Today I have a roundtable discussion with 3 seasoned Disney travel agents. We’ll discuss our favorite Disney things, what we’re looking forward to, and what it takes to be a travel agent.
I also have a quick tip in case you have an emergency medical need in the parks.
[powerpress]
These are notes from this episode. There’s much more info included in the audio so be sure to listen to the episode for a better explanation.
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Info from this episode
Free dining
- Doesn’t always make financial sense since you have to give up other discounts to get it
- Make sure you’re ok paying the price without free dining and not counting on getting the dining plan for free
- Dates are much more limited for the promotion now compared to in the past
- Consider not booking flights before free dining is announced
- Getting dining reservations during free dining periods can be a challenge
Disney World faves
- Chad – fall during Halloween and Food and Wine for adults, January/early February for families, Port Orleans Riverside, Whispering Canyon Cafe, Ohana, Splitsville
- Jen F – January (except for holidays), Polynesian, 1900 Park Fare, Ohana, Trail’s End
- JVH – end of September, Art of Animation suites (especially Cars section), Cinderella’s Royal Table
- Mine – first week of March, Contemporary, Garden Grill, California Grill
Good travel agent qualities
Must love Disney, be knowledgeable about Disney World, be available for clients, ability to plan for others and not just for yourself, and realization that it can be a lot of work.
Interested in becoming a Disney travel planner? Submit your application at https://www.keytotheworldtravel.com/join-our-team.
Agent quick tips
- Chad – drink plenty of water
- Jen F – use clear zippered bag for items in your backpack to make it quicker to get through security
- JVH – put iPhone on low power mode to save battery during your trip
To have your trip handled by Key to the World Travel, submit a quote request on their site.
Quick tip of the day
Natalie emailed with this tip: “The First Aid stations throughout Disney World are fabulous. We made multiple trips to First Aid for complimentary band-aids, Tylenol, and even sinus medicine.There was never a wait and the staff were very friendly and professional.
In addition, our youngest son has some sensory issues specifically related to noise. We didn’t anticipate just how loud some rides, including roller coasters, would be for him. Luckily, the fine folks at Disney First Aid were able to provide us with ear plugs for him to use. It made a world of difference and allowed us to participate in rides as a whole family. They really go above and beyond to anticipate their guests needs!”
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Heidi
Saturday 4th of March 2017
Hi Shannon,
I see the crowds are listed as moderate in the month of October. Do you think the crowds will be lower than predicted due to no freedining in October?
Shannon Albert
Saturday 4th of March 2017
Free Dining hasn't been announced for this year, but if it doesn't cover October, then that means they think October will be busy. They only offer promotions during less busy times to encourage more people to visit.