TA not able to book ADR

[roac8362]

I have talked to a TA about a January 2018 trip we are planning but haven't booked yet. We are a family of 5...3 DD - 13, 10 & 4. Since we have two Disney adults who aren't big eaters I'm thinking the dining plan isn't the way to go this trip. When I mentioned this to the TA she let me know that she would not be able to book any of our ADR if we do not have a dining plan. I know that I can book all of our reservations but is it common procedure for TA not being able to book without a dining plan?

 

[OasterP]

They can book without a dining plan, but wouldn't be able to book for Jan 2018 yet. The 180 is somewhere around the end of November at the moment. Overall though - yes they can typically book without a dining plan.

 

[_auroraborealis_]

What she's really saying is that if she doesn't get the commission on the DDP, she's not booking dining.

 

[LilyWDW]

I think the PP is correct. They are saying that if you are not going to book the dining plan, then they personally will not do ADRs as a part of their service.

 

[roac8362]

"I do not book dining for you when you don't purchase a dining plan. I will advise you and answer questions, but I don't actually make reservations for you." -- this was her exact quote. I just didn't know if all agents followed this procedure or if I should maybe look around for an agent willing to help a little more :/

 

[wedowdw17]

I'd be looking for a new agent if I were you. You'll find many that are willing to book dining for you regardless of if you purchase the plan or not. I have a personal preference to do dining reservations and fast passes myself, but my agent would do it for me if I wanted her to. How many other things will she not be wiling to do for you unless you book x, y, or z?

 

[OasterP]

"I do not book dining for you when you don't purchase a dining plan. I will advise you and answer questions, but I don't actually make reservations for you." -- this was her exact quote. I just didn't know if all agents followed this procedure or if I should maybe look around for an agent willing to help a little more :/

I would definitely be looking for another agent. So many good ones out there. I book everything myself because I like to do it, but if they aren't willing to help you with that - I would find someone who is. Don't feel like you need to buy a dining plan if it's not right for you.

 

[Elizakapeka]

My agent lost my entire reservation because I had an offer for 2 free nights from disney so I booked entire trip through disney so I didnt have to check out then back in, she STILL offered to book my ADR's for me. She did get to keep my cruise reservation. I would be looking for an agent willing to book your ADR's for you.

 

[roac8362]

Thanks for the input. It really kind of put me off. I think I'll for sure contact a few different agents before I book Having someone more concerned about helping me make it a great trip at a great price is my main purpose of using an agent. I have become a bit obsessed about this trip and have thought about just handling everything myself, but then I get a bit overwhelmed lol

 

[Kiddeokee]

Definitely seek out a new agent. you want someone that will work with you. I just in the past 3 days booked my June 20 this year trip (3 weeks out!) and my TA went over and beyond to help me. We were in constant FB messaging mode for 2 1/2 days to schedule just the resorts. Then she helped me with flights (not paid). I haven't booked the dining plan(but plan to later) but she is looking for the ones I want most, and providing me with info on fantastic packages and ROL that I did not know. I like doing much of it myself, but I will say having a good agent has been a lifesaver!