New here. ? about Travel Agents

[eileen2664]

Hi there.
I'm getting ready to book our first trip. Both Small World Vacations and Our Laughing Place impressed me with their quotes. Has anyone ever used either one of them??
Thanks

 

[kandmwedding]

I've heard good things about both. I personally use dreamsunlimitedtravel.com and have had nothing but success. They're sponsors of this board, which makes me like them even better!

 

[LukenDC]

I have used Magical Vacations www.wdwvacationplanners.com They are terrific and deliver top-notch service. They also offer special gifts to people who stay at deluxe resorts; see the TikiPlan on their website for details.

Happy planning!

 

[DisneyGeek2000]

Both Small World Vacations and Our Laughing Place impressed me with their quotes.

In what way were their quotes impressive?

Curious,

Michael

 

[eileen2664]

In what way were their quotes impressive?

Curious,

Michael

I requested quotes from several different agencies and they all came back with the same prices. These two impressed me not by what they said, but by the way they said it. They called me and my son by name, commented on my son's age (4) and mentioned a few things that he might enjoy, etc. It was the way they gave me personalized attention that set them above the rest in my mind.

 

[DisneyGeek2000]

Who else did you get quotes from?

I am beginning to plan for our 2006 trip, and am about to ask for quotes too.

Thanks!

Michael

 

[Tikiman]

I also use Magical Vacations. There are many great and knowledgeable travel planners so it is hard to go wrong. They all have access to the same prices so I go with who I am comfortable with and who gives the most added incentives.

 

[eileen2664]

Who else did you get quotes from?

I am beginning to plan for our 2006 trip, and am about to ask for quotes too.

Thanks!

Michael

I also got quotes from: dreams unlimited, AAA, Magical Journeys, Magic for less, and mouseketrips. AAA was higher for some reason, the rest all came back pretty much the same.

I just emailed Magical vacations and while she gave me the personal attention that I like her rates are bit higher. I sent her a response, hopefully she forgot to use a code or something. If she can get me the lower rates that the others can I might go with them b/c I've read alot of good reviews here (I had forgotten about them till today).

 

[DisneyGeek2000]

I also got quotes from: dreams unlimited, AAA, Magical Journeys, Magic for less, and mouseketrips. AAA was higher for some reason, the rest all came back pretty much the same.

Wow! and I think you are missing a few too!

 

[Savin4Disney]

I used Dreamsunlimited and I am very happy. We did have a few issues with ADR's but we got it all straightened out and I got everything I wanted.

What impressed me the most. Was when my sister decided to come with us. I was able to get her the same agent I used. Made it so much easier to plan ADR's with 4 people (2 seperate ressies). I did all the planning for both of us and Marla made it happen.

This is our first trip together so I wanted it to be great and in 5 days I know it will be!

 

[Disneynutbsv]

I've used Magical memories Travel and they were great. A lot of personal attention, very friendly, prompt with emails, they were great!!!

 

[Joan1]

I have used Small World Vacations a few times and have had no problems at all with them. I have been very happy

Here is another thread about them that you may want to read
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=940847

 

[groomtb]

anyone booked their package through agents for special occasions (wedding/honeymoon) and gotten free/discount room upgrade at checkin?

 

[Joan1]

anyone booked their package through agents for special occasions (wedding/honeymoon) and gotten free/discount room upgrade at checkin?

Someone correct me if I am wrong but I think that would be up to the resort and whomever assigns the room. It shouldn't matter who the reservation was booked through

 

[JuneCleaver]

I have used my TA exclusively for several years. As for personalized service, I find that it is the service after quote and booking that counts the most.

My TA offers suggestions on packing, child safety, restaurants, etc and is pretty much accessible 24/7. The last two trips my TA had my trip discounted and I was emailed before I even saw the discounts posted on the DIS.

When the new dining information and CRT changes came out a few weeks ago, I got an email first thing that morning telling me about the changes and new policies even though I do not have another trip booked as of yet.

Just like picking a doctor or any other service provider,a TA is very personal. I had shopped around before finding the agency I use. I found that talking to the agents gave me a better sense of what services they would provide and how accessible they would be rather than the first chatty email I got.

Good Luck picking an agency. It sounds like you have lots of choices. Just remember that all of the agencies you requested quotes from work on commission....you may wish to politely let them know you are no longer interested in the quote they provided so they do not continue to work on a quote that will not be booked!

June

 

[Dislvr]

You are very wise June Cleaver!

I guess that is why there is chocolate and vanilla ice cream--not everyone likes the same thing!

 

[Viki]

I'm using Magical Memories for two upcoming trips and they've offered fantastic group rates that can't be beat, not to mention prompt, considerate service!

 

[CM Tinkerbell]

I don't see them mentioned here too often, but I recently started using Wishes Travel after my sister in law used them and had a great experience. I have found their service to be top notch. I was always the type of person to plan everything myself, but I have finally found someone who I trust to handle the details for me.

 

[eclectics]

Another vote for Small World. They are the best around.

 

[macraven]

i have been going to disney for so long, i do all the travel arrangements myself.

if i knew a ta could better the prices i get, i would switch and work with them.