Those that use DU, may I ask some questions?

[jenjersnap]

How do you forge an individual relationship with a DU TA? OR, maybe, it should be CAN you? Do you go straight to them when you want a quote or do you still have to go through their automated system each time?

Frankly, I have been a little disenchanted with DU's system while trying to book upcoming cruises. I've got two booked and was considering a third - despite putting the name of the TA 1 on each of the subsequent quotes as they request, I've gotten a different TA each time. Then, when I discussed with TA 1 that I would like to add some land days at WDW I was told that I needed to book that through yet another TA. So, basically, it seems like they won't let me have ONE point person for my trips which would make it easier for me and make me feel like there is somebody at DU that is at least slightly invested in my vacation and will go to bat for me getting discounts when they appear. Let me make clear that every contact I have had with DU has been fine but I am looking for a more personal touch, I guess.

The upshot here is that I want to book in early October at the YC/BC and I really, really hope to get some sort of AP discount. I understand that will be difficult so I really need someone skilled on my side - how do I find this person?! I also hope to find someone that would understand my list of alternates (we'd take the Poly, if we didnt get a discount at YC/BC and the Poly did have one) and apply them, if necessary, on the first morning that discounts are announced. Is that too much to ask (and that is not rhetorical! I really want to know if my expectations are too high and it might be better just to stick to doing it myself since my situation is relatively complicated).

Thanks for any insight into how the DU process has worked for you personally!

 

[rcraw45425]

PMing you

 

[TammiMcMan]

I've booked both Disney cruises and land vacations through Dreams Unlimited and you're correct, they are handled very differently. With the cruise, they use more of a team approach and they are not the same agents as those that handle the land portion. I think it's basically because there's really not a lot that needs to be done with the cruise. For our resort vacations, I've built a great relationship with Susan Haass, but everyone that I've spoken to at DU has been fantastic. You can deal with any travel agency, but these folks really do share our love for all things Disney. I have Susan's e-mail address and I've been able to correspond with her directly. She's given great advice and there's always been a smiley in her post, even when I'm asking for my second or third change in a row or discount request. I'll soon start working on my fifth Disney vacation with Dreams. I've had great success and highly recommend them.

Tammi

 

[Kallison]

I send into website for a quote, when we decide to put down our money I request Cathy Miller. Always have gotten her and she is great.

 

[goofy4tink]

I've used Shirley several times now. I send in for a quote, they send one back with an agents name assigned but ask if there is a specific agent I would like to use. I always ask for Shirley. I then send her an email to tell her I'm booking again. So she keeps her eyes open. Has always done a great job for us. For someone we've never met in person, we're awfully fond of her!!

 

[3Mousketeers]

I'm using Sue Ellen at DU for the first time. It is funny how you develop this relationship with someone you only know via e-mail. She is doing a wonderful job planning our trip to the AKL - lots of great suggestions!

 

[square pond]

We are using Beth. I can't believe how understanding she is even though she probabley wishes she could RIP out her hair because of all the questions and changes I send her! She has gotten us discounts and is always very prompt in emailing us back! Thank you Beth!!