Mark Benson, Travel Agent in Forest Park, IL

Mark Benson

Forest Park, IL Travel Agent
Super Agent

Mark Benson

Forest Park, IL · 4 Years of Experience

Mark Benson, The Vacationeer, an independent agent with Travel Leaders Kissimmee, FL
5.0
(20)
100% Recommended
Having Mark’s help was undeniably the best choice!! Not only did he do all the hard but also took time to answer all my questions I... Read More >
About
My Travel Specialties
Reviews
Certificates & Awards
My Places
Travel Stories & Media

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

Florida, Hawaii, Castaway Cay, Disneyland, Universal Orlando

Interests:

Adult Only, Cruises, Disney Vacations, Family Vacations, Global Travel

Suppliers:

Adventures By Disney , Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, Disney, Disney Cruise Line, Disneyland Resorts

About Me

Expert in Disney, Universal, and Specialty Trips

I seek out unique adventures that highlight local experts, world-class experiences, and ones that can be enjoyed by people of all ages -- even if you're leaving the little ones behind this time around. I got into this business through my love of Disney. As a kid, I spent summers visiting my grandparents, who lived one town over from Walt Disney World in Florida. And as an adult, I have rediscovered the magic of the original: The Disneyland Resort in California. My wife and I flew out there from Chicago just to get married ... we were definitely the best-dressed couple on Jungle Cruise that night. And now, I specialize in Disney weddings and honeymoons. But my love of travel doesn't stop at the water's edge. I've sailed the Disney Cruise Line, experienced fireworks at sea, and marveled at the global adventures crafted by Adventures By Disney, National Geographic Expeditions, and Viking. And for you sports fans: I'm your all-star guide to bucket-list sporting events worldwide.

My Travel Specialties

I Make Disney Travel Easy

I Make Disney Travel Easy
I'm a Disney nerd, a budding star at Disneybounding, and a master of the My Disney Experience app, which I consider the best video game.  I seek out unique adventures that highlight local experts, world-class experiences, and ones that can be enjoyed by people of all ages -- even if you're...Read More ▶

Disneyland Resort Vacation Specialist

Disneyland Resort Vacation Specialist
I'm a Disney nerd, a budding star at Disneybounding, and a master of the My Disney Experience app, which I consider the best video game.  As a dedicated travel advisor with a passion for Disney, I specialize in helping clients plan magical, stress-free vacations to the Disneyland Resort. F...Read More ▶

Disney World Travel Specialist

Disney World Travel Specialist
The Walt Disney World Resort in Florida is a destination that draws people from all over the world, so you are absolutely on the right track starting the process of heading there! Having traveled to the parks during a variety of seasons and festivals — both with my kids, as a couple, and s...Read More ▶

National Geographic Expeditions

National Geographic Expeditions
National Geographic Expeditions are an unmatched way to see the world. From trains to cruise ships, in a small group or with a companion of your choice, these Expeditions span the globe to get you up close and personal with the most unique places and wildlife.  For me, the best part is tha...Read More ▶

Adventures by Disney global travel specialist

Adventures by Disney global travel specialist
As a travel advisor with a deep love for immersive storytelling and meaningful cultural experiences, I love introducing clients to Adventures by Disney global travel. These guided group vacations offer a truly unique way to see the world — with Disney’s signature attention to detail, world...Read More ▶

Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii, Expert

Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii, Expert
Aloha! I'm a travel advisor who specializes in helping families, couples, and Disney lovers experience the magic of Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in beautiful Ko Olina, Hawai‘i. Whether you're dreaming of snorkeling in a private lagoon, relaxing in a world-class spa, or enjoying character ...Read More ▶

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line
The Disney Cruise Line is an amazing mix of luxury and fun. My last cruise was aboard the Disney Wish, to Nassau and Castaway Cay, where I ran a 5K while my daughter did scuba. My favorite part of the Disney cruise experience is the evening, though. Each night on my trip, I was treated to ...Read More ▶

Disney Parks and Resorts

Disney Parks and Resorts
I'm a Disney nerd, a budding star at Disneybounding, and a master of the My Disney Experience app, which I consider the best video game. I believe it is possible to do and see everything you need to see without running yourselves ragged at the parks. And how is that possible? I've done it, and I'...Read More ▶

Disney Weddings and Honeymoons Expert

Disney Weddings and Honeymoons Expert
Dreaming of a fairy-tale wedding or honeymoon filled with Disney magic? You deserve a travel advisor who not only specializes in these, but has been the groom for one! And that's me! I planned my own Disneyland honeymoon. I'm here to make it happen. As a travel advisor specializing ...Read More ▶

Sports Travel Specialist for the Ultimate Fan

Sports Travel Specialist for the Ultimate Fan
Let's turn your sports bucket list into a reality. As a proud partner of Roadtrips, I specialize in crafting unforgettable luxury sports travel experiences for clients who want to be where the action is. Whether it’s the Super Bowl, the Summer or Winter Olympics, the Kentucky Derby,...Read More ▶

Universal Parks

Universal Parks
From the Wizarding World to the Simpsons, and Dracula to Super Mario, the Universal theme parks are a feast for the eyes and the hearts of thrill riders.  This is where you want to be if you are a fan of coasters.  And now, with EPIC Universe, Universal has changed ...Read More ▶

Viking cruises

Viking cruises
From European river cruises to the Mississippi, and the oceans to Antarctica expeditions, Viking offers a unique experience built around men and women looking to learn about the cultures of the world through luxury cruises and on-shore excursions. These are intimate journeys; you'll travel...Read More ▶

Unforgettable Royal Caribbean Vacations

Unforgettable Royal Caribbean Vacations
I have a focused passion for Royal Caribbean vacations. I help families, couples, and groups design customized, stress-free Royal Caribbean getaways that fit their pace, preferences, and budget. I know Royal Caribbean ships inside and out — from the vibrant onboard experiences on Oasis- an...Read More ▶

Unforgettable Royal Caribbean Vacations

Unforgettable Royal Caribbean Vacations
I have a focused passion for Royal Caribbean vacations. I help families, couples, and groups design customized, stress-free Royal Caribbean getaways that fit their pace, preferences, and budget. I know Royal Caribbean ships inside and out — from the vibrant onboard experiences on Oasis- an...Read More ▶

REVIEWS

Rating: 5.0
20 reviews
100% Recommended
Your trust is our priority. Every review is submitted by verified travelers after they have booked and completed their trips. Learn more about our review guidelines.
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Showing 20 reviews

Best stress free trip!!
Reviewed By Mari - Anaheim | Traveled to California | USA
Having Mark’s help was undeniably the best choice!! Not only did he do all the hard but also took time to answer all my questions I had along the way. Will and actually am in the process of planning another trip with his help! Makes everything a lot less stressful and able to focus on other stuff! Thank you Mark for all your help!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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40th birthday
Reviewed By Brittany - Clark, NJ | Traveled to Orlando | Florida | USA
We had Mark help us plan a trip for my daughter’s first visit and my 40th birthday. He was very patient and took time to explain different options for us. We never felt pressure to buy something we didn’t need or wouldn’t use. The trip was so amazing we planned another trip with Mark for November and will use him going forward for RV any Disney plans.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Call Mark ... you're welcome
Reviewed By NickiB - Springfield, MO | Traveled to Walt Disney World | Florida | USA
We've been to Disney World many times, because, I mean ... EPCOT. And we decided to work with Mark on our last trip, which included Universal, because I always get stuck doing all the family planning and that means that I just kinda carry around a lot of stress about it. But he made it easy and chill and then EPCOT was exactly how EPCOT always is, and just a great trip. Will call him again!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Great to Have an Expert Guide
Reviewed By alyssa - Chicago, IL | Traveled to Walt Disney World | Florida | USA
Thank you, Mark, so much for all the help you gave us with our Disney World vacation! Everyone had a great time, and it was a blessing to have your research on resorts and dining plans, and your experiences with them. Personally, walking into the park the first day knowing that a) you taught me the app, and b) your number was in my phone if I had a problem, made it all very chill right from the start. Aren't you glad? I didn't have to text you once ... the photos don't count lol. Safe travels to all!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Disneyland honeymoon
Reviewed By Marisol - Chicago | Traveled to Disneyland | California | USA
We got married up in Santa Barbara, which is a few hours north of Disneyland. But wanted to spend the evening and next couple days celebrating at Disneyland. He worked within our plans and even had nice dinner reservations for late that evening in the park. Nothing quite like watching the Disneyland fireworks over the castle, and pretending it's just for you and yours.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Certifications & Awards

Royal Caribbean University - Bachelor of Adventure
Royal Caribbean University - Bachelor of Adventure
Royal Caribbean University - Master of Adventure
Royal Caribbean University - Master of Adventure
Viking Expeditions Expert
Viking Expeditions Expert
Viking Expert
Viking Expert
Viking Oceans Expert
Viking Oceans Expert
Viking Rivers Expert
Viking Rivers Expert

My Places

When it comes to travel planning, real-world experience makes a huge difference. Check out the map below to see all the places I have personally visited or booked for my clients. I know these destinations well and can give you reliable guidance.

My Photo Albums and Videos

A Disneyland wedding party
View Album
Disney Vacation: Price Vs. Value

My Travel Stories

A Disneyland wedding party

When my then-fiancee and I were talking about how we really really really had no interest in a big wedding, different ideas bounced around in our head about what OUR kind of wedding would look like.  And as huge fans of the Disneyland Resort in California -- and in California, in general -- we turned our sights to a destination wedding. <...
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