2007 Free Dining Details - "Your Next Disney Vacation"

[M-I-C-K-E-Y]

I've just returned from a 30 hour trip down to WDW, specifically to book a family vacation for August 2007.

While there, I had the chance to have an in depth conversation with the lady who began this program, in early November. As a fellow Disboard member, she was more than happy to give me the official details and clear up some misconceptions:

Details:

1) You DO need to be staying at a WDW resort to book the August/September 2007 free dining plan. They have computers on site and can easily verify that you're lodging there. HOWEVER, if you do check out and hit the parks, then make your way home, you can STILL book the room for next year. They are there until 10PM every night. As she stated "we're not going to deny someone a room in 2007 just on a technicality, because they didn't phone prior to checking out." However, you DO need to book that room before 10PM that same evening. It states this clearly on the 2007 reservation card I received "or call once you return home."

2) To book your room, DO NOT phone the usual 1-407-W-DISNEY line (even though it states this on the 2007 reservation card). Only about 33 CMs even know about this program - it's a special group. THE NUMBER TO CALL IS: 1-407-541-5527. When phoning this number, you will probably speak with someone very familiar with the program. If you have any difficulties, please ask to speak directly with Lisa B. from Disney Vacations, who is the CM that passed along these details. She may also be found at the Port Orleans - Riverside "Your Next Disney Vacation" desk, in the main reception area of the resort (as pictured below):

http://i120.photobucket.com/albums/o173/camshron/future-stay.jpg

This desk also serves double-duty as the cruise line desk (sans the special markings you see above) so if you visit either before 1PM or after 10PM, it may be confusing. If you need to speak with Lisa directly, they may transfer you to the Disney Cruise Line extension at Port Orleans - Riverside, but before 1PM expect a cruise line employee to answer that call and be thoroughly confused!

4) While there is a three day MINIMUM for booking the future stay, there is NO MAXIMUM. It has been stated here that 10 days was the maximum, but I was told that a Canadian family had booked a 20 day future stay the first day this program began, in early November.

5) ALL RESORTS are available and you're eligible to book this no matter where you are staying at present. I lodged in a room at Pop Century and it ran somewhere around $72 for one night, including taxes and fees. We're booking a stay at the Polynesian, so you can definitely see that there's no connection as to where you're lodging now and where you wish to be in the future.

6) Interesting Fact: This is the first time in 35 years that WDW has ever done face-to-face vacation booking.

7) Deadline: DECEMBER 31, 2006. This program will officially end then, and depending on how well it is received, may or may not be opened to the public in April (no official word on this yet). Now, here's an interesting detail. She mentioned that September 2007 is booking very fast. I attempted to book for 10 nights at the Polynesian beginning August 5th, but there were no Garden View rooms left. Thankfully, by moving the beginning night to August 6th, 10 nights were available. The key points on this are plan on being slightly flexible with your travel dates and if you're looking to book free dining at a smaller, desirable resort (especially since British residents that have been booking for quite some time now) get down there and lock in your 2007 trip before the end of December. Folks - for these saving, why take a chance? While the program may be offered in April, you could miss out on the hotel or dates of your choice.

8) Special details. You can take care of all of your needs, including special requests, when you book. It helps to come prepared, but if you're not sure where you wish to stay, simply check out the maps and views, then call that special number by December 31st to put that request in. After that date, call the regular WDW number and they will also be able to assist.

That's all I can recall from my 30 hour quick trip. Think of it as a wonderful investment for next year and the chance to do some quick holiday shopping for the members of your Disney Family!

Thanks to Lisa for all the wonderful information and help for the Disboard members! If I got anything wrong, I'm sure she'll be in touch here, to pass along revised information.

I'm sure there will be some questions, so fire away...

[a1tinkfans]

Wow,
It makes sense why I had some difficulty getting my "bounceback" vacation booked while at disney last weekend while at AKL. (I posted the experience elsewhere) It was like NO ONE knew...I actually DID book thru central reservations after being transferred to a "special someone". I am so glad I was able to get in on the deal.
Your post is excellent, so thorough, thank you, I am sure you will be helping out many people.
Enjoy the Holiday Season!

[M-I-C-K-E-Y]

Glad to hear you were able to sort through the red tape and book that 2007 trip!

I'm just hoping that these details might help others make that "quick trip" down there prior to Christmas (imagine it then!) I'd do it again, in a second!

[bicker]

I think you meant that the offer expires December 31, 2006, not 2007, right?

[LBelle]

Awesome info.!!!!!!!!! Thanks so much for posting!!! :thumbsup2

[bonzarella]

Lisa took care of us too. She is awesome & very knowledgeable. Just wondering, did she know you posted her picture? Have a great vacation & happy eating :thumbsup2

[Pugrpooh]

I just booked this 2 nights ago. I called CRO from my cell phone and was transferred to someone who knew about the program. I kept getting cut off but she had taken my cell phone number and called back. We booked 3 woods view rooms at WL for 5 nights. I wanted standard view but they weren't available.

We may change dates and even resorts; the important thing is to book while you are still there. By the way, we stayed 5 nights at CBR and never saw or heard anything about this program.

[M-I-C-K-E-Y]

Thanks for the 2006 vs. 2007 edit point - I've changed the typo on the OP.

Yes, Lisa approved the photo, and was pleased to have it posted here. I made a point of asking her whether she thought a photo was a good idea, and she believed it might clear up some of the confusion here. When I offered her the chance to step out, so the photo would just feature the reservation desk, she told me that it would be fine for her to be in the picture (I wasn't sure whether Disney would approve, but she said it was OK). :thumbsup2

[thunderbird1]

M-I-C-K-E-Y--you're awesome! Thanks for all the detailed info.

No maximum stay for the free DDP--really? I wonder if this will be true for those of us booking in April (assuming it's offered in April)? We'd love to stay more than 10 days, but don't want to have to switch hotels or purchase a second set of tickets. Time will tell, I suppose.

[Castillo Mom]

M-I-C-K-E-Y, thank you so much for posting this information. My SIL/BIL moved to South Carolina about a month ago and they're joining us on our upcoming trip in Aug. After reading your post, my lightbulb went on. Orlando is only about 6 hours away from where they live, so why not drive down and spend the night at Pop Century and book our package. I called her last night and she didn't even hesitate, so I booked a quick little trip. The cost of one night is worth it to us. Thanks again! :worship:

[M-I-C-K-E-Y]

Hi Castillo Mom,

That's great news - I am so pleased that someone decided to bite the proverbial bullet and make the booking trip this month! It was a wonderful little visit, and in addition to booking the room for next August, I also had a chance to do some quick Christmas shopping. WDW looks wonderful this time of year, and will look even better once you book that future stay! :thumbsup2

[Muushka]

We just booked this and got our confirmation in the mail. For ASMu, value, it is $793.64 which includes the 1 day, MYW pass, for 2 adults for 7 nights. Looks like they are including the Planet Hollywood voucher again and a Miniature Golf voucher (what ever that is!). And a Sea Raycer offer voucher (again, what ever that is!)

We had a heck of a time finding this offer while there. They hid it well and most knew nothing of it. I had to book with that 'special person' on the phone!

[M-I-C-K-E-Y]

Bump...

[aubriee]

We just booked this and got our confirmation in the mail. For ASMu, value, it is $793.64 which includes the 1 day, MYW pass, for 2 adults for 7 nights. Looks like they are including the Planet Hollywood voucher again and a Miniature Golf voucher (what ever that is!). And a Sea Raycer offer voucher (again, what ever that is!)

We had a heck of a time finding this offer while there. They hid it well and most knew nothing of it. I had to book with that 'special person' on the phone!

I booked ASMu for eight nights in Sept with one day MYW tickets for two adults and mine was $994.78. I wonder why it was $200.00 higher for just one more night?

[LBelle]

M-I-C-K-E-Y, thank you so much for posting this information. My SIL/BIL moved to South Carolina about a month ago and they're joining us on our upcoming trip in Aug. After reading your post, my lightbulb went on. Orlando is only about 6 hours away from where they live, so why not drive down and spend the night at Pop Century and book our package. I called her last night and she didn't even hesitate, so I booked a quick little trip. The cost of one night is worth it to us. Thanks again! :worship:

You're soooo lucky!!!! :cool1: Any chance she'd want to go again???? :confused3 Heck, I'll even spring for 2 nights!!!! :rotfl:

[lgaston]

Ok can someone please help a Quebec resident ? So far I am willing to make the 24hrs drive to take that special but have one question : can I book for 3 days and take only 1 day ticket and add more nights and day tickets afterwards?

Merci !

[Muushka]

I booked ASMu for eight nights in Sept with one day MYW tickets for two adults and mine was $994.78. I wonder why it was $200.00 higher for just one more night?

Hmmm, not sure why. Did you get the park-hopper option and the option to use water parks or PI? Mine did not include any extras.

[Muushka]

Ok can someone please help a Quebec resident ? So far I am willing to make the 24hrs drive to take that special but have one question : can I book for 3 days and take only 1 day ticket and add more nights and day tickets afterwards?

Merci !

I know that you can add days on to the tickets right up until the last minute during the trip, but I don't know about adding more nights after arrival. Someone else may be able to help, hopefully!

[penjen]

Ok, yes, I would like to take advantage of free dining next year like this year. But I am not making a special trip there to do so. What is stopping you from making reservations now, online, with everything except free dining Then adding it to your reservation once it (most likely) will be available?

[Castillo Mom]

Ok, yes, I would like to take advantage of free dining next year like this year. But I am not making a special trip there to do so. What is stopping you from making reservations now, online, with everything except free dining Then adding it to your reservation once it (most likely) will be available?

Penjen, you stated the exact reason for the special trip, Free Dining will most likely be offered to the general public, but there is no guarantee. What I'm spending for a quick trip down is minor in comparison to what I'll be saving. We currently have 11 nights booked at the Polynesian in Aug. I have 3 teenage sons and for the 4 of us, it will save me over $1,500 if we get Free Dining. For someone staying fewer nights, or who have children under 10, a special trip may not make sense. Your mileage may vary as they say. :)

Edited to add: I have also read reports that the response to the pilot program has been good and that some dates are already not available at some resorts. Keep in mind that there would only be a select number of rooms alotted for this discount so you can't aways just add Free Dining. I've also already purchased airfare, so my travel dates are pretty much set in stone. My preference is the Polynesian because this is a special trip for my son's graduation, but would be flexible as to the resort if absolutely necessary.

Oh, and I re-ran the numbers because my sister is joining my boys and I on this trip and will be staying in the same room with us. So that would be 5 x 38.99 per night = 194.95 x 11 nights = a total of 2,144.45 for dining. I'm not wealthy so that's a significant savings for me.

[aubriee]

Hmmm, not sure why. Did you get the park-hopper option and the option to use water parks or PI? Mine did not include any extras.

No, I have an Annual Pass, so bought only one day base MYW tickets.



[QUOTE=PENJEN] Ok, yes, I would like to take advantage of free dining next year like this year. But I am not making a special trip there to do so. What is stopping you from making reservations now, online, with everything except free dining Then adding it to your reservation once it (most likely) will be available? [QUOTE]

According to the CM at PORS when I booked mine two days ago, free dining will not be offered to the gerneral public this year (only to people taking advantage of the rebound offer and UK residents). He said that the response for free dining the last two years was much larger than Disney expected and that Disney had received many complaints from both visitors and restaraunts about it, so they are "severely limiting the number of free dining pkgs available for next year". It may have been just a sales tactic he was using, but he did say the pilot program was going over extrememly well and that lots of people were making special trips to WDW just to book it. He seemed very well informed. The people behind me was talking to him the same time I was and were in a hurry as it was their checkout day. They mentioned that they might just wait and call when they got back home and the CM made a point of advising them against it saying it had to be booked prior to check-out and it definitely would not be offered later. I booked AS Mu, but told him I might want to upgrade later and he said I'd better go ahead and book where I wanted as pkgs for the free dining were going to be very limited at each resort.

[Muushka]

oops, double post....

[Muushka]

No, I have an Annual Pass, so bought only one day base MYW tickets.


Me too. I would call. The only thing I can think of is that I was told that the room was $79/night and that was 2006 prices and that they thought they would increase the rate.

Anyone figure out about the added extras this year?

[M-I-C-K-E-Y]

All,

I'd strongly encourage anyone with questions to phone the number listed in the OP and ask to speak with Lisa B. She was more than willing to assist Disboard members, and is a person who takes pleasure in her job.

As far as booking now and then holding one's breath for free dining, it's definitely a gamble..once again, PHONE LISA B! Just remember, our initial date for booking at the Polynesian in August was already full (no garden view rooms were available). That's seven + months before our planned trip! Even if you save a few dollars, it's worth that quick trip to Orlando folks (but hurry, do so before December 31st). :thumbsup2

Oh, one more thing. Today, less than one week after my quick trip, we received that very welcome blue and white envelope from Walt Disney Travel Company. It's official now!

[penjen]

Thanks everyone for the explaination. I see it's necessary for you to get what you would like. We may go if there is free dining but this is not a necessary trip for us. We had an awesome 10 day trip a few months ago in Disney. If free dining doesn't happen for the public we will make vacation plans elsewhere. Which might be nice for a change anyway. :teeth:

[disneypharm]

We (me, DH, DD8 (7 at that time) and DD6 (5 then) went to WDW in Dec 2005 (13th-20th). We paid about $2550 for 7 nights at POR (a moderate resort), 8 days park hopper (no water parks), and DDP (not free). Because the DDP was not free, getting ADRs for the whole trip was very easy and restaurants were not busy. We also went to WDW 3 months ago (9 months later) during the free DDP. We paid about $2300 for 7 nights at CSR (another moderate resort), 8 days park hopper with water parks, and DDP (this time free). This time it was very difficult to get the ADRs and all restaurants were very busy. The difference between these two trips was $250 (if you don't count the water parks). Disney company is great at marketing and makes anything sounds better than it actually is. Don't get me wrong, I love WDW :love: :love: However, I am sure the next offer will also be the best offer ever!!!

[SoarinJ]

I booked ASMu for eight nights in Sept with one day MYW tickets for two adults and mine was $994.78. I wonder why it was $200.00 higher for just one more night?

Mine is $886 for 8 nights at Pop, Aug 22-Aug 30, 2 Adults, 1 day base tix.

[bicker]

Keep in mind that there would only be a select number of rooms alotted for this discount so you can't aways just add Free Dining.This bears repeating since come April, there always seem to be a few people who wasn't aware of it when it. Having a hotel reservation provides you no advantage in getting free dining when it is offered later. If you couldn't book free dining just calling for a new reservation (for the dates and hotel you want), then you cannot add it to an existing reservation.

[ggeorgiagirl]

I just called to ask why I did not see or hear anything about the offer while I was at the Carribbean Beach Resort (Dec 8-10). The NICE CM said that if I had watched the TV, it was advertised there! WHAT?! Who has time to watch tv? Then he said that it should have shown up on my receipts from charging things to my room...I paid cash for all of our treats!

I would have TOTALLY taken advantage of the offer! Oh well...

I am thinking about doing the same thing as Castillo...but I am running out of time!!!!!!!

[Castillo Mom]

I just called to ask why I did not see or hear anything about the offer while I was at the Carribbean Beach Resort (Dec 8-10). The NICE CM said that if I had watched the TV, it was advertised there! WHAT?! Who has time to watch tv? Then he said that it should have shown up on my receipts from charging things to my room...I paid cash for all of our treats!

I would have TOTALLY taken advantage of the offer! Oh well...

I am thinking about doing the same thing as Castillo...but I am running out of time!!!!!!!

Do it, do it!

By the way, nice picture, looks like your family had a wonderful time! :)

[Bete]

If this current promo works to Disney's liking and they book the number of vacations they feel comfortable with under this marketing strategy then it may just end with this current deal.

Now, if capacity is still suffering for August and September and part of October next year then you better believe there will be another offer by Disney to the general public. Will it be free dining? It's hard to say, but this has worked for Disney over the last two years to offer free dining to the general public; so, I would think they would continue beyond the current offer at a later time if they have the capacity open for it. Disney has at times opened up more availabilty for times and resorts depending on their capacity levels. There are no guarantees there will be future, other free dining offers. Other posters have indicated Disney wants to restrict this free dining program offer more in 2007. It's difficult to determine what the future will be.

If it means enough to you to make a special trip now to secure the current special offer in 2007 then that's a decision you need to make. Everyone needs to remember that the only reason this offer ever got started was because of the terrible weather that can happen at that time of year at Disney. It's a roll of the dice. And no amount of free dining is going to keep me at Disney if a hurricane is coming.

[Mouse511]

We booked our 2007 vaca on Thursday the 14th at Beach Club and received our "blue envolope" on Monday the 18th. Talk about fast !!!

We booked 5 nights at WL.

As previously posted - unless you notice the booth at selected resorts - you wouldnt even know Disney is doing this promo. There was nothing at the WL informing us of this. Nobody mentioned it when checking or checking out !!!

We only knew by people mentioning it on this board before we left - we actually had to look around to figure it out.

We asked the young CM who booked our trip why this in not advertised at all the resorts and he didnt have a good answer as to why - he did say that the promo was actually a big success and didnt "think" they Disney is going to offer to the public....but really didnt know. We had no problem booking the lodge - but we booked for the last week of Sept.

[dana1003]

I've just returned from a 30 hour trip down to WDW, specifically to book a family vacation for August 2007.

While there, I had the chance to have an in depth conversation with the lady who began this program, in early November. As a fellow Disboard member, she was more than happy to give me the official details and clear up some misconceptions:

Details:

1) You DO need to be staying at a WDW resort to book the August/September 2007 free dining plan. They have computers on site and can easily verify that you're lodging there. HOWEVER, if you do check out and hit the parks, then make your way home, you can STILL book the room for next year. They are there until 10PM every night. As she stated "we're not going to deny someone a room in 2007 just on a technicality, because they didn't phone prior to checking out." However, you DO need to book that room before 10PM that same evening. It states this clearly on the 2007 reservation card I received "or call once you return home."

2) To book your room, DO NOT phone the usual 1-407-W-DISNEY line (even though it states this on the 2007 reservation card). Only about 33 CMs even know about this program - it's a special group. THE NUMBER TO CALL IS: 1-407-541-5527. When phoning this number, you will probably speak with someone very familiar with the program. If you have any difficulties, please ask to speak directly with Lisa B. from Disney Vacations, who is the CM that passed along these details. She may also be found at the Port Orleans - Riverside "Your Next Disney Vacation" desk, in the main reception area of the resort (as pictured below):

http://i120.photobucket.com/albums/o173/camshron/future-stay.jpg

This desk also serves double-duty as the cruise line desk (sans the special markings you see above) so if you visit either before 1PM or after 10PM, it may be confusing. If you need to speak with Lisa directly, they may transfer you to the Disney Cruise Line extension at Port Orleans - Riverside, but before 1PM expect a cruise line employee to answer that call and be thoroughly confused!

4) While there is a three day MINIMUM for booking the future stay, there is NO MAXIMUM. It has been stated here that 10 days was the maximum, but I was told that a Canadian family had booked a 20 day future stay the first day this program began, in early November.

5) ALL RESORTS are available and you're eligible to book this no matter where you are staying at present. I lodged in a room at Pop Century and it ran somewhere around $72 for one night, including taxes and fees. We're booking a stay at the Polynesian, so you can definitely see that there's no connection as to where you're lodging now and where you wish to be in the future.

6) Interesting Fact: This is the first time in 35 years that WDW has ever done face-to-face vacation booking.

7) Deadline: DECEMBER 31, 2006. This program will officially end then, and depending on how well it is received, may or may not be opened to the public in April (no official word on this yet). Now, here's an interesting detail. She mentioned that September 2007 is booking very fast. I attempted to book for 10 nights at the Polynesian beginning August 5th, but there were no Garden View rooms left. Thankfully, by moving the beginning night to August 6th, 10 nights were available. The key points on this are plan on being slightly flexible with your travel dates and if you're looking to book free dining at a smaller, desirable resort (especially since British residents that have been booking for quite some time now) get down there and lock in your 2007 trip before the end of December. Folks - for these saving, why take a chance? While the program may be offered in April, you could miss out on the hotel or dates of your choice.

8) Special details. You can take care of all of your needs, including special requests, when you book. It helps to come prepared, but if you're not sure where you wish to stay, simply check out the maps and views, then call that special number by December 31st to put that request in. After that date, call the regular WDW number and they will also be able to assist.

That's all I can recall from my 30 hour quick trip. Think of it as a wonderful investment for next year and the chance to do some quick holiday shopping for the members of your Disney Family!

Thanks to Lisa for all the wonderful information and help for the Disboard members! If I got anything wrong, I'm sure she'll be in touch here, to pass along revised information.

I'm sure there will be some questions, so fire away...

hi- can you book this online or does it have to be done by calling that #? also-does it have to be paid in full at time of booking or can you just leave deposit??

[M-I-C-K-E-Y]

You cannot book it online, only face-to-face at WDW or via the telephone number they supply. As mentioned in the OP, you do also have to be a registered guest at WDW when booking.

[kimshmkr]

I was just at Disney and knew about the free dining promo from this board. I booked our trip for Aug, 10 nights at Sports and 3 one day park hoppers, for $1200!!!! The CM , that I talked to, encouraged me to book 10 nights, as he said the reservation can be changed at any time, up to 45 days before trip. I think it is a great deal, as both my boys will be considered adults next year.

[Albertan mom]

I called the number posted. The CM told me that (as we know) I couldn't book it because I wasn't staying there right now.

Also she said-They don't even know for sure if it is going to be offered to the public this year. :(

She said I can book a trip, and add the free dining on later, if it comes out. But she said that each resort only has a designated amount of rooms for the free dining, and if I wasn't in that particular section, I wouldn't get the free dining unless I could change my room over to any available ones. But she couldn't tell me what sections would be 'the ones'.

I said that we are looking at CBR, does she know what sections are usually saved for the free dining? She said she doesn't know.

Anyone stay at CBR for free dining last year? What section were you in?

So I am hoping hoping that it will be offered to the rest of us. I know I booked last years trip at the beginning of April, so that is the time I will be watching!

[Castillo Mom]

M-I-C-K-E-Y, I wanted to thank you once again for sharing the valuable information on the Bounceback promo. I was able to book the package with no problems at all. It was a piece of cake after following your instructions. I called the number you posted and booked a room for my SIL for 6 nights at the Contemporary Aug. and one for me, my sons and my sister at the Polynesian. I was worried I wouldn't get the resort I wanted but I got it, 11 nights at the Polynesian. I can now enjoy the next few months of planning without having to wait on pins and needles to find out about Free Dining.

Best of all, my 5 year old niece got her first glimpse of WDW. I can't wait for her to experience it fully on our upcoming trip!

[Castillo Mom]

I called the number posted. The CM told me that (as we know) I couldn't book it because I wasn't staying there right now.

Also she said-They don't even know for sure if it is going to be offered to the public this year. :(

She said I can book a trip, and add the free dining on later, if it comes out. But she said that each resort only has a designated amount of rooms for the free dining, and if I wasn't in that particular section, I wouldn't get the free dining unless I could change my room over to any available ones. But she couldn't tell me what sections would be 'the ones'.

I said that we are looking at CBR, does she know what sections are usually saved for the free dining? She said she doesn't know.

Anyone stay at CBR for free dining last year? What section were you in?

So I am hoping hoping that it will be offered to the rest of us. I know I booked last years trip at the beginning of April, so that is the time I will be watching!

I don't think there's a particular section of the resort that is set aside for the promo, but there are a set number of rooms that make for limited availability.

[bicker]

She said I can book a trip, and add the free dining on later, if it comes out. But she said that each resort only has a designated amount of rooms for the free dining, and if I wasn't in that particular section, I wouldn't get the free dining unless I could change my room over to any available ones. But she couldn't tell me what sections would be 'the ones'. That's because it isn't "sections" that are eligible for free dining, but rather "inventories", but that would be a little difficult to explain to many prospective guests. The way it typically works is that at the time they decide to offer a promotion, they move a specific number of unreserved rooms (of specific levels) into the promotional inventory.

So knowing where folks who had free dining last year were won't help. Any request you make to stay in specific parts of a hotel will only be marked down as requests, and won't even be considered until a few days before check-in.

[Albertan mom]

That's because it isn't "sections" that are eligible for free dining, but rather "inventories", but that would be a little difficult to explain to many prospective guests. The way it typically works is that at the time they decide to offer a promotion, they move a specific number of unreserved rooms (of specific levels) into the promotional inventory.

So knowing where folks who had free dining last year were won't help. Any request you make to stay in specific parts of a hotel will only be marked down as requests, and won't even be considered until a few days before check-in.

OK, I think I get it now..... Do I wait, do I book?
Oh, so confusing, what to do, what to do!!!

[bonzarella]

I cannot sing the praises for Lisa loud enough. I needed to make some changes to our reservation & left a message a few days ago with all the info. This young lady called me on CHRISTMAS EVE to confirm my changes. Even more amazing was that she was also on VACATION! Her attention and care go above & beyond even Disney customer standards IMO.

LISA-if you are reading THANK YOU

[toocooltobeMom]

DH and I flew in DW for 2 nights last week just to book the bounce-back vacation. It was well worthy. We had wanted to stay for 12 nights, but was told that we could book a 10-nights max stay as one ressie. If we need more nights we must make a separate ressie to extend this vacation. (which meant we must book another reservation with another 1-day MMYBT) We decided that 10-nights stay will be just as great. For those needing more than 10 nights, you could do so by booking another one right after the first one. :hippie:

[Castillo Mom]

Toocooltobemom, we did the same. I hadn't planned on us going to a park on arrival day anyway since we won't be getting into Orlando until about 3:30 p.m., so I booked a room only the first night then a 10 night package. We're west coasters and will need a good night's sleep so we can get acclamated to the time zone change.

[Joe'sgirl]

Wish I had known about this when DH and I went this past March!! Oh well, we are headed to Disney in Feb 2007.

[mom-mom2three]

We just got back from a stay at the CSR Dec. 22 and I also booked a trip in september for the free dining :cool1: I can tell you that it was really hard to find anyone that knew anything about the promotion for free dining:confused3 I actually went on a mission to find someone! I ended up at Port Orleans ( I finally remembered that I read on this board that you could book this trip at Port Orleans) I ask the lady at the reservations desk about it but she didn't know anything, I finally spotted a desk over to one side that had a promotion sign on it but no one was there:sad1: I filled out the card and went on to the parks. When I came back to my room I had a message from Lisa:banana: She was wonderful! She was so helpful:thumbsup2 She told me all about the promotion and helped me book a stay at the Poly for the end of September:banana: I am so excited:dance3:

[pta-mom]

Wow!!! Free dining!!! DH, myself & DS (10 & 9) went on our "once in a lifetime" DW trip last April & I loved it sooooo much that I've been working on DH about doing another "once in a lifetime" trip!!! :rotfl2: :rotfl2: Anyway, if I could get that free dining, I'm there!!! :thumbsup2 And it's pretty funny because I was looking at the end of September to do it so it would be perfect. Thanks for all the info, I will keep my eyes peeled for when/if it's ever released to the public! :yay:

[cinderkelli]

Subscribing...

[clkelley]

Mine is $886 for 8 nights at Pop, Aug 22-Aug 30, 2 Adults, 1 day base tix.

Maybe, the higher rate is a preferred room versus a standard room.

[CampbellScot]

I can't decide if Disney is just marketing the free dining in such a way that they will get tons of pre booked vacations for hurricane season, or if they REALLY don't think it will be offered to the public. My DH refuses to book right now. If free dining comes available in April, then I can book. I'm SO frustrated. I wish I had the time for a quick jaunt down to Disney to book a vacation for August 2007! Geez wouldn't that be nice...*sigh* Disney isn't stupid though...people going down specifically to book for HURRICANE SEASON! And people are doing it...I wish I was one of those people!! My husband and I were there last August when "Hurricane Ernesto" *ahem* hit (it was a constant drizzle at best)...we went to MK that day...the park was totally empty. We were allowed to stay on Splash Mountain, Thunder Mountain and Space Mountain as many times as we wanted until we asked to get off! I dont' think I'll ever get my DH on Splash Mountain again...he can't stand the music!!! It was the best day of our honeymoon!!!

I truly hope free dining is offered to the public. My husband just HAS to feel like we are saving money or he can't live with the expense.:rolleyes: what a pootsnorkel!:love:

[Tjaleks]

My husband and I were there last August when "Hurricane Ernesto" *ahem* hit (it was a constant drizzle at best)...we went to MK that day...the park was totally empty.

I was there with my sister when Ernesto "hit" as well. We went to AK and had the greatest day. I have amazing pictures of an empty park. We rode EE at least 5 times that day. It was great. I wish I could go back in Aug again for free dining, but we are going in June and I don't think I would be able to convince DH to go again so soon.

[SoarinJ]

I was there with my sister when Ernesto "hit" as well. We went to AK and had the greatest day. I have amazing pictures of an empty park. We rode EE at least 5 times that day. It was great. I wish I could go back in Aug again for free dining, but we are going in June and I don't think I would be able to convince DH to go again so soon.

Was at MGM the day of Ernesto before we departed - park was completely empty, felt strange, but in a good way. Stanger yet was how empty the Airport was.

[Muushka]

Snip... Disney isn't stupid though...people going down specifically to book for HURRICANE SEASON! And people are doing it...I wish I was one of those people!!
....snip:

You think this marketing scheme is smart? I don't know if you are familiar with DVC Member Cruise. That cruise was right in the middle of hurricane season AND they charge more for it than a normal cruise AND is sells out the first day. Talk about smart....

[Tina1]

popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: :grouphug: Who knows, I'm trying to plan a trip if the free dinning comes along again. Tina

[Kim02005]

Any info on free dining in August 2007 let me in on it-PLeeeese

[keliblue]

Toocooltobemom, we did the same. I hadn't planned on us going to a park on arrival day anyway since we won't be getting into Orlando until about 3:30 p.m., so I booked a room only the first night then a 10 night package. We're west coasters and will need a good night's sleep so we can get acclamated to the time zone change.

I just love smart Californian's:hug: Hello Castillo Mom :wave: We are also from Cali and are booked for Sept with the free dining :yay: Great idea about booking a room only for the first night after a long flight :scratchin .. I was lucky enough to be invited down last November to join my friend Bonzarella:hug: we both booked the bounce back for our families.

[keliblue]

Just a random thought here... Wouldn't Disney be less inclined to offer Free Dining if the Hotels are booking up now for Aug/Sept ?? And if so, wouldn't it be counter productive if everyone books a room now "HOPING" for free dining ?? :confused:

[bicker]

Absolutely. And booking a room now in anticipation of free dining provides you no benefit. To get free dining, there must be a room available in the free dining inventory. So while you might not notice it, when you "add free dining" to your reservation, you're effectively cancelling the reservation you made in advance and making a new reservation. Your "chances" of getting free dining are no better whether you have an existing reservation or not.

[bonzarella]

I just love smart Californian's:hug: Hello Castillo Mom :wave: We are also from Cali and are booked for Sept with the free dining :yay: Great idea about booking a room only for the first night after a long flight :scratchin .. I was lucky enough to be invited down last November to join my friend Bonzarella:hug: we both booked the bounce back for our families.

:wave2: KB:love: aren't we lucky?:wizard:

[Castillo Mom]

I just love smart Californian's:hug: Hello Castillo Mom :wave: We are also from Cali and are booked for Sept with the free dining :yay: Great idea about booking a room only for the first night after a long flight :scratchin .. I was lucky enough to be invited down last November to join my friend Bonzarella:hug: we both booked the bounce back for our families.

Keliblue, congratulations on booking the Bounceback Deal. I'm absolutely thrilled to have been able to take advantage of this offer. I had booked my trip several months ago so we were going, Free Dining or not. This deal is basically the icing on the cake for me because even if I had paid for the Dining Plan, it still would've been a savings. We like to have one sit down meal a day and 3 teen boys eat a lot.

As for booking a room only the first night, it just makes sense for us. I remember last trip being exhausted by the end of day 1 because we went straight to Epcot after checking in.

[keliblue]

:wave2: KB:love: aren't we lucky?:wizard:

Just the luckiest ever !!!:banana: I just wish we were going at the same time :hug: . Then again, it's nice to know I have a GF that I can go with when the urge for WDW gets to great :dance3: Once I purchase DVC this year, it will get even easier :rolleyes1 especially since DH is only good for "maybe" one trip a year :sad2: That will leave points that we just must us :woohoo:

[keliblue]

Keliblue, congratulations on booking the Bounceback Deal. I'm absolutely thrilled to have been able to take advantage of this offer. I had booked my trip several months ago so we were going, Free Dining or not. This deal is basically the icing on the cake for me because even if I had paid for the Dining Plan, it still would've been a savings. We like to have one sit down meal a day and 3 teen boys eat a lot.

As for booking a room only the first night, it just makes sense for us. I remember last trip being exhausted by the end of day 1 because we went straight to Epcot after checking in.


I seem to remember being totally spent after the long day of travel too. What part of Cali are you from ?? And which airlines to you use ?

[pta-mom]

Silly question....suppose they do offer free dining to the public & I want to take advantage of that, but say the free dining ends Sept 30....if I book a 10 day stay with DW that runs from Sept 29 to Oct 7, how many days of free dining do I get? The full ten or only the two that falls within the parameter of their free dining rules?

[bicker]

.if I book a 10 day stay with DW that runs from Sept 29 to Oct 7, how many days of free dining do I get? The full ten or only the two that falls within the parameter of their free dining rules?The full ten. Word is that they even pulled-in the end-date for free dining in 2006, to account for the ten days that vacations might extend into October.

[Castillo Mom]

I seem to remember being totally spent after the long day of travel too. What part of Cali are you from ?? And which airlines to you use ?

I'm from So Cal near LA. Last trip we flew with Delta, this time AA because they have the times I wanted. On the trip out we depart at 8:25 a.m. We're going on a Disney Cruise after WDW I booked the return flight for 1:20 p.m., perfect timing for us.

[Albertan mom]

Absolutely. And booking a room now in anticipation of free dining provides you no benefit. To get free dining, there must be a room available in the free dining inventory. So while you might not notice it, when you "add free dining" to your reservation, you're effectively cancelling the reservation you made in advance and making a new reservation. Your "chances" of getting free dining are no better whether you have an existing reservation or not.

Yes, this is what I am worried about, that so many people will book, that they won't offer it.....

Now, if I was to book a trip, hoping for the free dining, would I add the dining package, then call back to get it free, or not put on the dining plan at all?

[Castillo Mom]

Albertan Mom, technically you can book either a room only reservation now or a package that includes dining. But again, there's no advantage to that unless you're definitely going to WDW during Aug./Sept. regardless of Free Dining. If you're basing travel on whether it is offered, then I would suggest waiting and then book as soon as the word is out. Watch these boards carefully over the next few months. If you book a room only now, then you would essentially need to cancel that reservation and rebook the package. That is what I had to do. I had 11 nights room only already booked then when I was able to book the Future Stay promo, I put down the $200 deposit. Today I received a refund on my cc from the original room only reservation. I turned right around and called WDW today and applied the refund to the package.

I suspect that if it is indeed offered, it will be very limited due to the good response to the Future Stay promo.

[bonzarella]

I suspect that if it is indeed offered, it will be very limited due to the good response to the Future Stay promo.

I posted earlier today on another thread=The CM I spoke to last week regarding a change to our BB ressie stated they had already "reached their 100% goal". Appears the program is highly successful even without much promotion.

[Cruiser1969]

[/B]
I posted earlier today on another thread=The CM I spoke to last week regarding a change to our BB ressie stated they had already "reached their 100% goal". Appears the program is highly successful even without much promotion.

I wonder what "their goal" was, though. Maybe they have planned to leave some leftovers to appease the crowds waiting for an April announcement:confused3 One can only hope!:banana:

All this fuss over free dining has me thinking . . . I want what I cannot have!!!

[ADP]

I wonder if ticket prices will go up on 1/1/07? If that happens then the price of this package will increase.

If this package price increases on 1/1/07 then the folks who booked in November and December will have booked at a cheaper rate than those who book in 2007 (if offered, of course).

[bonzarella]

I wonder what "their goal" was, though. Maybe they have planned to leave some leftovers to appease the crowds waiting for an April announcement:confused3 One can only hope!:banana:

All this fuss over free dining has me thinking . . . I want what I cannot have!!!

I wondered the "goal #" myself. I've been throwing pixie dust all over these boards. Here's yourspixiedust:

[M-I-C-K-E-Y]

Hi All,

Is there anyone still planning a "last hour" trip down to book free dining? I can only imagine the crowds this close to New Year's, but it would certainly be worth it...

[bicker]

Regardless of whether they've reached their goal (for hotel occupancy for the Hurricane Season) yet or not, they may still try to offer the free dining as an affinity offering, i.e., only available to certain targeted groups -- Disney VISA cardholders, perhaps. Time will tell.

[Cookie Princess]

I must say that this has me worried. We had planned to do another free dining trip again in August. I hope that by reaching their goal, that doesn't mean that the program/room availability will be sold out. It isn't economically feasible for me to head down to WDW for 1 night now to book this future trip.

[bicker]

Well, I'd latch more so onto the chance that they may not have reached their goal, since if they have then that would tend to imply that they won't offer the promotion to the general public.

Regarding the idea of heading down to WDW for one night; the promotion ends 12/31/06, so there's not much time, and I suspect WDW is actually already quite full with holiday travelers.

Hang your hat on the fact that there are tens of thousands of hotel rooms, and a lot of people will be turned off by the prospect of visiting WDW during Hurricane Season. That's your best hope.

[momrek06]

OKAY GANG...I need help with all this...my DS and his DGF would like to head to WDW for Aug or Sept. Are they out of luck for the FREE DINING?? Also, can you book this early and get a room at the POP CENTURY and the DINING PLAN?? Do they still have ME?? They are both very hard working and love WDW but need to go when the rates will be best for them hence the decision to go late Aug/early Sept. ANY TIPS FOR THEM is so appreciated.:goodvibes

MANY THANKS, DISER's!:love:

[bicker]

I wouldn't say "out of luck". Surely, their chances are reduced, as compared to last year.

Booking now won't give you any advantage with regard to getting free dining. If you won't keep the room if you don't get free dining, then you're better off waiting until after the free dining promotion is officially announced before booking your package.

[lgaston]

Guys have you all forgot what happened last year? Remember... The free dining plan was offer to the general public (including Disney visa cardholder) from april 4th to June 4th. It was then EXTENDED from June 2nd to June 25th.

That they so-reach-their-goal doesn't mean anything. In that time of year it's back to school and hurricane seasons. Some travellers and maybe the majority will be reluctant to travel with their kids in that time of the year. So I bet the free dining plan will be back indeed to all. Not to mention that Disney is celebrating the year of millions dreams:goodvibes even more reasons for them to offer it to the general public.:dance3:

I'd like them to offer it sooner instead of waiting for April but I guess that this is the month when employees starts looking into vacation stuff :confused3 oh well,:rolleyes1 :yay:

[willis37862]

Guys have you all forgot what happened last year? Remember... The free dining plan was offer to the general public (including Disney visa cardholder) from april 4th to June 4th. It was then EXTENDED from June 2nd to June 25th.

That they so-reach-their-goal doesn't mean anything. In that time of year it's back to school and hurricane seasons. Some travellers and maybe the majority will be reluctant to travel with their kids in that time of the year. So I bet the free dining plan will be back indeed to all. Not to mention that Disney is celebrating the year of millions dreams:goodvibes even more reasons for them to offer it to the general public.:dance3:

I'd like them to offer it sooner instead of waiting for April but I guess that this is the month when employees starts looking into vacation stuff :confused3 oh well,:rolleyes1 :yay:


I am with you....and I hope we are right. :thumbsup2

[RayaniFoxmur]

The woman I talked to on the 29th when we booked our trip said that they indeed were around 100% of their goal and she found it to be extremely unlikely that it would be offered to the general public. Now, you can take that as you will really... and it's like I told my FH... just because it wouldn't be offered to the general public doesn't mean it wouldn't be offered to special interest groups like Disney Visa holders.

We're just glad we got ours! It meant we could upgrade to AKL instead of staying in a moderate again! :thumbsup2

[bicker]

Now, you can take that as you will really... and it's like I told my FH... just because it wouldn't be offered to the general public doesn't mean it wouldn't be offered to special interest groups like Disney Visa holders.I'd go one step further: Now that they've discovered how powerful this tool can be, as a conceptual bonus to target groups, I think it a lot more likely that they'll aim to target the offering from now on. Think about it this way: For many years, some people actually considered the AP discounts on hotel rooms as a significant incentive for purchasing the AP. Similarly, some people actually went down to WDW for a last-minute one-night visit last month, just to qualify for free dining later this year. The ability to get free dining, itself, is therefore clearly a perquisite, which enhances the value of other offerings. The more they limit availability of the free dining promotion to target groups, the more valueable being a member of those target groups (such as having a Disney VISA card) becomes.

[zookeeper]

I have to pipe in here and say I 100% agree with Bicker on this one. It only makes sense that the CM's were trying to impress upon potential return guests that the sales were almost at 100%...they want you to book another trip sooner rather than later. What kind of sales representatives would they be if they advised you to wait and see what happens? This way, those of you that were "lucky" enough to get down there in time to get the free dining deal (thus filling a room that may have been empty for that night) can walk away feeling like you've won the lottery by getting one of those elusive free dining rooms. Last year, I was one of those people waiting anxiously for the clock to change on April 4th so I could rush to call in for free dining. We had all been warned how few rooms would be left since Disney Visa cardholders had been allowed the opportunity to book for the 2 weeks prior to the general public. Needless to say there were still plenty of rooms left. Now, I'm not saying that the same is going to happen, but I do believe that you have to take all the rumours with a grain of salt. You have to give credit to those marketing wizards at Disney though. They really know how to keep those anticipation levels elevated. That's no dumb mouse!!!

[Disfan3]

Yikes. Wondering now if the DISNEY VISA will even get me first dibbs if there is even a free dining offered again for this year...

although MANY people last year said that it would not be and sure enough...I got in on it 2 years in a row!!


thanks for the info

[RayaniFoxmur]

I have to pipe in here and say I 100% agree with Bicker on this one. It only makes sense that the CM's were trying to impress upon potential return guests that the sales were almost at 100%...they want you to book another trip sooner rather than later. What kind of sales representatives would they be if they advised you to wait and see what happens? This way, those of you that were "lucky" enough to get down there in time to get the free dining deal (thus filling a room that may have been empty for that night) can walk away feeling like you've won the lottery by getting one of those elusive free dining rooms. Last year, I was one of those people waiting anxiously for the clock to change on April 4th so I could rush to call in for free dining. We had all been warned how few rooms would be left since Disney Visa cardholders had been allowed the opportunity to book for the 2 weeks prior to the general public. Needless to say there were still plenty of rooms left. Now, I'm not saying that the same is going to happen, but I do believe that you have to take all the rumours with a grain of salt. You have to give credit to those marketing wizards at Disney though. They really know how to keep those anticipation levels elevated. That's no dumb mouse!!!

I'd be more inclined to agree with you about this if she wouldn't have told me what she did after I paid the deposit on our trip. We had already booked and it was brought up in casual conversation, by me. So it wasn't really a sales pitch, at least not to us. I think bicker is right though, I think the smartest thing they could do is offer it the way they have this time around. They make more money this way... and it really wouldn't surprise me if they DO offer it again this year, it is offered in the same way.

[1gr8mouse]

Bicker is right.(as usual!!)....I think it will be offered to target groups. We are waiting by the computer daily.....Just hoping for a early Aug. vacation. We have the visa....
DW and I went last year on free DDP with out kids....our 6 day food total was $753.00...We will take the 3 kids (all adult meals) this time if offered, I cant imagine the savings....
Bring on the pixie dust please.....:yay:

[ang]

I am book for August 5th through the 17....is there a certain date or month to try to get free dining? I can move mine down a week.. arrive the 12...does anyone know...I know I have to wait to april to see...

[bicker]

Free dining has only been offered during the heart of hurricane season. There are conflicting reports about when that starts (in Disney's mind) this year, either August 5 or August 12. So unfortunately, you're question can only be answered, right now, with a "maybe, maybe not".

Here's a link to the official details for the free dining offer extended already to UK (and European) residents, for Hurricane Season 2007:

http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdwi/en_GB/special/offerDetail?id=DiningOfferPage

As you can see, it says, "Book between August 25 and November 6, 2006 for arrivals between August 12 and September 29, 2007 to get this delicious deal." So that's what makes me think that if they do offer free dining to others, it will be for check-ins starting on August 12.

[ang]

thanks bicker!!

I am going to change my dates...even if we can't get the free dining that ok. Maybe they will offer it so we would want to return.

[ExPirateShopGirl]

Just because a sales woman said they had reached 100% of their goal doesn't mean diddly when it comes to the general public. Their goal might have been 500 or 1000 bookings. It might have been a percentage of all current guest volume. Who knows? No one here does. Besides which, it didn't seem like many CMs even knew about the promotion, let alone guests.

Last year, it was offered to the general public for almost 3 months' time. I don't know how many days in advance the Disney Visa card holders were allowed to book, and I'm a cardholder. I didn't book my Free dining trip for 2006 until June 2nd (3 days after we returned from WDW) and the reservations were wide open (hence the extension.)

I probably will watch out for it to be offered to cardholders this year, but I have a feeling they will be putting out the Free Dining offer a month earlier than they did last year... perhaps before folks have their summer vacation plans set in stone...

[dizneedrmr]

Maybe a dumb question, but... If it's offfered to Disney Visa holders, does that mean you have to put the trip on your Disney visa? We're trying to climb out of debt and would be able to pay in cash if we went. We really didn't want to put the trip on a credit card (but if that's the way it has to be, that's the way it has to be! Ahh, the things I do for Disney!)

[MickeyEars]

I love your way of thinking ExPirateShopGirl. :thumbsup2 I too am going to remain confident that it will be offered to others.

Carla

[Cruiser1969]

I love your way of thinking ExPirateShopGirl. :thumbsup2 I too am going to remain confident that it will be offered to others.

Carla

I second this notion . . . there's something about the way you've expressed your thoughts, ExPirateShopGirl, that really hits home with me . . . I like the way you think:thumbsup2

[MickeyEars]

It's official ExPirateShopGirl, you rock!!! party:

Carla

[willis37862]

I probably will watch out for it to be offered to cardholders this year, but I have a feeling they will be putting out the Free Dining offer a month earlier than they did last year... perhaps before folks have their summer vacation plans set in stone...

I hope so...I want to make my vacation plans :yay: :yay: :yay:

[bicker]

Maybe a dumb question, but... If it's offfered to Disney Visa holders, does that mean you have to put the trip on your Disney visa? There's no way to tell at this point, since it is all still speculation, even whether or not they'll offer more promotions to anyone.

[NJBILL]

There's no way to tell at this point, since it is all still speculation, even whether or not they'll offer more promotions to anyone.

Wanted to join this thread to stay updated on 2007 Free Dining.

[SoarinJ]

Maybe a dumb question, but... If it's offfered to Disney Visa holders, does that mean you have to put the trip on your Disney visa? We're trying to climb out of debt and would be able to pay in cash if we went. We really didn't want to put the trip on a credit card (but if that's the way it has to be, that's the way it has to be! Ahh, the things I do for Disney!)

In th epast, when the offer was made to Disney Visa holders, to book during that offer you had to use your Disney Visa.

[keliblue]

"If" they offer it again to the general public, I bet they don't offer as many slots as in 06'... last year became a night mare to the restaurants and others who were not on the DP...especially in August. People couldn't get ressie's and they had to open addition non traditional resaurants for TS meals.

[bicker]

Yes, that's a big part of what is driving most of the speculation. However, I think that alone that wouldn't amount to much of a change. FWIR, I don't think it would take much of a reduction in free dining patronage to substantially obviate the capacity issues that came up last year. It's really the combination of the need to address those capacity issues combined with the fact that they've already, very successfully, offered free dining for this year's Hurricane Season, to two separate target groups, that raise the spectre of very limited (or no) availability to the general public come Spring.

[team weasel]

WOW...I feel like I just got off of a rollercoaster. Some posts got my hopes up, and some posts shot me down.

All I can say is, my husband and I had a GREAT trip last year on Free Disney Dining. The promotion came out early April, but we didn't book until April 28th and didn't have any problem with availability.

Fingers, toes, arms and legs crossed that they offer it again this year for Disney Visa holders and/or the general public.

[Lewisc]

Disney has always offered great packages during hurricane season. Before free dining it was something like pay for 4 play for 7 and before that it was deeply discounted resort rates.

I'd be surprised if some type of dining promotion isn't offered BUT Disney may have some limits. Availability may be more limited than past years. Guests might not get their first choice of dates or resorts. Disney may experiment with some restrictions. We could see minimum stay or even increase the minimum pass requirement.

[lkneller]

We booked this package at POR in Dec. The CM that we booked with said this promotion was being used in a test to evaluate the results of having a reservation agent on site. He did say they used the free dining promo for the test because this promo did so well in the past.

[keliblue]

[/URL] [URL="*******************************************ZSzeb00 1_ZSYYYYYYYYUS"] (*******************************************ZSzeb0 01_ZSYYYYYYYYUS) Can we STOP.. calling it "Hurricane Season" http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/28/28_2_2.gif (*******************************************ZSzeb0 01_ZSYYYYYYYYUS) .... your making me nervous:scared: Let's just refer to it as Adventurer Seasonhttp://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/15_1_63.gif (*******************************************ZSzeb0 01_ZSYYYYYYYYUS) like Disney does. I am afraid your going to jinx us http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/12/12_1_126.gif (*******************************************ZSzeb0 01_ZSYYYYYYYYUS)





http://www.smileycentral.com/sig.jsp?pc=ZSzeb097&pp=ZSYYYYYYYYUS (http://smiley.smileycentral.com/download/index.jhtml?partner=ZSzeb097_ZSYYYYYYYYUS&utm_id=7925)

[bonzarella]

:rotfl: :laughing: :scared1: Thanks Kelli:banana:

[keliblue]

:rotfl: :laughing: :scared1: Thanks Kelli:banana:


You know how I LOVE weather...but http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/28/28_2_5v.gif (*******************************************ZSzeb0 01_ZSYYYYYYYYUS)

:grouphug:







http://www.smileycentral.com/sig.jsp?pc=ZSzeb114&pp=ZSYYYYYYYYUS (http://smiley.smileycentral.com/download/index.jhtml?partner=ZSzeb114_ZSYYYYYYYYUS&utm_id=7922)

[MickeyEars]

To answer dizneedrmr's question about paying for the package with a Disney Visa isn't it normally only the deposit that must be paid with a Disney Visa? Does anyone know how it works for sure because I'm also curious?

Thanks!:wave2:
Carla

[Castillo Mom]

To answer dizneedrmr's question about paying for the package with a Disney Visa isn't it normally only the deposit that must be paid with a Disney Visa? Does anyone know how it works for sure because I'm also curious?

Thanks!:wave2:
Carla

You're correct. You would only need to pay the deposit with your Disney Visa card. I'm a new cardholder and I recently called WDW to ask that specific question. All subsequent payments can be made by any other acceptable method.

Those who are worried about using their card, just set aside the cash for the deposit and when your Disney Visa bill comes with the charge on it, pay it right away.

[MickeyEars]

Thanks Castillo Mom, that's what I thought!!! :goodvibes

Carla

[BillSears]

Here is some information for those of you waiting on a public free dining release. What it really means I'm not sure. :)

On 12/13/06 I booked a 9 night bounce back at CSR with a starting date of 9/28. I was told at that time I could change my dates, number of days and resort if I changed my mind later. I called CRO(regular CRO) on 1/4/07 and asked to change my dates and increase it to 10 nights. I changed it to arriving on 8/30 and departing on 9/9. Today I got my confirmation in the mail it shows the new dates and says "MYW + FREE DINE AUG-SEP".

So to me it looks like not all of the resorts are booked solid and that they do have some rooms that they could use for a general publib free dining offer. Now whether they have enough rooms to satisfy demand or enough to make it worth doing a public offer is debatable.

[jennf]

subscribing...

[disneyjunkie]

So to me it looks like not all of the resorts are booked solid and that they do have some rooms that they could use for a general publib free dining offer. Now whether they have enough rooms to satisfy demand or enough to make it worth doing a public offer is debatable.

I hope you're right. :wizard:

[disneymom06]

Here is some information for those of you waiting on a public free dining release. What it really means I'm not sure. :)

On 12/13/06 I booked a 9 night bounce back at CSR with a starting date of 9/28. I was told at that time I could change my dates, number of days and resort if I changed my mind later. I called CRO(regular CRO) on 1/4/07 and asked to change my dates and increase it to 10 nights. I changed it to arriving on 8/30 and departing on 9/9. Today I got my confirmation in the mail it shows the new dates and says "MYW + FREE DINE AUG-SEP".

So to me it looks like not all of the resorts are booked solid and that they do have some rooms that they could use for a general publib free dining offer. Now whether they have enough rooms to satisfy demand or enough to make it worth doing a public offer is debatable.

I hope your right too!! Going down for Easter and upgrading to an annual pass. I hope, if free dining is out by then, keeping my fingers crossed!:goodvibes

[Frosty&PixieRN3903]

For my family's sake, I hope the free DDP is offered in April. It's a great incentive to just go ahead and book. I booked last year for 6 days as a suprise to my wife and my 3 year old son...yes it would have been his first trip. But wifey decided that he was too young and wouldn't handle the trip very well...so I cancelled. I could kick myself now. My wife and I got married at the Poly in 2001 and have longed to go back since and now with my son here, I can't wait. I would leave this very minute to go. We now watch the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse everyday, not to mention Cars on almost a daily basis. And he jumps and screams everytime a WDW commercial may be on. So I know it's time to go. I want to stay longer and the free DDP would be and added bonus. I wonder if there's any chance I could call now and but some stroke of luck they would be able to offer it to me? Probably just wishful thinking. Anyways, thanks for the wonderful info and giving some hope to us sorry sapsuckers who cancelled last year. Counting the days till April!

[Frosty&PixieRN3903]

For my family's sake, I hope the free DDP is offered in April. It's a great incentive to just go ahead and book. I booked last year for 6 days as a suprise to my wife and my 3 year old son...yes it would have been his first trip. But wifey decided that he was too young and wouldn't handle the trip very well...so I cancelled. I could kick myself now. My wife and I got married at the Poly in 2001 and have longed to go back since and now with my son here, I can't wait. I would leave this very minute to go. We now watch the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse everyday, not to mention Cars on almost a daily basis. And he jumps and screams everytime a WDW commercial may be on. So I know it's time to go. I want to stay longer and the free DDP would be and added bonus. I wonder if there's any chance I could call now and but some stroke of luck they would be able to offer it to me? Probably just wishful thinking. Anyways, thanks for the wonderful info and giving some hope to us sorry sapsuckers who cancelled last year. Counting the days till April! :thanks:

[ang]

subscribing

[stephgles]

subscribing

[dizneedrmr]

Thanks for clearing up the Disney Visa question! I can definitely pay that deposit right away! Hurry up April!!!

[mom2my3kids]

I have a pretty good feeling about free dining after booking my vacation package today. But to be honest heck I would be happy with free cs and a couple snacks, maybe a couple ts meals. I don't have to have as many ts meals if its free. Just feed me and I will be happy and made to feel like I saved a ton of money on my insurance.:rotfl2:

[cinderkelli]

I keep thinking we will hear something, some new rumors or something, soon since the last promotion is now over.

Aren't there any Disney insiders around who could give us a hint? :thumbsup2 :rolleyes1

[bicker]

The insiders usually find out about 20 minutes before we do. :rotfl:

[Cinderumbrella]

Subscribing!!! Are dates are pretty much set in stone, but this would be such a great bonus for us!!!!!!!!!

[HACAM]

I am hoping like crazy they offer the free dining again this fall...DH and I went last September and will likely take the kids this August if they offer it.

[pta-mom]

I wonder though if they give free dining for September if it's not going to than make the parks over-over-over crowded!! Usually that time is the value season & September is not usually busy once the kids go back to school but if they offer free dining, maybe A LOT more people will take the trip at that time.....does it still make it worth it? We're planning an early October trip but have not confirmed our tickets, waiting to see if free dining is offered in September, but I'm beginning to think, if that many people are willing to go now in September, it might be too busy to be worth it. What do you think? :confused3

[Magical JenK]

I wonder though if they give free dining for September if it's not going to than make the parks over-over-over crowded!! Usually that time is the value season & September is not usually busy once the kids go back to school but if they offer free dining, maybe A LOT more people will take the trip at that time.....does it still make it worth it? We're planning an early October trip but have not confirmed our tickets, waiting to see if free dining is offered in September, but I'm beginning to think, if that many people are willing to go now in September, it might be too busy to be worth it. What do you think? :confused3

Went the last two years in Sept w/free dining & I didn't think the parks were crowded at all. Others have said that getting ADRs were hard to get though. However, I didn't have any problems...maybe because we went the week of Labor Day or maybe because it's just the two of us? Either way, we thought it was great! Going again in Sept!!

[bicker]

Clearly,the objective is to make the parks (or at least the hotels!) crowded that time of year -- they'll probably continue to try things to get closer and closer to that.

[BillSears]

I've been thinking about this and I wonder if Disney is going to not offer the free DDP because they don't want to set a precidence? Having it 2 years in a row makes people start to expect it every year, 3 years in a row and it's almost considered a right to have it. So maybe they will try to shake things up by offering a different deal?

[zookeeper]

I wonder though if they give free dining for September if it's not going to than make the parks over-over-over crowded!! Usually that time is the value season & September is not usually busy once the kids go back to school but if they offer free dining, maybe A LOT more people will take the trip at that time.....does it still make it worth it? We're planning an early October trip but have not confirmed our tickets, waiting to see if free dining is offered in September, but I'm beginning to think, if that many people are willing to go now in September, it might be too busy to be worth it. What do you think? :confused3

We went to WDW both years during Free Dining. The first year we went the third week of September and the park was absolutely quiet. We didn't wait for 1 ride and in fact, we only ever saw 1 Fast Pass machine that was in action because they just simply didn't need them.
Last summer we went from Aug.26th-Sept.1st and because of the increase in popularity of the Free Dining promotion and all the buzz about how difficult it was to get an ADR I was expecting much bigger crowds. While it definitely was busier than our first trip, we still didn't experience the massive crowds that I thought might be in the World. With some advanced planning with regards to meals we didn't have any trouble. The wait times for rides were a bit longer, but really not too bad at all, although we did use Fast Pass for the big rides.
I think a big part of the problem last year was that many people were not aware of the fact that they should have made ADR's. If you've never been to WDW before a lot of people don't realize just how big a part of the planning those ADR's can be. So people were arriving for their trips and weren't able to use the dining plan the way they expected and we heard reports of people being turned away at all the TS restaurants, but my guess would be that most of those people were trying to get into a restaurant without an ADR at peak meal times.
I'm sure that a lot of people will take advantage of the Free Dining if it's offered, but many people,especially those with school-aged children will simply not be able to do it or will be unwilling to do it because they don't want their child to miss the beginning of school. Now that schools in Florida aren't going back until later in August that may also play into the scenario, but no one really knows. All we can do is hope and wait. It is fun to speculate though, isn't it???

[M-I-C-K-E-Y]

Yesterday morning at 7AM the 180+10 day window for ADRs opened, for those arriving on August 5th for the free dining promotion. I was wondering whether anyone else booked those ADRs yet? We were ten for ten, with all chosen TS restaurants, dates and times.

Last year we booked our ADRs for free dining approximately 90 days in advance, and although we did get most (but not all) of our first choices of restaurants, the times weren't the best.

I'd imagine that August ADRs will really begin to fill up, once the UK residents begin booking their free dining, in a week or so...so call soon folks!

[clkelley]

We're not going till mid September, so we've got a little while yet. I just wish they would post the September hours soon.

[Albertan mom]

Still waiting to see if it is going to be free dining or not. Hope they let us know soon!!!

[ang]

Yesterday morning at 7AM the 180+10 day window for ADRs opened, for those arriving on August 5th for the free dining promotion. I was wondering whether anyone else booked those ADRs yet? We were ten for ten, with all chosen TS restaurants, dates and times.

Last year we booked our ADRs for free dining approximately 90 days in advance, and although we did get most (but not all) of our first choices of restaurants, the times weren't the best.

I'd imagine that August ADRs will really begin to fill up, once the UK residents begin booking their free dining, in a week or so...so call soon folks!

No, I think I am going to wait to see if they offer free dining to the public. I feel, if we fill the restaurants why offer the free dinning. If I did make ressie and they don't offer free dining, I would have to call back and cancel them.:guilty:

[M-I-C-K-E-Y]

OK, I probably should have stated this clearer. I meant that those who booked the free dining program on-site at WDW in November and December should call in those ADRs soon... :goodvibes

[Castillo Mom]

Hi M-I-C-K-E-Y! Thanks for the reminder. I've been waiting on pins and needles to make our ADRs ever since the Aug. park hours were released Feb. 1st. I have exactly 14 days before I can officially make them. Hopefully I'll have our itinerary finalized by this weekend.:)

BTW, just noticed you'll be staying at the Polynesian too. We arrive 8/21 - can't wait!

[ang]

You guys are so lucky. I am hopping they offer this offer when we go in august. I would differently sign up.

I am worried about restaurants filling up...but I have a list ready to go:rotfl2: So if they do offer I can call right away.

[HappyHappy]

subscribing and wishing...:wave2:

[keliblue]

We're not going till mid September, so we've got a little while yet. I just wish they would post the September hours soon.

They should have the hours posted end of the month:cool1: I am waiting on the same thing so I can book ADR's for our bounce back and free dining :banana:

[bonzarella]

Key Kelli-am on here too-NOT stalking you though:lmao: I can make ADR's on 3-4, looks like I'll be in the air though:thumbsup2 .
Do you know what yours are yet?:hippie:

[keliblue]

[/URL] Key Kelli-am on here too-NOT stalking you though:lmao: I can make ADR's on 3-4, looks like I'll be in the air though:thumbsup2 .
Do you know what yours are yet?:hippie:

You bet I do [URL="*******************************************ZSzeb00 1_ZSYYYYYYYYUS"]http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/7/7_12_3.gif (*******************************************ZSzeb0 01_ZSYYYYYYYYUS) question Bonzi ?? What was the place at Grand Floridian where you had lobster ?? Norco-something. Was it worth 2 TS's ?? I mean could you actually "see" the Lobster on your plate:rotfl:







http://www.smileycentral.com/sig.jsp?pc=ZSzeb113&pp=ZSYYYYYYYYUS (http://smiley.smileycentral.com/download/index.jhtml?partner=ZSzeb113_ZSYYYYYYYYUS&utm_id=7921)

[bonzarella]

Narcooses(sp). Yes, IMO it was worth 2. We are going back, DS#1 still talks about that & Kona. You are able to go out and watch Wishes if you are dining at that time. BTW that is also where I got none of my crab cakes:lmao:

[M-I-C-K-E-Y]

Hi Castillo Mom,

I'm glad to hear that you'll be ready to go with the ADRs soon. From what you posted, it looks as though we'll be leaving the Polynesian only a few days before you folks arrive. We'll be there at the beginning of the Free Dining, just after ******** ends (unfortunate but true!)

[.:)Tinker_Belle(:.]

what is the "free" dining plan?

[Castillo Mom]

what is the "free" dining plan?

First off the Dining Plan is a package component which includes one table service, one counter service and one snack credit per person per night of your package. Your package must include some form of theme park tickets and hotel. Free Dining is the discounted portion of the package - the Dining Plan would be included for free for everyone on the package but you'd be paying rack rate for the hotel. The Free Dining promo was first offered in '05 then '06 for stays in late summer which is the low season for Disney. For '07 it has only been offered to UK residents traveling during a specific time period as well as through a pilot program. The pilot program ran from last Nov.- Dec. and was called the Bounceback or Future Stay Promo. If you were staying on site during Nov.-Dec. and you booked your next stay while at WDW and your next stay fell between Aug.-Sept. '07, you got Free Dining.

[Piecey]

*edited to take out personal trip information*

[aubriee]

I have free dining (also booked via the Bounce Back Program) for Sept 29th-Oct 7th. When I look online dining is not mentioned, but on the confirmation they send you it has the CS, TS, and snacks listed for each night. I wouldn't panic (unless the confirmation they send you doesn't list the dining). You should receive it in the mail in just a few days.

[In Luv with Disney]

I just saw this thread! And funny, Lisa was the SAME girl we booked our vacation with while we were there! We were staying on DVC points and went to POR just to make this ressie. We were the FIRST ones in line and got POP for 7 nights, 1 day MYW ticket for 2 Adults, 1 Child for $843 (something like that). FREE DINING...what can be better? Lisa was SUCH a great help and a PLEASURE to deal with. She even gave the kids Disney stickers and Goofy figures to keep while they waited.

Now I get to make my ADRs on 2/27! I CAN'T WAIT! Congrats to everyone who is already booked! :cool2:

[M-I-C-K-E-Y]

Congrats to all those now booking free dining! We were hoping that you'd all get a chance to participate. Enjoy!! :goodvibes

[MarcyPoo]

I dont know if anyone can answer this but i'll give it a shot...

I know that the free dining begins 8/26... but I was wondering if I begin my stay on the 23rd, and went through the 29th, would I get free dining for the entire vacation? Or only half of it (if thats even possible)?

[M-I-C-K-E-Y]

I can help with this, since last year we were in a similar situation. You'll have to arrange for two different reservations, one checking in on 8/23 and checking out on the morning of 8/26 (three nights on that reservation). Immediately following the check-out, they will sign you back in for the final nights (8/26-29), and those would be under the free dining package. Unfortunately, the first three days will be out of pocket dining - you can't get an advance on the dining credits. We were able to keep the same room, but there's always a chance you'll have to move to a new room at the same resort, but it's well worth the risk!!

Best of luck! :goodvibes

[LBelle]

So...doesn't look like there will be any free dining for new packages booked in April as the last 2 years. :guilty: Oh well...I guess I better get down there THIS Nov/Dec. to snag it for '08!!! :yay:

[M-I-C-K-E-Y]

It's just over one month until the first of the free dining begins. How many of you will be there beginning August 5th? It seems like only yesterday that we all booked our future stay trips, doesn't it? All in all, it makes that brief December trip very much worth while.

[LiteBrite]

We'll be starting our bounceback package on August 16th. :hyper:

I was trying to remember, but I can't - did the available dates for the bounceback package end at the same time as the ones open to the general public? Also, when do the general public dates begin?

[bonzarella]

Bounce-back started 8/5 thru 9/29/07. Think first booking for FDP was 8/26? Sure if I am wrong someone will correct very quickly:lmao:

[M-I-C-K-E-Y]

One month until Bound Back begins!! :goodvibes

[keliblue]

Bounce-back started 8/5 thru 9/29/07. Think first booking for FDP was 8/26? Sure if I am wrong someone will correct very quickly:lmao:

Hi Bonzi !!!:banana: :banana: :banana: by favorite Disney Gal :hug:

[bonzarella]

:love: :hug: Hi Bonzi !!!:banana: :banana: :banana: by favorite Disney Gal :hug:

[M-I-C-K-E-Y]

Only two days until Bounce Back free dining begins! Here's hoping that everyone who took advantage of the promotion has a wonderful time. Just remember, all those calories are off-set by all that walking... :rolleyes1