any problems booking through AAA

[molly]

i've been checking prices for Oct. 2006 and noticed that a garden view room is approx $85/nt booking through AAA rather than disney website. Why so much cheaper? I'm afraid if I book through AAA there may be problems and that will explain the cheaper price. Any problems w/AAA?

 

[ellyn2000]

None at all. I've booked entire package with AAA for Thanksgiving 2006 and even added dining because I felt like it was a decent value. I do believe that there are only so many available AAA rates, so I would go ahead and book. If I'm incorrect about availability I apoligize in advance. Your AAA travel agent can clarify.

 

[mickeysaver]

We wanted to book through AAA, we made a special point to go to AAA to make our ressie. Our local AAA office had no Disney specialist on duty that day. The moron that was attempting to assist us was quoting me prices that were at or above the rack rates that Disney was going to charge. So, because I got totally fed up with the lack of knowledge of the people at our local AAA, I just called WDW and booked a room only for our trip using the AAA discount. I am still very happy with that decision.

Buyer beware, not all AAA TA's are Disney specialist. Be prepared when you speak with someone about what the rack rates are and what the AAA discount on the room should run, if it's available. Good luck! Maggie

 

[MickeyHereWeCome!]

Do you all think it's worth joining AAA just for the package discount? I'm also looking at next October for our trip, and am toying around with that idea. I'm also traveling alone with 2 little ones (from MD), so it would be nice to have car assistance available, if needed. If I did this, I would have to call AAA to book my Disney reservations? I couldn't do it right through Disney, and tell them I have AAA?

Thanks for any thoughts

 

[imatoad]

I've used the same AAA TA twice, not only has she done an outstanding job with my reservations, she's saved me $200 each time at the Poly. If anyone need's a good TA, let me know, I'll give you her contact info. She's located in SC, but can handle any AAA member. Yes, I do believe it's worth joining AAA, not only for the discount, but if you travel by car, it's a big help if you have trouble.

 

[helenk]

Do you all think it's worth joining AAA just for the package discount? I'm also looking at next October for our trip, and am toying around with that idea. I'm also traveling alone with 2 little ones (from MD), so it would be nice to have car assistance available, if needed. If I did this, I would have to call AAA to book my Disney reservations? I couldn't do it right through Disney, and tell them I have AAA?

Thanks for any thoughts

I think the cost of AAA is well worth it, I've had it for years, I think the cost to join was about $55.00. You can save up to 20% on the rooms in WDW depending on whether you go during value, regular or peak.
Once you have your membership you can book a room only reservation using AAA by calling WDW. You can also go on the AAA website and book a room only reservation there.
If you want a package, then you must deal directly with a AAA travel agent. As posted before make sure that you deal with one that is Disney specialist.

 

[MickeyEars]

I'm using one of the AAA agents here on the boards and I have been very pleased thus far.

Carla

 

[d4est]

i've been checking prices for Oct. 2006 and noticed that a garden view room is approx $85/nt booking through AAA rather than disney website. Why so much cheaper? I'm afraid if I book through AAA there may be problems and that will explain the cheaper price. Any problems w/AAA?

Do you mind sharing which resort you are looking at? Thanks.

 

[tkldisney]

I booked our Dec trip package with AAA and no problems at all. I've e-mailed any questions I have and have gotten very quick response to them all. They have been more than helpful. I went last week and picked up all my travel documents. My TA even said if I need anything else just ask.

 

[2ofUs]

We booked last year through AAA and were giving a Diamond Parking Pass. This allows us access to the SECOND best parking areas at each park - right next to the handicap spots. There are LIMITED spots available and you need to show your pass to the attendents at each park, but boy does it save some steps - and at the end of the day steps can REALLY add up.

These passes are ONLY available through AAA and ONLY when you book your trip through them. I assume it is an active/ongoing benefit.

Oh, and it is a YEARLY pass - at least it said 2005 and showed no expiration date.

 

[Steamboat Marti]

I'm not much help because I can't remember the whole story, but there is a DISer named Triplefigs that booked her trip through AAA - long story short, there was a HUGE problem, but has been fixed. The stress was unbelievable and unnecessary. I would PM Triplefigs if you want the whole story.

 

[DW mouser]

I had booked through disney travel and kept seeing posts about the savings you all were getting fromm AAA. Then, we got an advertisement in the mail that both my husband and I could join for $69 for a year so I deciced why not join, we can get that back on a few motel room discounts. Then I was on these boards and found Kristin Basnett, an AAA agent and I asked her to give me a quote!! I have a party of 7 and 3 rooms at POFQ and Kristin saved me $606.49!!! Boy, was I shocked and I am so glad that I joined AAA!! Then I also found out about the diamond AAA card and all the little perks!! I am going in Peak Season and there had been no discounts from Disney. If you need Kristin's e-mail its kbasnett@merrimack-valley.aaa.com Let me know if that doesn't work and I'll give you her phone number. She has helped several people on these boards.

 

[JerseyJ]

I've had no problems booking from AAA Mid Atlantic. Used an online specialist named Roseann Wassum who has been very knowlegeable & helpful. She has anticipated some of my questions before I've even asked them. She's made sure our specific requests are noted w/ disney & on our confirmation. She's also very good with returning phone calls & emails rapidly.

She even kept a handle on when our final payment was due & called to remind us. Called us back to let us know that Disney was unable to process our final payment due to Disney's computer system being down then recalled the next AM to advise that Disney's computer problem was resolved & payment now credited. Has gone the extra mile to advocate w/ Disney to get our documents & ME information (for our return trip), sent in advance as we are leaving our home address & arriving in Florida well before our checkin @ Disney. She has also handled our friends reservations & everything has gone smoothly for them too.

Her email address is: RWassum@aaamidatlantic.com
__________________

 

[bugbugmom]

I must also give kudos to kristen Basnett. I asked her for a quote and I recieved a reply in less than 30 minutes. Now, I must say what great service I plan on booking my families trip soon!

 

[DW mouser]

Sounds like we have two good AAA travel agents here!! This is so cool how everyone is so willing to help others save money!! I love this board!!