Package questions

[leeann32]

We are planning on going to US/IOA for the 1st time June 2010. My husband can't pick his vacation dates until November, so not sure which week it will be yet. I've been looking at the current packages offered at the RPR, it looks like you get a discounted room rate and 2 adult & 1 child ticket included in the room price. That's a great deal!
My question is, should I hold out until November and hope for free tickets with room rate, or book room now and buy the $99 7 day unlimited ticket? I'll take all the advice you have to give me! I'm starting to feel overwhelmed and a little confused

 

[macraven]

i have been going to universal since 1992 at least once a year.

in all that time, i have only booked with a package one time.


it is seldom that a package deal is better than booking everything separately.


if you have the AAA card, you can get a very good rate for the onsite hotels.
I pay $40 a year for my AAA membership and i use it for many places.
on line shopping discounts, restaurants, other hotels when i travel, car service, etc.
the universal orlando on site hotels honor the AAA for a decent discount.
you also get 10% off food and merch in the parks with it.

the annual pass also gives a good discount for the hotels.


when you book your stay on site, you can always modify the rate later.
you book at rack rate and lower that costs when discounted rates come out at the beginning of the year.

you can't go wrong with the 7 day ticket promo.

if you break down what everything in the package would cost, you usually see that it does cost more.

if you book soon and pay rack rate, modify your rate, you don't pay another deposit then.
in booking, all you pay is one night's charge for the deposit.

 

[leeann32]

Thank you for that information! This is all new to me, I feel overwhelmed at all the options
I just want to get a good deal!

 

[jasliv]

looking to go to Universal and Sea World in Nov. 2009 - any suggestions on hotels?

 

[leeann32]

Hardrock and Portofino have bigger rooms, but I love the look of the Royal Pacific though. We need to get 2 connecting rooms, so we will probably stay at the Royal Pacific.Looks very relaxing.
I read through some trip reports, they have great pictures!

 

[damo]

I would purchase the hotel directly through Loews www.loewshotels.com and the tickets through www.universalorlando.com

That way, if any lower rates come up, it is easy to just call loews and have the rate changed.

 

[leeann32]

I can change my dates too, right?

 

[damo]

I can change my dates too, right?

Yes, as long as you are not closer than 5 days of your check-in.