First Call to MS for Reservations

[Hopefully]

Hello Experts!
Monday will be my first call to MS to book our first trip Home since becoming members.
We are looking for a 2 bedroom BCV for October 17th - October 24th 2009. I know that I need to make any room requests at this time. Our requests are usually minimal. I like a balconey off of the Master Bedroom, so I usually request that, and maybe a Pool/Canal view.
We will be doing the DDP, so should I inform MS of this now? We will also use ME, but I have no idea of flight info at this point. Do I tell them on this call?
We have banked 2008 points which I want used first, then supplemented to the total required with 2009 points. Do I have to spell that out too?
What other things do I need to ask/tell MS?
I am very excited and very nervous at the same time.
Any input/suggestions are greatly appreciated.
TIA

 

[Mtnman44]

Relax and enjoy. While new and exciting for you, your call is very routine for them. The only thing you MUST do on the call is book the room. If you have a good idea on booking categories that you want (if applicable) that will help but you could also simply ask what is available to choose from when you call. You can have them add DDP during that call or wait and call later, it is up to you. Ditto for the ME reservations. I'd prefer to book ME after I had flight information. DVC members can use an easy form on the member website to book ME. I'd recommend doing it around 2 months or so prior to your trip.

It's not a bad idea to confirm that banked points are being used first, although it has never yet been a problem for me.

Enjoy. Now comes the hard part...waiting a year for your trip.

 

[DebbieB]

I usually just book the room on the first call, sometimes add a request. You'll need the names and addresses of all the people in the room but can add them later if you want.

Be sure to confirm your point balances after they are done. That is the easiest way to catch an error. Most cm's will automatically give it to you, but be sure to figure it out ahead of time and be sure they match.

 

[Disney Doc]

Also know what type of 2-BR unit you want. At BCV, you may book lockoff, dedicated, and dedicated 2Q rooms.

 

[CraftyMouse]

Remember that MS is open all weekend. There's no need to wait until Monday!

Enjoy that first call. I still remember what it felt like!

 

[DebbieB]

Remember that MS is open all weekend. There's no need to wait until Monday!

Enjoy that first call. I still remember what it felt like!

The reservation is for 10/17/09, they have to wait until Monday (11/17/08).

 

[Hopefully]

Thanks for all your replies.
Yes I have to wait until Monday and I will unfortunately be at work.
How critical is it that I call at exactly 9 AM for a 2 Bedroom BCV during Food & Wine? If I called later in the morning/early afternoon would I be okay?
Also I think I have read that there is no longer an "Epcot View" available to book. Is this true? We actually like a view of the canal, do you know what this would be called?
Thanks for the help.

 

[DebbieB]

I don't think 9:00 is critical in your case. Although I called yesterday at exactly 9:00 and got right through, no wait.

BCV doesn't have view categories to book. They are just requests, so you can call it canal view.

 

[jerseygal]

We will be using Developer Points for our 09 Trip and probably banking regular 09 points...

When I call MS for "next booking" do I specify to MS to use our "banked points" FIRST???????????????? Do they automatically know to do that as procedure?

Much thanks!