Using a TA..?

[missnic07]

I was just wondering if anyone has used a TA before to book their trip and if you found it useful?
I'm going to Disney next August and was thinking of using a TA, just because I'm nervous I won't be able to make the dining reservations etc myself (I wouldn't know where to start!). Apart from that what else do they do?

 

[navywifetill2002]

Used a TA last year and using her again this year. She will keep her eye out for the best rates and apply and discounts to my package without me having to call Disney myself. She suggests meals then makes ADRs for me on my 180 mark so I don't have to think about it. She helps with park suggestions and gather any information I ask for. Us she gives gift cards for booking with her and other fun gifts too. I love working with our TA!

 

[scoobydooby]

I would say UK travel agents tend to know almost nothing about how to book ADRs, so if that's your only reason for using one dump it and we will tell you how to do it here! It's actually easier to book ADRs yourself if you book direct with Disney, unless you opt for a US based agent who knows what they are doing.

Basically. You can book your ADRs at 180 days out. If you're staying in WDW property you can book at 180 days out plus the next 10 days, then at the 180 day mark for any remaining days. If you're staying off site you can book every day of your trip at 180 days out. Book on line or by calling up. It's that easy

Our first two WDW holidays I used a TA and they frustrated me as after reading the Unofficial Guide I knew a lot more than them. I have booked all subsequent trips DiY. Cheaper.

I do appreciate we are all different, so this is just my tale on it, but I would only use a US based Disney specialist now if I felt the need to use a Travel Agent.

 

[queendisney]

I would say UK travel agents tend to know almost nothing about how to book ADRs, so if that's your only reason for using one dump it and we will tell you how to do it here! It's actually easier to book ADRs yourself if you book direct with Disney, unless you opt for a US based agent who knows what they are doing.

Basically. You can book your ADRs at 180 days out. If you're staying in WDW property you can book at 180 days out plus the next 10 days, then at the 180 day mark for any remaining days. If you're staying off site you can book every day of your trip at 180 days out. Book on line or by calling up. It's that easy

Our first two WDW holidays I used a TA and they frustrated me as after reading the Unofficial Guide I knew a lot more than them. I have booked all subsequent trips DiY. Cheaper.

I do appreciate we are all different, so this is just my tale on it, but I would only use a US based Disney specialist now if I felt the need to use a Travel Agent.

yes def this...

The folks on here know loads more then any TA does....they are next to useless and have given out some dreadful information.

 

[missnic07]

Thanks for the replies.
Yea the ADRS was the main reason I wanted to use one..but it really doesn't sound that complicated now.
Thankyou!

 

[wayneg]

Used a TA last year and using her again this year. She will keep her eye out for the best rates and apply and discounts to my package without me having to call Disney myself. She suggests meals then makes ADRs for me on my 180 mark so I don't have to think about it. She helps with park suggestions and gather any information I ask for. Us she gives gift cards for booking with her and other fun gifts too. I love working with our TA!

UK travel agents don't work like that unfortunately, they don't work for the client, they are there to make as much much money as possible for the agency. The prices they give are fixed at purchase, high fees to alter bookings usually mean its not worth making any changes.
They also have very little knowledge of Disney parks, zero knowledge of ADR's etc.
As said we know more on here than most UK agents, some specialists may be able to help but the High st agent is generally a waste of time and money.

 

[Elise79]

UK TAs don't offer the same services the US Disney agents do.

I do use a Dreams Unlimited if I booked a US reservation as it is easier for me to have them communicate with me by email than having to call Disney. I still book my own ADRs they just watch for discounts for me.

 

[darthtatty]

making adr's is a fairly easy process.
I know its some way away but familiar yourself with the website before you plan to make any.
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/reservations/dining/

you will need your US reference number to make your +10 (if you stay onsite)
you can get that from whoever you book.
Some very popular restaurants may need a credit card guarantee.

There's loads on here, who can help you with your adr's if needed

 

[missnic07]

Thanks for the replies! Took the plunge and booked it myself