No travel agent

[bbogz]

Okay. I'm a bit nervous having never done this before-booking on my own, but I think we can save money here. Can anyone help me with some info. I have always used a travel agent and have never gone directly to Disney reservations, but the codes look tempting. I am assuming that in order to get the best rates we should book the rooms, etc ourselves rather than using a TA. Where do I begin?

 

[RobinMarie]

I really wouldn't hesitate to try:

www.dreamsunlimitedtravel.com

they will work to get you the lowest price available to you, it will save you the cost of the phone call, and they will make PS for you!

They got me CRT PS twice this year!

 

[dcedwards]

You can book it on your own, if you want. I used to do that but use DU now. If you decide to book it on your own:
1) Get the codes off of mousesavers or I think they may be on these boards someplace.
2) Call CRO and give them your dates and the code.
3) See what they tell you.
4) If you like the price then book the reservation.
5) They will require that you pay one night's deposit. You can cancel with no penalty up to 5 days prior.
6) You will get a written confirmation in the mail with a reservation ID number. Check it over careful to make sure the dates, price, etc. are all correct.
7) Keep checking the boards to see if you can get a better price.
8) Call CRO when you see a better code and change it to that code if available.

Now that I am using DU this is what I do:
1) Fill out the reservation form on their website.
2) Wait for them to send me a qoute.
3) Accept the reservation and pay the deposit.
4) Receive an email from my travel agent.
5) Receive an email from my DU agent when a new code comes out ... saying he found a new code and he went ahead and changed it ... saving me $700.
6) Tell DU agent where I want to eat and when. They make priority seatings for me.
7) Prior to leaving print out my DU itinerary which has all my PS confirmation numbers, times parks are open and any special events, etc.

For us, it is easier to go through DU. They have been wonderful....and have saved me lots of money both years I've used them.

 

[confal1]

travelocity.com has the new code rates implemented right in so you don't even need the code. Just put in your dates and if you keep scrolling down you will hit the promotional rates. Good Luck. Also I went through a travel agent and they can get you the same discount if it is still available for the dates you want.

 

[jeank74]

bbogz,

Earlier this year, I was debating between whether I should do it myself or use Dreams Unlimited. Then, I chose to do it mysefl.


But But But But But.....

I finally gave up because of all the details that I have to watch out for. Also, I have heard horrible stories about how CMs at CRO or WDTC mess people's reservations up due to a couple new CMs the company is hiring over the summer. So, I contacted Dreams Unlimited and transfered my res over without any hassle.

Today, I had a full day of classes. But because of my amazing Dreams Unlimited Agent, Rob, I was able to sit in my class and still got the discount!! (thanks Rob!)

Not only that, the agent will give you personal tip and advice on your trip, make PS for you, and the service is FREE!



Dreams Unlimited Rock!

 

[gepetto]

Just call 407-WDISNEY and give them the code and your travel dates. They send you a yellow confirmation sheet in the mail and you mail them a deposit or call with a credit card number.

 

[bbogz]

Yikes. I may just call my TA today. Friend is coming over this afternoon and we will be making our ressies. I will try calling CRO for quotes and as long as they give a package, we may go with them. Wish me luck.

 

[Samsma]

Or you could also join DisSavers. I have joined but haven't used them yet. You research you best price, or actually make res. with CRO, then they can switch to DisSavers. They rebate the 10% fee to you, and are still supposed to watch for discounts. I think it's 49 to join (not sure at all). Depending on where you stay and for how long, your 10% could be much more than that.

 

[erikthewise]

Last year I did it all myself, and this year I'm 100% confident I could do it again, but I am using a travel agent for some parts, including room. So far I'm very pleased. It doesn't cost me anything, the TA gets a commission, and she is even more compulsive than I am!

 

[eeyore0062]

We always do everything ourselves, from the flight to airport transfers, to the hotels to the priority seating, and it takes less than 1/2 hour to do everything, and can save you a bundle. Plus, no middle man. What I hate is having to make any changes through a travel agent, and not being able to talk to the people at Disney myself.

For flights, you can either go to the airline, or one of the discount sites, like Orbitz. You can also make your airport transfer or rental car ressies there, as well.

For ressies with the codes for the resorts, either use the codes posted here, or as someone else suggested, go to mousesavers.com. Get the code, call (407) WDISNEY and make your ressie with the code, writing down everything the CM tells you, plus his/her name for future reference.

Then go to WDWIG.com and look at the menus for the restaurants. Call (407) WDW DINE at the appropriate times and make your ressies.

It really is easy, and you are in control of everything. Gives you a real feeling of satisfaction, and saves you money as well. Once you do it the 1st time, you will never want to use a travel agent again!

 

[pattyT]

I actually initially booked through an agent.
Then my friend introduced me to these boards and I couldn't believe the money I was throwing away!
I called my TA and talked to her - I made changes through her by giving her the codes and I have upgraded to Wilderness Lodge and STILL saved 20 a night on hotels. I also changed from 10 day to 7 day pass saving another 250ish.
I have the comfort of dealing with my agent and still saved the money!

 

[princess angel]

Hi bbogz!
Very often a travel agent costs nothing extra to you, and will also get the best rate possible for you. If it is stressful to plan on your own, you should use an agent. Vacation is suposed to be all about relaxing, fun and no stress
I sent you a PM.

Have a great day

Laura

 

[bbogz]

Wish me luck. My friend will be here any minute and we are going to book our vacation. I think we are going to try CRO first. I just hope we can get some good rates.

 

[travelgoddess]

I am a TA, We use the Disney codes all the time. We actually get them faxed to our office before the general public gets them. Let the professionals handle it, give your TA your room request and let her take the responsibility. Make sure your TA is a Disney specialist. We go through some extensive onsite training, plus I have a love for Disney. Good luck to you