Best way to book a trip?

[NurseMinnieSk]

I usually book through expedia, but this time we go we are wanting to stay on site. What is the best/cheapest way to book this? Expedia? Through Disney? Airfare/Hotel seperately? I'm also trying to rent DVC points. Any advice would be great!

Also, if we want to head out to Universal, are there shuttles from the Disney resorts? Or do we need to rent a car?

 

[sam_gordon]

My .02...

1) If you want a "standard" (ie: non-DVC) room, go to one of the "Disney specialist" TA... Small World Vacations, Dreams Unlimited, Magical Journeys. I'm pretty sure all three will keep an eye out for discounts and apply them to your reservation. If you use Expedia/Travelocity/Disney/AAA, I'm pretty sure YOU need to watch for discounts, AND try to get them applied before they run out. Small World (and the others I think) can also help you get ADRs.
2) I would definately do Airfare separately. Depending on how far out you are, you might be able to book your Disney stay before airfare is available for booking.
3) We are renting DVC points for the first time for our stay next year. I suggest looking at the DVC rental section at Dis, and going to **************** also. The only bad thing about Dis is renters can't start a thread about what/when they want to rent. At *********** you can.
4) I don't believe there are shuttles from WDW to Universal. You can rent a car, hire a car service, or get a taxi.

 

[Angela0917]

When we went last year we booked through AAA because at the time we booked there were no disney promos, and I figured if nothing came out we at least had our AAA discount. I did watch for new promos and the free 3 nights ended up being released during our stay so our AAA agent changed it so we could get that. We always do air seperately.

We are renting points for the first time for our upcoming trip! We're staying at Old Key West for 4 nights for $360! We were originally booked to stay at Port Orleans French Quarter and get free dining, but it ended up being cheaper for us to rent points for OKW, buy tickets through Undercover Tourists, and pay to add on the dining plan.

 

[csharpwv]

Going through an agent gives you a piece of mind -

I just became a travel agent to help people get the most out of their vacations - since I had a few friends who went to Disney and had a miserable time - I wanted to help people get the most out of their money - AND - their time at Disney!

Agents do watch for the best deal - and know how to work a package to get the most out of your resources!

If you have any questions - PM me!

 

[Ericandjenng]

The best way to book depends on your comfort level. I book all my own stuff whether it's Disney or anything else. BUT, my DM took us on vacation every year while I was growing up to many places. Then she & I took many cruises while I was a young adult. So I have extensively travelled & even taken travel agent classes (but I am not an agent) and therefore very comfortable taking care of all the details.

Also I am a DVC owner and actually rented quite a few points to others earlier this year but before I did so, I read EVERYTHING that was available about the subject in the DVC Rental primer section and other stuff that the Moderators recommended. Almost all of the time, it is a great way to save money and stay in the Deluxe resorts. Just remember, if anything about the process makes you uncomfortable or just doesn't seem right, DON'T go through with it. Pick another person to rent from.

When I was renting my points, I kept up with my thread. I answered people in the order that they contacted me and I checked on the ressie requests in a very timely manner. I also offered a written contract up front and followed through on everything that I said I would do. I also talked on the phone with my renters and answered their questions so that they would be comfortable and get that I would stand behind my word.

So far, my first renter has had enjoyable vacation, they even made me a card after with some of their pics. They look like they had so much fun! My second renter will actually be there shortly and we will cross some of the time. We are trying to plan to meet in person--our kids are similar in ages.

Good Luck!