Has anyone ever booked a Sandals vacation directly through the Sandals Website? I was just wondering if there are any advantages to using their site over a Travel Agent? We have been to Sandals MoBay several times -- we always have a great time.

You will do better using a local travel agent that can access one of the tour operators like FunJet or Apple so that you can get air, transfers, and resort fees all rolled into one package. The total price will typically be better than booking direct - this is true with most resorts, not just Sandals. Find a good travel agent that knows the island(s) you are interested in and the offerings on each.

It is my understanding (and corect me if I'm wrong), but the room prices listed on Sandals web-site will never change no mater what tour operater you go through. However, you can get a better air rate (ie., package deal) by going through a TA. I would contact a TA that is a Sandals specialist especially if your a SSG member. I have gotten better air rates and schedules booking through a Sandal specialist than what was quoted on Sandal's web-site, which is always quoted for American in my area. I can get much better air rates on Continential.

I haven't ever booked through the website, but I have over the phone. They claim that it is better to go through them because you get a better room, etc. but it isn't true. The only time I came out ahead was when they changed something with no notification and I called them and told them it was unacceptable. They gave us a really nice room upgrade, which I know would never have happened if the conversation had occured with a TA.

Thanks for your advice one and all!