DDP 2008...The Positive Side?

[I'mAlittleBitGoofy]

My family and I will be using DDP again on our next vacation in 2 weeks. We have used it the past 4 years and have had no issues with it. I realize there are issues with the plan this year, do to the changes, which I actually don't mind. Gratuity will be paid accordingly as it should be and there is so much food on the DDP, we will not miss the appys.
I think some people, including servers, tend to forget that just because we are on the DDP, doesn't mean we haven't paid anything. We simply prepaid for our meals, and we use it for our convenience, not to inconvenience anyone else.
With that said, is there any positive stories out there for the 2008 DDP yet? I realize it's early, but maybe we can start hearing the good side of the plan?

[TLSnell1981]

:surfweb:

[Native NYer]

We're going 1/16-1/20 on deluxe dining and hope to report only good things!

[beroh2253]

:bored:

[I'mAlittleBitGoofy]

Nothing huh? Lol
It's ok, I'll be an optimist and assume people are still on vacation...:rolleyes1

[Belle1962]

I hadn't used the previous plan so I am posting what I experienced becuse I know people have been asking.

That being said, I "think" I broke even or came out a little ahead (I won't know until I run the numbers) even "losing" 9 counter service credits. Why did I lose so many? Some days my grandson and I shared. Some days we had two table service and didn't eat in between.

Pepper Market was the best counter service credit--worth the trip to Coronado Springs. I got Prime Rib--the special of the day. My grandson actually had two counter service hot dogs (all he ate was the hot dogs--not the chips).

Tepan Edo was on the plan and worth it. Our chef wasn't as "magical" as others I swa but that's just the luck of the draw. My grandson loved it so that's all I care about.

We thoroughly enjoyed the plan--we never were "hungry", I didn't feel the need to watch every thing we ate. I wasn't stressing by the end of the week about how much money we had been spending, and it was very convenient. I am not "happy" with the dessert option--but simply paid for my appetizer on the two occasions I wanted one.

As far as the single serving size snack rules--they didn't really bother me as you can never have enough water. We kept some in the room in a fridge, and always had some on hand. That being said, if we do the plan again I would eat more snacks in the parks.

[VacationDad]

Well, I'm looking forward to it so that I can make little snide comments to all the supposedly outraged patrons who thought the gratuity and appetizer were included and are taking it out on the waitstaff. ;)

[angelmav]

Well, I'm looking forward to it so that I can make little snide comments to all the supposedly outraged patrons who thought the gratuity and appetizer were included and are taking it out on the waitstaff. ;)

Thats not really called for.

I still dont get the, 'Im glad they took off the gratuity and app so now I can pay even more mentality though.' I can see where it is still a good plan, but its pretty unusual to hear Yippee I get less for more!

[TLSnell1981]

Thats not really called for.

I still dont get the, 'Im glad they took off the gratuity and app so now I can pay even more mentality though.' I can see where it is still a good plan, but its pretty unusual to hear Yippee I get less for more!

I think they must not like their customers.:confused3 I am assuming this is a disgruntled CM.

[byoung]

The plan was a great deal, now it's only a good deal. Any other changes it will be a bad deal.

[n2mm]

:confused3

It's a prepaid partial meal plan. :scared:

[llmurphy17]

:surfweb: popcorn::

[Micca]

We just tried the DDP for two days for the first time time this week. We didn't understand it, neither did the CMs we spoke with. It was not a good deal/bargain for us. No more DDP for us, good luck to all my fellow Dis-ers.:)

[I'mAlittleBitGoofy]

The dining plan works for us, and works if you know how to use it efficiently. (Not every family will benefit from it though). I agree that it was a great deal before, and now it's just a good deal. If my children were older, I would say it's not worth it.

[My2Angels]

I think the fact that we have 3 children under age 9 makes it a great deal for us! One character meal alone would be at least $12.99-$16.99 OOP for each child. With the basic dining plan, at $9.99 per day, they get that character meal plus a counter service and a snack! I could not do all of the character dining we would want to do and fill in with other meals for $10 per child. We tried it on our first trip and spent about $400.00 more than we spent the next year purchasing the dining plan!

[LSchrow]

The dining plan works for us, and works if you know how to use it efficiently. (Not every family will benefit from it though). I agree that it was a great deal before, and now it's just a good deal. If my children were older, I would say it's not worth it.

i agree with you goofy :thumbsup2
DH & i will prob use it both on our may & oct trips.
we have DVC so it is simply a matter of pay the $38, no tix or room restrictions :banana: . we had considered the DDE (20% off selected restaurants, including alcohol), but it still would have cost us more than the DDP, based on our vacationing style: daytime we may sit by the quiet pool, go to DTD, or check out the outlets. a very few days we might actually go to a park for an hour or 2.
at night, we enjoy walking to EPCOT & having dinner in WS, followed by Illuminations & a quiet stroll back to the BW. :cloud9:

simply, DDP is not for everyone (same as DVC, refillable mugs, value resorts, heck ~ even WDW isn't for everyone!! :rolleyes1 ). we have never, & doubt we will ever, stay in a value resort ~ that is our decision, & what "fits" for us........DDP is the same: it is still an option, not a requirement (same as the types of passes, resorts, etc ~ all of which have caused the same type of furor every time a change was announced :confused3 ).
sounds like you checked into it & found DDP "fits" you & your family ~ enjoy your vacation the way you want it to be :thumbsup2

[skater]

I personally think the new DDP is not even a good deal, however since you have such a positive outlook, it will probably still be a good experience for you - and that's all you really need to worry about. Ultimately its attitude that makes or breaks it for all of us.

[YesMickey]

The dining plan is a deal for our family (Me, DW, DD7, DS4) I mean, my kids eat for 10bucks a day. That in itself makes it a deal for us. My wife and I make out because we like the good stuff, ie. grilled fish, steaks etc. Those average $26-$30 a plate where we eat. Our CS meals average about $8-$10 so there is even and that does not count the desserts for dinner and snack per day. I agree a family of 4 with the kids age 10 and 12 would not be a deal as the kids get charge full price. Of course the deluxe plan makes no sense to me because for it to be cost effective you would spend half your day waiting for your table and eating. I mean my family enjoys the variety of food we eat the week we are in DW, but we are not the Clumps and go on vacation to gorge ourselfs. I could see getting the Deluxe plan to eat the signature places and high end character stuff, but you would have to do that every day for it to be worthwhile and besides it may be cheaper to pay out of pocket. I know on about day 3-4 we are all full and the kids start complaining about having to eat again.

[robemcdo]

I look at the new DDP a couple of ways.
If you tally up the bills you have incurred and compare it to the amount you paid out of pocket, you are likely ahead...you used to be way ahead...now you are just plain ahead.

I figured our family of 4 paid $160 a day for $260 of value.
Now we will likey be paying 190 for 230 of value.

However, I also think $190 a day for the quality of food you actually get is too much. some meals are excellent, but I've found that many are so-so. They are charging premium prices for average food on many occasions. Plus, I don't really need to eat like that all week. I will likely go off the plan next time, pick a few sit downs, eat reasonably (maybe no dessert or appetizer), and maybe ask my good friend Papa John to provide me a few meals. The DDP does confine you to a park sometimes that you don't normally want to be at. Getting to Epcot and back can take 2 hours out of your day.

You want a good meal at counter service price..go visit Wolfgang Puck Express at Downtown disney...Excellent fare.

As for the thread title , I can never think of anything good about a change that gives you less and charges you more. The only good thing is that I might not eat as much next time I visit.

[beroh2253]

I have hoppers for Universal that I have not been able to use due to being tied to the great deal in the past that the DDP provided. In 2008 Disney may be saving on not paying the tips, not providing an App. and not allowing a snack that can be shared. :sad2: But now they are letting people see that this is not a great deal anymore and now we can do what we did in years past (visit Universal, Sea World, and Bush Gardens). I am signed up this June on the DDP (well for now anyway looking to see what is happening the next few months down there I will be keeping on the DIS every day for others opinions ) but after this I don't see me getting it and finally getting back to seeing some of the parks outside the Magic Kingdom that I haven't seen for a few years.
Maybe I should thank the Disney Higher Ups for screwing up a good thing for us and it use to be a good thing for Disney also but they got greedy.
Thank you Disney Beam Counters for giving use our life back and now we can again go outside the Disney Parks and enjoy that also with out worrying we are going to miss a TS,CS or a SC. Thanks again no longer feel like doing this :worship: to you for providing a great deal.

[LindyN]

Its really a case of planning how you're going to use your dining credits. Like many posters have said, it is a good deal--its just no longer a great deal. You should at least break even, if not come out a bit ahead, with the DDP. Part of the attraction for the plan is you can eat a decent meal a couple of times a day and not worry about a huge expense as it is pre-paid with your package. (A tip is not a huge expense, and costs less per day than some souvenirs.)

With some restaurants its not about the food--its about the experience. (Chef Mickey is not exactly haute cuisine.) Disney restaurants just add to your overall immersion into all things Disney, especially for character meals. I still love the Crystal Palace, especially their desserts.

If I were only a one time a year person on a Disney trip then I'd book the dining plan. But as a five or six time/year visitor with an AP and the DDE card we no longer just eat--we do Signature Dining and share some CS. I also only eat when I'm hungry, and not because its time for an ADR. We just left Disney after a week and I didn't gain any weight at all--I also never ate one french fry. :rotfl2:

I'm also fortunate that my kids like great food and don't care if we do a character buffet.

[Native NYer]

The deluxe dining plan seems to be a much more attractive offer than the regular dining plan. For $32 more/day, you get an extra snack, appetizer with your meals, 3 meals/day, a refillable mug, and the option of doing TS for each meal.

Someone posted on the boards that the price for the ddp went down $1.00 from last year to this year, but the appetizer and tip were lost. The only way this seems to be a good deal is if you get free dining.

Seems to be that Disney wants to just push deluxe dining.

[LSchrow]

more to add to the "positives" (which this thread was supposed to be about <ahem> ;) ):
many are looking at the 2008 only in comparison to the previous plan. however, one needs to look at 2008 DDP simply as a new optional dining plan, removing the emotional aspect, & focusing only on the financial (considering convenience & abilty to order without considering prices just added "bonuses":thumbsup2 ). of course (disclamer here ;) ), use of credits for most buffets, b'fast & lunch, and signature dining (in our experience, the majority not uncommon enough to justify the prices :) ), makes the DDP of lesser value. add in some variables (ages of children, "park commando" vs been there, done that, time to just relax & enjoy it ;) , dining habits, etc), & it might not be a "good deal" for everyone ~ but neither are MYW passes vs APs, DVC vs all-stars, off-site vs on-site, etc. ~ there is absolutely no "one size fits all" at wdw. :)

so onto the "analysis":
example of an "average" day's meals (numbers are rounded):
coral reef (mid-priced ~ we actually eat at more of the higher-priced tho; using items we used on our last visit):
steak $32
shrimp pasta $24
2 chocolate waves :cloud9: $16
2 drinks $6
total $78, $83 with tax
WPE (love their food!)
2 speciality pizzas $18.50
2 brownies $5
2 drinks $4
$26 with tax
2 iced mochacinos at writer's stop :lovestruc $7
$7.50 with tax

$116 total for the day, DDP cost $76 (2 adults)
$40 savings per night

change CR to tutto italia (which we really enjoy:thumbsup2 ), with the same items ordered as the last time we visited:
TI total $107, $114 with tax
add in the same CS & snacks, and $147 would be OOP expense, DDP cost $76
$71 savings per night

like i said, DDE doesn't come close to the savings we recognize on DDP (btw, we have APs ~ spend about 20-25 days a year at WDW, so did consider it). DDP saves us an average of $50+ per night over OOP (for the 20 nights of our currently scheduled 2008 vacations, that's more than $1,000 in savings) ~ not too shabby in our eyes :thumbsup2

hth :)

[GreatLakes5]

I agree with previous poster - ideally this should be seen as the 2008 DDP - period. Not compared with the past year ('ideally'...it probably won't happen)

I sat down before our trip, listed our ADRs, went through the menus for each place, chose our food as I would regardless of plan or not....essentially did all the math. Included the tip, yes.

In order for us to beat the price of the DDP we would either have to eat a lot of hotdogs or turkey legs rather than a more balanced meal, I'd have to cook (:scared1: ), or we go on a diet while at WDW (equally :scared1: ). I could only beat it if we ate a lot less.

SO, for our family (2 adults, 1 kid who equals adult, and 2 kids) we're still coming out ahead in 2008. I don't see this changing for us until my last child turns adult as she will still want to just eat chicken nuggets and carrot sticks. By that time there may not be a DDP and I won't have to do the math.

There's my positive posting....I'm positive we're still saving $ & vacationing the way we like to vacation.:thumbsup2

[rosiep]

I agree with the poster who maintained that the 2008 DDP should be approached as a new entity in and of itself...and not compared to the previous DDP's.

I'm choosing to use the plan this year because I like having a large portion of my vacation already paid for. I always hate seeing the Visa bill the month after I return :scared1: . Yes, there will still be tips and incidentals..but for the most part I'll be ahead of the game. I'll also try some of the higher end restaurants that I haven't tried before..and I'll order the lobster!!!! :cutie:

[Marc A.]

I love the DDP for the kids (4) and (2). Let's face it, they waste food. With character meals we don't have to worry about ordering something and wasting it and just the one Ch. Meal basically covers the price of a child's day. Add the snack and CS and you are ahead.
I will miss the APP but still think we'll come out ahead.
I too hate seeing bills after a vacation. This way we're all paid up, except for tips....

[mom2my3kids]

I think its a great deal for adults or very young children. But for the middle aged kids that they want to charge 38.00 a day for its not a good deal in my eyes..

[I'mAlittleBitGoofy]

more to add to the "positives" (which this thread was supposed to be about <ahem> ;) ):
many are looking at the 2008 only in comparison to the previous plan. however, one needs to look at 2008 DDP simply as a new optional dining plan, removing the emotional aspect, & focusing only on the financial (considering convenience & abilty to order without considering prices just added "bonuses":thumbsup2 ). of course (disclamer here ;) ), use of credits for most buffets, b'fast & lunch, and signature dining (in our experience, the majority not uncommon enough to justify the prices :) ), makes the DDP of lesser value. add in some variables (ages of children, "park commando" vs been there, done that, time to just relax & enjoy it ;) , dining habits, etc), & it might not be a "good deal" for everyone ~ but neither are MYW passes vs APs, DVC vs all-stars, off-site vs on-site, etc. ~ there is absolutely no "one size fits all" at wdw. :)

so onto the "analysis":
example of an "average" day's meals (numbers are rounded):
coral reef (mid-priced ~ we actually eat at more of the higher-priced tho; using items we used on our last visit):
steak $32
shrimp pasta $24
2 chocolate waves :cloud9: $16
2 drinks $6
total $78, $83 with tax
WPE (love their food!)
2 speciality pizzas $18.50
2 brownies $5
2 drinks $4
$26 with tax
2 iced mochacinos at writer's stop :lovestruc $7
$7.50 with tax

$116 total for the day, DDP cost $76 (2 adults)
$40 savings per night

change CR to tutto italia (which we really enjoy:thumbsup2 ), with the same items ordered as the last time we visited:
TI total $107, $114 with tax
add in the same CS & snacks, and $147 would be OOP expense, DDP cost $76
$71 savings per night

like i said, DDE doesn't come close to the savings we recognize on DDP (btw, we have APs ~ spend about 20-25 days a year at WDW, so did consider it). DDP saves us an average of $50+ per night over OOP (for the 20 nights of our currently scheduled 2008 vacations, that's more than $1,000 in savings) ~ not too shabby in our eyes :thumbsup2

hth :)
AMEN! You are totally right! :worship:

[Jennifer48]

I sat down before our trip, listed our ADRs, went through the menus for each place, chose our food as I would regardless of plan or not....essentially did all the math. Included the tip, yes.

I'm currently doing the same thing trying to see if I end up on top or not. I'm hoping to head down in December. Just 2 adults. So far, I'm leaning towards the DDP. Thank you everyone for your positive responses. It helps me out with my decision. :goodvibes

[tmonferdini]

I was really looking forward to the DDP when we booked our vacation (and yes, I knew it was the new/revised 2008 version). We have never stayed on-site before, never done DDP, etc. After reading all the negative posts, I started to think that maybe I had made a mistake. Yes, it would be nice to have it paid for before you go, but to what cost.

I sat down & figured about what everyone would be ordering at the different restaurants we would be going to & how much it would cost. Normally, we wouldn't do a dessert EVERY day - but we are on vacation at Disney, so why not.

My calculations say that I am saving around $400, not counting the snacks. That is for a 10-night stay with 3 adults & 2-9yr olds. Granted, my twins may not alway want chicken nuggets or pb&j, if that's the case, we'll get them something else. It's their vacation, too. If we have extra CS left over, because we ordered them a hamburger off the "adult" meal, then maybe we can get an extra snack or water out of it. Either way, I still think it is a fairly good deal.

Do I think it's as good as the deal that it used to be? NO WAY! But since I didn't use the plan prior to the 2008 changes, it really won't effect me & my "missing an appy & tip". I think each family has to decide if it is a good deal for them based on their own personal family & how they eat, etc. I feel it is a deal for ALL of us, DH, myself & DD13 (who enjoys seafood & steak just like we do) can get the higher priced meals at TS places. DD9 & DS9 make out with the 5 character meals or buffets we have chosen to dine at.

All said, I will be happy to save $400 + $200 for snacks (5 people x 10 days @ $4.00). Not bad.

[disney-super-mom]

I just wanted to remind everyone not to forget the tip for your TS meals in your DDP calculations.:thumbsup2

So for two adults, out of pocket expense for the DDP would be $76 per day plus tip.

In LSchrow's example (the day she and DH ate at CR), her savings would actually be about $25 for the day (if you look at their total out of pocket expense).

Her second example using tutto italia, her savings for the day would be about $51 (if you look at their total out of pocket expense).

I hope that makes sense to everyone.:goodvibes

[TLSnell1981]

I just wanted to remind everyone not to forget the tip for your TS meals in your DDP calculations.:thumbsup2

So for two adults, out of pocket expense for the DDP would be $76 per day plus tip.

In LSchrow's example (the day she and DH ate at CR), her savings would actually be about $25 for the day (if you look at their total out of pocket expense).

Her second example using tutto italia, her savings for the day would be about $51 (if you look at their total out of pocket expense).

I hope that makes sense to everyone.:goodvibes

Ah...I understood the PP was referring to the savings on the food cost. The "tip" is not included in the price of DDP or OOP, so I don't understand your analysis.

I get offended by posters that continue to make sure the "poor" servers get their "tip". I think for the most part, posters oppose the mandatory nature of a service charge and how it is asked for before the CC is totaled. I believe most have no problem with "giving" a gratuity. The waitstaff, also needs to take some responsiblility for this fiasco. Stop blaming everything on the guests and Disney.

[magic mouse]

I am not going to let Disney tell me how to tip. This is riduculous that I have to pay 18% or 20%. Sorry a tip is something you earn, period. From now on I will not put charging priviliges on my room key to make sure tips are not added to my room bill. I will be giving cash and/or disney gift card etc. If people feel they should leave 10% at a buffet thats up to them.

[disney-super-mom]

Ah...I understood the PP was referring to the savings on the food cost. The "tip" is not included in the price of DDP or OOP, so I don't understand your analysis.

I get offended by posters that continue to make sure the "poor" servers get their "tip". I think for the most part, posters oppose the mandatory nature of a service charge and how it is asked for before the CC is totaled. I believe most have no problem with "giving" a gratuity. The waitstaff, also needs to take some responsiblility for this fiasco. Stop blaming everything on the guests and Disney.

I assure you, I wasn't posting that tipping is mandatory. It's strictly up to the individual and the service they receive.

I was just pointing out the actual out-of-pocket expense for a TS meal if you were to leave an 18%-20% gratuity. (for those making their meal budget/trip expense sheet, if using the DDP):thumbsup2

I was trying to show a "positive" that the DDP is still a great savings for many, even though the 2008 plan no longer includes gratuity.

[Lewisc]

It doesn't make any sense to compare the 2007 DDP with the 2008 DDP. The 2007 plan is no longer available. There is no question the 2007 plan was a better deal then the 2008 plan. The only question is if the 2008 DDP makes more sense then paying meals out of pocket.

Disney is imposing "holiday surcharges" not just during on the holiday but for a month around some holidays. The 2008 is a better deal for guests who are planning on visiting during one of those time periods.

[distherapy]

It doesn't make any sense to compare the 2007 DDP with the 2008 DDP. The 2007 plan is no longer available. There is no question the 2007 plan was a better deal then the 2008 plan. The only question is if the 2008 DDP makes more sense then paying meals out of pocket.



:worship:

[LSchrow]

I just wanted to remind everyone not to forget the tip for your TS meals in your DDP calculations.:thumbsup2

So for two adults, out of pocket expense for the DDP would be $76 per day plus tip.

In LSchrow's example (the day she and DH ate at CR), her savings would actually be about $25 for the day (if you look at their total out of pocket expense).

Her second example using tutto italia, her savings for the day would be about $51 (if you look at their total out of pocket expense).


I hope that makes sense to everyone.:goodvibes

actually, the tip would be the exactly the same with DDP or OOP, which is why it was left out out both calculations :confused3
if you add the tip to both the OOP cost and the DDP cost (same tip amt as gratuity is based on OOP cost), the savings would be exactly the same. the only way this would be different, is if one "stiffs" the waitstaff when paying OOP (tho i agree it would be easier to do such a thing when paying OOP :sad2: , it is certainly not something i would consider or recommend ~ and i'm sure you were not suggesting) .
the calculations are accurate, & 2008 DDP will save us, as well as many other people :) , significant $'s as shown
:)

[disney-super-mom]

actually, the tip would be the exactly the same with DDP or OOP, which is why it was left out out both calculations :confused3
if you add the tip to both the OOP cost and the DDP cost (same tip amt as gratuity is based on OOP cost), the savings would be exactly the same. the only way this would be different, is if one "stiffs" the waitstaff when paying OOP (tho i agree it would be easier to do such a thing when paying OOP :sad2: , it is certainly not something i would consider or recommend ~ and i'm sure you were not suggesting) .
the calculations are accurate, & 2008 DDP will save us, as well as many other people :) , significant $'s as shown
:)

But you don't add the tip to BOTH OOP cost and DDP cost. You either add it to one or the other.

Here's a better way to look at it:

Using your calculations (the day you eat at CR)

Total food costs for the day: $116
Total DDP for 2 adults: $76
Total savings on food for the day: $40

So you just saved $40, and now you decide with that $40 you'll pay for an 18% tip for your meal at CR. 18% of $83 = $15

$40 - $15 = $25

So after all is said and done, you come out $25 ahead for the day using the DDP.:thumbsup2

[VirginiaMom]

But you don't add the tip to BOTH OOP cost and DDP cost. You either add it to one or the other.

Here's a better way to look at it:

Using your calculations (the day you eat at CR)

Total food costs for the day: $116
Total DDP for 2 adults: $76
Total savings on food for the day: $40

So you just saved $40, and now you decide with that $40 you'll pay for an 18% tip for your meal at CR. 18% of $83 = $15

$40 - $15 = $25

So after all is said and done, you come out $25 ahead for the day using the DDP.:thumbsup2

this doesn't make sense to me... I agree with LSchrow... when comparing the two plans, you have to assume you pay tip in both scenerios.

Total food costs for the day: $116 + $15 tip = $131
Total DDP for 2 adults: $76 + $15 tip (assuming 18% on the true cost of the meal) = $91
Total savings on food for the day: $40

The tip doesn't play into the equation since you pay the same amount of tip regardless of how you pay for dinner. This is a comparison situation....

[apostolic4life]

this doesn't make sense to me... I agree with LSchrow... when comparing the two plans, you have to assume you pay tip in both scenerios.

Total food costs for the day: $116 + $15 tip = $131
Total DDP for 2 adults: $76 + $15 tip (assuming 18% on the true cost of the meal) = $91
Total savings on food for the day: $40

The tip doesn't play into the equation since you pay the same amount of tip regardless of how you pay for dinner. This is a comparison situation....

Yes, this is correct (except 18% would actually be $20.88). You still tip (whatever % you choose) based on the actual cost of the menu items......not the price paid for the DDP. This would make LSchrow's calculation accurate.


:thumbsup2

[gohogs34]

Could I have used it somewhere else, maybe so, but we have used our Disney visa card for the past five years for everything we could, college payment, bills ect. and may add that we have NEVER paid interest on any due to paying it off each month. We had $556.00 of what we consider free money to deduct from the total of our trip and added with the Disney visa code of hotel and park hopper passes + options it made it a VERY good deal for us to try and see if the dinner plan will work. Yes if not on the plan we would not eat at the restaurants we are going too, but here we go. :cool1:

[disney-super-mom]

this doesn't make sense to me... I agree with LSchrow... when comparing the two plans, you have to assume you pay tip in both scenerios.

Total food costs for the day: $116 + $15 tip = $131
Total DDP for 2 adults: $76 + $15 tip (assuming 18% on the true cost of the meal) = $91
Total savings on food for the day: $40

The tip doesn't play into the equation since you pay the same amount of tip regardless of how you pay for dinner. This is a comparison situation....

This is NOT correct.

If you pay for the tip by adding it to the cost of the DDP, then you don't add it to the OOP food total because the tip has already been paid.

$76 (DDP) + $15 (tip) = $91

$116 (food) + $0 (tip) (already paid above) = $116

Total savings = $25


The DDP only covers food right? Not the tip, right?

Food costs = $116
DDP costs = $76

Total savings $40 (if you don't tip).

[Unseen-Unheard]

This is NOT correct.

If you pay for the tip by adding it to the cost of the DDP, then you don't add it to the OOP food total because the tip has already been paid.

$76 (DDP) + $15 (tip) = $91

$116 (food) + $0 (tip) (already paid above) = $116

Total savings = $25


The DDP only covers food right? Not the tip, right?

Food costs = $116
DDP costs = $76

Total savings $40 (if you don't tip).

i believe you are misunderstanding the point. the point they are trying to make is that you are going to leave a tip with or without the plan.
lets try it this way, 2 seperate groups of people are in the same restaraunt at different tables and order the exact same things, and BOTH groups decide to leave a $15 tip. group A pays with DDP (their total comes to $76+$15=$91) while group B pays with cash OOP (their total comes $116+15=$131). now $131-$91=$40
that is why they are saying the tip isn't a factor it is left either way(hopefully)
Paul

[apostolic4life]

I think I understand where the train has jumped track......reading back over the posts the $116 was for the whole day not just the TS meal. That would lessen the overall value, since it also included the CS meal. I think we were all seeing the $116 as the cost of the TS only. If that were the case, when you add in a CS and a snack the savings would increase. We normally spend around $250-$275 before tip at many TS for 3 adults and 1 child so that is why $116 automatically seemed like only TS to me.

Either way, you will still need to add the same tip to each equation to be equal since you now have to pay the tip no matter how you pay for the food.


:thumbsup2

[apostolic4life]

so onto the "analysis":
example of an "average" day's meals (numbers are rounded):
coral reef (mid-priced ~ we actually eat at more of the higher-priced tho; using items we used on our last visit):
steak $32
shrimp pasta $24
2 chocolate waves :cloud9: $16
2 drinks $6
total $78, $83 with tax
WPE (love their food!)
2 speciality pizzas $18.50
2 brownies $5
2 drinks $4
$26 with tax
2 iced mochacinos at writer's stop :lovestruc $7
$7.50 with tax

$116 total for the day, DDP cost $76 (2 adults)
$40 savings per night




Just had to look at the numbers again to see if the tip was added. It was not so the savings should remain the same since the tip needs to be added to both DDP and OOP.

[TLSnell1981]

How did such a simple analysis become so complicated?:confused3

The gratuity will cost the same whether DDP or OOP. Plain and simple. It does not factor into the OPs equation.

You eat $116 worth of food for the day.....it only costs $76 (the cost of the DDP for 2 adults).....you save $40.

Supermom, the tip is no longer included in the DDP.

[tnmomof4]

I think the new dining plan is going to save me money. Last year I used the DDP. This year I am getting the DlxDDP. I have two boys who are going to be 12 and 10 when we go. I also have twins that will be 5.

The older boys are so excited about getting adult meals. They are bottemless pits!!! Last year they got kids meals and were always still hungry. They also got tired of eating chicken nuggets, pizza or PB&J all the time. They love steak and chicken breast and others things and are glad that if they want steak or other things they can get it.

Many times last year I had to pay for extra bottles of water in the parks when they all were thirsty and had already used their snack credit. Many times they were hungry, and I had to buy a couple CS meals for them to share when they got hungry. Even at the resort I spent extra money buying snacks and drinks. So this year they will each get two snacks. And they all will get a mug to use at the resort. And I will be able to get a CS meal whenever they get hungry.

I absolutely see the positive in this new dining plan.

[LSchrow]

This is NOT correct.

If you pay for the tip by adding it to the cost of the DDP, then you don't add it to the OOP food total because the tip has already been paid.

$76 (DDP) + $15 (tip) = $91

$116 (food) + $0 (tip) (already paid above) = $116

Total savings = $25


The DDP only covers food right? Not the tip, right?

Food costs = $116
DDP costs = $76

Total savings $40 (if you don't tip).

supermom, i think if you look at what you wrote (in red), you'll see where the confusion is coming in.......
try looking at it as eating the identical meals on two different days, one day using DDP, & the other using OOP (using 2 Adults for the sake of consistancy).
day 1 (DDP):
ate: 2 snack, 2 CS, 2 TS
total day's cost: $76 (DDP for 2A) plus $15.60 tip (20% of what TS meal would have cost OOP - pretax) = $91.60 DDP

day 2 (OOP):
2 CS ~ $26
2 snacks ~ $7.50
2 TS ~ $83 (with tax) plus $15.60 tip = $98.60
total day's cost is $132.10 OOP
this is where your statement in red comes into play: even tho we tipped the day prior, that previous day's gratuity does not apply to the current meal ~ they are 2 totally seperate checks, & the waitstaff is tipped on on each check.

you can change the scenerio to 2 seperate parties of 2, or other variations, but the numbers would be the same: the tip is added regardless of payment method.
i hope that helped clear it up :)

[disney-super-mom]

supermom, i think if you look at what you wrote (in red), you'll see where the confusion is coming in.......
try looking at it as eating the identical meals on two different days, one day using DDP, & the other using OOP (using 2 Adults for the sake of consistancy).
day 1 (DDP):
ate: 2 snack, 2 CS, 2 TS
total day's cost: $76 (DDP for 2A) plus $15.60 tip (20% of what TS meal would have cost OOP - pretax) = $91.60 DDP

day 2 (OOP):
2 CS ~ $26
2 snacks ~ $7.50
2 TS ~ $83 (with tax) plus $15.60 tip = $98.60
total day's cost is $132.10 OOP
this is where your statement in red comes into play: even tho we tipped the day prior, that previous day's gratuity does not apply to the current meal ~ they are 2 totally seperate checks, & the waitstaff is tipped on on each check.

you can change the scenerio to 2 seperate parties of 2, or other variations, but the numbers would be the same: the tip is added regardless of payment method.
i hope that helped clear it up :)

Okay, that did clear it up for me.:teacher: :thumbsup2

I think I was getting confused because I'm trying to plan a future trip using the 2008 DDP, and on our trip expense sheet, tip money per day is a new column that I didn't need to have last year. It's completely messing me up!:dance3:

I'll say this to myself for everyone's benefit.....DUH Disney-super-mom!:upsidedow :rolleyes1

Sorry everyone.:flower3:

[LSchrow]

Okay, that did clear it up for me.:teacher: :thumbsup2

I think I was getting confused because I'm trying to plan a future trip using the 2008 DDP, and on our trip expense sheet, tip money per day is a new column that I didn't need to have last year. It's completely messing me up!:dance3:

I'll say this to myself for everyone's benefit.....DUH Disney-super-mom!:upsidedow :rolleyes1

Sorry everyone.:flower3:

pls don't feel sorry (i'm one of those "abstract thinkers" that tend to skip links & assume everyone can follow along, & i thought i was doing it again :rolleyes1 lol).
the good news is that you really can save money with 2008 DDP, & even significantly more than what i showed if you wanted to. the even better news (for us, at least) is that the restaurants will prob be much less crowded :banana: b/c there are quite a few still only looking at the new DDP in comparison to its predecessor & miscalculating b/c they cannot get out of the "no appy, no tip" mindset (:ssst: lol)
have a great trip!! :thumbsup2

[TLSnell1981]

I was beginning to think I was missing something. :rotfl: Glad we finally got it all worked out.:goodvibes

[Lollipop's Mom]

we are on day 8 of the plan and LOVE it. I feel like I am getting my money's worth and then some. Plus its so nice to have it all prepaid.

[Annabelleasb]

I think the fact that we have 3 children under age 9 makes it a great deal for us! One character meal alone would be at least $12.99-$16.99 OOP for each child. With the basic dining plan, at $9.99 per day, they get that character meal plus a counter service and a snack!

I agree & that's exactly why I chose the DDP......just for the character meals!!! I was originally going to do 2 meals but figured w/ the DDP I'd be saving so we're now doing 4.

[sandym718]

I look at the new DDP a couple of ways.
If you tally up the bills you have incurred and compare it to the amount you paid out of pocket, you are likely ahead...you used to be way ahead...now you are just plain ahead.



ITA!! On our 2007 trip, we saved over $310 on the plan. If the 2008 plan remains the same for 2009, based on my calculations we will save about $244 on what the plan covers. (This is also with paying for an add'l child, she was only 2 last time and shared everything, now she'll be getting her own meals)

Even figuring the approimate cost of tips for the TS plus the appetizer I really want (cheese soup at Le Cellier), that comes to just over $100. Paying that OOP either way, obviously. So the true savings for the 2008 plan for us would be $244. If you want to compare to the 2007 plan, we would still save about $140. Certainly not as great as over $300, but that's still a really good savings, plus the convenience!!!

I think it all depends on each individual family configuration plus your choices. I doubt if we go once DS (who eats like a bird) turns 10, that it would be a very good deal for us. for now, definitely still is!

[pepperw23]

I think the fact that we have 3 children under age 9 makes it a great deal for us! One character meal alone would be at least $12.99-$16.99 OOP for each child. With the basic dining plan, at $9.99 per day, they get that character meal plus a counter service and a snack! I could not do all of the character dining we would want to do and fill in with other meals for $10 per child. We tried it on our first trip and spent about $400.00 more than we spent the next year purchasing the dining plan!


I respectfully disagree. :) Have you ever seen a teenage boy eat? :lmao: Heck a teenage girl for that matter. When we went last my DS 19 literally ate his way through the world lol. He even dipped in to my snacks.

At WCC he ate his appy, mine, his meal, his dessert, and half of mine lol. He is 6'2 but not overweight....oh to have that metabolism. DD (16) put a serious dent on her "chow" (As DS refers to it lol) too, and this kid is 5'4 and 119 soaking wet. Yep, the plan IS worth it with teens too...at least my teens haha....

The point is, without the DP he would have broke us. :scared1:

[gobo2]

My family has always been to 4 or 5 TS restaurants on our yearly 8 day trips and before the DDP we usually each ordered an entree and a drink or tap water so that it didn't feel so expensive.

My favorite thing about the old plan, which we did in Jan 2007, was the extravagant feeling of getting an drink, appetizer, entree and dessert and even giving a decent tip without even considering the cost. The prepaid cost fit nicely in our budget and we saved a lot of money.

Without the app and the tip, the new DDP loses the extravagant feeling.

We just got back home yesterday and I have not added up the tip and the extras (salads and apps). to see the actual total for dining for the week.
I love a salad or soup before dinner and my DH and 8 year old DD love appetizers. I would say that we didn't need 2 desserts each every day, but they may disagree.

I am guessing that if the plan stays the same and unless we do all or mostly buffets so that we soups and salads, we will be better off without the plan.
We would still go to Le Cellier and Kona Cafe with or without any plan.

Let me know if you have any specific questions.
I hope this helps.