Canadian Rockies ABD has been cancelled. There were only 2 families booked. I had to ask the rep to call me back, as I was on my work phone with a user, so I don't have any details or options yet.

Sayhello

[knewton64]

Have you done a DCL cruise before? We love them. If you want a relaxing kind of trip they are great.

.....what you are suggesting. And, I will let everyone know what my choice is in the next few days. Thank you though for the input. :thumbsup2 I do stress that it pains me dearly to have to make this kind of a decision but I feel that I would rather feel 100% comfortable and confident in the company I am doing business with rather than waiting around on pins and neddles fearing receiving "that dreaded phone call." Or a one poster put it (in essense):

Think about it, EVEN on a rebooking and say people cancel at the last minute, you've just ripened yourself into getting "That dreaded phone call."


Sorry, with this kind of money I am choosing to invest, this is a matter of "Whom Do You Trust." And now that I have 1) reached this decision and 2) and in the process of making that decision back through my TA...well......I feel liberated and set free from all this uncessary melo-drama :cool1:

P.S. per the poster below, thank you cuz I am also going to be looking at Rick Steve's tours as well as I am making my decision over these next few days. Good luck to all here and wish you well.

[slg]

I just checked out Rick Steves Tours. They also have a few family oriented tours that look excellent. They are cheaper and I like their cancellation policies. They are really good!

I wish I'd checked this out before! I'm bookmarking the site for next time.

Anyone done any before?

[Bobo912]

....I want very badly to ALSO rebook for the September 19th 2009 Spririt of America trip that was offered to me lieu on my now canceled trip. And yes, I do want to also share in your positive opinion of ABD. I am unpholding my end of the situation here just to be left in the dark. No e-mail, no correspondence what so ever as to them notifying me of the cancelation. I had to be the one to do all the legwork here as I also unfortunately had to be labeled by some as a "bad person" here just to obtain a proper and correct answer from ABD.
This level of servicing of customer would leave anyone scratching their heads and saying,

HUH?? :confused3 . This level of servicing the custmer shouldn't have to come from "high up the food chain" either. It begins from when the rep says their introduction to you - the guest.

So again, I respect your opinion and wish you the best of luck on your rebooking. No ill will here.

Hope you're able to come up with a plan that will work out well for you. If you can't reschedule with ABD and you want to stick with a tour, AAA has some that have very similar itineraries to ABD, only less expensive. We're now booked for the Alaska adventure and since there aren't very many dates for that trip, I'm hoping it will be a go. If it is cancelled, I'll just take a refund and do something else.

[2GirlsMama]

I was trying to keep track of which tours are getting cancelled, and I haven't noticed anyone mentioning China getting cancelled. I hope we didn't make a mistake by already telling our kids about the trip. They are so excited. They are both already working on saving their money for our trip in June.

Now I am nervous to get the CALL. :rolleyes2 I can't believe ABD hasn't cancelled some of the trips because it looks like they run every two weeks all summer long.

[sayhello]

We're now booked for the Alaska adventure and since there aren't very many dates for that trip, I'm hoping it will be a go. If it is cancelled, I'll just take a refund and do something else.Which Alaska dates did you sign up for? That's one of the options that's being offered to me.

Sayhello

[Bobo912]

Which Alaska dates did you sign up for? That's one of the options that's being offered to me.

Sayhello

We're on the July 1 trip. My DS picked the date. His 9th birthday is July 7.

[kristilew]

Oh, SayHello, I'm soooooo sorry! :grouphug:

[inkkognito]

Wow, just found this thread, and it's making me happy that we didn't book an ABD this year. We did the Disneyland tour last year and absolutely loved it, but even then our first date was cancelled and we had to change it, change flights, etc. (they did offer to refund any difference in the flight price). We had so much fun that we seriously decided to cut back on our Disney cruising and do another, but in the end cruising won out. Take it from DH and I, who have taken 66 Disney cruises, it is definitely a viable alternative and the cruise line definitely offers that Disney service that you expect.

[sayhello]

We're on the July 1 trip. My DS picked the date. His 9th birthday is July 7.Ah, no, I'm looking at September. I'll be really interested to read your report when you get back!

Sayhello

[mikeb1982]

First time poster here...but I had to after sorta "getting the call". DW and I used my mother in law's DVC points to book the trip. We were booked on the July 6th Viva Italia trip. DVC called MIL 2 days ago to say the trip was canceled. Never once did they call the actual people going on the trip...dont worry they called us when they didn't receive the signed contract, but not to say that the trip was canceled.

Overall just frustrated and like the rest of everyone else...hesitant to book another just to have it canceled again. Its not easy moving schedules around!

[redzinner]

First time poster here...but I had to after sorta "getting the call". DW and I used my mother in law's DVC points to book the trip. We were booked on the July 6th Viva Italia trip. DVC called MIL 2 days ago to say the trip was canceled. Never once did they call the actual people going on the trip...dont worry they called us when they didn't receive the signed contract, but not to say that the trip was canceled.

Overall just frustrated and like the rest of everyone else...hesitant to book another just to have it canceled again. Its not easy moving schedules around!

From activity last season on this board I would guess Viva Italia to be one of the more popular tours in Europe. If Disney is starting to cancel those tours then I'd say people are canceling reservations or not even booking.
Disney just doesn't have the depth of experience to handle the economic down turn in this segment of the travel industry. I truly hope that they can hang in there and keep it viable. We loved our Viva Italia trip last year.

I wonder how fast people are getting their refunds from Disney?

[clarabelle]

I just got my call
June 23 Quest for the West

[slg]

For those of you who have received "the call", is there any indication that ABD is just cancelling all of its trips? Or are they culling the ones that are less booked in order to hire less people and make sure the ones that are left are a go.

Since they are canceling months ahead of time, there must be some reason why they are choosing certain dates and not others.

Since there are so few folks who actually post on this thread and since there are so many cancellations, I wonder how many are actually going to go?

When I was checking the Rick Steve's site, it was interesting how you could see availabilty right before you booked...what was full, what was almost full.

I like his policy that you can cancel your tour anytime as long as you booked another one during the same season.

I'm so worried. Its really taken the entire fun and joy out of planning my trip. My kids have saved up birthday money, Christmas money...we've paid for our flights, booked our hotel, scheduled our vacations, daycare for the summer...even if the trip does go through, it will have a taint to. Plus I think I'll worry that it will be cancelled right up to the last minute.

I travel a lot, and I've never felt so sick about a trip before. Being a person who enjoys planning and dreaming about vacations, this whole situation doesn't suit my tempermanent at all. Even if I find another trip that I can take, I will have to change my flights (if they are available) and hopefully ABD will be able to refund me what the cost will be. I'm sure that somehow I will lose money in this. Certainly I'm losing sleep and that is worth something.

If the trip is going to be cancelled, I just wish they'd get it over with so I can stop worrying. Of course, if we rebook, we'll be back to worrying about the next one as it seems that ABD won't commit to anything.

Since most disneyphiles seem to be compulsive planners, it seems to me that this will be a huge deterrent. I'm afraid that this thread is probably deterring folks right now. There are a few that have posted such, and probably lurkers who are fed up.

For that I am sorry.

[Turtlemom]

Clarabelle-I'm so sorry your Quest for the West trip just got cancelled! I have never heard of one of these trips being cancelled, as it is one of Disney's most popular itineraries, but then again. . .so is Italy, and I've never heard of one of those trips being cancelled either!

Did they offer you any other dates or give any indication of whether other Quest for the West trips would be cancelled?

Now I'm really getting nervous, since our big trip this year is Quest for the West on 8/11.

Turtlemom :sad2:

[kaylismom]

I am a long time lurker. I just got "THE CALL". They cancelled our Quest for the West for June 25. They said that there were only two families booked. We're not sure what we're going to do now. We were on Viva Italia last summer and it was the trip of a lifetime. We had an additional week added to this trip so I am off to cancel everything.:sad:

[Turtlemom]

YIKES!!!! Kaylismom--I'm really sorry to hear that your trip was cancelled too!!!!! Now I'm wondering whether to call to check on the status of our trip--or whether they will even give out any information judging from previous posts.

I'll ask you as well--did they offer you another date on the same itinirary? If so, will you take it or another ABD option? . . . . Let us all know!

Turtlemom :crazy2:

[clarabelle]

Turtlemom they mentioned two other dates that already had enough not to cancel (at least that was the impression she gave me) I didn't ask many questions -cause I knew that I would need to speak to DH before making any moves.

The dates were two others in June the 20th? and the 30th if I remember correctly. I am going to sit down with my husband and decide.
He is miffed -and is leaning towards canceling altogether.

For the others with cancellations -they will give you the early booking on another trip? Is that right?

Also if you reschedule -they still might cancel that one?

When the ABD person called -she was friendly -but was reading from a script about how they wanted for me to have the best experience blah blah. I found it irritating. I would rather them just spit it out.

I am not defeated -I think we will work something out.

[kaylismom]

Hi Turtlemom - They offered me June 30, July 2, and July 12. With no guarantee that they would not be cancelled as well - I asked. I don't think I am going to switch to one of them. We were doing the Grand Canyon and Arches on our way to Jackson Hole and we really wanted to go before the heat of the summer. I had also booked El Tovar and the North Rim lodge. Probably too late to change those to the new dates. So sad...

[Turtlemom]

Clarabelle--
Let me know how it turns out. I'm hoping for a happy ending. . . .

Turtlemom

[Bobo912]

YIKES!!!! Kaylismom--I'm really sorry to hear that your trip was cancelled too!!!!! Now I'm wondering whether to call to check on the status of our trip--or whether they will even give out any information judging from previous posts.

I'll ask you as well--did they offer you another date on the same itinirary? If so, will you take it or another ABD option? . . . . Let us all know!

Turtlemom :crazy2:

I was booked on a different trip that was cancelled (discovery down under) and I was offered other dates for the same intinerary. Don't suppose there is any guarantee that the other dates would not be cancelled as well. But they were very forthcoming with information when I rebooked, so if your dates are flexible, you might be able to pick one with a high percentage booked. Unfortunately, most people don't have that kind of flexibility with their dates. In this uncertain economic climate, I decided to take the Australia cancellation as an opportunity to drop the extremely expensive trip and go for the Alaska trip, which was about half the price, considering airfare.

[Turtlemom]

Kaylismom-
Sorry to hear that the cancellation may mess up your other plans.
You will really enjoy the Grand Canyon. We were there last summer with Southwest Splendors in August. The good thing is--due to the elevation, the rim of the canyon never gets that hot. The same cannot be said for Arches though. . . its a "dry" heat. I guess that makes it better.

Good luck with your plans. . .

Turtlemom

[Surfindude]

First time poster here...but I had to after sorta "getting the call". DW and I used my mother in law's DVC points to book the trip. We were booked on the July 6th Viva Italia trip. DVC called MIL 2 days ago to say the trip was canceled. Never once did they call the actual people going on the trip...dont worry they called us when they didn't receive the signed contract, but not to say that the trip was canceled.

Overall just frustrated and like the rest of everyone else...hesitant to book another just to have it canceled again. Its not easy moving schedules around!

Well, our plan was to do the 2nd of July trip, but we are likely going to cancel. Waiting to see who does it first, them or us.

[Bobo912]

For the others with cancellations -they will give you the early booking on another trip? Is that right?

That is correct. If you had the $100/person loyalty discount, don't forget to have that applied to your new reservation, as well.

[Turtlemom]

Bobo912-
Hope everything goes well with Alaska. Glad they were helpful in giving you percentages booked on the other trips. Sounds like, from some other posts, ABD is more reluctant to do so now. . . .

Turtlemom

[Bobo912]

Bobo912-
Hope everything goes well with Alaska. Glad they were helpful in giving you percentages booked on the other trips. Sounds like, from some other posts, ABD is more reluctant to do so now. . . .

Turtlemom

Thanks! I think they are more likely to give you the information if your trip has already been cancelled and you are trying to rebook.

[kristilew]

Kaylismom - can you switch your trip to the June 20 Southwest Splendors? Then you'd get your ABD and your Grand Canyon and Arches, as well as the horseback riding you would have gotten on QfortheW - and we'd have one more family booked!

[Pakey]

I've been researching and I think we are going to do Costa Rica on our own.

Next year is our 25th anniversary and I had been debating whether I would do the African Signature with AbD or a luxury Asian cruise. I think all of this has made my decision much easier.

[sayhello]

The ABD rep who called me with the cancellation *did* say she would not offer to rebook me on a date that had a chance of being canceled. Now she could have just been feeding me a line, but that is what she said. I'd like to think that's the truth, and they are trying to consolidate the trips with low enrollment, into ones with more people. *Fingers & toes crossed*

I think it's interesting, though, that everyone who has said, said ABD told them there were only 2 families signed up for their trip that got canceled. That's what I was told. Is that just a standard thing to say, or are they only canceling trips with 2 or less families???

Sayhello

[clarabelle]

They told me that as well.
two families

[cappygirl]

that's what they told us too!

[Momof3greatkids]

We are still a GO at this point for June 30th Quest for the West. I tried to find out the numbers, but of course where given none. Vergie would not give out any info, and gave the standard lines. Anyone, who wants to come please join us. We are a couple with an 11 year old boy. I am so sorry to all those who have been canceled. ABD is not getting a very good reputation out of this. We called a week ago, and where told they never cancel Quest for the West. So much for that.:confused3

[clarabelle]

We are still a GO at this point for June 30th Quest for the West. I tried to find out the numbers, but of course where given none. Vergie would not give out any info, and gave the standard lines. Anyone, who wants to come please join us. We are a couple with an 11 year old boy. I am so sorry to all those who have been canceled. ABD is not getting a very good reputation out of this. We called a week ago, and where told they never cancel Quest for the West. So much for that.:confused3

Mom -when she called to cancel my Quest she offered me two dates that were close to mine that she said -"had plenty of kids" one was the 21st and the other was the 30th.
So yours sounds like a go (I think). We still haven't decided what we are going to do.

[Momof3greatkids]

Clarebelle,
Good luck to you in whatever you decide. I know it is totally frustrating. We are hoping for the best, but have warned our son that it could be canceled at anytime. We have frequent flyer, and it would be hard to rebook with that. We just have to hope the info given you was correct.

[Happy99]

I'm concerned about cancellation as well (we have one booked for the end of 2009)--but my approach to this whole mess is to first assume and believe that Disney is doing what it can for its customers in light of the economy (and its stock--I'm sure you all saw that Disney was down 34 percent or so this past quarter)--and offer up suggestions on how to improve things. When we took our first ABD tour in 2007, folks from the Burbank ABD office came out and listened to our suggestions--and followed up with responses. So, (1) these are great trips, (2) Disney is a solid, customer-based company and (3) nothing is perfect--especially in the risky travel biz.

That said, what should be done? Clearly the dreaded calls are causing heartbreak and are extremely disruptive to those with limited vacation time opportunities. I agree with those asking for more information up front--take some of the mystery out of this process, if possible. Such as posting the minimum number for each trip--and letting people know the numbers. (Now, would this cause people to panic too early and cancel or not sign up, thus being a self-fulfilling prediction? Maybe there is a middle ground on this?).

Other ideas??? I think our interests are all the same, and it is what brought us to ABD in the first place: quality itinerary, Disney detail, no-one-else-has-it surprises and security. Well--all of that is still there, so how do we help fix the panic/last-minute cancellations?

I'm reluctant to jump into blog sites--and having to use disclaimers is unfortunate (but I'll say it again: I'm only trying to suggest things to improve ABD, and mean no disrespect to those now facing termination of their trips)--but I really believe in the quality of ABD and want it to be successful. (And the ABD blog is relatively small in numbers--take a look at the Disney Cruise Line blogs--those people talk about silverware patterns at dinner!) (No disrespect to those of you who blog on DCL) (I hate disclaimers).

Enough from me--but really, other constructive ideas for ABD??

They priced their ABD's too high, yes they include a lot and some of the things you cannot do on your own but to me the value in "some" of those do not warrant the high price tag. No we aren't hurting financially and hope to stay that way. We aren't rich as per the definition of that term. We do like to spend our money wisely and compare what we are getting to the cost of that vacation. We do splurge when it makes sense to us. All that being said given the high price tag of the ABD's and the cruises that Disney has released for 2010 they are going to be in for a rude awakening. I think they rode the the wave of people wanting to spend the money to get the experience but that wave has just crashed and they have to restructure their thinking and pricing

One example is that never before has a special itinerary on DCL not increased in price from the time it was first offered but most of the 2010 itineraries have not increased in price even their very special European ones. Compared to what other cruise lines are offering in price they are more then twice as much in the same category.

I hope that all these cancellations are sending a message to the powers to be. I don't expect the ABD's to be inexpensive but when a family of 4 has to pay over $10,000 for a one week trip, or sometimes less then a week, to a location in the U.S before airfare something is definitely wrong. It isn't like they are offering 5 star accommodations, meals and such.

We really enjoyed our Southwestern ABD but if it weren't for the fact that part of it was paid with our DVC points we would have never gone. One of the hotels we stayed at could have been considered a 2 star one and some of the meals left a lot to be desired. When I am paying this kind of money I expect to have more "off the menu" meals vs buffets that don't offer much or that the quality is lacking. I also expect at least 4 star accommodations

If you take 10,000 for a family of 4 and divide it by 7 nights the adventure is costing $1428.57 per night. Take that same amount for the 5nt Backstage Magic tour and that makes it a cost of $2000 per night. Considering that this does not include meals for every day of your stay it really makes it cost prohibited for families

[slg]

Last night I checked to see if there were any other tour companies offering the a similar tour during the same dates so that we wouldn't lose our flights if our tour was cancelled!

I wish I had done this first. I found a few tours and they were so much cheaper! I'm talking $1350 instead of $2999! Globus Tours even offers family oriented trips and have children's rates that are significantly less, and children are up to the age of 17! Next time we'll try something cheaper and see if we like it. We travelled Globus for many tours before we had kids and really enjoyed them.

Still waiting for the call that I almost wish would come sooner rather than later so that I had better options in rebooking another date or even another tour company.

Its so disappointing as we booked the day the tours came out. Had I known then what I know now, I never would have booked! The economy, the cancellations, the Canadian dollar taking a nose-dive, plus other tours that are so much less money.

I wish the ABD would at least update their website and show which tours have been cancelled and which tours are guaranteed. Most other tour companies have a list of their guaranteed tours on their sites. It certainly helps to plan.

[mwebsite]

When you are comparing tours, do look closely at the accomodations and activities. While Globus offers nice accomodations, for example in Rome, they stay more on the outskirts of Rome, vs. ABD in the heart of the city. This is an important aspect for most people, as well as the special, inclusive, family activities. When I researched these tours, it seemed only Tauck came close to ABD when comparing everything, with ABD being only slightly less expensive when I looked at the length of stay and meals included, at least for Viva Italia.

[sayhello]

I wish the ABD would at least update their website and show which tours have been cancelled and which tours are guaranteed. Most other tour companies have a list of their guaranteed tours on their sites. It certainly helps to plan.I totally agree with you that cancelled tours should be removed from the website immediately. It's not that difficult to do.

However, I don't believe *any* tour is ever guaranteed with ABD. A tour that's full is pretty likely to happen, but if a bunch of people cancelled... ABD reserves the right to cancel any tour up to the day it leaves. Not that I think this is a good policy, but it's what the FAQ on the site states...

6) What if Adventures by Disney Cancels my Adventure prior to departure?

Adventures by Disney reserves the right to cancel a trip at any time prior to its commencement for any reason, such as if there are too few Guests, or if the quality of the trip or the safety of the Guests would, in our opinion, be compromised, such as may result from unforeseen circumstances (acts of God) or other circumstances beyond our reasonable control.


Sayhello

[MeggerasMa]

We got "the call" from our travel agent earlier this week. We were on the September 12th, adults only, Southwest Splendors. They offered us a date later in Sept and one in the middle of October, but neither would work for us. Although we are disappointed, especially since it was for a special anniversary, thank goodness we had booked our air with ABD. (And to think I almost booked those tickets myself.) Just wanted to let folks know of another trip that won't happen.:sad1:

[sayhello]

We got "the call" from our travel agent earlier this week. We were on the September 12th, adults only, Southwest Splendors. They offered us a date later in Sept and one in the middle of October, but neither would work for us. Although we are disappointed, especially since it was for a special anniversary, thank goodness we had booked our air with ABD. (And to think I almost booked those tickets myself.) Just wanted to let folks know of another trip that won't happen.:sad1:Ah, sorry your trip got cancelled, and that you couldn't rebook. That's really sad. Southwest Splendors is a great itinerary. I have to think they just offered too many dates.

Just thought I'd mention, if ABD cancels your tour, they will cover the cost of airfare (rebooking or refund) whether you booked the airfare with them or not. I did not book my airfare through ABD, and they are going to pay the difference for me rebooking from Montana/Canada to Alaska.

Sayhello

[RLevy29]

We were booked on the Rocky Mountain Tales and Trails from 8/15 -8/22. We got the call about 3 weeks ago. They tried to get us to switch to the week earlier or the week after but it just wasn't going to work for us. We had used DVC points and they were all put back into our account and the airfare was refunded. The only thing that we are waiting for now is the insurance. We consider ourselves very lucky that the cancellations were done very early so that we can plan another trip.

[sayhello]

We were booked on the Rocky Mountain Tales and Trails from 8/15 -8/22. We got the call about 3 weeks ago. They tried to get us to switch to the week earlier or the week after but it just wasn't going to work for us. We had used DVC points and they were all put back into our account and the airfare was refunded. The only thing that we are waiting for now is the insurance. We consider ourselves very lucky that the cancellations were done very early so that we can plan another trip.So that's 2 dates for the Rocky Trails and Mountie Tales tour that have been cancelled. (Mine was 9/5) Interesting. Sorry you couldn't reschedule. I ended up going with Alaska... hope that one doesn't get cancelled!

Sayhello

[Pakey]

I talked to AbD yesterday. We were booked on an adults only and I wanted to know if they had any other Costa Rican tours that were mostly only adults so that I could rebook (they cancelled both adults only Costa Rica tours). I was told that the only one available that didn't already have lots of kids on it was Christmas week. :sad2:

I'm already researching and have come up with my own trip to Costa Rica, staying 2 nights in San Jose at exact same hotel and then staying 5 nights at a 5 star coastal all inclusive, paying for some of the same tours (we really were attracted to the zip line/canopy tour) and we can go for $1000 less for the two of us, including the transfers. So that's what we are doing.

[DopeyDave]

I wish the ABD would at least update their website and show which tours have been cancelled and which tours are guaranteed. Most other tour companies have a list of their guaranteed tours on their sites. It certainly helps to plan.

I know what you mean. When I was active in our company's employee club (before the company disbanded it), we used to run bus trips to see Broadway shows. We would have a minimum number of people required to run the trip, or we'd have to cancel. Eventually people would hold off on signing up until they knew for sure it'd run. By people holding off, we'd end up cancelling because we didn't meet the minimum. It was a real "Catch-22" situation.

Maybe they should at least go through at a point and cancel all the tours that don't have anyone registered, and direct new guests to tours that already have people booked.

[Ivory]

Maybe they should at least go through at a point and cancel all the tours that don't have anyone registered, and direct new guests to tours that already have people booked.[/QUOTE]

What a smart idea, that would help to make sure some go that may not otherwise as well as give people a chance to re-book and not be too disappointed.

Hopefully they are done cancelling now and we can all look forward to enjoying our long waited for vacations

[mikeb1982]

I totally agree with you that cancelled tours should be removed from the website immediately. It's not that difficult to do.

However, I don't believe *any* tour is ever guaranteed with ABD. A tour that's full is pretty likely to happen, but if a bunch of people cancelled... ABD reserves the right to cancel any tour up to the day it leaves. Not that I think this is a good policy, but it's what the FAQ on the site states...




Sayhello

Yeah, after talking to our ABD TA, I was told my trip was canceled due to low enrollment, "however there are a multitude of reasons a trip could be canceled..such as fires, civil unrest, etc". It is my understanding that no trip is ever guaranteed and they would not confirm any trip as a guarantee of going of as planned. I pressed to find out which trip had a "higher likelyhood" of not being canceled and was told that upper management had recently done a cleaning out of sorts of the trips and in less words ...it was unlikely that too many more would be canceled. So hopefully after this initial wave of cancellations is done things should settle and hopefully people can adjust their schedules and get rebooked so we can have a good vac! I totally agree that they should update the website so that only the trips still going are shown.

We are currently booked for the 19th of July for Viva Italia. Anyone else on this one?

[PatriciaH]

Any news on the South Africa tours? Still on or not?

[Ivory]

Mikeb:

We are also booked for July 19 Viva Italia.

My DH and myself, with a daughter that will be 10 when we go, how about you?

[dsanti4550]

We are booked on June 29 Viva Italia tour. So far, it's still a go. I was told that ABD would probably consolidate June 28 and June 29 tours in case one of them gets cancelled for any reason.

[wolfetoney]

We heard today that our Viva Italia was cancelled for June 8th. Hopefully we will be able to switch to the June 11 date.

[mwebsite]

Wolfetoney,
You could come on the June 4 Viva Italia, with us! (Husband and soon to be 13 yo daughter) Still on, as of last week, anyway. Wondering now if they are cancelling every other trip?

[mikeb1982]

Mikeb:

We are also booked for July 19 Viva Italia.

My DH and myself, with a daughter that will be 10 when we go, how about you?

It will be just me and DW, no kids yet...

[Traveling Tinkerbell]

PatriciaH,

We know as it stands right now that the July 6 South Africa trip is still on.

[figmentfan2009]

well... not really a total wash maybe, but there are 2 China trips currently canceled... July 5th and July 19 are both canceled.

The lady said it looked like both the 12th and the 26th of July have sufficient bookings to be probably a go... but the call came in at lunch time today that ours only had 3 rooms booked (our 2 and one other) so was being cancelled..


:confused3

:sick:

So... either central Texas is going to take over half of the 12th... or... we will still get to go on my little girl's 15th birthday...

wish me luck.

[slg]

Sounds like tours are still being canceled. I thought they had pretty much wrapped up the canceling last week.

Ah well, back to worrying. This is the most nerve-wracking experience ever!

Sigh...I wish I knew what was going on with mine.

[Pakey]

I called this morning to request a refund (I had also bought my airfare thru them, thank goodness I did not use my mileage points) and was on hold forever before someone could help me to cancel. They said the specialists handling the cancellations were tied up so I'm assuming they are still overloaded with rebookings, etc.

They again tried to talk me into one of the non adult Costa Rican tours although they stated this is the most popular family tour and there would definitely be many children. When that was not a go, they tried to sell me on Peru for the same month I was going to Costa Rica but I told them I had my heart set on Costa Rica.

[Wonders10]

Just had my June 20th Emerald Isles trip cancelled.

Was offered 3 other dates to choose from.

[sayhello]

We heard today that our Viva Italia was cancelled for June 8th. Hopefully we will be able to switch to the June 11 date.Good luck, wolfetoney! I hope it all works out for you! I'm glad there's a trip close to yours you might be able to switch to. You, too Wonders10!

Sayhello

[disneytraveler]

ABD left a message yesterday on my phone to give them a call back. I just heard it tonight. It maybe a cancellation and i hope not.:confused3 :headache:

[Wonders10]

ABD left a message yesterday on my phone to give them a call back. I just heard it tonight. It maybe a cancellation and i hope not.:confused3 :headache:

Not to burst your bubble, because it could definitely be something else regarding your trip, but that is exactly the same message I got. Fingers crossed that it still works out for you though!

[disneytraveler]

Not to burst your bubble, because it could definitely be something else regarding your trip, but that is exactly the same message I got. Fingers crossed that it still works out for you though!

Thanks
I had planned the Germany adventure for sept 11th with a pre-stay night.:rolleyes1

[Tozzie]

Thanks
I had planned the Germany adventure for sept 11th with a pre-stay night.:rolleyes1

If the message went something like, Hi, this is XXXXX from ABD and I have some important information about your trip please call us back atXXXXX they are prolly cancelling the trip. I am so sorry if they are cancelling on you. I hope it works out

[DaveO]

Just read this thread last night and what do you know ....

This morning I get the call, I have not called them back but I am 99.9% it is a cancellation. It is the 8/1 Southwest Tour. Not sure if I will rebook ... our summer is VERY tight with kids baseball and family travel.

Dave

[disneytraveler]

If the message went something like, Hi, this is XXXXX from ABD and I have some important information about your trip please call us back atXXXXX they are prolly cancelling the trip. I am so sorry if they are cancelling on you. I hope it works out

The ABD specialist i called only works Sunday to Wed. I called today:confused3

[WeLoveDVC]

We received a call at home yesterday. Our 07/04/09 Glacier National Park and Canadian Rockies (Rocky Trails & Mounty Tails) trip was cancelled. We were offered the week before or the week after.

[disneytraveler]

My September 11th Fairtale Adventures trip has been cancelled. Now looking into the 25th as date for Germany.

[DoxiMom]

I was just wondering if you were able to rebook for the 9/25 trip. My husband and I are booked on this date and have not heard anything about a cancellation.

Good luck! :goodvibes

[1whooper]

I was booked on the Sept. 19th Adults Only Tour. Today it was cancelled and I have rebooked for the Sept. 25th tour. Who else is going on this tour? There are 3 of us, DH, DD(25) and myself.

[redzinner]

I was booked on the Sept. 19th Adults Only Tour. Today it was cancelled and I have rebooked for the Sept. 25th tour. Who else is going on this tour? There are 3 of us, DH, DD(25) and myself.

I guess you aren't too upset 1whooper since you were able to rebook. Glad it worked out for you. Are the Molicks still joining you on the reschedule date?

We met up with Grumpy and Mary Ann yesterday in Italy (Epcot) and had some wine. We enjoyed our day even though Epcot was very crowded!

I'm still hoping that our Ireland trip is a go. As each day passes I have more faith that it will happen.

Adventurers, Andiamo!

[1whooper]

Sally
Yes ,Mary and Steve are still going with us on the Sept. 25th tour. I hope your tour is a go! I think you will be fine. Glad you had a good time in Epcot with Mary Ann and Grumpy!

[kristilew]

Ah, redzinner, there's my sweet Rags - I missed him!:goodvibes

[disneytraveler]

I was just wondering if you were able to rebook for the 9/25 trip. My husband and I are booked on this date and have not heard anything about a cancellation.

Good luck! :goodvibes

I have the trip rebooked now for the 25th with a pre-stay on the 24th. Abd will credit my account for the rebooking fee which was not much. I got the same flights for the new dates to from Orbitz.:goodvibes

[disneytraveler]

I was booked on the Sept. 19th Adults Only Tour. Today it was cancelled and I have rebooked for the Sept. 25th tour. Who else is going on this tour? There are 3 of us, DH, DD(25) and myself.

I will meet you there:goodvibes

[2RGR8]

Hi all -

Our trip to London/Paris for June 22nd has been canceled. We rebooked for June 15th but there is still a risk it could cancel. Bummer:(

[DoxiMom]

I have the trip rebooked now for the 25th with a pre-stay on the 24th. Abd will credit my account for the rebooking fee which was not much. I got the same flights for the new dates to from Orbitz.:goodvibes

I am so glad you were able to rebook!! Yeah! My DH and I will see you there!:yay:

[beckmom]

Hi all -

Our trip to London/Paris for June 22nd has been canceled. We rebooked for June 15th but there is still a risk it could cancel. Bummer:(

Hi 2RGR8,
We're in Spring, TX and have been watching this board looking for London/Paris cancellations. Unfortunately, yours was the first and I'm wondering if our July 20th trip will make it. Good luck on your rebook. I figure we're all in this together somehow!:)

[Ivory]

Scary!, When did you find out about the London/Paris cancellation??

We're booked for the July 31, hopefully still on!

[sayhello]

You know, I have to say, although I'm not happy that ABD is having to cancel so many trips, and that mine was one of them, they have really bent over backwards for me to re-book me on a vacation that works for me. They are taking care of re-booking my airfare so that I can get there, with as little financial impact to me as possible.

I know they are being vague about whether trips are a "Go" or not, but once a trip *is* cancelled, the 3 travel specialists I've worked with have all been extremely friendly and helpful. I just want folks to know that it is not necessarily all doom & gloom if your trip gets cancelled. I was pretty limited in when I could go on this vacation due to work, and they worked with me to get me on a tour that left just 3 days before my old trip. Fortunately, I didn't have a lot of other plans made, besides the airfare. All the hotel rooms I'd booked, I can cancel with no penalty at this time. I'm really quite content with how things worked out.

I hope everyone who gets cancelled has as good an experience as I did. I really felt like they *wanted* me to travel with ABD, and were willing to go the extra mile to get me there. I feel really bad for folks who have other plans that make re-booking impossible, but for those who can be a little flexible, ASK them; they said "yes" to everything I asked for (within reason!)

Sayhello

PS, I am really grateful to the folks on this forum. The "head's up" that these cancellations were happening gave me a chance to look at ABD's schedule and decide ahead of time what I would ask for if my tour got cancelled. I think that helped tremendously. I was not blind-sided; I didn't overreact; I was prepared & rational. The DIS rules!

[disneytraveler]

:goodvibes My cancellation and rebooking was handled well by the travel specialist at ABD.

[figmentfan2009]

I know they are being vague about whether trips are a "Go" or not, but once a trip *is* cancelled, the 3 travel specialists I've worked with have all been extremely friendly and helpful. I just want folks to know that it is not necessarily all doom & gloom if your trip gets cancelled. I was pretty limited in when I could go on this vacation due to work, and they worked with me to get me on a tour that left just 3 days before my old trip. Fortunately, I didn't have a lot of other plans made, besides the airfare. All the hotel rooms I'd booked, I can cancel with no penalty at this time. I'm really quite content with how things worked out.

The DIS rules!

The travel specialists were fantastic! I agree with that 100% and having the lady work with me who is the China specialist was even more great.

The people I had a problem with was the airline specialists. They kept "forgetting" that they were supposed to call me back and mention that we might actually have flight reservations. But it all worked out well in the end. I have a way better feeling about this trip being a go!


Now, we are nearly down to the "two digit" level for our Disney World trip for StarWars Weekends... that means when we come back it will only be about 5 more weeks till China! Better start trying to learn some more of my useful phrases...

:rolleyes:

[nordkin]

Quest for the West all Sept dates have been cancelled. I received the call yesterday and when I called back today I was told the last trip leaving is Aug 30.

[wdwsos]

Hi 2RGR8,
We're in Spring, TX and have been watching this board looking for London/Paris cancellations. Unfortunately, yours was the first and I'm wondering if our July 20th trip will make it. Good luck on your rebook. I figure we're all in this together somehow!:)

Hi Beckmom!

I just booked a family of four from Spring, TX, on Quest for the West in late July. I have to honestly admit that I didn't know Spring existed until last week, so I was a little surprised to see your post. For a second, I worried that I booked my clients on the wrong trip - lol!

Dotti

[tomandrobin]

OP here......

We were all "jacked-up" to book a ABD trip to Italy for 2010. But after all the current cancellations, we have decided against using ABD for our trip to Italy. We are going to book everything ourselves. With our initial planning, we have realized we can get a 14 day trip to Italy for about half the price, and probably less then half.

[2RGR8]

Hi All -

So I spoke with my Disney rep yesterday and she couldn't have been nicer. Maybe it was because I was using sugar instead of vinegar when speaking to her?? Anyway, because our original tour was canceled (june 22) we took advantage of having to go earlier and are now able to catch a performance of the London Symphony Orchestra which for my kids is a dream come true. I asked if I could book a pre-night with them and they said I could but it would be $657.00 - FOR ONE NIGHT!!! So I looked on line at Mariott and I can book it myself for $350.00. When I told her that, she said to go ahead and book it myself but that they would still give me the pre-night transfer and pick us up at the airport. She said she would also put in a request that we get the same room assigned for the duration of our stay so we wouldn't have to change rooms. Pretty accommodating if you ask me. She also told me there were only 4 rooms left on that tour (which to me meant 8 spaces open) so it looks like we are pretty safe for no further cancellations. I rebooked my flights this morning and ABD is picking up the change fee.

[mwebsite]

Nice that they agreed to cover your transfers when you didn't book the pre night with them. I asked about this for my Viva Italia, as the room rates have decreased online, and the rep said they wouldn't cover my airport transfers if I booked it myself. I even asked if management would look into revising these pre and post night rates with the hotels in light of the economy and falling prices. She said she would ask (though I got the impression she really wouldn't) but that this has been discussed before and they would not renegotiate. I'm guessing because you were dealing with a tour that had been cancelled they were being more accomodating.

[2RGR8]

Hi All -

So I have found a silver - if not gold - lining in our trip being canceled and rescheduled. When I booked our ABD trip in July and purchased airfare in August, I paid almost $1,500 per ticket!! Before I called American today, I went on their website to book a "new" reservation and the tickets were $950 per ticket!! So - the $250 change fee was absorbed by the decrease in fare AND we were each issued a $260 travel voucher!!! With two kids heading to college (out of town and out of state(( ) they will be used right away!!

[Dahly]

That is great news! Definitely a silver lining! :dance3:

[sayhello]

Hi All -

So I have found a silver - if not gold - lining in our trip being canceled and rescheduled. When I booked our ABD trip in July and purchased airfare in August, I paid almost $1,500 per ticket!! Before I called American today, I went on their website to book a "new" reservation and the tickets were $950 per ticket!! So - the $250 change fee was absorbed by the decrease in fare AND we were each issued a $260 travel voucher!!! With two kids heading to college (out of town and out of state(( ) they will be used right away!!That is excellent! I would still see if ABD will reimburse you for the $250 change fee. They should, that's what their policy says.

Glad it's all worked out to your advantage!

Sayhello