Planning a trip to Disney is an exciting endeavor. It’s filled with dreams of magical experiences and unforgettable moments. However, the sheer magnitude of options and logistics involved can be overwhelming! That’s where using a travel planner for Disney World is a HUGE benefit.
Utilizing a professional to assist you in organizing your Disney World adventure can be a game-changer! Here are all the ways a professional can help you.
Table of contents
What is a Travel Planner?
A travel planner is another title for travel agent. The term travel advisor is also used. Whatever title an individual chooses to use, the role of a planner/agent/advisor is to book your vacation and help you make the necessary plans for a successful trip.
Travel experts often work one of two ways. They can be fully independent, meaning they own their agency, licensing and brand or they work independently under contract with a larger agency. Either way, planners work for themselves whether they are connected to an agency or not. They have contracts with but do not work for the destinations and properties they sell.
Training
A travel “niche” is a specific type of travel or destination such as all-inclusive vacations, cruising or Disney destinations, etc. In the case of Disney destinations, an agent goes through training by Disney annually on the many components of building a vacation package. In addition, a travel advisor will work with several destination products including cruise lines, all-inclusive resorts and more, but specialize in a one type of travel.
In addition, a travel planner who specializes in Disney destinations should have extensive first-hand experience of traveling to the parks and by doing so, understand the products, tools and nuances of a trip to a Disney destination.
The Disney company does NOT directly employ travel planners. There is no such thing as a “Disney Travel Agent”! However, an agent/agency such as DizN Vacations that specializes in Disney travel can become authorized and “Earmarked”. This designation is given to leaders in brand expertise, agency training, and quality customer service.
How Do Travel Planners Get Paid
The Price
As mentioned above, travel planners are contracted by destinations such as Disney to book vacations. Planners work on commission through that contract. Your travel expert is paid a percentage of the cost of a trip by the destination itself, not by the client. That commission is only paid after a client travels.
The cost of commission is built into the price of a Disney vacation package. In other words, there is no difference in cost whether you book a trip yourself or with a travel expert. However, by using a travel planner that specializes in Disney destinations, you get far more for the same price.
Optional Fees
Some agents do charge additional fees particularly for services outside of quoting and booking a vacation. In the case of Disney travel, an agent might choose to charge for multiple quote requests, extensive itinerary planning, advanced reservations, or any service beyond booking and building a basic package.
photo: @bizzy.runninganddizn
Planning fees are up to the discretion of the individual agent and often based on the amount of time and work that goes into building your vacation.
Travel Planners Specializing in Disney
Disney properties are complex destinations. There are over 15 resort hotels on Disney World property in addition to Good Neighbor Hotels. In addition, there are 4 theme parks, 2 waterparks, 4 golf courses, Disney Springs and a multitude of activities.
Meanwhile, Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California is still a daunting destination but on a much smaller scale. The property has 2 theme parks- Disneyland Park and California Adventure, Downtown Disney, 3 Disney owned hotels, and several Good Neighbor resorts surrounding it. Whether you’re planning a vacation to World or Land, the variable components to building a trip are still in play.
In addition, advanced dining reservations, Disney dining options, what time of year to travel, promotions, and magical extras can play a big part of planning a magical Disney World vacation. Having an expert in your corner can make all the difference.
Everyone has a different budget for their Disney vacation. Everyone has their own expectations when it comes to traveling to a magical place. Working with a travel planner can help you meet those expectations without breaking your budget. On top of that, Disney has introduced the use of technology and other tools including Disney Genie+ to help you have a better experience. Travel planners who specialize in Disney can help you better understand those tools.
Big News For 2024
*Update: On July 24, 2024, Disney Genie+ will transition to Lightning Lane Multi Pass allowing guests to pre-schedule Lightning Lane reservations ahead of their vacation.
Individualized Service
Choosing a Disney Resort
As mentioned above, Disney World is home to over 15 resort hotels. The hotels are broken into 3 categories:
On the opposite coast of the continental United States, Disneyland has 3 owned resort hotels:
All of the resorts offer a unique experience and no 2 are exactly the same. There are many factors to consider when choosing a resort for your stay and an experienced travel planner who specializes in Disney destinations is your greatest ally when it comes to choosing the right one for you.
In some cases, guests can choose to have a split stay at Disney World resort. In simple terms you can book half your stay at one hotel and the other half at a second resort. You can save money and gain deluxe level benefits by booking part of your stay at a value resort and part at a deluxe level hotel.
As a travel planner, it’s my job to get a full understanding of your budget, the space and amenities you’re looking for as well as help you understand your options based on that information.
Theme Park Days
Disney World has 4 theme parks:
At Disneyland Resort, guests can visit 2 theme parks: Disneyland Park and Disney’s California Adventure Park.
Each theme park offers guests an amazing experience. However, all travel parties prioritize those experiences differently. Your travel planner should have a clear understanding of your expectations inside the Disney Theme Parks. Moreover, an advisor can help guide you to which type of ticket will work best for you and your loved ones.
You theme park tickets and itineraries can be customized to suit your budget and meet your needs with the use of a travel planner.
Magical Extras
Disney properties are way more than just theme parks! The activities available are vast! Your travel planner, who specializes in Disney destinations will introduce you to many options available to guests on Disney property. The benefit of having clear communication with you travel professional is customizable components. You may not realize how much is available to you. Here’s a quick look at just a few options:
- Caring for Giants
- Disney Springs
- Sangria University
- No Theme Park Ticket Required
- Magical Extras at Disney World
Those are just examples.
Adding a few magical extras to your time during a Disney vacation is like the icing on the cake! In many cases, these extra special experiences are outside the theme parks and don’t require an expensive ticket. A travel professional can help build the perfect mix of park days and magical extras for your perfect Disney vacation.
Disney Dining
Let’s be honest! Food on vacation is big deal! The choices at Disney destinations run the gamete. A travel advisor who specializes in Disney vacations will help you make the right choices and plans. Your travel professional will point you in the best direction.
When you build a relationship with a travel planner, they will be able to guide you in advanced dining reservations and grab and go options that are worth your while based on your preferences.
- Are you interested in Character Dining Experiences
- Do you prefer table service or quick service?
- How to Mobile Order
- Are either of the Disney Dining Plans worth the cost for your travel plans?
photo: @bizzy.runninganddizn
Lastly, travel agents who specialize in Disney vacations are knowledgeable about how to direct clients with special dietary needs and restrictions. Both US Disney properties are excellent at providing a wide range of options for alternative dietary needs. Your travel planner can provide you with direction on how to meet these special circumstances and give you confidence on your trip.
The Time to Travel
What time of year will best suit your plans? Different times of year mean different Disney vacation experiences. Based off of your personal schedule, your priorities and how you want to experience the parks will determine when the best time is to visit Disney theme parks.
Perhaps you are interested in the RunDisney event weekends. Reaching out to a travel professional to help plan your run-cation might be your best bet! As a RunDisney participant myself, I help plan trips for fellow runners for these events. The experience and knowledge make me an asset to my client’s success.
Special events at Disney resorts can also help determine when you want to visit. Whether you want to attend Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party or experience the Holiday Season magic, your travel professional will help you make the most of it.
In addition, seasonal EPCOT festivals at Disney World throughout the year are free with a park ticket and exclusive after-hours events offer unique and customizable experiences for your trip to both Disneyland and Disney World.
Tools and Technology
Disney has introduced many new tools to streamline your vacation experience, most of which are technology based. Working with a travel agent specializing in a trip to the parks provides you with a clear understanding of the system. Personally, my business practice is to give my clients a clear and comprehensive understanding of Disney Genie, Park Pass Reservations (not required after January 9, 2024), the Disney Park application and more.
The travel planner’s role itself is an invaluable tool for a vacation to the Disney theme parks. You choose how much or how little you would prefer your advisor to be involved. Our job is not only to book your trip but to give you resources for YOUR best experience.
- What to Bring with You on Your Next Disney Vacation
- Your Best Tool for a Disney Vacation
- Stay Within Your Budget
- Save Money on a Disney Vacation
Disney Promotions and Savings
Throughout the year, Disney offers promotions and discounts on travel. As a travel planner who specialize in Disney destinations, it’s my job to stay up to date on the latest promotions and provide them to my clients. Even after you have a booked a trip. My role is to continually monitor and applicable promotional discounts to your vacation package.
Cancellations and Closures
When travel plans are interrupted by unexpected circumstances, a travel advisor will be your best advocate. Your travel planner will help you adjust your vacation plans accordingly. As professionals, we are experienced and knowledgeable about the policies and procedures in place to make changes.
This information, including regarding travel insurance, should be provided to you ahead of time by your travel planner. When an event interrupts your vacation plans, your best resource is an agent who can you handle the details.
Will Disney World Close for Bad Weather? It’s a rare occasion, but it has happened. A planner will help you navigate common and even the rarest of circumstances that interfere with your plans.
Finding Your Planner
By utilizing a travel planner, you can tap into these advantages and enhance your Disney vacation. This brings added value and memorable moments that you may not have thought of otherwise.
Finding the right travel planner who specializes in Disney destinations is another key factor. It’s important to be comfortable with who you choose. Take the time to speak to your professional about your expectations. You should feel sure the advisor understands your wish list and budget before booking a vacation through them.
Enlisting the services of a travel planner for your Disney vacation can significantly enhance your overall experience. The benefits include expert knowledge, customized plans and resources. The time savings on your trip is invaluable on an otherwise pricey vacation.
A travel planner ensures that your trip is right for you. So, take the stress out of doing it yourself and let a travel planner transform your Disney World dreams into reality.
If you are interested in using a travel planner for your Disney World vacation, simply fill out my FREE no obligation quote form. You can also email directly to Jessica@diznvacations.com.
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