Won't go Through Dreams Unlimited again..

[Chicago526]

I am actually thinking of taking the class to become a certified travel agent - not for career purposes, but so that I can have more control over our own plans! Is that insane? And discounts wouldn't be half bad either...
In laws actually told me I was crazy - that NO ONE uses a travel agent any more so that this class was a waste of time.

First off, in order to get travel agent discounts, you have to work full time for a travel agency. Not even part timers get discounts. Also, the discount ain't so hot any more for most places, although they are good with Disney.

Second, lots of people still use TA's. Studies have been done that prove TA's consistantly beat the internet for package pricing. And while most people feel fine about forking over $300 for an airline ticket to a computer, most want more hand holding for larger $$$ packages.

 

[ILoveWDW2003]

I am actually thinking of taking the class to become a certified travel agent - not for career purposes, but so that I can have more control over our own plans! Is that insane? And discounts wouldn't be half bad either...
In laws actually told me I was crazy - that NO ONE uses a travel agent any more so that this class was a waste of time.

Before you do anything, read this http://www.hometravelagency.com/ and join his newsletter, and I would purchase his course before taking any classes. I HIGHLY recommend it, it cuts thru a lot of the bull and tells it like it is. I would spend the money on his course/books before attending any classes to become 'certified'.

 

[paulmc80]

Things do happen. Unfortunately when it involves an agent, travel or otherwise, there is a middleman involved. Makes it very difficult for the client to deal with the product/service provider.

I've used DU for three DCL cruises and hotel reservations. They have always replied to me promptly. Of course, I have never had to make a cancellation. I do have to say though that last September when our cruise was affected by a hurricane they did do their best to keep us informed. They got in touch with me even at last minute notice. I truly do appreciate the effort that took.

Glad your situation is being, or has been handled.

 

[FanofTink]

I'm sorry you encountered poor service from DU - even though it seems it was the lost fax monster at work . Anyway, we are on our second vacation being planned through DU. Beth is our TA and she is great. We had to totally rehaul our August vacation as we moved from 4 people to 5 - had to change resorts totally! She was great and made all of the changes within a day of my requests. She has also obtained CRT and a Specialty Birthday cruise for our party (celebrating 2 birthdays and 20th wedding anniversary) during the week we are there.

To provide stellar service, the TA should have followed up! You can't blame the "fax monster". Hotels provide cancellation numbers to avoid the very situation described.

 

[dgaston]

I used DU for our Feb Magic cruise, partly to support the DISboards, and also because they responded promptly to my request for a quote, several days before other TA did. Sue Ellen helped us with a snag in the reservation, and also booked our REAS package. I really enjoyed not having to call DCL and struggle with booking Palo, the massage, and brunch. So when the dining plan came out, I asked DU for a quote and Sue Ellen remembered our name and "pulled" the reservation. It's not a complicated trip with many ARs or special requests, but I am enjoying the services of DU. And I feel good about using an agency that supports the DIS.