Free Dining 8/26-9/22-Anyone Else Hear This?

[silmarg]

Figures...Since we arrive for 4 nights at the Poly on 8/22 then on 8/26 we leaver for 4 nights on the Disney Wonder. Hopefully, it will start sooner. :D

See you on the Wonder!

I'll be there... but I am doing the parks after the cruise... so I am hoping this board holds true.

[Rustysmom]

today i called and made my 10 days of adr's.
i asked the cm about the free ddp.

he told me it will be a disney visa free dining promo that runs all of sept and into the beginning of october. i told him i read a message board and the impression i received from that was aug to sept 22.

he said he was familiar with the disboards but what he was informed it will not include august for the promo.

i wish the cm's would get their stories straight!
now i am confused ....

he told me to switch to a package once the promo comes out and my adr's are tied to my name and phone number so i don't have to call back for new adr's.

he ended the conversation by telling me to watch for the disney visa promo. to check the website for more info when it comes out.

Now they're saying it might start the beginning of September? :confused3 That stinks. Well, maybe it's good because I won't get my hopes up and be pleasantly surprised if it includes the last week of August (if they actually do it at all that is).

[Alisha's mom Sarah]

I hope they do it at least for the Visa card holders. I check everyday and so far nothing!!.. I'd take sept-early oct.. My 1st choice of dates are Oct 3rd-1oth.. 2nd is Sept 19-27th...

[MIDisFan]

Last year I received the email from Chase (Disney Visa) about the advance booking for the DDP on the 31st of March so I suspect we will hear something very soon. We went the first week last year, checked in on the 13th, and it was packed. From what I have heard it wasn't as crowded after that first week so that may be why they moved it back to start on the 26th.

[mnhockey]

Was there last Sept. on the 19th thru the 25th and had free dinning plan. I was also there the year before and got it about the same time. Only bad thing sat in the hotel for one day due to a hurricane. Hope to hear soon about the dinning so i can make plane res.

[TravelinGal]

disney visa free dining promo that runs all of sept and into the beginning of october.

Now THAT would just burn my pants! Not everyone WANTS credit! Some of us LIKE paying cash for our purchases and not being in debt! Not everyone has good credit to get a Chase Bank credit card. Or they just plain have issues with Chase!

That's like saying only natural blondes can get the package. WAY to selective.


We have a friend who had Bank One credit cards with a hefty balance. Payments were ALWAYS on time (she showed me their online statement - you can't alter those!) and they had one payment that was literally lost in the mail - got there a WHOLE TWO DAYS late. At that time it was right when Chase bought out Bank One (or whatever it was they did). Chase took their 6% interest rate (800+ credit score people) and kicked it up to 24%. They tried calling month after month to get it straightened out. They wouldn't work with them. The interest alone was over $700 a month at this rate. Friends ended up having to file bankruptcy. I don't trust Chase. Period.

[kpuls11149]

If it is for Sept do you have to stay at a hotel or is the campground stay ok?

[stepdisney]

I agree. First it was only people from the U.K, then it was only people who came during a certain time last year and booked again, now it's only people with Disney Visa's?? We want to pay cash so we use our debit card. We have a credit card but we only use it in case of emergency or if one is needed like if you need one to rent a car. We don't have a Disney Credit Card.

I feel like next they're going to say this ones only for tall women named Shirley who live in Hoboken and owned Pinto's in 1976.

[LorieR]

Now THAT would just burn my pants! Not everyone WANTS credit! Some of us LIKE paying cash for our purchases and not being in debt! Not everyone has good credit to get a Chase Bank credit card. Or they just plain have issues with Chase! [/INDENT][/INDENT]

I have credit cards and I am NOT in debt! I pay my balance every month and only charge what I can pay for. We charge anything we can on our Visa, e.g. homeowner's & auto insurance, utility bills, and we average about $300 per year in rewards that we spend at WDW.

WDW is entitled to offer incentives to whoever it wants. Many people were given pin codes and were able to get 40% off, some people without pins were also able to get the 40% but I was not among them :(. Looks like it might be my turn to get a break this time :) . Last year a special discount was offered to Visa holders first but then was opened up to the general public not long after.

[cheerbop]

PIN codes are one thing.....VERY random. I did not receive one either. So be it.

Telling us the discount is ONLY for Disney Visa holders is another. That is NOT random at all.
We don't use credit. Period. And they are going to "punish" me for that by saying I can't have a discount?!

I still believe the rumors MANY people have heard will include the general public. The one posted here is the only one I have heard saying it will be the Visa holders.

I will continue to be positive about Disney and their offer of the free dining.:)

[nluvwithmickey]

Now that would suck! We, as Canadians, are not even entitled to get the Disney Visa cards! So even if I wanted to get the credit card, because I am Canadian, we don't get the chance to have the credit card.

I still pray that they will offer it like they did last year. A couple of days before to Dsney Visa card holders and after that, to the general public.

Here's to positive thinking!:thumbsup2

[G&J's Mom]

I feel like next they're going to say this ones only for tall women named Shirley who live in Hoboken and owned Pinto's in 1976.

:lmao:

Now raise your hand if you feel confident that the CM's do not know what they are talking about most of the time???? :wave2: One of these scenarios that people have heard or seen could very well be true, but then.......it could be entirely something different. I personally would love to see it extended to the end of September and even into October, but I guess for now we just have to resign ourselves to wait it out, cause who in the heck knows what is actually going to happen, "if" anything pertaining to free dining. :surfweb:


Denise

[craig15]

Telling us the discount is ONLY for Disney Visa holders is another. That is NOT random at all.
We don't use credit. Period. And they are going to "punish" me for that by saying I can't have a discount?!


You are not being punished, but people with the card are getting a reward. Read the ads about the card and you will find that they specifically say that special offers will be made available to cardholders. If you want the special offers then get the card.

Disney does not have a liability to anyone when it comes to offering free dining. They can do it if and when they want, and they can offer it to whomever they choose. I don't understand how a lot of people on these boards think that free dining is somehow owed to them.

Disney doesn't owe free dining to anyone. But if they offer it, then I will be there...whether it is an open offer, or just for cardholders.

[twinspluscade]

We have been Disney Visa members for a few months now. What website is everyone checking for info? Is it Disneyrewards.com ?

Kelly

[d23cndrela]

Come on people. Lets not start arguing amongst our selves over speculation. There are just too many rumors out there to believe them. Lets all hope for free dining. We can listen to what people heard & not attack them. Until we hear it from the mouse himself there is no need to get all bent out of shape. I myself am hopefully waiting for free dining. I did not receive any special codes and as of right now paying full price. I do have a Disney visa and will be grateful if there is some sort of perk for me, but if not then I'll deal, just like the rest of you.

Try to stay positive
:yay:

[macraven]

Did he say when it was suppose to start? I just checked my disney visa online and there is nothing yet.

the cm told me to keep watching as it will be announced in the very near future. he said he doesn not know the date but was told it is in the works as a promo.

a few years back i got the disney visa card for the special they had for the card holders. the only time i have used it is 3 times and that was for visa specials at disney. the reward program on the credits is not worth it to me.


i started to think that with the speculation of possible free dining, that many will do a package and hope ddp will end of free. then disney will probably hope no one that is not eligible for the promo, will cancel out the ddp.
think of the money they will come out ahead with then. it's just a thought.

i am doing room only with the AAA discount.
if free dining comes out for the period that i will be at the motherland, i am not sure i would switch to a package.

to the poster that asked if you have to stay on site or at the cabins to be eligible for the free ddp (if it happens), the answer is yes.

sorry if i upset anyone, i should not have posted what i was told yesterday.
i read thru parts of this thread and did not see anyone else mention what i was told and just wanted to share.
free dining or not, i am still on for my trip.
hope everyone that goes has a great time on their trip.

[tmli]

See you on the Wonder!!! Also sailing that day for our honeymoon!


Figures...Since we arrive for 4 nights at the Poly on 8/22 then on 8/26 we leaver for 4 nights on the Disney Wonder. Hopefully, it will start sooner. :D

[mas6010]

I don't think that any of the CM's even know when and IF the Free dining will be out. I have talked to several over the last couple of weeks and all have said that they don't know till the morning that they come into work @ 7ish. Unless you know someone in the promotions - and that is "the who" decides to issue the FD. But I am still hopping that all the rumors are true and it comes out real SOON.:)

[gatormark67]

You are not being punished, but people with the card are getting a reward. Read the ads about the card and you will find that they specifically say that special offers will be made available to cardholders. If you want the special offers then get the card.

Disney does not have a liability to anyone when it comes to offering free dining. They can do it if and when they want, and they can offer it to whomever they choose. I don't understand how a lot of people on these boards think that free dining is somehow owed to them.

Disney doesn't owe free dining to anyone. But if they offer it, then I will be there...whether it is an open offer, or just for cardholders.

Great Post...

There will always be some kind of qualifications....
AP holder
DVC member
WDW Resort (what about all those people that don't or can't stay onsite)
Certain dates
Etc...

Somebody is always going to be on the outside looking in...that is NEVER any fun.

Also...past history would say that Free Dining will be offered to Disney Visa holders first and then opened to a larger group.

The only reason we have the Disney visa is for offers and rewards that they promised their card holders. I for one, am glad that they are following through on their word, and giving special rewards.

I have felt all along that Disney should do more to reward those that go above and beyond...Visa holders...AP...multiple visits (we go at least 4 times per year).

This is coming from somebody that NEVER qualifies for free dining, because we are AP holders and you HAVE to buy tickets for the plan.

Hey WAIT ONE MINUTE...That's not fair! :rotfl:

[Praise2Him]

If it is for Sept do you have to stay at a hotel or is the campground stay ok?

The cabins at Ft. Wilderness do qualify for free dining, but the campground does not.

[mirthmaiden]

I feel like next they're going to say this ones only for tall women named Shirley who live in Hoboken and owned Pinto's in 1976.

:listen: huh? What did I win? :rotfl2: :lmao: :laughing: :rotfl:

I gotta agree with previous posters on this selectivity with regard to discounts. I understand giving perks (small perks) to VISA cardholders and other "loyal" customers. However, I don't really get what the benefit is to targeting individual households over others with a huge discount (40% off for selected people). A hotel room is a hotel room. Are people who live in New Jersey or Minnesota more deserving of that hotel room at a discount than I am because I live in Virginia? We'd be occupying the same space, buying the same tickets, eating the same food. And I don't know that giving these people a big discount will necessarily bring them back again any sooner. There are so many variables that affect where and when a family travels. Yes geography plays a part of it, but is it so important that it's OK to alienate loyal customers who aren't lucky enough to get a discount? (with the exception of people who live very close, but then, they get their own discount, right?)

With some small exceptions, I think the discounts should be across the board for everybody - first come, first serve.

[Pooh Friend]

Now raise your hand if you feel confident that the CM's do not know what they are talking about most of the time????


:wave2:

[kdzgon]

:lmao:

Now raise your hand if you feel confident that the CM's do not know what they are talking about most of the time???? :wave2: ...t is actually going to happen, "if" anything pertaining to free dining. :surfweb:


Denise



:wave2::wave2:

[SGMCO]

Now that would suck! We, as Canadians, are not even entitled to get the Disney Visa cards! So even if I wanted to get the credit card, because I am Canadian, we don't get the chance to have the credit card.

I still pray that they will offer it like they did last year. A couple of days before to Dsney Visa card holders and after that, to the general public.

Here's to positive thinking!:thumbsup2

Wasn't FD already offered to Canadians?
I thought that I read that somewhere? :coffee:

[Reese]

Wasn't FD already offered to Canadians?
I thought that I read that somewhere? :coffee:

I wish. We only had the option of getting it with the bounceback like everyone else. I'm still patiently waiting and hoping.

[kdzgon]

Great Post...

....I have felt all along that Disney should do more to reward those that go above and beyond...Visa holders...AP...multiple visits (we go at least 4 times per year).

This is coming from somebody that NEVER qualifies for free dining, because we are AP holders and you HAVE to buy tickets for the plan.

Hey WAIT ONE MINUTE...That's not fair! :rotfl:

A) Problem is free dining is a marketing plan, not a reward system (means we are sometimes OOL), and B) next time, do the math to be sure: you can book free dining with 1-day base pass(es), and then apply the value of those passes to your next AP renewal. Depending on the number of nights and/or the size of your family, the net savings with free dining might still be greater even if you never use/apply the base tix.

[Rapunzel]

We booked a package for Oct. back in early Feb. already WITH Dining. So if (and I know the key word is IF) they do free dining in early October (when we're already going) would we have to cancel our reservation and get a new one, or would they apply the free dining if I called?

[mom2my3kids]

What were the bounceback dates??

[keliblue]

What were the bounceback dates??

Beginning of August till End of Sept.

[craig15]

We have been Disney Visa members for a few months now. What website is everyone checking for info? Is it Disneyrewards.com ?


www.chase.com/disney

It's the credit card's web site. After you register, there is a link to view current offers.

[TravelinGal]

We booked a package for Oct. back in early Feb. already WITH Dining. So if (and I know the key word is IF) they do free dining in early October (when we're already going) would we have to cancel our reservation and get a new one, or would they apply the free dining if I called?

The discount only applies to NEW bookings - so your current one would have to be cancelled and the new one booked - Do NOT try this on your own! (meaning don't do it on the website - CALL your TA or Disney Travel Company) You don't want to risk losing BOTH reservations and all your money paid down so far!

If/when this comes out the Disney lines will be super busy as soon as people hear about it - you WILL have a wait, so put on a speaker phone or headset phone and find something to amuse yourself while everyone else is doing the same thing! ;)

[stepdisney]

:listen: huh? What did I win? :rotfl2: :lmao: :laughing: :rotfl:




I agree with you Shirley :rotfl: . It should be based on availability of rooms and the calls should be handled in the order in which they were received :lmao:.

Basically, we can't do anything about it but doesn't it feel better just to talk about it? We always say that Disney does not allow double dipping on discounts but wouldn't getting reward points and free dining be double dipping? I say two scoops for every Tom, Dick and Shirley! :laughing:

[mickey2000]

I called Disney Dining today to make my September res for the first 10 days. The agent told me quite a few weekends in September are booking up and a few weeks in September are also getting quite full and hard to find a good time for a reservation.
Bottom line during our conversation as he has done this for the past three years. He thought that this year looked busier than others and that there would PROBABLY be no new free dining offered to others. :confused:
Who knows, I'll keep wishing :yay:

[TravelinGal]

I called Disney Dining today to make my September res for the first 10 days. The agent told me quite a few weekends in September are booking up and a few weeks in September are also getting quite full and hard to find a good time for a reservation.
Bottom line during our conversation as he has done this for the past three years. He thought that this year looked busier than others and that there would PROBABLY be no new free dining offered to others. :confused:
Who knows, I'll keep wishing :yay:


That's probably everyone making ADR's who don't even have ressies yet - just IN CASE free dining comes back. (or they have ressies, but plan on cancelling them if the free dining isn't offered)
And then, if/when they can't get their package low enough - if the dates are wrong or the free DDP doesn't happen - they, in juvenile fits, don't cancel their ADR's that won't be used - thereby taking space away from those who are going regardless of what happens!

[mickey2000]

The discount only applies to NEW bookings - so your current one would have to be cancelled and the new one booked - Do NOT try this on your own! (meaning don't do it on the website - CALL your TA or Disney Travel Company) You don't want to risk losing BOTH reservations and all your money paid down so far!

If/when this comes out the Disney lines will be super busy as soon as people hear about it - you WILL have a wait, so put on a speaker phone or headset phone and find something to amuse yourself while everyone else is doing the same thing! ;)


Last year my AAA agent modfied my same reservation with a code ! I did not have to make a new one. This morning when I made my new res Disney told them that the code would be the way to change it to free dining like last year IF one is released.
That simple, and last year, I even kept the room discount part of my reservation :cool1:

[Disney's Fab 4]

:confused3 I guess it just depends on which CM you talked to, When I called to book my trip, I was booking either way... I booked my entire trip then asked the CM about the free dining rumor and he said he was almost positive it would be offered... and this was AFTER I already booked my trip!
:wizard: I am hoping like everyone else!!!

Either way.... I am looking forward to my vacation!!!!:woohoo:

[TravelinGal]

Last year my AAA agent modfied my same reservation with a code ! I did not have to make a new one. This morning when I made my new res Disney told them that the code would be the way to change it to free dining like last year IF one is released.
That simple, and last year, I even kept the room discount part of my reservation :cool1:

What your TA does 'behind the scenes' may look like just applying a new code - but it often involves making a new booking, cancelling the existing one and transfering money to the new one. But what do I know? I've just been a TA since 1994.

[keliblue]

That's probably everyone making ADR's who don't even have ressies yet - just IN CASE free dining comes back. (or they have ressies, but plan on cancelling them if the free dining isn't offered)
And then, if/when they can't get their package low enough - if the dates are wrong or the free DDP doesn't happen - they, in juvenile fits, don't cancel their ADR's that won't be used - thereby taking space away from those who are going regardless of what happens!

BINGO !!! Disney works on a #'s basis.. If the rooms are full and restaurants full... would you offer free dining too ??? I don't think so :sad2:

[Pirate at Heart]

Hey all,
I am a Disney Visa cardholder. Last year the discount came out the very end of March (I got an e-mail) it gave the card holders 4 or 5 days to book before everyone else. I booked CSR on the 1st day! Next day changed to CBR, then back to CSR, after that WL! and so on and so forth. Point is by the time I finally made up my mind the promo for Disney Visa cardholders was over and there were still plenty of rooms to be had! So relax!

BTW:
I will post IF I get the e-mail to give you all the heads up. We are going in October this year (40% off promo) August was way to hot for us!

pirate:

[Ziggy]

BTW:
I will post IF I get the e-mail to give you all the heads up. We are going in October this year (40% off promo) August was way to hot for us!

pirate:

That would be lovely if you could do that :)

[Goofy4Disney!]

I'm hoping for free dining as well, unfortunately our trip dates are Aug 18-26th so if the rumors are true, I'll miss the free dining period anyway :(.

But what is this 40% discount I keep hearing about. I booked my whole package (two actually, because we need two rooms) at full price, no discounts anywhere. Can someone fill me in? And I have AAA, should I have booked thru them instead, I've just always liked booking my own trip better. Gives me more confidence that everything is as I want it to be.

TIA

[kparc]

But what is this 40% discount I keep hearing about. I booked my whole package (two actually, because we need two rooms) at full price, no discounts anywhere. Can someone fill me in? And I have AAA, should I have booked thru them instead, I've just always liked booking my own trip better. Gives me more confidence that everything is as I want it to be.

TIA[/QUOTE]

AAA has the 40% discount on certain resorts. CBR has the 40% discount, however, CSR does not. That's about all I know, cause that's all we've looked into. We really want the Free Dining for the middle of August. Disney's Million Dreams looks like it is falling one Dream short!:confused3

[kparc]

But what is this 40% discount I keep hearing about. I booked my whole package (two actually, because we need two rooms) at full price, no discounts anywhere. Can someone fill me in? And I have AAA, should I have booked thru them instead, I've just always liked booking my own trip better. Gives me more confidence that everything is as I want it to be.

TIA


NEVERMIND!!!! GOT THE DISCOUNT WRONG!!!!! We did look into booking through AAA and got a reduced rate at CBR compared to what Disney Reservation was offering. The 40% discount was a post card Disney sent out early in the year. We didn't receive one. :confused3

Sorry about that.

[monami7]

today i called and made my 10 days of adr's.
i asked the cm about the free ddp.

he told me it will be a disney visa free dining promo that runs all of sept and into the beginning of october. i told him i read a message board and the impression i received from that was aug to sept 22.

he said he was familiar with the disboards but what he was informed it will not include august for the promo.

i wish the cm's would get their stories straight!
now i am confused ....

he told me to switch to a package once the promo comes out and my adr's are tied to my name and phone number so i don't have to call back for new adr's.

he ended the conversation by telling me to watch for the disney visa promo. to check the website for more info when it comes out.


I was told almost word for word this exact thing except that it was not just visa holders. My CM said yesterday that it was to be anounced anyday now on disneyworld.com and to watch for it and call back to have our ressies switched to free dining. I specifically asked if I would need to rebook and he said no that it would be applied and I would just have the DDP amount deducted from my bill. He did stress to call back as soon as it was anounced though.

[macraven]

I was told almost word for word this exact thing except that it was not just visa holders. My CM said yesterday that it was to be anounced anyday now on disneyworld.com and to watch for it and call back to have our ressies switched to free dining. I specifically asked if I would need to rebook and he said no that it would be applied and I would just have the DDP amount deducted from my bill. He did stress to call back as soon as it was anounced though.

i called back to disney today and the same thing was said again to me except this time the cm told me the disney visa holders would have maybe 3 days to book in before the general public could book with that code for the free dining. the cm said anyone can use the code for the free ddp but it would be offered to disney visa holders first.

[MouseTriper]

IF the free dining is offered again, can one book a trip with the free dining online or do you need to call or go through a TA?

Thanks!

[Alisha's mom Sarah]

So April 12th is a Wed. Maybe the Visa holders will be able to make ressies starting Monday the 9th.. And my 2y/o will be at her grandparents so I can get up bright and early with only my 3 month old to deal with!!!!

[mking624]

IF the free dining is offered again, can one book a trip with the free dining online or do you need to call or go through a TA?

Thanks!

I do know that you cannot book it online....CRO needs to be called. Now whether a TA can do it or not, I really don't know.

[mking624]

So April 12th is a Wed. Maybe the Visa holders will be able to make ressies starting Monday the 9th.!
Actually April 12th is a Thursday. ;) But assuming that Visa cardholders are given a 3 day window that others have mentioned, Monday (the 9th) does make sense. This is all hypothetical of course.

Does anyone remember how long the window was for Visa holders last year? We didn't make a decision about it until a month after it started being offered, so I really can't remember.

[TravelinGal]

Now whether a TA can do it or not, I really don't know.

Of course a TA can book it! I don't recall ever seeing a package offered from Disney that I couldn't book for a client.

[DisneyDizzy]

IF the free dining is offered again, can one book a trip with the free dining online or do you need to call or go through a TA?

Thanks!

I don't know about this year but we booked free dining online last year without any trouble at all.:thumbsup2 Then again, we didn't want anything special. Just a value resort and a standard room.

[Alisha's mom Sarah]

Actually April 12th is a Thursday. ;) But assuming that Visa cardholders are given a 3 day window that others have mentioned, Monday (the 9th) does make sense. This is all hypothetical of course.

Does anyone remember how long the window was for Visa holders last year? We didn't make a decision about it until a month after it started being offered, so I really can't remember.

Well that will teach me to look acroos the room at a calendar..

[DisneyMom5]

IF the free dining is offered again, can one book a trip with the free dining online or do you need to call or go through a TA?

Thanks!

In the past, when there were similar specials, there would be a special link on the WDW website that would put the code in for you and give you the prices. Don't know if there will be this time.

[MouseTriper]

I do know that you cannot book it online....CRO needs to be called. Now whether a TA can do it or not, I really don't know.

Thank you so much. I was wondering about that. :goodvibes

[MouseTriper]

Of course a TA can book it! I don't recall ever seeing a package offered from Disney that I couldn't book for a client.

Great, thank you!!!

[MouseTriper]

I don't know about this year but we booked free dining online last year without any trouble at all.:thumbsup2 Then again, we didn't want anything special. Just a value resort and a standard room.
Hmmm...cool, thank you!!! :goodvibes

[MouseTriper]

In the past, when there were similar specials, there would be a special link on the WDW website that would put the code in for you and give you the prices. Don't know if there will be this time.

That would make it easy!!! Thanks for the information! :cool1: I so hope they offer Free Dining!!! :cloud9:

[macraven]

Actually April 12th is a Thursday. ;) But assuming that Visa cardholders are given a 3 day window that others have mentioned, Monday (the 9th) does make sense. This is all hypothetical of course.

Does anyone remember how long the window was for Visa holders last year? We didn't make a decision about it until a month after it started being offered, so I really can't remember.

two years i did the free dining with the disney visa card. i believe it was either a 2 or 3 day closed period to book for the visa card holders, after that it was open to the general public.

many many people took advantage of it when it went to the general public.
and i believe it had a window of 6 weeks to book it in.

i can post here if i see it announced on the disney visa card holder site.
i'm sure it will also be listed on the disney website at the same time.

we hear so many rumors, who knows which ones will be the one we have been discussing. just a wait and see thing for us now.

[DisneyMom5]

Other than the possible unhappy people due to the dates, do you think we will be all one big peace and love party when free dining finally does come out? "Can't we all just get along?" LOL

:hippie:

Peace....Love....Free dining....

I do believe in free dining, I do I do.... :wizard:

[Flametamr]

I kinda snoozed and just got my Disney Visa opened today. I should be okay to get in on the window before the free DDP goes public. Just don't know if I'll get the email before hand. I'm replanning my August trip to mid September for the free food. With 3 adults and a teen I should save near a grand. :)

[twinspluscade]

I kinda snoozed and just got my Disney Visa opened today. I should be okay to get in on the window before the free DDP goes public. Just don't know if I'll get the email before hand. I'm replanning my August trip to mid September for the free food. With 3 adults and a teen I should save near a grand. :)

Now I have NO IDEA of this is really true or not...but I read somewhere on one of the many threads about free dining that in order to book free dining early w/Visa "perk" you have to have been a Visa cardholder for a certain length of time. In other words, I couldn't go to the Visa website and quick sign up for a card when free dining was offered to card-holders. If I remember right, whoever wrote the post said you had to have used your card for a purchase at least once, and received the Visa bill in the mail at least once.

[perd]

[QUOTE=DisneyMom5;17826932]:hippie:

Peace....Love....Free dining....

[QUOTE]


Ummmm...I think it's peace....love....crabs...



http://www.peacefrogs.com/joescrabshack/images/category/youth_std.jpg

[Flametamr]

Thats fine even if I don't get an early chance. I have actually been meaning to do it before long this rumor started. I just keep forgetting. I had another Chase card I had to cancel and open this one. I should still get in on free dining even if I don't get a day or two advantage. Surely they have enough to offer if they open it at all to the public. On top of that I get free financing of my vacation if I want to use it.

[Rustysmom]

Ok, I'm going hopefully the week the free dining starts and I have a Disney Visa. A TA did the original booking a couple of months ago. Would the same TA have to try to get me the free dining or is there any way I could do it myself?

I don't want to cancel and rebook if at all possible because I got travel insurance and it's non-refundable.

I don't have much confidence in my TA because he never even reminded me to make my ADR's and shouldn't he have? Good thing I know about the 180 day thing and was on the phone myself early that morning. For all I know, he doesn't even work there anymore. Do you think I should send him a little email telling him to be on the look for free dining and that we want it if possible?

[TravelinGal]

Ok, I'm going hopefully the week the free dining starts and I have a Disney Visa. A TA did the original booking a couple of months ago. Would the same TA have to try to get me the free dining or is there any way I could do it myself?

I don't want to cancel and rebook if at all possible because I got travel insurance and it's non-refundable.

I don't have much confidence in my TA because he never even reminded me to make my ADR's and shouldn't he have? Good thing I know about the 180 day thing and was on the phone myself early that morning. For all I know, he doesn't even work there anymore. Do you think I should send him a little email telling him to be on the look for free dining and that we want it if possible?


You can use a different TA in the same office. But you cannot take over the reservation yourself.

No, not all TA's are Disney specialists (and some that say they are, still aren't LOL), so he may have had no clue about 180 booking window. For example - I don't book a lot of Italy, so there might be some special 'trick' that agents who do tons of Italy would know that I don't. I can efficiently book your airfare and hotel and even tours, but I might miss out on some great 'secret' that a TA who specializes in Italy would get for you.

I'm big into research (just like most of us 'disney freaks' here are! ;) ) and I often knew more about my pregnancy than the nurses at my OB's office. And my OB learned early on not to talk down to me about pg symptoms etc. So, even in a field that requires a lot of education, it is easy to be as knowledgeable (if not a bit more knowledgeable) than the professionals. Doesn't mean my OB or her nurses were not smart - I was just a well researched patient. :surfweb:

You're just a well researched traveler!

[Rustysmom]

Unfortunately they advertise that they are Disney specialists and that they are authorized by Disney with the "ears" and everything.:mad: This particular TA was recommended by someone on my birth board whose SIL used him all the time, and she would get little emails that said "A little Magic happened" when a discount came out and he was able to get it for her. He was really good in the beginning, but I'm kind of PO'd that he never reminded me about the ADRs.

Well then, I think I'm going to send him a little email letting him know about the big rumor and reminding him that I have a Disney Visa (he should know because I gave him the info to pay my deposit and told him it was a Disney visa), and asking if he could please try to get me the free dining. This way, if he answers, I'll know if he's still around. This is his last chance to redeem himself. LOL

Darn, I knew I should have just booked it myself, but I was hoping for the free dining all along and thought that a TA would have a better shot of getting it for me than I could myself, in case something was going on when it came out and I couldn't call. Oh well, live and learn. If it comes down to it, I'll just call up and book it with the free dining and cancel my reservations through him and lose the $ for the insurance. The free dining is worth more.

[Goofy4Disney!]

Ok, so here's my question. (I'm driving myself nuts) We are going in August anyway, I already booked two rooms at CBR for the 18th -26th. IF I HAVE to, I can go the week after instead....the 26th to maybe Sept 2nd. Am I better off just changing my reservation now...with the hope that the dates of the free dining (rumors so far) are true. Because I can imagine that once its announced about the free dining (if it is) that its going to be really difficult to get anything booked for that next week.

Danged if I do, Danged if I don't type thing? Because the 18th to 26th really works out better for us AND I've already made all our ADR's. Any chance the Free DDP would be earlier than the 26th? (nah...no such luck)

[macraven]

if you make the ressie the first day it is opened to the public, you will get the resort you want. they don't sell out that fast.

only the adrs fill up quickly.

you can make a second ressie for the later date, then cancel it when we all find out when the promo will be effective.

you will have to pay a deposit within 14 days of booking that second ressie but you can get it back if you cancel by 45 days out of arrival on that second date.

[Goofy4Disney!]

if you make the ressie the first day it is opened to the public, you will get the resort you want. they don't sell out that fast.

only the adrs fill up quickly.

you can make a second ressie for the later date, then cancel it when we all find out when the promo will be effective.

you will have to pay a deposit within 14 days of booking that second ressie but you can get it back if you cancel by 45 days out of arrival on that second date.


thats an awesome idea :thumbsup2

[macraven]

all the resort rooms are included in the free dpp when it comes out, that is if it comes out.

[Goofy4Disney!]

Ok, last question. What if I want to arrive on the 25th? Will I need two different reservations. One for the 25th and then one for the 26th thru the 2nd? I'm thinking yes. In that case we can stay at a value one night and then switch?

[mking624]

Ok, last question. What if I want to arrive on the 25th? Will I need two different reservations. One for the 25th and then one for the 26th thru the 2nd? I'm thinking yes. In that case we can stay at a value one night and then switch?
Assuming this rumor is true, yes you would need two separate reservations. They will not honor the promotion prior to the promotion's start date, even if it's by one day. You would need to check in during the time frame given.

[silmarg]

I GOT A LETTER FROM THE DISNEY CARD TODAY!

I ripped open the envelope hoping for some news about free dining....

It was a letter saying my credit limit was increased!

What a let down!

[mking624]

I GOT A LETTER FROM THE DISNEY CARD TODAY!

I ripped open the envelope hoping for some news about free dining....

It was a letter saying my credit limit was increased!

What a let down!
UGH! Don't you hate when things like that happen!! It was like that for us when everyone was getting the 40% postcards...we got a postcard in the mail and we were so excited, only to realize it was for DVC. :sad2:

[DisneyBound2007]

I wasnt on the boards much today...what is the current story on news regarding the free dining. I am already set for Sept. 15 - 25 and just wanted to see if I would fall withing the assumed range of days it will be offered. I am also a Disney Visa holder, and would like to know how they would notify us, or if we should contact disney each day starting in April and ask if it is being offered....

[mirthmaiden]

I GOT A LETTER FROM THE DISNEY CARD TODAY!

I ripped open the envelope hoping for some news about free dining....

It was a letter saying my credit limit was increased!

What a let down!


Yeah I can see why that would be upsetting :rolleyes:
I don't have a VISA card, so that sounds nice to me.

[Ziggy]

Yeah I can see why that would be upsetting :rolleyes:
I don't have a VISA card, so that sounds nice to me.

What sounds nice getting the credit limit increased or hopes dashed? :confused:

[mirthmaiden]

What sounds nice getting the credit limit increased or hopes dashed? :confused:


Getting a credit limit increase. Some of us are not as fortunate in that department due to financial circumstances. It's like complaining about your good luck??

As far as the hopes dashed, that may be a bit premature. Just because PP got a piece of mail about something else doesn't mean it isn't going to happen. S/he could get another letter today. And no doubt if there is a Disney VISA promotion, it will be all over these boards in about 3.4 seconds flat. S/he won't miss out on it.

Look, it was a joke. That's what I do. Sorry to have offended anybody.

[Ziggy]

Getting a credit limit increase. Some of us are not as fortunate in that department due to financial circumstances. It's like complaining about your good luck??

As far as the hopes dashed, that may be a bit premature. Just because PP got a piece of mail about something else doesn't mean it isn't going to happen. S/he could get another letter today. And no doubt if there is a Disney VISA promotion, it will be all over these boards in about 3.4 seconds flat. S/he won't miss out on it.

Look, it was a joke. That's what I do. Sorry to have offended anybody.

It didn't offend I was just unclear on what you meant :)

[PrincessCM]

Keeping my fingers crossed for Free Dining!!!!!

[MickeyT]

I GOT A LETTER FROM THE DISNEY CARD TODAY!

I ripped open the envelope hoping for some news about free dining....

It was a letter saying my credit limit was increased!

What a let down!

I got one about 'Meet the Robinsons'. Same feeling.

[num1tigerfan]

I got one about 'Meet the Robinsons'. Same feeling.

I know.....I got the same mail "Meet the Robinson's".....bummer, but atleast we will have a family movie showing to go see. That's not always the case!;)

[brooke1]

You guys may have already read this, but here is another offical unoffical sourse that says we may have free dining....


http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1401499

lets keep the drean alive :rotfl:

[mking624]

Getting a credit limit increase. Some of us are not as fortunate in that department due to financial circumstances. It's like complaining about your good luck??

As far as the hopes dashed, that may be a bit premature. Just because PP got a piece of mail about something else doesn't mean it isn't going to happen. S/he could get another letter today. And no doubt if there is a Disney VISA promotion, it will be all over these boards in about 3.4 seconds flat. S/he won't miss out on it.

Look, it was a joke. That's what I do. Sorry to have offended anybody.
I never got from it that there was a complaint about a credit limit increase. But rather they were hoping for something regarding free dining and that wasn't it. When you're hoping for a particular thing and what you get isn't it, it can be a disappointment. That's not to say that for all eternity all hopes are dashed. It means on that day, someone was hoping that the mail from Disney Visa would be something that it wound up not being. A very simplistic example would be with drinks. I like fruit punch and I like lemonade. But if I get order a lemonade and am given fruit punch and I take a drink expecting lemonade to come into my mouth, the taste is going to seem somewhat "bad" or "off" because it was not what I was expecting. That's not to say the fruit punch is bad or that I'm complaining about it, just that it wasn't what I was hoping for.

No need to turn it into anything more than that. :)

[macraven]

Ok, last question. What if I want to arrive on the 25th? Will I need two different reservations. One for the 25th and then one for the 26th thru the 2nd? I'm thinking yes. In that case we can stay at a value one night and then switch?



i have done split ressies before. started in regular season and went thru value season. to get the cheaper rate, i checked in on one ressie for 2 days.
then i had another ressie for the next 8 nights at the value rate.

i set up two ressies. checked into the resort on the first ressie.
on the morning of day 3, went to the lobby at 7am and checked out on that ressie and signed papers to check back in on the new, cheaper ressie.

i didn't have to change rooms. it was all in paper work.

when i first arrived, i told the cm that i had two ressies and did not want to move rooms during my stay. she noted that in the files and i stayed in the same room all the nights.

do 2 ressies but tell the cm you want to stay in the same room when you check out on one ressie to the other to the other check in ressie.

[crazy_for_the_dis]

Silmarg,

I had to laugh at your post, since we got the same letter on Wednesday! I was all excited because the envelope was obviously from Chase Disney, and it said in big letters around the envelope "this is something big" or something like that. I was so sure too that it was about free dining! I was also very disappointed to read that it was only a credit limit increase. Oh well, it doesn't appear free dining will work for our dates anyway (early August) so we might need the extra room on the card (just kidding, we never charge vacations).

[mickey2000]

With all us booking ahead looking for the free dining Disney has NO REASON to offer it as the parks are going to be booked at a higher level. Maybe we fell for thier marketing ploy and they are smart :surfweb:

[kdzgon]

With all us booking ahead looking for the free dining Disney has NO REASON to offer it as the parks are going to be booked at a higher level. Maybe we fell for thier marketing ploy and they are smart :surfweb:

Their marketing ploy worked in numerous ways. I know we were drawn in by "free" dining last year (after 20+ yrs "hiatus"). We have since planned a family trip for Sept (up to 30+ people), purchased DVC and have multiple trips planned through that as well. While free dining would be nice, we chose to return in late Sept for a combination of reasons.

I'm sure we're not the only ones that had our appetites "re-wetted" due to a "free dining" offer.

[kutchyone]

They have already listed a September Magic Your Way Package Plus Dining on the Disney TA site according to another site and a copy of the page was included. I also was able to get a peak at it too. The default check in date is 8/26/07.

You can't book anything as of now but they are getting ready to launch the special. You can try any dates but it says that they are outside of the range of the package.

having this show up so early on the TA site would be really early for a start date for bookings on 4/12 or for even 04/07. This would be way in advance if it started on 04/07 so I bet it will be sooner.

This won't help me and I am still keeping my fingers crossed for some type of discount for a little earlier in August, specifically starting on the 15th.

[monami7]

Thanks for the info. I would love the anouncement to come soon. It will just ease my mind to know it is there.

[Momto8]

Maybe it will come out on April 1st like it did last year! :banana: Here's hoping for some pixie dust that it comes out in the next few days!! ;)

[cheerbop]

My parents and us are goig together but staying at different resorts. THEY have the Disney Visa, we do not. Is there ANY way that we could also get the early free dining booking with their Visa?
Just wondering becasue I am nervous that any limited amount of rooms that might be offered at the CR will be booked by the time it gets offered to the general public.

Help/advice anyone????
Thanks

[SGMCO]

A funny thing!!
I went to my DVisa Offers section
and the boards are clear and it said
something like, Offers being updated!!

This is the 1st time that I have seen this message,
there is usually little boxed pictures that show
WDW, DCruise line offers, ect. with number of offers
that are available.

I will keep checking!!:banana:

[sandybobandy]

A funny thing!!
I went to my DVisa Offers section
and the boards are clear and it said
something like, Offers being updated!!

This is the 1st time that I have seen this message,
there is usually little boxed pictures that show
WDW, DCruise line offers, ect. with number of offers
that are available.

I will keep checking!!:banana:


Oooh! ::runs to check DV special offers::

Hmmmm.....nothing is showing. All I'm getting is:
We were unable to complete your request at this time. There are no offers available for your account at this time. For more information, please contact Customer Service. Customer Service support is available 7 days a week, 24 hours per day.

[Rustysmom]

I know there was a message on the Disney Visa website saying the site was going to be down for updating. I just hope that they are updating with a message about the free dining!

[d23cndrela]

I had checked my Disney visa earlier this morning and saw this as well. Wishin & Hopin!!!!

[poohluvr]

Well if this is true I'll be kind of relieved. I was debating going in mid-late Aug. in hopes of catching free dining, but opted to go in June instead. My kids start school on the 27th of August so I wouldn't have been able to take advantage of this. If this is true at least I won't be kicking myself in the butt.

[Susie22]

I don't have a Disney Visa. Is there any way I could apply for one and book the package on the same day?

[sandybobandy]

I don't have a Disney Visa. Is there any way I could apply for one and book the package on the same day?

I wouldn't *think* so....you probably actually need to be a card member in order to get the deal. And I *think* you need to book it WITH the card.

[d23cndrela]

I don't have a Disney Visa. Is there any way I could apply for one and book the package on the same day?

Sorry but you would need to have it already and have used it at least once. Though you could always call them and ask. sometimes they do make exceptions! Good luck.

[Susie22]

How long does it take to get approval though. When you apply for a store credit card you get instant approval and can use the card immediately. I'm just wondering if you could do that same thing with the Disney Visa. For all you Disney cardholders, has anyone called or submitted an application via internet and received instant approval?
Thanks!

[d23cndrela]

How long does it take to get approval though. When you apply for a store credit card you get instant approval and can use the card immediately. I'm just wondering if you could do that same thing with the Disney Visa. For all you Disney cardholders, has anyone called or submitted an application via internet and received instant approval?
Thanks!

When you apply online sometimes you have to wait to get approved , when you call alot of the time you can get approved instantly. Hope that helps.

[sandybobandy]

I'm afraid I wasn't instantly approved

[MEG&MINNIE]

Anyone staying up till 12 midnight tonight to check the rates possibly coming out on April 1st.????:surfweb: :surfweb: :surfweb:

[thelionqueen]

I must admit, I checked and am watching the DIS...fingers crossed

[countingthedays]

Anyone staying up till 12 midnight tonight to check the rates possibly coming out on April 1st.????:surfweb: :surfweb: :surfweb:

Yep. But knowing my luck, if anything is posted, it will be at midnight Pacific time (2 AM for me).

[katieloubear]

Yep. But knowing my luck, if anything is posted, it will be at midnight Pacific time (2 AM for me).

I will be right here with ya!!:surfweb: heading to make the coffee now

[kath1210]

Yep. But knowing my luck, if anything is posted, it will be at midnight Pacific time (2 AM for me).

If free dining rates are posted at midnight, where would they be posted?

[countingthedays]

I'm going to check the Chase Disney, Disney Rewards and Disney sites.

If anyone will be looking at other sites, please share! :goodvibes

[monami7]

Kathy,
What is the farewell to disney tour? I just have to know.

[mickey2000]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/elmo.gifhttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/elmo.gifhttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/elmo.gifhttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/elmo.gifhttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/elmo.gifhttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/elmo.gif

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/joyride.gifhttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/joyride.gifhttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/joyride.gifhttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/MICKSPIN-1.gifhttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/MICKSPIN-1.gifhttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/MICKSPIN-1.gifhttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/MICKSPIN-1.gif

[dismom9761]

Okay I knew there was a reason I didn't want to stop Dising.I would love to know today if this is going to happen.:surfweb:

[katieloubear]

I can hardly wait, I am so excited to hear...."Come on free dining!!!":cheer2:

[jdd]

Okay - it's 12:05 here (EST) and nothing yet :sad1: I'm going to bed and hoping for the morning :banana:

[countingthedays]

Ok, there must be a lot of traffic on the rewards site... it was really slow to load...just checked and there is no announcement. However, when I looked under the Theme Park benefits section, I noticed for the first time the inclusion of the word 'dining.' It could have been there all along and I never noticed it, or it could be something new (don't know, but certainly hope so). I find it interesting that the other categories (Meet N Greet, merchandise, tours) has a description of the benefits, but dining doesn't. Perhaps a slip on their part? Here's a cut and past of the first paragraph.

Make sure to pack your Disney Rewards Visa Card whenever you go to a Disney Theme Park. You're entitled to some special perks, like discounts on select merchandise, dining and tours, an exclusive Character Meet 'N' Greet event and more.

[katieloubear]

ARRHHH, I am gonna go nuts! I tell ya. I believe that I am going to head to bed, if it's there it will still be there bright and early when these kids wake me up...lol

[kath1210]

Kathy,
What is the farewell to disney tour? I just have to know.

LOL! I guess it does sound sort of strange....

My husband's niece and her family are moving to Japan in late June. Her DH is in the Navy and they will be there for at least 3 years. They have lived in FL forever and we (from MD) have been to Disney much more than they have. So, they decided to have one "last" all-Disney vacation and do all of the things they haven't done before.

We are, of course, happy to join them and help out!:goodvibes

[kimberh]

Ok, there must be a lot of traffic on the rewards site... it was really slow to load...just checked and there is no announcement. However, when I looked under the Theme Park benefits section, I noticed for the first time the inclusion of the word 'dining.' It could have been there all along and I never noticed it, or it could be something new (don't know, but certainly hope so). I find it interesting that the other categories (Meet N Greet, merchandise, tours) has a description of the benefits, but dining doesn't. Perhaps a slip on their part? Here's a cut and past of the first paragraph.

Make sure to pack your Disney Rewards Visa Card whenever you go to a Disney Theme Park. You're entitled to some special perks, like discounts on select merchandise, dining and tours, an exclusive Character Meet 'N' Greet event and more.

What rewards site? I have the disney visa, is there somewhere else to look?

[monami7]

LOL! I guess it does sound sort of strange....

My husband's niece and her family are moving to Japan in late June. Her DH is in the Navy and they will be there for at least 3 years. They have lived in FL forever and we (from MD) have been to Disney much more than they have. So, they decided to have one "last" all-Disney vacation and do all of the things they haven't done before.

We are, of course, happy to join them and help out!:goodvibes

Are the going to Yokuska (sp?) We were there in 2002 for 6 months. My DH got recalled after sept 11th. You should try to visit and get to Tokyo Disney. It is a neat experience. Have fun on the big trip.
Heidi

[countingthedays]

What rewards site? I have the disney visa, is there somewhere else to look?


The site was launched about a week or so ago. It's www.disneyrewards.com

[since71]

Ok, there must be a lot of traffic on the rewards site... it was really slow to load...just checked and there is no announcement. However, when I looked under the Theme Park benefits section, I noticed for the first time the inclusion of the word 'dining.' It could have been there all along and I never noticed it, or it could be something new (don't know, but certainly hope so). I find it interesting that the other categories (Meet N Greet, merchandise, tours) has a description of the benefits, but dining doesn't. Perhaps a slip on their part? Here's a cut and past of the first paragraph.

Make sure to pack your Disney Rewards Visa Card whenever you go to a Disney Theme Park. You're entitled to some special perks, like discounts on select merchandise, dining and tours, an exclusive Character Meet 'N' Greet event and more.


The word "dining" has always been there. If you look under DLR -- it has dining discounts at particular restaurants. I've looked on all the sites and nothing yet. My bet is that it will be Monday!

[countingthedays]

The word "dining" has always been there. If you look under DLR -- it has dining discounts at particular restaurants. I've looked on all the sites and nothing yet. My bet is that it will be Monday!

Thanks for the clarification. As I said, I could have missed it before and am not above having my brain see what it wants to :rotfl:

[kath1210]

Are the going to Yokuska (sp?) We were there in 2002 for 6 months. My DH got recalled after sept 11th. You should try to visit and get to Tokyo Disney. It is a neat experience. Have fun on the big trip.
Heidi

I'm not sure exactly where they are going, although I know it's near Tokyo.

Tokyo Disney would be cool, but I don't think I could get my DH on a plane for that long. He hates the 2-hour flight to Orlando.

Thanks!

[monami7]

Yep thats where they are going. Tell them to not stay near the base! Get out as much as possible. Japan is wonderful, we loved it. They should go to the China town and to the neighborhood that the zoo is in. I can't remember the name. It has museums and a great park. Also they should go to Nikko, it was so nice. We stayed in a ryokan (floor mats) and they have an Onsen (hot tub bath room) it was so great. The place we stayed was Turtle inn. Highly recomended! I am so jeolous. We want to go back some day and take our kids.
Heidi

[since71]

Thanks for the clarification. As I said, I could have missed it before and am not above having my brain see what it wants to :rotfl:

You are just hoping like the rest of us. I talked to a CM today and she said they had an advisory today about the rumor and instructed me to keep an eye out the next couple of days.

[HaleyB]

:wizard: :wizard: :wizard:

[HaleyB]

Nothing yet :confused: :sad2:
My dates are outside of the most commonly rumored dates but I just want to know.
Pixie Dust for those that are waiting with me :wizard: :wizard: :wizard:

____________


Haley

Silly Trip Report/Epic (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1248798&page=15)
Part three 10/14 page 3 ; part four 10/15 page 4; part five 10/24 page 7; part six 11/04 page 9; part 7 page 9, part eight 11/11 page 10; part 9 page 11;part ten page 12(ish) NEW!!! part thirteen page 15 (March 18th)!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Not so Much a Savings... a 2005 Trip Report. (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=11758401#post11758401)


Silly Joke Thread (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1157739)

http://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g75/sillyhaley/ed0a246e.jpghttp://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g75/sillyhaley/siggiepic.gifhttp://i53.photobucket.com/albums/g75/sillyhaley/100_3360.jpghttp://www.tampabaygp.com/yellow_flag.gif

http://www.thesmilies.com/smileyletters/links/796290001160887580.gif

[katieloubear]

:confused: I just got off the phone with a cm and was told "discounts for sept don't come out till about June".............I am gonna go nuts!:confused3

[mas6010]

What is the best way to get the free dining when-if it comes out. I just can't sit at my computer 24/7 I have to work sometime. Will it come out first thing in the morning, mid afternoon ???? I gotta get this. :surfweb:

[kparc]

:hourglass (Enough said)

[SGMCO]

My Head hurts!!!:headache:

[thelionqueen]

Come on Disney, throw us a bone!!!:lmao: I'm DYING over here!

[kimberh]

The site was launched about a week or so ago. It's www.disneyrewards.com

Thanks! I have now saved it to my favorites!

[MickeyT]

Come on Disney, throw us a bone!!!:lmao: I'm DYING over here!

Something to do. Travel Channel has all Disney today!!!!! I really need to get a life.:hourglass

[thelionqueen]

Something to do. Travel Channel has all Disney today!!!!! I really need to get a life.:hourglass

COOL!! And, if you find a life, can you get me one too??:lmao:

[kapica3]

I can't help it. Its the first thing I do in the morning and the last thing I do at night. And in between...... All i do is sit here and keep hitting the "refresh" button in hopes that I will hit the "Jackpot" and there will be news on free dining. :badpc: Kind of reminds me of a gambler playing the slot machines hoping for a "Jackpot" with each try....not being able to walk away because one last try (or "refresh" in my case) might just be THE ONE and if I walk away now I might miss it.!!:crazy2:

Anyone have the number to "Freediningaholics Anonymous"? :sad2:

Somebody slap me!!! I gotta get a life! :sad1: Vacation shouldn't be so stressful!

[brooke1]

I can't help it. Its the first thing I do in the morning and the last thing I do at night. And in between...... All i do is sit here and keep hitting the "refresh" button in hopes that I will hit the "Jackpot" and there will be news on free dining. :badpc: Kind of reminds me of a gambler playing the slot machines hoping for a "Jackpot" with each try....not being able to walk away because one last try (or "refresh" in my case) might just be THE ONE and if I walk away now I might miss it.!!:crazy2:

Anyone have the number to "Freediningaholics Anonymous"? :sad2:

Somebody slap me!!! I gotta get a life! :sad1: Vacation shouldn't be so stressful!

Thats so true, i also will get onto the Disney Visa site and see if anything happing over there....

[macraven]

Thats so true, i also will get onto the Disney Visa site and see if anything happing over there....

just checked it, zilch so far.

[macraven]

i have been trying to check the sept and oct hours on the disney site. someone on another board posted that the oct hours are now listed so i went to look.


when i got there, every month lists, "hours not available."

do you think they are doing some updating now?
maybe gonna add some things to the site....
like free ddp???

[minnie61650]

i have been trying to check the sept and oct hours on the disney site. someone on another board posted that the oct hours are now listed so i went to look.


when i got there, every month lists, "hours not available."

do you think they are doing some updating now?
maybe gonna add some things to the site....
like free ddp???


I noticed the same thing.
I also think they are updatimg.
Hoping it is for a free dining annocement.

But my guess is they are just updating or setting up the dates for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party.

Just a guess.

[d23cndrela]

just checked it, zilch so far.

I wonder if chase can tell how many time you log it and look at offers. If they can, they are most likely laughing there you know what's off at use!!!

[macraven]

i figured out how to check the october hours on the disney site.

pull the october calender up.
click on any date.
then it will be listed.


figured out the emh and msshp too.


still checking sites for dpp news

[thelionqueen]

I got the dates up, and could only tell one MNSSHP during our trip on Sept. 28th (because park closes @ 7:00pm & no Wishes listed). Oh well, the waiting continues..MAYBE tomorrow??:confused3

[mking624]

Well I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm seeing dates for the years 2393, 2394, and 2395...you know, just in case any of you want to plan ahead. Here's a few examples:

Epcot® International Flower & Garden Festival
August 30, 2393 - October 20, 2393

Disney's Pirate and Princess Party
June 02, 2394 - July 17, 2394

Night of Joy
January 16, 2395 - January 17, 2395

:lmao:

[disneyjunkie]

Something to do. Travel Channel has all Disney today!!!!! I really need to get a life.:hourglass

Well I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm seeing dates for the years 2393, 2394, and 2395...you know, just in case any of you want to plan ahead. Here's a few examples:

Epcot® International Flower & Garden Festival
August 30, 2393 - October 20, 2393

Disney's Pirate and Princess Party
June 02, 2394 - July 17, 2394

Night of Joy
January 16, 2395 - January 17, 2395

:lmao:

That one is on my 427th birthday, maybe I should make plans to attend.:banana:

[monami7]

You should definitly go! Maybe I will join you.

[kdzgon]

My parents and us are goig together but staying at different resorts. THEY have the Disney Visa, we do not. Is there ANY way that we could also get the early free dining booking with their Visa?
Just wondering becasue I am nervous that any limited amount of rooms that might be offered at the CR will be booked by the time it gets offered to the general public.

Help/advice anyone????
Thanks

My advice is "don't worry". I can tell you we did not book our Sept '06 FD CR res until late in June '06. Even a few weeks less availability will not likely mean it will sell out within days.

[kdzgon]

Sorry but you would need to have it already and have used it at least once. Though you could always call them and ask. sometimes they do make exceptions! Good luck.

Let's see...you can apply for an instant answer via the web...if approved, they will assign you a temp number, which you can then use to make a purchase at disney.com. Now, the only trick will be getting the permanent card as you will have a low charging limit until then.

Good luck should you decide to give it a shot!

[annie1995]

Well I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm seeing dates for the years 2393, 2394, and 2395...you know, just in case any of you want to plan ahead. Here's a few examples:

Epcot® International Flower & Garden Festival
August 30, 2393 - October 20, 2393

Disney's Pirate and Princess Party
June 02, 2394 - July 17, 2394

Night of Joy
January 16, 2395 - January 17, 2395

:lmao:
:lmao: :lmao: :lmao: Man, they can release those dates but they can't tell me when the MNSSHP is going to be this year?:lmao: :lmao: :lmao:

That one is on my 427th birthday, maybe I should make plans to attend.:banana:

:rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl: Too funny!

[macraven]

if you click on the october calendar dates, it looks like mnsshp will be on mondays and thursdays throughout october as the park is listed as closing at 7pm.

also a few fridays

[jcemom]

MNSSHP dates according to 7:00 pm MK closings with no Wishes scheduled:

September: Fri 14, Fri 21, Fri 28

October: Thu 4, Fri 5, Mon 8, Thu 11, Fri 12, Sun 14, Tue 16, Thu 18, Sun 21, Tue 23, Thu 25, Fri 26, Sun 28, Tue 30, Wed 31


A friend and I were discussing the possibility of Disney adding a party on Sunday, September 30. Right now there is evening EMH scheduled at MK on Sunday and Monday. Weird, to have them back to back like that. A Sunday party would fit the pattern they have for most of October, and there has been a party on the date for the past few years, last year on Monday, but prior to that on Sunday. Who knows what / how they think though?! Not me! :rotfl:

[macraven]

this is from the disney website.
there is a emh on sunday the 30th at mk.


September 2007
Morning Extra Magic Hours
Magic Kingdom® Park - September 6, 13, 20, 27
Epcot® - September 4, 11, 18, 25
Disney-MGM Studios - September 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park - September 3, 10, 17, 24
Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park - September 1
Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park - September 1

Evening Extra Magic Hours
Magic Kingdom® Park - September 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Epcot® - September 7, 14, 21, 28
Disney-MGM Studios - September 3, 10, 17, 24
Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park - September 5, 12, 19, 26

[ekball]

Where do I go on the Chase website to see the special offers?? Is it www.chase.com/disney? Then where? Where will or *would* they post the free dining offer when/if it comes??? Thanks for the help!

[macraven]

did you sign into the chase site first?

[ekball]

did you sign into the chase site first?

Yes, I just set it up so I can sign into my account. Then???

[Twinsmomma]

They have already listed a September Magic Your Way Package Plus Dining on the Disney TA site according to another site and a copy of the page was included. I also was able to get a peak at it too. The default check in date is 8/26/07.


It's not on there anymore :( What is going on??

[mking624]

Yes, I just set it up so I can sign into my account. Then???
Someone posted this link on another thread:
http://disneyrewards.disney.go.com/cardbenefits/themeparkbenefits.html

ETA: I think the above link just lists the benefits of the card, not necessarily any "special offers" that will periodically change. I did finally figure out how to access the special offers section since the icon had disappeared...but right now, there aren't any offers listed. Here's how I found it, though....
Once you log in, you'll be taken to the "My Accounts" section. You'll see your account summary and right under the summary is a link that says "See more information." Click that link. That screen will be your account details and on the right hand side is a series of links under the title "I'd like to...". About half way down is a link that says "See current Disney offers." When you click that, it will take you to see any current Disney offers (NOT the same as card benefits). Currently, there aren't any.

[Ziggy]

It's not on there anymore :( What is going on??

Perhaps they are updating it and hopefully extending the dates, fingers crossed :)

[G&J's Mom]

Perhaps they are updating it and hopefully extending the dates, fingers crossed :)

I like the way you think!!! :thumbsup2 PLEASE extend the dates!

[Ziggy]

I like the way you think!!! :thumbsup2 PLEASE extend the dates!

:teeth: I try to be postive :goodvibes

[brooke1]

It's not on there anymore :( What is going on??

I belong to TourGuide Mike and there is also a thread about Free Dining, and there are a couple of TA on there, and they feel why its gone is it was put up to early and should have been behind the scene's until it was ready.....

p.s. It looks almost 100% that free dining coming its just when:confused3

Brooke

[lexmelinda]

Just got my Disney Rewards Visa bill......no announcement. :sad2:

[Pooh Friend]

I belong to TourGuide Mike and there is also a thread about Free Dining, and there are a couple of TA on there, and they feel why its gone is it was put up to early and should have been behind the scene's until it was ready.....

p.s. It looks almost 100% that free dining coming its just when

Brooke

Thanks for the update -- we all need to keep our hopes up!

:thumbsup2

[keliblue]

Just got my Disney Rewards Visa bill......no announcement. :sad2:

Hang in there :hug: I never did get an annoucement last year in the mail, only via email the first week of april

[Reese]

I belong to TourGuide Mike and there is also a thread about Free Dining, and there are a couple of TA on there, and they feel why its gone is it was put up to early and should have been behind the scene's until it was ready.....

p.s. It looks almost 100% that free dining coming its just when:confused3

Brooke

:woohoo: Trying to remain calm (and sane) until it's officially announced:surfweb: .

[kpuls11149]

for the mnsshp was the dates posted or is this they way they did it other years at this time with 7pm closings

[macraven]

the mnsshp dates were posted on another website.
if i type the site in, it will be xxxxx out.

[irishbosoxfan]

I called to make my ADR's for September tonight and I must have said ""Free Dining"" about ten times during the conversation and the CM didn't bat an eye.

She didn't say "No there is no free dining" or anything like that---She just didn't say anything.

So I am taking that as a good sign--I think if they weren't going to have it she would have said something so I'd stop going on about free dining like an idiot.

A few more days till we know for sure!!

[keliblue]

"Magic Your Way Plus Free Dining" promotion. Which will allow guests who book at least a four night / five day WDW vacation package (That must start sometime between August 26 to September 22) to then dine for free during the length of their stay on property. FYI: The domestic booking window for these WDW dine-for-free vacation packages will be April 12 through June 24th. So plan accordingly, people.

This is from his article today and this guy usually knows what he is talking about.:dance3:

[brooke1]

I just checked my Disney Visa and still nothing....:sad1: :sad1: :sad1:

[disneyfan551]

"Magic Your Way Plus Free Dining" promotion. Which will allow guests who book at least a four night / five day WDW vacation package (That must start sometime between August 26 to September 22) to then dine for free during the length of their stay on property. FYI: The domestic booking window for these WDW dine-for-free vacation packages will be April 12 through June 24th. So plan accordingly, people.

This is from his article today and this guy usually knows what he is talking about.:dance3:

Great news! Thanks!!! :banana:

[farmmy]

I'm getting hungry thinking about it

[thelionqueen]

"Magic Your Way Plus Free Dining" promotion. Which will allow guests who book at least a four night / five day WDW vacation package (That must start sometime between August 26 to September 22) to then dine for free during the length of their stay on property. FYI: The domestic booking window for these WDW dine-for-free vacation packages will be April 12 through June 24th. So plan accordingly, people.

This is from his article today and this guy usually knows what he is talking about.:dance3:

Who is Jim Hill? Never heard of him before, but LOVE the article!!:thumbsup2

[mking624]

Who is Jim Hill? Never heard of him before, but LOVE the article!!:thumbsup2
Jim Hill (http://jimhillmedia.com/default.aspx)

I don't normally recommend him as while he may have some accurate info on his site, he's also been known to have inaccurate info on his site as well. I usually take his words with a grain of salt unless other sites are reporting the same thing.

[keliblue]

Who is Jim Hill? Never heard of him before, but LOVE the article!!:thumbsup2

go to jimhillmedia.com he is a Disney Guru of sorts

[brooke1]

Found this on another disney site mousebuzz

http://www.mousebuzz.com/forum/attachments/front-page-news/22122d1175295108-wdw-free-dining-released-april-12-2007-freedining.gif

[thelionqueen]

Let's hope THIS information is right, could'nt care less about anything else:lmao:

[rugrats2001]

:teeth: I try to be postive :goodvibes

Is that why your avatar has such a pretty-pretty smile?

:rotfl:

rugrats2001

[monami7]

It looks like it is on the Disneyworld site. Good news!

[thelionqueen]

Found this on another disney site mousebuzz

http://www.mousebuzz.com/forum/attachments/front-page-news/22122d1175295108-wdw-free-dining-released-april-12-2007-freedining.gif
Just became a new member, WOW, that is the first "Disney" logo'd post about this I've seen..PLEASE!!!

[TheLastPrincess]

It looks bogus to me. I can't find it anywhere on the disneyworld site.

[Ziggy]

Is that why your avatar has such a pretty-pretty smile?

:rotfl:

rugrats2001

Yes :lmao: :lmao: :lmao:

[brooke1]

It looks bogus to me. I can't find it anywhere on the disneyworld site.


read this

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1388457&page=51

[stepdisney]

Yes, yes, yes :banana: :laughing: :laughing: :banana: :rotfl: :cool1: :yay: :dance3: Whew. I'm a little excited about the mousebuzz post! This looks like the real thing!!! Thank you everyone who is kind enough to share the information with the rest of us. I can only look every so often....this is the best site.

Oh, I just notice that I've earned my ears. I've been upgraded to mouseketeer!

:banana: :rotfl: :cool1: :yay: (I feel like break dancing). :lmao:

[d23cndrela]

Oh, I just notice that I've earned my ears. I've been upgraded to mouseketeer!

:banana: :rotfl: :cool1: :yay: (I feel like break dancing). :lmao:

Happy ears day to you, happy ears day to you, Happy ears day dear stepdisney, happy ears day to you!!!!:banana: :banana:

[stepdisney]

Happy ears day to you, happy ears day to you, Happy ears day dear stepdisney, happy ears day to you!!!!:banana: :banana:

Thank you! It's no fun to break dance alone. Thanks for joining me. Does this mean I win free dining? :rotfl2:

[d23cndrela]

Thank you! It's no fun to break dance alone. Thanks for joining me. Does this mean I win free dining? :rotfl2:

Sorry, there are no gifts on ear day!:rotfl:

[Sethsmama]

I was originally planning on taking my next DW trip in December 07 but I'm so excited about the thoughts of the money I'd save with FREE DINING that I'm making plans for Sept. 14-23rd! I am obsessed with these free dining threads waiting....impatiently for the sign that it's true and ready to book!!!
GOOD LUCK TO EVERYONE WAITING!!!! :thumbsup2

[Rneighh]

Just posted on mousesavers --- Disney rewards Visa free dining will be released on April 9 and open to the general public on April 12 :banana: :banana: :banana:

[stepdisney]

You just beat me to this!!! Way to go.

[Rustysmom]

Just posted on mousesavers --- Disney rewards Visa free dining will be released on April 9 and open to the general public on April 12 :banana: :banana: :banana:

:cool1: :banana: :dance3:

My TA also confirmed that they knew about it and that yes, it's true.

[KatInHat]

I was wondering if anyone was there last year when they offered the free dining? How was the crowds? We are thinking about going during free dining and was wondering if it would be more crowded b/c of it. Thanks

[ekball]

I was wondering if anyone was there last year when they offered the free dining? How was the crowds? We are thinking about going during free dining and was wondering if it would be more crowded b/c of it. Thanks
If you are even *thinking* about it, you should do it!!!! Such a great deal, and a great time to go! It's hot, but the crowds are awesome.
Do it!!!

[kimberh]

I was wondering if anyone was there last year when they offered the free dining? How was the crowds? We are thinking about going during free dining and was wondering if it would be more crowded b/c of it. Thanks

The restaurants are FULL! The Parks were doable, when we went. It was end of Aug, we had annual passes, so we wanted to go while they were still good. It started mid Aug last year. We went for 10 days, 3 days in DVC with the DDP with cash.

[SlightlyGoofy]

We were there for 3 weeks mid Sept thru mid October. I planned to be at parks that had EMH the day before and it worked pretty good other than the days when we felt like we HAD to go to MK to see double Spectro/Wishes or the first day of the F&W festival at EPCOT but we were prepared for that.

The only really important thing is to make ADR's or you might end up with no convenient place to eat.

I planned our ADR's around which park and what activities we were going to be doing on that particular day to avoid having to run from park to park or from one end of the park to another.

Because of the heat and a bit of sickness that we experienced we had to change a few of our ADR's but had no trouble doing that. The only one I regreted was cancelling our dinner plans at R&C with the possibility of seeing Illuminations from there and then finding out that friends had come over to surprise us and they were the ones who got surprised.

We are planning on going again even though I remember saying I would not do it again. I think I forgot the heat and remembered the food. BTW, I came home 4 pounds lighter than when I went. Magical, magical. :wizard:

Slightly Goofy

[jdd]

Okay - now I'm trying to figure out how to swing two trips in one year - I think I have Disney fever!!

My kids start back to school on August 29th - I can't check in on the 25th and get the free dining huh?? I'd hate for them to miss their first day of school. I checked the Disney site, though, and I could do just me and the kids (DH couldn't swing it with work) at a value for three nights/four days for $860.79 - man, what a deal :cool1:

[mking624]

I was wondering if anyone was there last year when they offered the free dining? How was the crowds? We are thinking about going during free dining and was wondering if it would be more crowded b/c of it. Thanks
We were there September 10-16 for free dining. Crowds were pretty much nonexistant. Restaurants were much more full.

If you're thinking about it, definitely go!!

[Hollybh]

WEll, we will miss free dining, we are going August 8-18, however... does anyone think the crowds will be better for us since the dining comes out later? How is the heat, is it bearable? How are the crowds?

[mking624]

WEll, we will miss free dining, we are going August 8-18, however... does anyone think the crowds will be better for us since the dining comes out later? How is the heat, is it bearable? How are the crowds?

Crowds around that time are still pretty high. As far as the heat goes...high heat, high humidity. It still is summer, after all. :)

[turning40withMickey]

WEll, we will miss free dining, we are going August 8-18, however... does anyone think the crowds will be better for us since the dining comes out later? How is the heat, is it bearable? How are the crowds?

Did you get any discount Hollybh? I am going nearly the same dates and nada! :confused3

[Hollybh]

No discounts. :( I have heard different opinions from many different people regarding the crowds. Some say, no crowds, some say high crowds. I know we went during the Millineum Celebration during Off Season once and it was SOOOOOO packed. We went on Oct and it wasnt bad at all. I just cant take my kids out of school again. I took my 5th grader out this year and then she got a 7 day illness and a few fevers after that. She missed too much school, not to mention making up the work is aweful. We have been several times and want to go at a more relaxed pace this time BUT we are taking a young teen who has never been so we want to show her a good time. Just hoping it's not like Christmas crowds! We went last June and it really wasnt that bad.

[gwcollins71]

No discounts. :( I have heard different opinions from many different people regarding the crowds. Some say, no crowds, some say high crowds. I know we went during the Millineum Celebration during Off Season once and it was SOOOOOO packed. We went on Oct and it wasnt bad at all. I just cant take my kids out of school again. I took my 5th grader out this year and then she got a 7 day illness and a few fevers after that. She missed too much school, not to mention making up the work is aweful. We have been several times and want to go at a more relaxed pace this time BUT we are taking a young teen who has never been so we want to show her a good time. Just hoping it's not like Christmas crowds! We went last June and it really wasnt that bad.


:wave2: We're going the same week and a half as you except that we're leaving on the 17th. We usually go at that time and last year with the free dining was more crowded. (We missed free dining the year before b/c I just had our daughter.) We usually only had to wait for maybe one or two rides the whole trip and those were usually later in the day. I love going at that time b/c the crowds seemed lighter to us. I"m really hoping that it will be even emptier b/c we are missing the free dining.

Gretchen

[Hollybh]

That sounds encouraging. I wanted free dining but must say that it is a double edged sword for us. If NOT having the free dining will keep crowds down, I would almost rather do that. Congrats for all you who get to take advantage of this great offer!!!

[n2mm]

I was wondering if anyone was there last year when they offered the free dining? How was the crowds? We are thinking about going during free dining and was wondering if it would be more crowded b/c of it. Thanks

I think this year the crowds will be worse. Last year (and the previous year) the free ddp was for a longer timeframe, about 8+ weeks. This year all of the free dining folks will be squeezed into 4 weeks, all I can say is WOW. That will be alot of folks trying to take advantage of this great deal in such a short timeframe. This will be interesting to see. I unfortunately did not plan well and booked my trip the middle of August, so no free ddp for us, but I do have the DVC points sitting around, so have booked with them instead. Strangely, this was the first time I had planned in advance to take advantage of the free ddp. In 2005, we were already going and were booked with CM discounts, so some of us booked the free ddp, while others did not. Last year we did not plan to go, but on the 3rd Visa day, we decided to book a last minute trip (already went 3 times that year). So that is it for me. No more pre planning and hoping for a discount. Next year it's either last minute or nothing. Too much stress waiting for something that didn't happen. I'll be calling next week to cancel my grand gathering and packages. Good luck to all and I'll be eagerly reading to see what types of lodging are still left to book. This will be like black friday for leftover disney rooms.

[stepdisney]

n2mm I hope you change your mind about canceling..:guilty: Maybe they will extend the dates at the last minute. Here's some pixie for you pixiedust: . Also, the dates for free dining are longer than the 4 weeks extended to the general public. From what I've been reading, those who booked through bounce back and from the UK have the full beginning of August until October 3 that was offered in years past.

[disneyjunkie]

n2mm I hope you change your mind about canceling..:guilty: Maybe they will extend the dates at the last minute. Here's some pixie for you pixiedust: . Also, the dates for free dining are longer than the 4 weeks extended to the general public. From what I've been reading, those who booked through bounce back and from the UK have the full beginning of August until October 3 that was offered in years past.

I believe the whole month of August will have larger crowds then normal. First Disney moved the start of value season from the last Sunday in August to the first. Since many school systems in the south are starting school later this year, I have a feeling many families may hit WDW early- mid August to take advantage of the value season rates.

Then you had UK and bounce back free dining offered for pretty all of August. Since the general public free dining dates are later, I assume bookings for the first part of the month must be way up.

[twinspluscade]

I believe the whole month of August will have larger crowds then normal. First Disney moved the start of value season from the last Sunday in August to the first. Since many school systems in the south are starting school later this year, I have a feeling many families may hit WDW early- mid August to take advantage of the value season rates.

Then you had UK and bounce back free dining offered for pretty all of August. Since the general public free dining dates are later, I assume bookings for the first part of the month must be way up.

That's what I think too.

I think bounce back and the UK bookings did really good for the month of August...hence no need to offer it to the general public now. I think it will be just as crowded as it was apparently last year during free dining in August.

[missmun52]

I believe the whole month of August will have larger crowds then normal. First Disney moved the start of value season from the last Sunday in August to the first. Since many school systems in the south are starting school later this year, I have a feeling many families may hit WDW early- mid August to take advantage of the value season rates.

Then you had UK and bounce back free dining offered for pretty all of August. Since the general public free dining dates are later, I assume bookings for the first part of the month must be way up.

::yes::

[Hollybh]

When you all say crowded, HOW crowded do you mean? Once I went during October or September but it was the Millenium celebration. It was WAY more crowded that trip than any other I have taken in the summer or fall. I have never done Christmas time and probably wouldn't. I know when we did go during the crowd, it was so bad that it took at least an hour for EVERY ride, some two hours! I dont want to see that again. Do you think early to mid August will be comparable to the first two weeks of June? I didn;t find that terribly bad.:confused3

[cepmom]

I believe the whole month of August will have larger crowds then normal.


oh come on now!! The only consolation I have on not being able to get free dining or a special PIN code is that the week we are going (8/23 - 8/28) will be lower crowds! Don't burst my bubble ;)

[stepdisney]

oh come on now!! The only consolation I have on not being able to get free dining or a special PIN code is that the week we are going (8/23 - 8/28) will be lower crowds! Don't burst my bubble ;)

Nobody will be there that week :thumbsup2 . I got it from a reliable source :rotfl2: That's the week that noone will be in the park except you...have fun.:lmao:

[n2mm]

n2mm I hope you change your mind about canceling..:guilty: Maybe they will extend the dates at the last minute. Here's some pixie for you pixiedust: . Also, the dates for free dining are longer than the 4 weeks extended to the general public. From what I've been reading, those who booked through bounce back and from the UK have the full beginning of August until October 3 that was offered in years past.


Yes, the free dining is longer than 4 weeks, but for the GP it's only 4 weeks. It just meant that all of the earlier timeframe in August and later timeframe in September is at capacity so there was no need to offer it to the GP. Please don't worry about me, we are still going. It just means I'm using my DVC points and booked a 2 bedroom at OKW for the 4 nights I had hope to do the free dining. The nice part is, if they change and offer it for earlier August (because alot of us canceled) then I can switch back and still try to get into a value resort last minute and put my DVC points back into my holding account. I am fortunate enough to have this flexibility. The only thing I'm cancelling is my 3 packages. We can still buy the DDP staying on points and will be spending less money than the 3 packages, (but I have to use my precious points, which I was hoping to save for 2008). My DIL on the other hand has to cancel her 4 rooms booked for August and is changing to September now. She is taking her 10 kids, plus some extras so the free ddp is the ONLY way she can afford to take that many mouths to feed. It would've been a true grand gathering had it worked out for all of us. I'm hoping to switch back to free ddp for Aug. 15-19 if the dates change later on, as it has happened before. On Aug. 19-24 we are at the BCV 2 bedroom, but that was part of our original plan.:idea:

[MiaSRN62]

When you all say crowded, HOW crowded do you mean? Once I went during October or September but it was the Millenium celebration. It was WAY more crowded that trip than any other I have taken in the summer or fall.
Holly,
We were there last year Aug 4-17. The day free dining hit (Aug 13) it was VERY noticeable ! Crowds came in throngs. Waits were like 90++ min for the more popular attractions. I am hoping early August won't be this bad, but we shall see.
We were in WDW Oct 4-8 this past fall and found it much more crowded than ever before. Food and Wine Festival has been moved up earlier than in the past and it made a real difference in crowds especially on the weekends when the locals came in. Sat, Oct 7 was so packed in Epcot that we ended up leaving earlier than we would have normally.

[cepmom]

Nobody will be there that week :thumbsup2 . I got it from a reliable source :rotfl2: That's the week that noone will be in the park except you...have fun.:lmao:

thanks! That makes me feel much better:thumbsup2 ;)

Holly,
We were there last year Aug 4-17. The day free dining hit (Aug 13) it was VERY noticeable ! Crowds came in throngs. Waits were like 90++ min for the more popular attractions. I am hoping early August won't be this bad, but we shall see.

yikes! we will be there through the 28th....it makes me wonder if I should move up our arrival a few days and leave 8/27 instead :confused3 I would rather not fly home on Sunday the 26th due to higher airfare

[Hollybh]

cepmom,
Did you know you can still get the free dining for part of your trip?

[craig15]

I have never done Christmas time and probably wouldn't. I know when we did go during the crowd, it was so bad that it took at least an hour for EVERY ride, some two hours! I dont want to see that again.

If you want to see WDW in all of it's Christmas glory, think about going mid December. All of the decorations and Christmas shows are in place, but the crowds are light. We went Dec 14-21 a few years back (Saturday to Saturday). The first half of the week we walked right on to everything. Later in the week we were hitting half-hour waits for the more popular attractions. I would definitely go back during that time of year. The only problem with going in Dec/Jan timeframe is the weather. It might be in the mid 70s or it might be in the 50s. I've been in Dec/Jan three times, and each time we hade a few warm days, and a few cool days. But considering how light the crowds are, it is worth it.
Now that I think of it, another good option is the first full week of January. I have done this twice. This is the lowest attendance week every year. The Christmas decorations tend to come down this week. So you get to see all of the Christmas stuff for half of your stay, and then see the parks in their normal mode the other half.

[lovesdumbo]

oh come on now!! The only consolation I have on not being able to get free dining or a special PIN code is that the week we are going (8/23 - 8/28) will be lower crowds! Don't burst my bubble ;)
I'm going 8/20 to 8/30 and here's my thoughts which I'm sure is just wishful thinking but anyways....Value season starts 8/5 and FL and a lot of the country is back in school by 8/20 so I think "most" folks will go earlier in Aug (or July or June...) OR just wait the extra week to get free dining.

I was there 8/23 to 8/30 last year and I think free dining started on the 13th and the crowds weren't bad at all.

I have thought about changing my dates a bit but then I'd have to pay to change airfare at $25 per person and then it might be busier the ealier I go and who knows so I'm just going to stick with my dates and plan on being at the park at opening. I found in Aug people tend to stay out very late and get a late start. I think we'll be fine hitting the parks at opening and going back to the resort for a swim. Maybe we'll do a few things we haven't before like mini golf or rent a boat or surrey bike. I think we find enough to do even if the parks get crazy on the 26th.

cepmom,
Did you know you can still get the free dining for part of your trip?
No-she's not staying 3 nights after 8/26 and she'd have to purchase another set of tickets too.

[cepmom]

cepmom,
Did you know you can still get the free dining for part of your trip?
nope, we're leaving on the 28th. If the promotion is anything like the last couple of years, then they will require a 3 night minimun (although some people are reporting a 5 night minimum this year:confused3 not sure about that though) and I will need to buy tickets for the first couple of days, tehn tickets again wiht my package...doesn't work out moneywise, but thanks anyway!
I'm going 8/20 to 8/30 and here's my thoughts which I'm sure is just wishful thinking but anyways....Value season starts 8/5 and FL and a lot of the country is back in school by 8/20 so I think "most" folks will go earlier in Aug (or July or June...) OR just wait the extra week to get free dining.

I was there 8/23 to 8/30 last year and I think free dining started on the 13th and the crowds weren't bad at all.

I have thought about changing my dates a bit but then I'd have to pay to change airfare at $25 per person and then it might be busier the ealier I go and who knows so I'm just going to stick with my dates and plan on being at the park at opening. I found in Aug people tend to stay out very late and get a late start. I think we'll be fine hitting the parks at opening and going back to the resort for a swim. Maybe we'll do a few things we haven't before like mini golf or rent a boat or surrey bike. I think we find enough to do even if the parks get crazy on the 26th.


that's kind of what I was thinking too....the week before free dining would be better...the thing is we'll be there for 3 days after free dining starts. I wonder if I should move my trip up a little, like 8/21 and get out on the 26th. I can't move the dates to coincide with free dining because DD has a commitment that last week in Aug.

I haven't purchased airfare yet so I think I am going to wait and see if flying home on the 26th is a good price or not. If it's too much $$ I'll just stick to my original dates and hope for the best!

[mickey2000]

For those wishing !! 2008 Free DDP
Here is an idea about what happened last year !

[PrincessBelle23]

just to clarify... if you have the 40% pin, you can only do that OR free dining, right?

[mickey2000]

just to clarify... if you have the 40% pin, you can only do that OR free dining, right?

This is the thread from 2007

[PrincessBelle23]

oops! my excitement got the best of me! :rolleyes:

[mickey2000]

Moving this old post up for those who are wishing!
Should be any day now!
Good Luck!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/Monorailcat.gif

[FeeFeeWhite]

Moving this old post up for those who are wishing!
Should be any day now!
Good Luck!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/Monorailcat.gif


I just love cats and the monorail. You must explain your photo to me! I think it is great.

[nana2tots]

So would that be offered June 19-26 ???????

[wezee]

You didn't say which month.
If it starts on the 26th of August, you're vacation must START on that day. SO you would not be able to get the deal (like me).

If September, then yes all of your days are covered. Your trip must start by the last day of the package and then all other days count.

The 40% was the same thing. Your vacation must START between the days of the deal. So the first day of the trip must be August 26th or later.

DH and I booked the free dining bounceback... and tried to book arriving on
9-26-08( the free dining promo ended 9-27-08) and receive dining for our entire trip and we were told no. I tried a second time by calling CRO direct after we returning from our vacation and once again was told "no", and that the new policy at WDW was all your dates must fall with the promo period.
Since then I have read of a few that were allowed to book at the end of the bouncback...into Oct. :confused3
My other question would be.......why would the "rumor" listed above, state that the reservation must be made in April-June, if the CM's are telling people to book now and call later to link up the new promo. I called CRO two weeks ago to book several days for my inlaws in Sept., and the CM told me....if they do release a free dining promo...it will be for limited resorts and/or limited time periods, because many of the resorts are almost full!! I was hoping for free dining for my inlaws....and she said I would have to call back with the promo code and make a new ressie, then cancel the old one.

I'm crossing my fingers for eveyone, but I have this feeling that WDW has been more successful with their Aug/Sept. promos...and availibility could be very limited if and when the free dining is released!!

[JLKennedy]

We'll be there 9/6-9/13...I originally screwed up, Labor Day has usually been the 2nd week in September, thinking it was the same, but the leap year threw me off. We were planning on only missing a couple 1/2 days of school, but as it turns out, our not quite 10 yo (at travel time) will miss the first full week of school, so maybe disney's banking on other families that made the same mistake as me and have already changed their plans? We couldn't, airfare is non-refundable (although voucher-able).