What method do you all use for booking? Why?

[ajblbv]

I have been out of WDW planning for a couple years, finally get to return, and I am buying an AP so I will have to get my use out of it

However, 407 WDISNEY has left me with a horrible taste in my mouth, the operators are hard to understand, the numerous prompts are annoying, and the people just simply aren't helpful.

I called two days ago to see what AP rate rooms were available 9/21-9/23, found out Saratoga Springs had something, and then I called back the next day to book it. On my second call I asked the same question, what is available? I was told nothing, and the operator acted like I was annoying her by asking to check the various hotels, then when I specifically asked about the Saratoga rate again she said, oh you're lucky I just found something. Now I do consider myself lucky because it is such short notice for the trip and it is a good rate, however, she initially told me she checked everywhere and that nothing was available. So if I hadn't specifically asked I would not have known, so the best I can gather is she did not truly check.

Sorry, needed to vent a little bit, but it brings me to my point of how do most of you prefer to book your vacations? Travel agents, yourselves, a combination? I seem to recall that there was a better number to dial to speak to helpful people that was different from 407 WDISNEY but I can't find anything about it, or I am overlooking it. Am I just imagining that? Thanks guys.

 

[califred]

We've only stayed on site once I and used Dreams Unlmited. It was great b/c she got us our military room rate, and booked all our ADRs and even was able to get my son the Pirate Cruise. I did little work but tell her where we wanted to eat when.

When we go back (hopefully spring 2009) I will do the same.

 

[canwegosoon]

I like to book it myself which means using WDW Travel...but Dreams Unlimited is excellent to. I think if I were in your shoes I would try them.

 

[lustergirl]

always book on the disney website and if I have questions or need to modify something I will call Disney Travel- never had any problems with them!!!

 

[mx55mom]

I have used rhonda@dreamsunlimitedtravel.com twice and I am making reservations with her for a third time. She is wonderful and their prices are the same as I was quoted from AAA. The quotes I have gotten from WDW are always more than what I get from DU.

 

[stephgles]

This is the first time I have ever used a TA. I had such a horrible experience I will never use a TA again. We leave on the 16th and I am so affraid have problems I am going to run into. I have booked through Disney's website every other year and just dont know why I tried it this way.

Live and learn.

 

[MrsJ Henry]

I always call Disney directly.

 

[Mickiethepooh]

What is available changes from minute to minute there is no reason to think she was lying nor was there any reason to assume that something you called about yesterday and did not book would still be there today. I either book online or call the W Disney line as you did and if I don't get someone I like I call back. I agree the prompts are a pain, especially if you are using your cell phone minutes to make the call.
But the availablility does change all the time. I used to work in reservations, though not at Disney and that is how it works.

 

[Disney Von Drake]

What is available changes from minute to minute there is no reason to think she was lying nor was there any reason to assume that something you called about yesterday and did not book would still be there today. I either book online or call the W Disney line as you did and if I don't get someone I like I call back. I agree the prompts are a pain, especially if you are using your cell phone minutes to make the call.
But the availablility does change all the time. I used to work in reservations, though not at Disney and that is how it works.

I agree. I'll also add, if the information you get doesn't add up or sound right, then hang up and call back. Repeat the process as necessary until you get someone that is helpful.

The problem is that the reservationist can't tell you about any real deals. They can just recite the company spiel. They aren't there to help you save money (though they may attempt to make you think that is the case).

You've got to know the available deals before you call. You should already know the answers to all the questions before you ask them.

 

[ajblbv]

You guys are right, and I try to keep that in mind, but it was her attitude that upset me. I do realize things are constantly changing.

Oh well, looks like I opted for the most cost effective way doing it myself.

Thanks guys

 

[Chester's Mum]

At least you won't be paying for the call. Try again, sometimes you'll get someone better.

 

[APK]

I Use Expedia.com...............i Always Book Late To Get The Lowest Room Rate..........last Year I Booked The Cbr For Only $99.00 A Night. They Buy "blocks Of Rooms" And When They Are Not Selling They Discount Them Heavily. However, You May Not Get The Resort You Want And Have To Take "pot Luck"