Is it better to book through CRO or go through a travel agent

[patches07]

My DH and I are going to WDW in September of 09 would like to know how you book your WDW vacation, do you go through CRO or go through a travel agent.

 

[Hootch]

A lot of people on these boards have experience and like to plan their own vacations. Even then I know some people that make plans and go to a travel agent anyway. First to see if the agent has codes to reduce costs and second to cultivate a relationship. It doesn't cost anything. Their are travel agents that will even do your ADRs. I saw one that does this gratis if they are booking the rest of your trip. They charge $35 if ADRs are the only thing.

If you are new to WDW, then a TA may be in your best interest. They can guide you through is is or isn't realistic, where value can be gained and have the latest on the ever changing Disney rules.

I kind of enjoy the planning process so I do the family plans and present them to my wife to ensure she agrees.

 

[ROEDISNEY]

I like to go through central res. When I book my own I feel like I am in control of my vacation. OCD ! Read these boards you will learn so much.
Have a great trip!

 

[Elmo888]

Some like to do their own reservations, and some don't like the hassle.

I like to do my own.

If you go with a TA, I would only use a Disney specialist TA. There is one mentioned on these boards and a different one that mousesavers.com recommends.

Have a great trip and happy planning!

 

[imthatgirl]

i like to use a travel agent for my room and tickets. it costs no extra money, but it could save you a ton. after youve booked your trip if any discounts become available your travel agent will notify you and apply it to your exsisting package. disney would never do that.
of course i dont book air or rental car through them.

 

[Native NYer]

I prefer CRO. I'm able to call and find out about my reservation without going through a travel agent.

 

[brockash]

I think it depends on your persality. We're going to Disney in September, and used a travel agent, but some problems came up with the airlines, and I ended up fixing the things she said she couldn't. I don't think we'll use a travel agent anymore (at least for Disney trips,) but I think it's more because I'm kinda a control freak with Disney. If you're not that farmiliar with how things work, you might want to try a TA (they know a good amount of info., and can you let you know about things that are going on during the time you'll be there; ex. free dining.)

 

[Kevenswife2]

I like to do all my planning and then give my plans to my travel agent. I spent a small fortune on long distance charges when I used to call CRO and be put on hold. My agent makes all my ADR's too. The money and time I save are a blessing to me...and I couldn't be happier with my agent!

Joe and Liz...I'm talking about you!

 

[pepe of ohio]

and never used a TA, nor on-line booking. We always call CRO, check the rates, add our codes or pins, ask a few questions and only maybe 2 ADR's. We do not do the dining plan and haven't ever been interested in a package and just book room only. This requires only a one night deposit, easy cancellation and take many 30 minutes total and we're in control of our reservation, very easy and efficient. We never change a our reservations, we pick our resort and stick with it and if a code comes out that's better than when we booked, we call CRO and see if it's a better savings.