Bowman’s Travel Brief: The Theme Park Vacation

Take a walk through any theme park and you will find an array of emotions–the ecstatic child on his or her favorite ride, the kid shrieking over who knows what, the exhausted parent, the joyful adult who is reliving their childhood and so much more.

Designed to thrill, chill and excite all who enter, theme parks continue to get bigger and better. The results are attractions and shows beyond comprehension, but it also means higher prices and more crowds.

This is why having a travel agent is so crucial. The last thing a traveler needs to worry about is stress when trying to plan a vacation to a place that should only be associated with happiness.

It’s important to know when the right time to book is and a travel agent can help with that, which will, in turn, save you money.

Planning a vacation around a theme park depends on your vacation party. It’s all subjective as to which one is the best. In fact, some might argue you’d have to travel internationally to experience the best theme parks in the world. Not everyone can afford to do that but expanding beyond your own state’s amusement parks to experience others around the country is a must.

Here in the U.S., it’s no question Orlando is the theme park king. Walt Disney World and Universal Studios continue to try and outduel each other and we get to benefit from it with amazing attractions. New Star Wars and Harry Potter rides in the same year? Yes, please!

The thing I love most about theme parks is that you see smiles from children and adults alike that you won’t find anywhere else. Sure, you might come across some deflated and worn out faces but I have a strong belief that at least once during the long day at the park that person experienced pure joy.

Whether you’re reaching crazy speeds on a roller coaster, making a big splash on a water slide or living vicariously through your kids, the theme park vacation is a guaranteed good time.

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Advice from an Agent

Amy Frank is a travel agent for Elm Grove Travel. She can be reached at amy@elmgrovetravel.com

When asked what advice she would give to travelers interested in booking a theme park vacation, Frank said:

“My best advice is to plan early and to pick a time that is not over a holiday. Guests need to be aware of specials that are run during off-peak times and the crowds are much lower. I would also stress the importance of making sure their young children are up to a theme park vacation. Taking kids that are too young to enjoy all the attractions is no fun.

“I also recommend planning out your vacation days before arriving. The winging it approach leaves guests missing out on the best attractions and dining opportunities. I tell my clients to book their vacation seven months prior at a minimum. This typically gives them a month to wrap their heads around the parks and their offerings. Then 180 days prior we can begin putting together a dining itinerary.”

When asked what advice she would give to travel agents sell or considering selling more theme park vacations, Frank said:

“You need to know what your client’s budget is for the overall vacation before you start sending quotes or recommending resorts to stay at. You do not want to start with a high-end resort in this market. Many families are surprised by the actual cost of park tickets and the meal plans associated with a theme park vacation.

“These components do not change in cost. It is the price of the nightly accommodations that can make or break a vacation budget. You also need to be upfront about what you will do for them during the planning process and what pieces of the trip they need to engage in for a successful trip.”

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