Is There Any Need to "Shop Around" Different TA's - PassPorter - A Community of Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, and General Travel Forums
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It's been so many years since I used a TA...usually, I do all the research and planning because I find it to be fun.
However, I'm looking at making my first ever WDW trip next year (DL vet), and even though I've been unofficially planning this for a good 7-8 years, lol, I'm not sure I've stayed on top of all the tips that have been posted all these years.
I read on another thread that TA's should be able to offer pretty much what WDW offers, and possibly a little less. That being said, would different TA's be able to offer different discounts? I mean, if one person can save me $100, that's $100 more I can spend during my vacation.
Also, is it "ok" to request quotes for a trip and then not go with the TA? I just hate the idea of asking someone to go through so much work, and then I end up doing it myself, or through a different agency because I either find a better deal or find someone I click with a bit better, does that make sense? I've been trying to plan and price things on my own, but I'm looking to go to AAA to see what they can offer me. I'm also thinking of approaching a TA or two to see if I feel better with that approach, but I would feel bad if this is something that's not "acceptable" behavior, for lack of a better word.
All that being said, I'm also wondering how TA's handle their work. On the face of it, I think I would want to go with the TA who's most recommended, but if they're so great, then they must be super busy handling increased customers, hehe, so how do they handle their workload so that no one misses out on service, discounts, etc.?
Anyhow, would love to hear from all you wonderful experts out there!
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Each agency and agent are different so I can only speak for myself
Whether or not to use a TA is definitely a personal decision, one that's usually based on need and/or want. Some just want someone to handle all the details like making ADR's, checking park hours, making recommendations and perhaps even touring plans - for those, a TA can be a great time and (possibly) money saver. We'll look for any available discounts and keep checking should other offers become available.
Perhaps you're new to a certain destination and could use the advice and experience of a TA. Having 'been there, done that', TA's are a great sounding board for hints, tips and let you know if your plans (and perhaps expectations) are reasonable. We can let you know what's new, what's changed - what to see and what not to miss.
We get quote requests all the time from guests that are simply price shopping. It's something that we know, and to some point, expect. Your vacation is a huge investment of money and time and you're wise to check around. We invite you to ask questions and get a feel for who you'll be working with.
As far as being busy... we love to stay active and involved in your plans! We do try, however, to distribute our quotes and potential guests throughout our agents so no one has a heavy case load of guests traveling at the same time.
One thing to note is something I like to call the 'control factor' - when using a TA, keep in mind that the reservation and any changes to it must go thru the TA. You cannot call and check or make changes. If this is something you're not comfortable with (and some like to be totally in control of their vacation which is understandable) then perhaps making arrangements yourself would be a better option. You should have totally open lines of communication with your TA and anything that you need with regards to your reservation should be answered and handled promptly. They should send you copies of your confirmation and keep you updated with payment dates, ADR dates, etc.
Happy shopping! and happy planning!
__________________
Lynn
Yes, I am a Disney Addict... and I'd rather be cruising!.
Lynn gave you a great answer. We absolutely expect that people want to get the best deal on their vacation. Hey - going to Disney is not cheap and you want to get the most for your money!
In general, quotes from travel agencies may vary based on a couple of factors - availability of group space that the agency may have on hold or a special that they may be offering. This is usually something like receiving a $25 Disney gift card for booking or, in the case of the cruise, an on board credit. The most important this to double check is that you are comparing apples to apples - is one agency quoting insurance? That could very well be the $100 difference.
Great answers! It is also helpful to find a agent who specializes in the area you are traveling to. Most of us have access to a large amount of wholesalers to really help save you money.
Loyalty is a big thing too. If you have an agent who has treated you with exceptional customer service in the past, why not give them a chance at helping you out? 9 times out of 10 the agents price will be cheaper or the same as what you find on-line, plus you get all the customer service, before, during & after your trip.
One of my clients said it best, "I would rather give the commission to you than to a computer" (or Orbitz as it happened to be).
I hope you have a wonderful visit to the Happiest Place on Earth!
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