Use Travel Agent or Book on Own?

[MissLori]

We are taking a trip to Universal in November, possibly staying on site, suggestions? Do you use a travel agent to get a good deal or book on your own? Do the Universal properties include tickets for everyone (we are a family of 5, 2 teenagers, 1 younger)? What about transportation? We prefer not to have the expense of a car if we can get away without one. Looking to travel like Nov. 15-20 then head to Tampa to visit family.

Any suggestions as to where to stay, good, bad or otherwise?

Thanks so much! Flights are filling fast so were looking to make ressies soon!

 

[macraven]

We are taking a trip to Universal in November, possibly staying on site, suggestions? Do you use a travel agent to get a good deal or book on your own? Do the Universal properties include tickets for everyone (we are a family of 5, 2 teenagers, 1 younger)? What about transportation? We prefer not to have the expense of a car if we can get away without one. Looking to travel like Nov. 15-20 then head to Tampa to visit family.

Any suggestions as to where to stay, good, bad or otherwise?

Thanks so much! Flights are filling fast so were looking to make ressies soon!

i don't use a travel agent, i do it all myself.

many here can help you with your plans.

i need to break down all your questions since there are quite a few.

if you have AAA, you can get a decent discount on rooms for the on site hotels, tickets for the parks, 10% off food and merch, etc.

if you are staying for a lengthy time on site, you might want to explore buying one ap for yourself and be able to use it for the group w/ dining and merch, room, etc. only one person needs the ap for the discounts.

rooms on site will hold 5 people.
pbh is the largest room size and with different choices of room types.
they have been in the middle of the pack for costs.

hrh is the closest to the parks and still a good size room
they have been costing the most per night recently. prices can flexuate for the hotels so this could change.

rph has the most rooms for a hotel but the rooms i think would be crowded for 5 people. jmo here.

all have lovely grounds.

you do not need transportation if you stay on site to do the parks, hotels, seaworld, water park. UO provides shuttle service to water park and seaworld.
i have to reread your post to see what i forgot to address

 

[goofie4goofy]

We book on our own too....it's very easy a TA is not needed.

Tickets are notincluded in the price of your on site hotel room.....with your on site room key you get unlimited front of the line access. The best value is to buy your park tickets on line for $85.00 per person. It includes 7 days park admission unlimited access to both parks. If you go to www.universalorlando.com you will find all the info you need as far as room rates and availability and package deals for your specific dates. You can always book and if the rates change they will modify it for you.

By not using a TA, you have total control over your reservations. TA's do not necessarily get you the best rate. However, this board is the best place for all information on rates.