Sorry, I am confused!!! About This Page:

[scottjs]

What is the recommended way to book a trip?

In two years we are going to Walt Disney World again.

We know which motel we want (POFQ).

We know which airlines we want(United or Ted)

Do we go thru a travel broker here?

Do we go thru Disney??

Do we go Bananas?

What is the favorite method??

[dmpyron]

Full disclosure: I'm a travel agent.

I would really suggest going with an experienced Disney travel agent. Not all agents are Disney experts. I feel uncomfortable selling China, but WDW and Disneyland I can do in my sleep (more about that sleep thing in a minute). There are dozens of things to consider. You've been there before, but you may have forgotten something until she or he asks you. If not PO-FQ (our personal favorite), then what? How flexible are your dates? Do you want dining? Do you want insurance? Did you know that Disney insurance won't cover air unless you book it through them?

Then there's the service. That's what we're supposed to be providing. It's gotten to the point in the travel industry where the prices are pretty much set for everybody, with only a little wiggle room. One of my services is to get you your ADRs the first day they're available. Which means I have to get up rather early (at least for me, I like to wake up and have a late lunch). These are the sorts of things that a good, Disney experienced agent, can do for you. And there are plenty of us here.

[scottjs]

Thanks for your answer. We are fairly flexable as to what motel we stay at. But it will be on property and hopefully will be quiet at night. We want insurance and don't know if Disney(Or you) can book our airfare. We are not sure at all about the dineing thing!! Need to find out more on that. But this is only the start of our research!! I have to go look up what ADR means. Sorry, but I am new at this. scott

[MrsM]

Did you know that Disney insurance won't cover air unless you book it through them?

I just wanted to add that the travel insurance through Disney changed in the last few months and will cover airfare whether you book it through Disney or on your own.

And Scott, an ADR is an advance dining reservation.

[scottjs]

Thanks for the info Keri!!! I am going to look around to find a travel agent I feel comfortable with.

[Sheila Gallant-Halloran]

As Dillon and Keri's posts will attest, there are many travel agents who hang around here (me included) that are Disney specialists, and are great resources to address all your questions. I'd highly recommend. though, that you deal with a Disney travel agent (and I'd suggest any of the great folks around here) rather than go it alone.

You have nothing to lose, and everything to gain by working with a TA. You're still "in control" of your vacation - you're just accessing the great experience and training a TA has amassed - especially since it is done at no extra charge.

As Dillon mentioned, assistance with the ADRs is a key feature. But that comes after helping you sort thru the maze of resorts, ticket options, dining, insurance, etc. I'd highly recommend staying onsite because of the Extra Magic Hours alone (let alone being around Disney magic 24/7, free transportation around parks, free shuttles to and from the airport, being able to shop at parks/ charge stuff to your room account/ and have stuff sent back to your room, etc., etc.)

Another perk I provide my clients is a excel spreadsheet that I build for their vacation - I lay out the hours each park is open, which park has EMHs which day, what times the parades and fireworks are on at each park, etc. - and then plug in your dining ressies on top. You have everything in one spot to help plan your attack.

So, have fun, enjoy the planning. Disney is one spot you can go in "blind" (read, no advance planning) and have a wonderful time - BUT, if you do advance planning, and get help from a Disney TA, you'll have an absolutely fantastic time. (Why come back and have folks say, did you do "hoop dee doo" or "fantasmic", did your girls do "Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique" or your boys get gelled at the Barber Shop, etc., etc - and not even know that stuff had existed).