Dining Plan says includes appetizer...

[black562]

I just recieved a packet from Disney for our upcoming trip in September with free dining and I noticed something odd. On the card that talks about MY free dining, it says...and I quote "one table-service meal includes entree and juice for breakfast; appetizer, entree, dessert and non-alcoholic beverage for lunch and dinner. All meals include tax and gratuities."

So in my packet, I have it saying this...does that mean I'm entitled or has something suddenly changed? What gives?

[wdwdancerwannabe]

Interesting....would like to hear more about this!! (Subbing)

[TDC Nala]

Check that again...unless you are on the deluxe plan, you will probably find that the appetizers are only for children.

On the other hand, it says tips are included, which is totally incorrect. Tips are not included on either plan.

[black562]

Well, its a brochure-size piece they sent, with a letter to "the Black Family" talking about our future trip and it includes little cards...one for the tickets, one for dining plan, etc... The dining plan says as I quoted above. Somebody screwed up big-time on this one and its telling me that these are all included, as well as gratuities....?????

If anyone else has recieved one of these, flip to the back of the dining plan card and you'll see it too...we need to figure this one out folks.

Can we hold their feet to the fire on this one?

[black562]

Check that again...unless you are on the deluxe plan, you will probably find that the appetizers are only for children.

On the other hand, it says tips are included, which is totally incorrect. Tips are not included on either plan.

I know what you're saying and I do know what its "supposed" to include. But it states it exactly as I've written it. Either they accidently are using old cards, or an editor screwed up big-time somewhere....but I'd be curious what would happen if I laid this down at check-in right in front of a supervisor?

Yea, big mistake...HUGE!!!

[TDC Nala]

Extremely doubtful. Even if the flyer is incorrect, you'll be issued a brochure with the correct information when you check in.

[wdwdancerwannabe]

Seems to me you should hold them to it -- unless, like the PP said, you're somehow reading it wrong.

I would def.ly call and ask and hold them to it. You have it in writing! I, too am interested to know if someone else got the same thing!

[PADISFAM]

well that is interesting---is there a date on the brochure? keep us posted.

[TDC Nala]

I'd be interested in who you are planning to hold to it - will you flash that brochure at the server in every restaurant you come to and say that you expect the appetizer and tip to be included?

Interesting - they are either issuing the incorrect information or they've changed the plan back to the 2007 version without any notice at all.

[Mouse House Mama]

Seems to me you should hold them to it -- unless, like the PP said, you're somehow reading it wrong.

I would def.ly call and ask and hold them to it. You have it in writing! I, too am interested to know if someone else got the same thing!

Doesn't matter with Disney. I had a catalog/brochure sent to me for the Disney Store. They had an item that I was waiting to order (it did not come out yet). The price was $50. The item came out so I called and tried to order and now it was $150. I told them that I had the brochure from them etc. and they agreed but they basically said too bad so sad. We are not responsible for typograpical errors etc. They would not budge. I did not order the item and they could have cared less. I know the stores might be a bit different but Disney takes great pains to cover itself. They will simply say "Gee, I don't know how you got that sent to you! It must have been a mistake. Here is the correct information! Have a magical day!" Good luck and I hope you do get what they printed but I really doubt it.

[black562]

Here's a picture of it...I plan to take it with me when I check-in to the hotel. I mean, if I was a first-timer and booked dining because I saw this information, then they told me "oh we can't give you this or that", I would feel like I had been bait and switched if you know what I mean.

Anyway, its worth taking just to see how they react at the resort. I'm not expecting anything, but hey...its worth a shot. My Mom made a scene at a restaurant there once and they gave her everything she wanted just to end the situation.

I wonder if its possible they have me down for deluxe dining by chance?

http://pages.suddenlink.net/black743/dining.JPG

[TDC Nala]

I don't think it's likely that they'll honor it unless the plan has actually been changed (which I doubt) but you can try. They will pass out a brochure at checkin which clearly states that appetizers and gratuities are not included.

Interestingly enough, there is another thread on this board from someone who apparently got the same brochure in an informational package.

[black562]

But I'm curious more than anything how many others got this same information? If anyone else has recieved this info booklet, check it out and let me know...it just kinda threw me to see that printed there. I've been to Disney at least 35 times, so I'm definitely a veteran and know the ropes...but then something like this causes even me to scratch my head and go "HUH"????

[Halbleib1]

I received the letter and cards that you are talking about for our September trip as well however ours says nothing about appetizer and it says that gratuities are not included. I received my letter and info about 3 weeks ago. The card that I received talking about the dining plan has a picture of a little boy trying to see over a counter looking at an ice cream dish on the front and the bottom is a blue green color. So unless something has changed with the dining plan you probably received an old card by mistake.

[black562]

Interestingly enough, there is another thread on this board from someone who apparently got the same brochure in an informational package.

Well, that's interesting...could we not hold them to this if tons and tons of folks are getting this info. This, by law, is bait and switch if they promise you one thing and deliver considerably less.

Either way, its very interesting and they've really screwed up on this one.

[black562]

I received the letter and cards that you are talking about for our September trip as well however ours says nothing about appetizer and it says that gratuities are not included. I received my letter and info about 3 weeks ago. The card that I received talking about the dining plan has a picture of a little boy trying to see over a counter looking at an ice cream dish on the front and the bottom is a blue green color. So unless something has changed with the dining plan you probably received an old card by mistake.

Yup, mine has a boy peeking over the table at a big thing of pink ice cream....same piece, but you can see that its different on the back.

[TDC Nala]

It's not the deluxe plan if it refers to one table service and one quick service. I would guess they had old flyers mixed in with new ones. They may be in for a mess if that's true.

[black562]

LOL, any lawyers on the DisBoards???

I'll be very curious how they're going to react when I lay this down and stare them in the eyes...

[TDC Nala]

I'm a lawyer...but I don't practice.

And I think the response will be "That information is incorrect, here's the correct information."

If the mailing was inadvertent, it's not fraud. Fraud requires criminal intent. If they made a mistake, that's not sufficient.

And you'd have to call a manager and convince them that they should change things for you. I guess if that's worth it for you, you could try it.

[Halbleib1]

Yep very interesting that it is the same exact card except for what is written on the back. May I ask how long ago you received your card in the mail? Maybe they are putting a change into place and you received the up to date info.

[TDC Nala]

I would think they would have given some notice if they changed the dining plan in the middle of the year. Especially if it is a change that would be seen as extremely advantageous to the customer, like this would be. And what about the deluxe plan, if it is a change, are tips included with that too?

[black562]

I just got the information today (May 6, 2008).

I'm not trying to raise a big stink or get something for nothing (well...the plan was free, but still). But I figured I'd lay this down to a manager and see what the reaction is...if nothing else, just for kicks. But if tons of folks are getting these, they may have their hands full dealing with it.

[Tinkfan10]

Call disney and ask.

[TDC Nala]

Apparently at least two people on this board have gotten them...and some are getting the same flyer that has what we believe is the correct info on it...leave it to Disney to muck it up. Hopefully this won't turn out like the DDE automatic gratuity email which turned into a big brouhaha because it wasn't worded clearly.

[Halbleib1]

Thank you for your response. You never know they have a right to change the plan whenever they feel it is necessary even if it is in the middle of the year. If this is the case it is not as if they are taking anything away they are adding things back in therefore there would not be any legal implications even if they chose to raise the price there would not be anything that people could do if not paid in full. However Disney per their booking info/contract would have to honor the original price for those that have already paid in full for their vacations.

[TDC Nala]

I still wouldn't get my hopes up regarding a dining plan change.

[Halbleib1]

I agree with you I think that someone made a mistake and mailed out old flyers. Probably not seeing that the information was in fact different with the brochure looking the same otherwise. On the back of mine at the very right hand bottom corner there is a year mine says MYWDE08 in small print.

[TDC Nala]

I agree with you I think that someone made a mistake and mailed out old flyers. Probably not seeing that the information was in fact different with the brochure looking the same otherwise. On the back of mine at the very right hand bottom corner there is a year mine says MYWDE08 in small print.

Hey, joe black...does yours have a number? If yours says 08 you may have a case ;)

[black562]

I do believe it is from 07...but they (Disney) need to be more responsible. Someone could book their trip on the premise of this information...and be very VERY let down.

[TDC Nala]

Well, I remember a local K-Mart ad had a playstation 2 game for a ridiculously low price and they actually honored the ad....so, who knows.

So two of us have this, I'm sure others will discover it as well. I can't imagine them adding it back in now in the middle of the year, but who knows anymore.

At any rate...big big mistake they made here...not a simple misprint (like saying $10.99 instead of $100.99). But didn't they have a crazy low rate on a resort last Christmas and they actually honored it....I think it was $25 on Christmas Eve at Saratoga Springs or something like that....




unless I am wrong, I think I remember that they honored it for only one night. This is a little different from a temporary advertised sale...maybe someday I will be able to remember the law school stuff about sales.

[Halbleib1]

Hey Joe I totally agree with you I would try as well it can not hurt to ask they can only tell you no however you may get a nice manager that says hey it was our mistake we will take care of it this one time. You will have more of a case however if it has 08 on it.

[TDC Nala]

I do believe it is from 07...but they (Disney) need to be more responsible. Someone could book their trip on the premise of this information...and be very VERY let down.

Well, since you received it in a package for a trip you already booked, it seems they forward these things to guests who previously booked, and there isn't much chance that someone will book based on this flyer unless they're handing it out with pre-booking stuff. I have DVC, I don't know what they give out when booking regular resorts anymore.

But there's probably a good chance that someone will believe based on this flyer that the plan has been changed.

This thread is bringing out the lawyer in me, which has been dormant for awhile.

[black562]

Well, I just wanted to call attention at what they sent me more than anything else. It sounds like others got it too so someone screwed up somewhere.

One year, my Mom and Dad were at a Disney restaurant and on the dining plan. An apparantly new waitress thought it was only a 15% discount and insisted they pay the remainder. My Mom stood up and raised her voice, when a manager walked over, comped the meal and sent them both on their way. My parants were left with their dining coupons (you got a coupon book back then) and technically could have ate somewhere else if they weren't stuffed already. That manager ended a negative situation with no questions asked...I still remember that incident to this day.

Anyway, if anyone else has recieved this, I'd be curious to know how many got it. I'm sure they'll be covered with calls if alot of people did.

[black562]

This thread is bringing out the lawyer in me, which has been dormant for awhile.

Yea, and isn't it fun. Makes me not feel so bad when I make a mistake, knowing that multi-billion dollar corporations screw up things like this.

I just want to see the hotel clerk scratching his/her head in confusion just like I did when I opened it...LOL.

Hey, maybe they transfered that manager Mom dealt with and he now runs our resort....LOL.

[TDC Nala]

Yea, and isn't it fun. Makes me not feel so bad when I make a mistake, knowing that multi-billion dollar corporations screw up things like this.

I just want to see the hotel clerk scratching his/her head in confusion just like I did when I opened it...LOL.

Hey, maybe they transfered that manager Mom dealt with and he now runs our resort....LOL.

Well, it'll help me with the moderating a bit, now that we've established it's a 2007 flyer. No doubt we'll see more threads about this because I'd bet they sent out more than two.

[black562]

Well, it'll help me with the moderating a bit, now that we've established it's a 2007 flyer. No doubt we'll see more threads about this because I'd bet they sent out more than two.

Yea, something tells me that too. But didn't someone else recieve a promotional packet with this info in it? If that's the case, that IS information recieved PRIOR to booking a trip and changes the dynamics...especially if that person booked with expectation of recieving what it said. I may have mis-read, but I thought that's what they said.

[TDC Nala]

According to the other thread, that person booked their trip on Saturday and received the packet on Monday.

[karibritt01]

However Disney per their booking info/contract would have to honor the original price for those that have already paid in full for their vacations.

Actually, I think once Disney has accepted a deposit, they are entered into a contract. They have agreed to provide X services at a certain price. They can always provide more for that price, as no one would ever complain. But they can not legally provide you with less than you agreed upon, or charge you more for the services. A good example of this would be the cruise lines trying to add fuel surcharges to reservations already booked. The ones that did tack on charges were ordered in court to refund the money, whether the cruise was paid in full or not, as it was a breach of contract to add the charges.

[black562]

Well here's the thing...I'm not sure a manager even has the ability to alter how the dining plan works...even if they wanted to. BUT, from a few experiences while at Disney, I've noticed that they often do something to "make things right".

Maybe if everyone who gets this brings attention to it, Disney will learn to be a bit more responsible with what they send out....why would they even keep the 2007 information anyway, isn't that shredded when out of date?

[TDC Nala]

I personally wouldn't feel comfortable angling for compensation for a minor mistake that won't affect your trip at all, but have at it if you want to.

I wonder if there's a way to inform them that they're sending out the wrong material.

[black562]

I personally wouldn't feel comfortable angling for compensation for a minor mistake that won't affect your trip at all, but have at it if you want to.

I wonder if there's a way to inform them that they're sending out the wrong material.

That wasn't the plan...more to bring to their attention that "hey, this is what it says I'm supposed to get" and see how it's handled. Truthfully, if they could toss on an appetizer, that would be a very minor expense, but like I said, I don't think they have that ability.

[trvlr4301r]

I received my Welcome packet for our upcoming trip in September and had the old information also. It says in print on the bottom MYDE07 which I figured had to have meant that someone put the old brochure in the packet instead of the new one. When I booked the trip with the dining, they specifically went over what the plan included and stated that it had changed and there was no longer an appetizer included and that you had to pay your own gratuity.

I was a little puzzled when I first received this and read it but then looked at the bottom of the paper to check the date. I figured it had to be just an old brochure. It certainly would be nice it was the same as last year!

[Katiebell]

I personally wouldn't feel comfortable angling for compensation for a minor mistake that won't affect your trip at all, but have at it if you want to.

I wonder if there's a way to inform them that they're sending out the wrong material.

Nala, I agree with you, it's a very minor mistake, everyone on the DIS boards is well versed in the changes in the dining plan. I could see it being a much bigger problem for someone is not familiar with the plan, bought it for the first time this year, and is going by what they received in writing. But that's not why I'm posting...

I just have to say that your signature pic horrifies me and makes me laugh my head off at the same time...and reminds me why I don't eat seafood. :eek: :rotfl2:

[Halbleib1]

Actually Karibritt01 they don't have to honor the price that you booked with as they have on their paperwork under terms and conditions that prices may change at any time before final payment here is a direct quote from my booking paperwork from Disney listed under Rates on the Terms and Conditions page ("All rates are in us dollars and are subject to change until package is paid in full. After package is paid in full, rate is subject to change due to imposition of taxes or other charges of governmental authorities.") Yes you are entering into a contract but they are protecting themselves by having the terms and conditions in writing on the booking paperwork. A lot of people may not be aware of this because they a. do not read the fine print on paperwork they receive weather it be a disney vacation or a home loan etc. or b. they do not take notice of the information for various reasons. I have never booked a disney cruise so I do not know what their paperwork says for that but more than likely disney is choosing not to pass the surcharge onto guests that have already booked but not paid in full as a courtesy and not because they can not. If the surcharge is passed onto them from a port or government authority they would have every right to pass that along to guests paid in full provided the terms and conditions are the same as quoted above. Just because they can charge more does not mean that they will of course. As for those other cruise lines that were made to refund the surcharges maybe it was because of the type of contract they had maybe they didn't have a disclosure that prices could go up and therefore they would not be able to enforce this.

[Halbleib1]

sorry double post.

[tiger4me2]

Good luck to you when you go try it. I got the basic plan for my trip next week & nothing like what you shown was there. I called yesterday about a meal & they told me that they changed the DDP since the last time I was at Disney (2007) told them yes no app't or tip & she said right. Who know what going on but I would call & ask.:)

[DiszyDean]

As has been pointed out, there really is "no holding Disney's feet to the fire" on this except for possibly anyone who booked a vacation based on this incorrect information that was provided by Disney. Everyone else is just trying to take advantage of a loophole because they truly understand that the plan does not include appetizer and tips. While it is tempting, I am sure, it does not make it right to push the issue if you know that it is a mistake.

[black562]

As has been pointed out, there really is "no holding Disney's feet to the fire" on this except for possibly anyone who booked a vacation based on this incorrect information that was provided by Disney. Everyone else is just trying to take advantage of a loophole because they truly understand that the plan does not include appetizer and tips. While it is tempting, I am sure, it does not make it right to push the issue if you know that it is a mistake.

I know what you're saying, but you're basing it on the assumption that everyone will be like me and know the difference. I've been reading that dining managers are getting so many complaints about the new plan changes that they're actually keeping a running tally. This kind of mistake does nothing but add fuel to the already large fire. (1) why would you not shred your 2007 information...(2) why would you make your 2008 information card look identical to the 2007 one, that just adds to the confusion. I actually did have to sit down and explain to my Fiance that it was wrong and we wouldn't likely get it, which kinda bummed her out....so while I knew the difference, she didn't and had her hopes up. Plus the fact that this "mistake" is being made in more than just my case...as I'm apparantly not the only one who recieved this.

I just have a low tollerance for stupidity in general, there's so many ways they could have avoided this. Making the card different this year for instance, rather than looking identical...that would have been a good start. At least I knew what was going on beforehand...I'm sure many others are jumping for joy thinking that they've changed the plan back to the way it was...and won't know different until check-in. Talk about ruining the magic during the first few minutes of your trip, or even worse at the first restaurant when they are handed a bill for their appetizer...ouch.

Incidentally, this is actually the first information I've recieved that tells me what "I'm getting". Noone on the phone described it to me other than "dining plan" and that I get a table service, counter service and snack each day.

[kimgof]

ok. you made me go look at the brochure they sent. Mine also says it includes appetizer, tax and tip. It does have the 07 code on the bottom. I didnt even notice this until I saw this thread. I knew the rules to the DDP , so I didnt bother reading it. I wonder how many people actually have this one and dont realize it because who would read the rules if they already know them? Interesting.... I got my packet at least a week ago too. I am booked for Sept. also.

[karibritt01]

"All rates are in us dollars and are subject to change until package is paid in full. After package is paid in full, rate is subject to change due to imposition of taxes or other charges of governmental authorities."

Good to know. I just knew the other cruises got into legal hot water adding in fuel charges, and Disney decided to add it to new reservations after May, 2008. They do have a clause about increasing port charges when applicable, and are doing just that beginning July 1st.

Something I thought about last night no one has mentioned. If guests take this brochure into a restaurant and demand they be served as said, and the manager chooses to honor it... the waitstaff will be stiffed their tips. While the manager has the ability to throw in an appetizer, the system is no longer set up to track tips. Not that I think anyone on this board would knowingly do that, but the non-DISing public might.

[HM]

OK...
I booked my trip on the first day available. I haven't received any kind of packet. Did everyone who booked so far get one? Do I have a problem?

[Crisgw]

I didn't get a packet and our trip is paid in full, so I'm now worried about not getting a packet!

[karibritt01]

I don't know if maybe the packet is a new thing? :confused3 I have never received a packet for any of my trips, other than the travel docs and receipt from my TA. I never received brochures such as posted, even though we did DDP in 06 and 07. If you have your receipt showing you paid in full, I'd say don't stress over the packet.

[schpug03]

Hi everyone,
We are going in Sept. also and we haven't received any kind of packet at all. Did you guys get those packets because you have paid in full already? We're waiting until right before our final is due to pay it all off. Just wondering when we will get a packet. I'm very excited about our trip and anything Disney is getting me more excited so I would love to see some information arrive in the mail!!

[abk96]

I know what you're saying, but you're basing it on the assumption that everyone will be like me and know the difference. I've been reading that dining managers are getting so many complaints about the new plan changes that they're actually keeping a running tally. This kind of mistake does nothing but add fuel to the already large fire. (1) why would you not shred your 2007 information...(2) why would you make your 2008 information card look identical to the 2007 one, that just adds to the confusion. I actually did have to sit down and explain to my Fiance that it was wrong and we wouldn't likely get it, which kinda bummed her out....so while I knew the difference, she didn't and had her hopes up. Plus the fact that this "mistake" is being made in more than just my case...as I'm apparantly not the only one who recieved this.


I understand and agree with what you're saying here. Luckily I read these boards and know of the changes to the dining plan. But if I didn't I would be clueless. When I called to add the DP to my ressie with DVC they did not tell me of the changes when I called to add it nor did they explain it when I called to make my ADR's.

[Crisgw]

Hi everyone,
We are going in Sept. also and we haven't received any kind of packet at all. Did you guys get those packets because you have paid in full already? We're waiting until right before our final is due to pay it all off. Just wondering when we will get a packet. I'm very excited about our trip and anything Disney is getting me more excited so I would love to see some information arrive in the mail!!

Ours is paid in full and I've not received anything yet!

[Matt'sMom]

A few thoughts...

1) Since OP is receiving the 'free' DDP... there was no charge for having added the plan, so this is not a case of being charged for something that will not be received. That makes it a bit different than having an additional, unexpected charge added on after booking at an agreed upon rate. The price paid for their vacation package has not changed.

2) The OP will not fail to receive anything that was stated to be part of their MYW package, and in the terms for the 2008 DDP plan (which were available for their review prior to booking). It is my understanding that the incorrect (2007) pamphlet was mailed out after their reservation was made. They booked with the 2008 DDP, and that is what they will receive... so I honestly do not see this as being a 'bait & switch'.

3) The pamphlet in question, as confirmed by several posters, bears the 07 date on it. So the terms would have been applicable to the 2007 DDP--not the 2008 DDP. Unfortunate, and potentially confusing? Yes. But accidentally receiving an old, 2007 pamphlet in the mail does not change the terms of the 2008 plan, nor the fact that the 2008 DDP is what people have booked.

4) If I were a manager at a WDW restaurant, and someone showed me a 2007 DDP pamphlet and expected those terms to be honored in 2008, I'd probably be inclined to go get them a copy of the current 2008 DDP terms and point out the differences. Hey, if anyone feels entitled to something that is not a part of the current DDP, and wants to ask for free appies... go right ahead. But honestly, I don't see how having a 2007 pamphlet in hand makes one entitled to anything more than the actual terms of the 2008 DDP which one has booked.

It is a shame that somehow some of the old, 2007 pamphlets found their way into recent mailings. And I can certainly understand where some people--those who may fail to read the fine print, or research what they are actually purchasing--might be confused by them. But that does not change the terms of the 2008 DDP, which are clearly published numerous places. Until & unless WDW announces changes to their current DDP, I wouldn't expect to receive any 'extras' beyond what the actual 2008 DDP includes.

Now if WDW would decide to add back in the free appies and gratuities to the DDP for 2009... I for one would not have a problem with that! I might even seriously consider booking a package w. DDP, if the price were right. popcorn::

[Lewisc]

Between phone calls and posts on various internet boards Disney should already be aware of the situation.

There isn't any reason why Disney can't send out a letter with a copy of the correct brochure. Include a coupon for something free. Could be a pin, an appetizer or a free round of mini-golf.

Disney may have some issues if they don't do anything to correct the misinformation that was previous provided. Waiting until guests check in isn't really fair.

[shoes99]

We check in for free dining on August 24th, we got our welcome package today. We do indeed have the brochure included in our package that says .
One Table Service Meal - includes entree and juice for breakfast ; appititizer, entree, dessert and and non-alcoholic beverage for lunch and dinner.
All meals include tax and gratuities.

[srdipert]

Ours was misprinted for the deluxe plan also. It stated the things that are included in the basic plan but at the top it said deluxe plan.

[Luv2Roam]

If I rec'd that I would contact Disney and let them know they sent an incorrect brochure.
Besides what others have posted here, anyone can get a past years brochure and claim they rec'd it in the mail for their current stay. How would anyone, whether be front desk or server, know when the guest actually rec'd the brochure?
Somene could show any previous brochure for anything and claim they just rec'd it.

[mom2my3kids]

If you received that it was in error, and you know that by reading on here. I would contact Disney and let them know what happened, but I would not expect anything in return and don't think you will get anything extra from them.

[TDC Nala]

Between phone calls and posts on various internet boards Disney should already be aware of the situation.

There isn't any reason why Disney can't send out a letter with a copy of the correct brochure. Include a coupon for something free. Could be a pin, an appetizer or a free round of mini-golf.

Disney may have some issues if they don't do anything to correct the misinformation that was previous provided. Waiting until guests check in isn't really fair.

How would they know who received the 2007 brochure and who received the 2008 brochure? We've got people traveling at the same time who have received different brochures. Not to mention when everybody who went last year digs their old paperwork out looking for the 2007 brochure. Then there would be the "2007 Dining Plan Brochure Exchanges" on the DIS. And those who got the 2008 brochure would be ticked off because they missed out on the deal.

Let's say it's too much trouble to work out who receive which brochure and speculate that in order to rectify its mistake WDW should give everyone who booked the basic dining plan appetizers for the period of reservations for which the erroneous brochures went out. What would be the reaction of those who paid twice as much for the deluxe plan so they could get appetizers?

[kaytieeldr]

4) If I were a manager at a WDW restaurant, and someone showed me a 2007 DDP pamphlet and expected those terms to be honored in 2008, I'd probably be inclined to go get them a copy of the current 2008 DDP terms and point out the differences. Hey, if anyone feels entitled to something that is not a part of the current DDP, and wants to ask for free appies... go right ahead. But honestly, I don't see how having a 2007 pamphlet in hand makes one entitled to anything more than the actual terms of the 2008 DDP which one has booked. Good point.

NOT being contrary or argmentative: Let's look at a possible scenario.

Joe Black: "Yes, we are using the Disney Dining Plan and here is the flyer/brochure/tear sheet we received in May 2008 stating that the appetizers and the tip are covered".

Restaurant Manager: "We're sorry, but that's the 2007 information and there's no way to prove you got that brochure in 2008. If you would like to order appetizers, you will have to pay for them; and the gratuity is now the responsibility of the Guest".

[PammyPoppins]

We bought the 2008 Disney Birnbaum book and I was shocked when I read it states, the dining plan includes an appetizers and also that gratuities are included.
PammyPoppins

[iloveftwilderness]

I would take the information with you upon check in. Show it to the manager, but don't expect anything. You never know what might happen.
We had booked a room at the WL online once and it described the room as having 2 queen beds and a sleeper sofa (for a regular room). I showed the CM upon check in and they upgraded us to a suite. My sister in law was upgraded too even though she didn't have the print out from the internet. So you never know what might happen. I doubt you will get free appetizers/tips, but you never know what other Magic might come your way! Have a good trip!

[Brewmeister]

We also just received a packet from Disney for our September trip today, and it also is a 2007 plan brochure (code MYDE07 at the bottom). The only reason that I even read the details is because of seeing this thread earlier today. :rotfl2:

It looks like an entire batch of 2007 brochures have been sent out by mistake.

Given that I knew what the plan was before hand, I can't in good conscience try to get the 2007 benefits this year no matter what. Someone really should contact Disney and tell them of their error, I suppose, but I don't have the time to do so.

The packet that we received looks to be some sort of a teaser to get us excited about the upcoming trip, but it isn't the paid-in-full packet with the ME tags and all. Nothing in it looks to be important at all....just marketing stuff.

[bumbershoot]

We bought the 2008 Disney Birnbaum book and I was shocked when I read it states, the dining plan includes an appetizers and also that gratuities are included.
PammyPoppins


With any and all guide books it is vital to see when the book was published, and realize that Disney, cities, zoos, countries, etc could change anything at any time after it was written, edited, proofed, sent to the publisher, printed, distributed, and sold.... I looked that book up a week or so ago, and it was published in Sept of '07, and I'm not 100% sure they had fully announced the changes at that time, but even if they had, who knows when any changes were impossible?

[odaddy!]

Bummer, I read that in my packet, and thought this was one of those changes that disney can make to the plan, I should have known that a change that would benefit me would not be real:confused:

[TheDisneyBunch]

I booked the first day and have not been sent a packet yet. I think it is b/c they emailed me my info instead? They did not do that last year. Who knows.

I would definitely be taking it and showing it if it did not have the 07 date on it but with the 07 date I think I would just feel weird showing it b/c they may think I just grabbed an old one from last year and brought it with me..not really having proof that is came in this years packet..lol

Oh how I wish they would change it back though. ;)

[kaytieeldr]

I have a really strong feeling that even if Disney does decide to change the provisions of the Dining Plan, no substantial changes would go into effect until 2009.

[choirfarm]

I got a packet yesterday, but I'm not sure it is from the package I booked but rather the possible itinerary I have on the booking site because there was no specific info on the actual trip I booked. It did have a 2008 dining plan card in there with the correct information.

Christine

[libinatorsmom]

I dont think they will honor it - especially since it say 07... they will say the inforation is out of date - that the 08 plan is different and here is the info... interesting we are leaving friday and never recieved a card like that ?????????? we are on the dulx dining plan... funny they dont send all the identical info

[abk96]

All of you that got the wrong info mailed out to you should call Disney and email them about it.

I would love to hear what their responses are to this mix up.

[NMW]

I really don't think you are going to get any kid of "big reaction" when you show WDW CM's the 07 packet you got mailed to you. They will probably just give you a correct 08 one and say "sorry, that's last year's brochure." That's all I would do. :confused3 Not to mention that everything Disney mails out states "plan subject to change without notice"

We are leaving in a couple days with the deluxe dining plan. I asked 3 different CM's if I could get info on the plan mailed to me. ALL of them directed me to the WDW website and told me how to find and print the 08 brochure. They also told me info will be given to me at check-in.

[mousebit]

I booked 1st day for Disney Visa and have never received any kind of dining pamphlet, brochure, etc. - just a confirmation letter. I guess I have a hard time understanding how Disney sends different info to different people even tho they've booked the same plan around the same time. :confused3

[gshumaker]

I booked 1st day for Disney Visa and have never received any kind of dining pamphlet, brochure, etc. - just a confirmation letter. I guess I have a hard time understanding how Disney sends different info to different people even tho they've booked the same plan around the same time. :confused3


Same here and all we have received so far is a bill to pay the outstanding balance!!

[PammyPoppins]

With any and all guide books it is vital to see when the book was published, and realize that Disney, cities, zoos, countries, etc could change anything at any time after it was written, edited, proofed, sent to the publisher, printed, distributed, and sold.... I looked that book up a week or so ago, and it was published in Sept of '07, and I'm not 100% sure they had fully announced the changes at that time, but even if they had, who knows when any changes were impossible?

Your point is very well taken but it is their Official 2008 Guide Book and for a big organization like Disney where thousands will read that as a source of information to aide and guide them through their vacation it sets up for much confusion. Also, we signed up for bounceback in September, 2007 just when you say the book was published and for bounceback we were told about the changes.
PammyPoppins

[devonsmommy]

I am booked for September too. Should we all be expecting these brochures in the mail? I don't care about the dining mistake, I just haven't really received anything about our trip yet except for one email.

[lacy1101]

No packet here, either. Our dates are August 29, 30, 31.

[teddygurl28]

i got my packet yesterday and it said my way plus deluxe dining ( which i have ) included a quick service , table service , and snack.....so not true :headache: i didnt read about the gratuities and taxes...ill check out what that says when i go home though and post to let you know....someone defiantely messed them up though...i just planned to toss it and wait till i get there read what they give me and then if its not what the stuff i printed out reads ill ask :confused3

[themudd4]

Those that recieved this...can you tell me who you booked through? I wonder if that may have made a difference in who recieved these or didn't. I will be there next month and I haven't recieved anything either. Just curious.

[Smile4Me]

I've read through this thread and I can just feel the frustration of being sent one thing and told another,,,has anyone called Disney and talked to anyone over the phone about this?

[beroh2253]

Going on June 1 and no information yet. But figure no app. and taking cash for tip. Can tips be paid with Disney Dollars?

[choirfarm]

Those that recieved this...can you tell me who you booked through? I wonder if that may have made a difference in who recieved these or didn't. I will be there next month and I haven't recieved anything either. Just curious.

Well, as I said in the earlier post...I had played around on the Disney booking site and saved some itineraries. Plus in the questionaire I said I was interested in booking in September. I don't think what I received had anything to do with what I booked over the phone. It had the same Langford family stuff that my free maps and planning DVD had. It had the correct 2008 info in it and NO specific info about the actual trip. Therefore I think they were sending me stuff, hoping I was booking since that is when I said I might visit in the DVD questionairre. The only thing I have gotten about my actual booked trip is an e-mail with the reservation info on it.

Christine

[housemouse]

Those that recieved this...can you tell me who you booked through? I wonder if that may have made a difference in who recieved these or didn't. I will be there next month and I haven't recieved anything either. Just curious.

I booked through Disney by phone. I just got my packet last night and it has last year's dining info in it.

[victorandbellasmom]

I booked my free dining trip the first day it was available to visa holders. We just received the packet yesterday. It was the first mailer to arrive for our trip. We got our reservation conifrmation via email when we booked the package.

[chumsmum0916]

Hi all, I too have read that tax& gratuity will be included unless in a group of 5 or more people....we have 4 people in our group so does this mean that we don't have to pay for it as well?

[Halbleib1]

I booked my trip the first day it was available to non visa members online through Disney. We are going Sept 13- 27. The same day I booked I received an email almost immediately confirming everything. Also within a week of booking I got a statement saying how much I paid and still owed and a week or two later I received a cardboard envelope with the dining plan and magic your way info in it. Mine was the correct card for 2008. I am going to cancel with Disney however because I had a trip booked with AAA for these same dates since Jan and my agent was able to change it over to the free dining. Through AAA I have only received the statements confirming booking and a How to guide with park maps in it. Nothing at all about the dining plan. Obviously since I am going to cancel through Disney I only put down the 200 deposit.

[kimgof]

Those that recieved this...can you tell me who you booked through? I wonder if that may have made a difference in who recieved these or didn't. I will be there next month and I haven't recieved anything either. Just curious.

I booked on the phone the first day of the free dining with the Disney Visa. I did pay it in full. I don't know if that matters.

[sorul82?]

Hi all, I too have read that tax& gratuity will be included unless in a group of 5 or more people....we have 4 people in our group so does this mean that we don't have to pay for it as well?

Holy moly! Where did you read that?

[housemouse]

I booked on the phone the first day of the free dining with the Disney Visa. I did pay it in full. I don't know if that matters.

I booked on the Visa first day also and just paid the deposit. There are going to be some wickedly tweaked people when they get to the World and find out their card is old.

[teddygurl28]

ok so i got the insert for the disney magic your way plus deluxe dining plan. i booked my trip august 7 ( free dining for disney visa card holders) my inser is pink with a female dining at what appears to be a signature restaurant and is coded mydd08. it states i have one table service meal a quick service meal and a snack and that gratuities are not included. SO knowing this is not correct i did infact call disney. i informed them of the information sent to me and the CM isnt sure what was sent to me exactly but again informed me that on the deluxe i have 3 meals a day....2 snacks and a refillable mug...also that under the deluxe meal i have an app. she said the basic is what i was given on the sheet..i then said the table service meal lists having an app. as well which she said the basic plan this year does not include the app. again she does not know where these inserts are coming from? she said she will look into it ( who knows if she will? ) but told me to discard it...the information i printed out from the disney website is correct and when i check in i will be given the information again...so for anyone who did get one of these inserts id say toss them :confused3

[kaytieeldr]

Your point is very well taken but it is their Official 2008 Guide Book It's the Official Guide due to licensing agreements; it's not published by Disney.

Any reasonable guidebook author (e.g. Bob Sehlinger prints this right in the Unofficial Guide) knows/admits/will tell you that at least 10% of the information is outdated as of the publication date.

Now, I know the UG prints updated editions two more times during the year (January of the actual year, and I forget the other one); MOST LIKELY Birnbaum's does as well - but the edition being read is the one that was compiled before the changes were announced and published within days of that announcement.


Going on June 1 and no information yet. But figure no app. and taking cash for tip. Can tips be paid with Disney Dollars? Yes.


Hi all, I too have read that tax& gratuity will be included unless in a group of 5 or more people....we have 4 people in our group so does this mean that we don't have to pay for it as well? No, it does not mean that.

Tax is always included/covered/part of the price you pay (or don't, for Free Dining) for the DDP. If there are six or more people at your table, an 18% service charge will be added to the amount of your check. You will be required to pay that amount, even though you don't lay out any payment for your food. If there are five or fewer people at your table, you still need to tip, but while 18% and 20% are calculated for you on your check for convenience, you can tip the percent of your choice.

[Sophie's Mom]

We're booked for free dining in September. Last week we also got our "planning brochure" with the pamphlet that stated "appetizer and tip" were included. I just chalked it up to someone had sent out old brochures!::rolleyes:

[themudd4]

Well, as I said in the earlier post...I had played around on the Disney booking site and saved some itineraries. Plus in the questionaire I said I was interested in booking in September. I don't think what I received had anything to do with what I booked over the phone. It had the same Langford family stuff that my free maps and planning DVD had. It had the correct 2008 info in it and NO specific info about the actual trip. Therefore I think they were sending me stuff, hoping I was booking since that is when I said I might visit in the DVD questionairre. The only thing I have gotten about my actual booked trip is an e-mail with the reservation info on it.

Christine

I booked through Disney by phone. I just got my packet last night and it has last year's dining info in it.

I booked on the phone the first day of the free dining with the Disney Visa. I did pay it in full. I don't know if that matters.

Well I am assuming as many of you are, these are old cards...and disney made a big oops! But the reason I was asking...You may have an easier time getting something for their misinformation being that this was sent from disney and not a third party TA...such as AAA etc.
It is likely Disney will apologize and hand you the correct info, but if you get something more then enjoy it!!!

[DisneyDawnNH]

We got a package in the mail yesterday - I also booked the free dining visa offer for the last week of August. I did also get the Magic Your Way Package Plus Dining - specifically detailing the plan including apps tax & tip. The funny part is my husband noticed it a few minutes ago just reviewing the paperwork - I thought - wow - maybe it will be really free because of the special - I laughed when I just logged on and found a 7pg thread already aware and evaluating this mailing.

I feel I received the mailing because I spent some time online messing around with itiniaries & maps, etc.

[TDC Nala]

Hi all, I too have read that tax& gratuity will be included unless in a group of 5 or more people....we have 4 people in our group so does this mean that we don't have to pay for it as well?

this may be an understanding of the automatic gratuity policy - parties of 6 or more have an automatic gratuity of 18% added to their bill. Parties of 5 or less determine their own tip. In neither case is the gratuity included in the cost of the dining plan. All DDP patrons are still required to pay their own gratuities.

[AmberI]

This is the email I got back.....

Thank you for contacting the Walt Disney World Resort.

Gratuities and appetizers are no longer included on any Magic Your Way
Package with Dine components in 2008. Industry standards and guest
comments indicated that guests prefer desserts and the freedom to reward
excellent service as they choose. The 2008 Magic Your Way Plus Dine
package already reflects these changes in components and price.

We ask that you contact the Walt Disney Travel Company directly, a
division of Disney reservations at (407) 828-8101. Hours for the Walt
Disney Travel Company are daily from 7:00am to 10:00pm EST. A Cast
Member will be happy to assist you.

If you have questions or need further assistance, feel free to contact
us.

Please include your full name, E-Mail address, and reservation number if
applicable on all correspondence.

Thank you!

Sincerely,

Gail Williams

WDW Online Communications

PLEASE NOTE: All information is subject to change without notice and
should be confirmed just prior to your visit.

[themudd4]

This is the email I got back.....

Thank you for contacting the Walt Disney World Resort.

Gratuities and appetizers are no longer included on any Magic Your Way
Package with Dine components in 2008. Industry standards and guest
comments indicated that guests prefer desserts and the freedom to reward
excellent service as they choose. The 2008 Magic Your Way Plus Dine
package already reflects these changes in components and price.

We ask that you contact the Walt Disney Travel Company directly, a
division of Disney reservations at (407) 828-8101. Hours for the Walt
Disney Travel Company are daily from 7:00am to 10:00pm EST. A Cast
Member will be happy to assist you.

If you have questions or need further assistance, feel free to contact
us.

Please include your full name, E-Mail address, and reservation number if
applicable on all correspondence.

Thank you!

Sincerely,

Gail Williams

WDW Online Communications

PLEASE NOTE: All information is subject to change without notice and
should be confirmed just prior to your visit.
sounds about right...they noted it came from Disney Travel com. Then covered their butt to include "all information is subject to change without notice". Oh well...glad you got a responce.

[A4Disney]

Industry standards and guest
comments indicated that guests prefer desserts



We much prefer sharing appetizers,I wish you could choose between an appetizer or dessert per TS credit

[GrumpyBa*D]

I received the letter and cards that you are talking about for our September trip as well however ours says nothing about appetizer and it says that gratuities are not included. I received my letter and info about 3 weeks ago. The card that I received talking about the dining plan has a picture of a little boy trying to see over a counter looking at an ice cream dish on the front and the bottom is a blue green color. So unless something has changed with the dining plan you probably received an old card by mistake.

That's the one I recieved I initially thougth I got an appetizer too but then I reread it and realized it was for the 3-9 plan. DOn't have it in front of me so I don't know what got me to reread it

[letsgoagainsoon]

Those that recieved this...can you tell me who you booked through? I wonder if that may have made a difference in who recieved these or didn't. I will be there next month and I haven't recieved anything either. Just curious.

I just came to check out the boards here, because I just got my packet in the mail today (5/9), and it does say appetizer. (I didn't think it did, that's why I came here to see if something had changed)

Here's my deal: We booked through AAA on Wednesday, and we received our confirmation, along with the dining info today (our packet came from our local AAA Office.)

My info says 2008 Disney Dining Plan and that it includes appetizer, entree, dessert and non-alcoholic beverage for the table service meals.

It also says in BOLD letters. Gratuities are not included.

So, is there a chance they did change it to include the appetizers again, and maybe some of the CMs, don't know it?

[themudd4]

I just came to check out the boards here, because I just got my packet in the mail today (5/9), and it does say appetizer. (I didn't think it did, that's why I came here to see if something had changed)

Here's my deal: We booked through AAA on Wednesday, and we received our confirmation, along with the dining info today (our packet came from our local AAA Office.)

My info says 2008 Disney Dining Plan and that it includes appetizer, entree, dessert and non-alcoholic beverage for the table service meals.

It also says in BOLD letters. Gratuities are not included.

So, is there a chance they did change it to include the appetizers again, and maybe some of the CMs, don't know it?

does your have the date in the bottom right hand corner as others have stated? MYWE07 or 08

[TDC Nala]

check that and make sure it doesn't say appetizers are included for ages 3-9. For the 2008 plan, they're included with children's meals, but not adults. Are you on the deluxe plan, or does the brochure say deluxe on it anywhere?

I would say there is next to no chance that they've changed the basic plan to include appetizers for adults.

[abk96]

check that and make sure it doesn't say appetizers are included for ages 3-9

Appy's are included for the kids meals 3-9? I'm so confused.:confused3

[tiggersmom2]

Appy's are included for the kids meals 3-9? I'm so confused.:confused3


At the TS restaurants, the kid's meals come with the main course and 2 sides. You choose b/w a variety of sides. My son usually opted for the chicken noodle soup and a sundae.:) There were also veggies, salad and a few other things.

So, it really isn't an appetizer, just a choice of the 2 sides.

[RACHELSMOM1]

If you got info in the mail it still does not mean you get to go by "last year's rules." You are not entitled to some things that were on last year's DP just because you got an old brochure in the mail. It never seems to amaze me how some posters, this thread included, want to "make Disney pay" for the mailing mistake of a CM. OP did not assume this, but subsequent posters have given the impression that they would like to force Disney to stick by the info on the planning brochure, even if the info is outdated. :confused3

[Katiebell]

Somebody screwed up big-time on this one and its telling me that these are all included, as well as gratuities....?????

If anyone else has recieved one of these, flip to the back of the dining plan card and you'll see it too...we need to figure this one out folks.

Can we hold their feet to the fire on this one?

Anyway, its worth taking just to see how they react at the resort. I'm not expecting anything, but hey...its worth a shot. My Mom made a scene at a restaurant there once and they gave her everything she wanted just to end the situation.

Well, that's interesting...could we not hold them to this if tons and tons of folks are getting this info. This, by law, is bait and switch if they promise you one thing and deliver considerably less.

Besides, its one thing to call and argue over the phone, its entirely another to do it in person at the resort...face to face has its advantages.

LOL, any lawyers on the DisBoards???

I'll be very curious how they're going to react when I lay this down and stare them in the eyes...

It never seems to amaze me how some posters, this thread included, want to "make Disney pay" for the mailing mistake of a CM. OP did not assume this, but subsequent posters have given the impression that they would like to force Disney to stick by the info on the planning brochure, even if the info is outdated. :confused3

Rachelsmom...I believe the tone of this thread was set by the original poster.

Mr. Black, I may be reading you wrong, but in just these excerpts from your posts, it seems like you delight in the idea that Disney made an error, feel like you should try to benefit from that error, and will be amused to make Disney employees -- managers and CM's who had absolutely nothing to do with this error -- squirm and try to appease you.

You didn't purchase the dining plan under false pretenses, it wasn't bait and switch, you knew exactly what it was supposed to have and exactly what the changes were since last year -- and that is why you questioned the information you received. You knew it was not correct.

And...you aren't even paying for it anyway. You are getting it for free, just like all the rest of us traveling in September. Why do you want to "hold Disney's feet to the fire" and "give it a shot" to see what more you can get for something that truly didn't inconvenience or mislead you in anyway? :confused:

[sjaakie]

Why do you want to "hold Disney's feet to the fire" and "give it a shot" to see what more you can get for something that truly didn't inconvenience or mislead you in anyway? :confused:


Because the folder says clearly 2007

Outdated so no longer valid.

Not comment you Katiebell so no mistaks there :thumbsup2 just giving an answer to Mr Black.

[Luv2Roam]

Who is to say who mails thousands of mailings a day? Heck, it may be some machine in the northeast collating and stuffing envelopes. :confused3
The DDE cards at least use to come from the northeast. I don't know if they still do. Obviously someone got a hold of a wrong box somewhere, that's all.

[Tinker*Shell*Bell]

Has anyone with the wrong brochure called Disney yet to ask them what Disney plans to "do" about this?

My guess is they plan to follow the 2008 brochure and that they'll apologize and send out a new brochure. But I just wondered if anyone had called.

:) Sheli

[surfboard]

how did they even managed to do that?

[SunnieRN]

Well different subject, but another "mistake". I had to change my reservation from Sept 5, for 14 nights to Sept 13th for 14 nights. It now says that we are traveling from Sept 5 until the 27th, at the same price. It also re-included my son in law, who can't go due to his training. It is the same price as 4 of us for 14 nights....lol
Of course I don't expect this to happen, and will say something way before the trip comes up. Just thought it was very funny. Hmm 27 days with free dining....lol

[chuckx]

I don't think I could actually bring myself to make a manager squirm, but I may actually point this out to a manager and I will likely have numerous conversations with waitstaff letting them know what happened and asking them if they have faced the repurcussions rom this fiasco.

In the mean time, before my trip, I will photo copy my brochure and mail it to the local labor union letting them know what is happening and that Disney is doing nothing to correct this.

I believe I will give Mr. Black credit in that I don't think he will actually find pleasure in stiffing the waitstaff because of this brochure, thus I think he will likely tip appropriately, but we all know there are plenty of people out there that will not tip as they believed this brochure. I am not saying these people should be ashamed of themselves either. Not everyone has access to the internet and can get ahold of the latest information at the touch of a button. Some people will be relying on the information sent to them, such as this flyer. These people can still, in their mind, have gratuity included and simply tell the wait staff to speak to Disney about their tips. We all know this will happen in at least more then one occasion.

As far as getting updated information, I asked Disney to send me the correct brochure, they refused. I believe they should correct their error by sending out apology letters with the appropriate brochure. While the apology would go to the guests, they should really be apologizing to the waitstaff. A mailer should cover the thousands of individuals still out there that are believing what they have in writing in front of them. As a result, there would only likely be a very small amount of guests that somehow did not receive the second mailer, thus very few frustrated clients.

Does anyone know if the local union has a website or email address. The one I found for the waitstaff does not. I can only find the physical address.

[chuckx]

I knew there was something else I wanted to mention.

The website on the dining plan states that gratuity is not included "unless otherwise stated..."

As they just sent me this brochure, it is "otherwise stated..." I don't believe it is my responsibility to read a code at the bottom of a brochure and understand whether or not it is an old code. As far as I am concerned this is a change as it is "otherwise stated..."

[Katiebell]

I don't think I could actually bring myself to make a manager squirm, but I may actually point this out to a manager and I will likely have numerous conversations with waitstaff letting them know what happened and asking them if they have faced the repurcussions rom this fiasco.

Why? If it's as big a fiasco as you imagine, won't the managers and servers have their hands already full dealing with angry guests expecting free appetizers and included gratuities since they don't know the rules of the 2008 plan?

I believe I will give Mr. Black credit in that I don't think he will actually find pleasure in stiffing the waitstaff because of this brochure, thus I think he will likely tip appropriately, but we all know there are plenty of people out there that will not tip as they believed this brochure. I am not saying these people should be ashamed of themselves either. Not everyone has access to the internet and can get ahold of the latest information at the touch of a button. Some people will be relying on the information sent to them, such as this flyer. These people can still, in their mind, have gratuity included and simply tell the wait staff to speak to Disney about their tips. We all know this will happen in at least more then one occasion.

I don't know Mr. Black at all, except from exactly what he's written here. I have no idea if he plans to tip appropriately or be one of those people who will simply tell the wait staff to speak to Disney about their tips. Which is very sad, because it just means they won't get tipped for that meal.

The only thing I know about Mr. Black is that he thinks it's worth a shot to show a manager the brochure to see what he can get because his mother once made a scene in a Disney restaurant "until they gave her everything she wanted just to end the situation".

I am so glad I was not there to witness that.

As far as getting updated information, I asked Disney to send me the correct brochure, they refused. I believe they should correct their error by sending out apology letters with the appropriate brochure. While the apology would go to the guests, they should really be apologizing to the waitstaff. A mailer should cover the thousands of individuals still out there that are believing what they have in writing in front of them. As a result, there would only likely be a very small amount of guests that somehow did not receive the second mailer, thus very few frustrated clients.

How did they refuse you? Was it an email request, or a phone call? If they refused in writing, do you have a copy of that email you could share here? If you emailed your request, did they just direct you to the correct plan brochure online? It would be reasonable for them to assume you have internet access if you are emailing them...

The correct 2008 brochure is located here:
http://adisneyworld.disney.go.com/media/wdw/images2003/languagespecific/eng/nontheme/tickets/08Dining.pdf

I knew there was something else I wanted to mention.

The website on the dining plan states that gratuity is not included "unless otherwise stated..."

As they just sent me this brochure, it is "otherwise stated..." I don't believe it is my responsibility to read a code at the bottom of a brochure and understand whether or not it is an old code. As far as I am concerned this is a change as it is "otherwise stated..."

So...are you planning to show them the 2007 brochure and demand free appetizers and included tips? When is your trip?

[chuckx]

"Why? If it's as big a fiasco as you imagine, won't the managers and servers have their hands already full dealing with angry guests expecting free appetizers and included gratuities since they don't know the rules of the 2008 plan? "

For curiosity only. I like to know more then I need to know. I was in Disney World just recently and the buses were on a schedule that was a near disaster. Many people were waiting 40 minutes on a regular basis to simply get on a bus to get somewhere. On two occasions I sat for twenty minutes talking to bus drivers asking them all the details about how their dispatch is being done and why it was happening this way. I was very polite and patient. I was not complaining. I simply wanted to know why and how. Both bus drivers enjoyed chatting with me while they drove. I expect to have similar conversations with the servers as they come to my table. Do you ever socialize with your servers?

"The only thing I know about Mr. Black is that he thinks it's worth a shot to show a manager the brochure to see what he can get because his mother once made a scene in a Disney restaurant "until they gave her everything she wanted just to end the situation".
"

You are right. This is sad and this will likely happen many times. I just think Disney could do something else to help alleviate this behavior. I for one don't want to be sitting next to the person that creates a scene because of this. On top of that, I won't be blaming that person if they truly were confused, which will likely happen.

"How did they refuse you? Was it an email request, or a phone call? If they refused in writing, do you have a copy of that email you could share here? If you emailed your request, did they just direct you to the correct plan brochure online? It would be reasonable for them to assume you have internet access if you are emailing them..."

They refused me over the phone. Maybe I was asking too much. Maybe I simply wanted to make sure that I had the correct information.

"So...are you planning to show them the 2007 brochure and demand free appetizers and included tips? When is your trip?"

I might show them the brochure, but I won't demand anything for free. Life is too short and I won't work that hard for an appetizer. I will let you know that I will have a party of twelve people going for a week. The amount of money in gratuitiy and appetizers is actually fairly significant. If I find out that they are giving away free appetizers to anyone that can show the brochure, then yes, I will show it. I won't be expecting the free appetizer, but I also will not pass it up. Why would anyone?

Why do you ask when I am going?

[Katiebell]

Why do you ask when I am going?

Wanted to know if you are going during free dining, and if you plan to do a trip report. Would be interesting to hear what reactions you get from showing the brochure to restaurant mangers and servers.

Oh, and out of curiousity...aren't you the same Charles that posted about this same thing on another Disney board?

[chuckx]

I am the same Charles.

I decided to stop posting on the other Disney board as there was more activity here. Someone on that board posted that there was a longer discussion on another board so I found this string. I don't want to spam too much. If I recall correctly, I think the last thing I posted that this would hurt the servers. (fyi, I used to wait tables)

Since then, I have read all sorts of rumors about who chose this new policy. Supposedly, it is in a contract that the labor union in some manner agreed to in a contract with Disney. I don't know if that is rumor as well.

I am travelling in September with the free dining plan. What trip report are you talking about?

Also, I won't likely carry the brochure around showing it to everyone, but I will eventually ask servers if it became an issue (talking to managers would be pointless) and if they knew anything about it. When I was there last week, I interviewed almost every family with toddlers that was stuck on the same monorail car or bus with me. I was anxious to learn everything I could before bringing my family for the first time. (2 and 3 year olds) I want to learn everything I can about Disney before I decide to make travelling there a family tradition.

I also have a post about the DVC. No one seems to be able to answer my questions on that one.

[Jenna45]

I got the same letter ( it's in a blue packet right? ) and it says welcome back xxxx family.... My packet says the same thing about ddp. I should say I know better as well that it is not included as we were just there in Febuary and don't intend on even bringing it up, We always use ddp and we go several times a year so get 3 or 4 of these letter thanks for coming back letters and tend to just file them, I did not even read mine until I saw this.

Well, its a brochure-size piece they sent, with a letter to "the Black Family" talking about our future trip and it includes little cards...one for the tickets, one for dining plan, etc... The dining plan says as I quoted above. Somebody screwed up big-time on this one and its telling me that these are all included, as well as gratuities....?????

If anyone else has recieved one of these, flip to the back of the dining plan card and you'll see it too...we need to figure this one out folks.

Can we hold their feet to the fire on this one?

[TDC Nala]

Since then, I have read all sorts of rumors about who chose this new policy. Supposedly, it is in a contract that the labor union in some manner agreed to in a contract with Disney. I don't know if that is rumor as well.


If you mean the policy that removed the included gratuity from the 2008 plan, it's been posted that it was contractual.

The automatic gratuity for DDE members and the changing of automatic gratuity policy from parties of 8 or more to parties of 6 or more came from the same contract.

[shoes99]

I sent an email to Disney, I was one of the families that got the 07 dining plan brochure in my 2008 package.
Here is the email, it does not answer my question, it just clarifies the plan for 2008:

Dear XXXXXX:
Thank you for contacting the Walt Disney World Resort.

Gratuities and appetizers are no longer included on any Magic Your Way
Package with Dine components in 2008. Industry standards and guest
comments indicated that guests prefer desserts and the freedom to reward
excellent service as they choose. The 2008 Magic Your Way Plus Dine
package already reflects these changes in components and price.


The 2008 MAGIC YOUR WAY PACKAGE PLUS DINING - This includes
accommodations at a Disney Resort, Magic Your Way Base* tickets, plus
Disney's Dining Plan for each member in the group. *Additional ticket
options available.

The Disney's Magic Your Way plus Dining Package offers a convenient and
flexible way to choose meals during your stay. The plan must be
purchased for all Guests in the party age 3 and up for the total number
of nights at the resort. This package is only available for Guests
staying in a Disney-owned and-operated resort hotel. Just like with the
Magic Your Way Package, you can choose any type of ticket as part of
your package.

Custom ticket options make Magic Your Way vacation packages fabulously
flexible so you can put together your dream vacation on the budget you
want.

Magic Your Way Base Ticket - Visit one (1) Theme Park a day, each day of
your ticket. Admission to MAGIC KINGDOM Park, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood
Studios and DISNEY'S ANIMAL KINGDOM Theme Park. You may visit one (1)
park on any given day. If you leave the park, you may only re-enter
the same park that day. Tickets expire 14 days from first use.

ADDITIONAL TICKET OPTIONS

*PARK HOPPER Option: Allows you to enter more than one park on the
same day
*Water Park Fun & More Option: Adds a specified number of visits
to our other gated attractions
DISNEY'S TYPHOON LAGOON and
DISNEY'S BLIZZARD
BEACH Water
Parks
DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive
Theme Park
DOWNTOWN DISNEY Pleasure
Island
DISNEY'S WIDE WORLD OF SPORTS
Complex

*The No Expiration Option: Unused days will never expire!

The length of the pass does not have to match the length of your stay.
For example, if you choose a six-night package you may choose a
seven-day Magic Your Way ticket. Remember, the longer you play, the
less you pay per day for theme park tickets!

PLUS DINING PLAN

The Disney Dining Plan includes One (1) Table Service Meal, One (1)
Counter Service Meal and One (1) Snack per person, per night for
everyone on the package ages 3 and up. Guests may use their Meals and
Snacks in any order and any amount throughout their stay until the total
is depleted. Guests should present their Key to the World card to their
server prior to ordering. Children ages 3 to 9 must order from the
children's menu where available. Children under the age of 3 may share
from the adult's plate at no charge or purchase a meal from the menu.
The package must be purchased for all persons in the party age 3 and up
for the total number of nights in the Resort.

Details of the plan are as follows:

Each TABLE SERVICE* meal includes:
One (1) entree
One (1) dessert
One (1) single serving non-alcoholic beverage
-or-
One (1) full buffet
One (1) single serving non-alcoholic beverage
*Gratuities are not included

Each COUNTER SERVICE meal includes:

Breakfast
One (1) juice
One (1) breakfast entrée
One (1) single serving non-alcoholic beverage
-or-
One (1) complete combo meal and one single serving non-alcoholic
beverage

Lunch/Dinner
One (1) entrée
One (1) dessert
One (1) single serving non-alcoholic beverage
One (1) complete combo meal with 1 dessert and 1 single serving
non-alcoholic beverage

SNACKS include a choice of one (1) of the following:
Frozen Ice-Cream Novelty
Single serving box of popcorn
Single piece of fruit
Single serving bag of snacks
Single serving of pre-packaged juice or milk
Medium sized fountain soft drink
12 ounce hot non-alcoholic beverage
20 ounce bottle of Coke, Diet Coke or Sprite
20 ounce bottle of Dasani Water

The Disney Dining Plan may also be used for Disney SIGNATURE RESTAURANTS
across property (see redeem below). This exclusive group of restaurants
provides unparalleled cuisine served in elegant and relaxed
surroundings. The Signature Restaurants and Dinner Shows are Jiko,
Flying Fish Cafe, California Grill, Citricos, Narcoossee's, Artist
Point, Yachtsman Steakhouse, Hollywood Brown Derby, Cinderella's Royal
Table, Mickey's Backyard Barbeque, select show categories at Disney's
Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show and Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Review (subject to
availability) and Private In-room Dining. Dress code for Signature
Restaurants is Business Casual. Not permitted in the dining room: tank
tops, swimsuits or swimsuit cover-ups, hats for gentlemen, cut offs, or
torn clothing of any kind.

The server will redeem TWO (2) Table Service meals per person for ONE
Signature Dining Experience. Children ages 3-9 must order from the
children's menu.

All Dinner Shows require reservations, and show tickets may be picked up
at any Disney Resort Guest Services up to 5 days in advance.
Reservations are also strongly suggested for all full service
restaurants. Guests are welcome to call 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463), up
to 180 days in advance, to book dining reservations.

For further information and reservations, log onto the disneyworld.com
website, call the Walt Disney Travel Company at 407 828-8101 or contact
your travel agent.

We look forward to your visit in August.

If you have questions or need further assistance, feel free to contact
us.

Please include your full name, E-Mail address, and reservation number if
applicable on all correspondence.

Thank you!

Sincerely,

M........A..........
WDW Online Communications

PLEASE NOTE: All information is subject to change without notice and
should be confirmed just prior to your visit.

[canwegosoon]

I got the same teal colored brochure that was mentioned earlier(with pic)...
Mine also states TS includes entree and desserts and drink...no mention of apps. Plus the correct Gratuities not included statement. My brochure says MYDE08

[Treeglum]

I had told everyone, that I am going with, Apps were not included this time around then the couple I am going with and , us, got the "personalized" cards that clearly stated Apps were included, and I got questioned hehe. Figured it was a few mails going out with old cards :P , bummer I was right...

This part cracks me up...

"guest
comments indicated that guests prefer desserts and the freedom to reward
excellent service as they choose."


OHHHH yes, I would prefer to lay down 20-25% on 4 adults eating surf and turf with deserts pleeease, oye what lip service, that tip is what I would pay to eat out with my wife all together at home..:P. The free dining plan before was just to good to be true, those that had it before feel this pain hehe. Still worth it for those who like to eat out, but still, free app, dinner, desert and gratuity was amazing good :(

[RACHELSMOM1]

I had told everyone, that I am going with, Apps were not included this time around then the couple I am going with and , us, got the "personalized" cards that clearly stated Apps were included, and I got questioned hehe. Figured it was a few mails going out with old cards :P , bummer I was right...

This part cracks me up...

"guest
comments indicated that guests prefer desserts and the freedom to reward
excellent service as they choose."


OHHHH yes, I would prefer to lay down 20-25% on 4 adults eating surf and turf with deserts pleeease, oye what lip service, that tip is what I would pay to eat out with my wife all together at home..:P. The free dining plan before was just to good to be true, those that had it before feel this pain hehe. Still worth it for those who like to eat out, but still, free app, dinner, desert and gratuity was amazing good :(

Thank all the DISers who posted last year that they wished the gratuity was not included so that they could choose how much to tip. There were even posts who argued that 20% would not really be that much money, and at least they would get to choose how much to tip each time. I remember thinking at the time that they needed to be careful what they wished for. Those same posters were also complaining that the DP was too much food. Appys were removed. Coincidence, maybe, but I think not.

[GirlfromTN]

"guest
comments indicated that guests prefer desserts and the freedom to reward
excellent service as they choose."


This is one of the stupidest things I have ever heard. Guests were ALWAYS free to reward excellent service, even when gratuity was included; they could always just leave a cash tip, or add an extra tip for the bill!!! I know I did this several times during my trip using the DDP last year!!!

[Treeglum]

"DISers who posted last year that they wished the gratuity was not included so that they could choose how much to tip."

:scared: :sad: :badpc:

[Lzylitnin]

I would've liked to have kept the appie on the new plan, but I am happy that I can choose what to tip. If you can't afford the $20 tip on a $100 meal (and assuming the server earns it), then maybe you should order less expensive food or eat elsewhere.

I was tired of poor service earning 18% gratuity. Most servers were worth that and more (and I left more when deserved). Our servers at Le Cellier and Narcoossee's, on the other hand deserved NO tip. Empty drink glasses, food/orders wrong, etc. No one checking to see if our food was acceptable.

It is possible that these servers were just bad at their job, not because the 18% was guaranteed, but now I have the choice to tip $.02 or $20, depending on the service I receive.

We didn't complain at Le Cellier, as we were late for Illuminations. At Narcoosee's the manager was appologetic, but I felt like he was just trying to get rid of us, not make the situation right.:sad2:

[Treeglum]

At least 20-30$ x 8 times (days), is a couple hundered dollars for the week and no chump change. There are allot of ways to spend money. Making vacation as efficient, cost wise, as possible means squeezing in a longer vacation, or adding other bells and whistles to your stay. It's not about being able to afford the tip at the place of your choice, it's about not having to before, and now having to spend extra money that can be used in oh so many ways. If people did not care about saving money in any way that they can, to have more for later, or for something else, why even bother with the dining plan, or with getting the free one. I am not going to look a gift horse in the mouth, I am excited to have saved over 500$ with the free plan. It's just a fact that the deal was better with App and Tip included. And for buying the meal plan, they reduced it by 1$ per person compared to taking at least 30-40$,per person, in value out of it.

I suppose the only way that the Gratuities not being included can help overall(although it doesn't help the wallet), is making the servers more accountable for their service. Howevere, I never had any issues, and has been said before, you are always able to leave a bit more for good service. Perhaps not enough people did this to set the expectations of Servers that thier performance would matter. Or perhaps they were happy with 18% regardless and let their effort lag. But isn't that on the resteraunts shoulders to ensure good help as well?

[mickey2000]

Thank all the DISers who posted last year that they wished the gratuity was not included so that they could choose how much to tip. There were even posts who argued that 20% would not really be that much money, and at least they would get to choose how much to tip each time. I remember thinking at the time that they needed to be careful what they wished for. Those same posters were also complaining that the DP was too much food. Appys were removed. Coincidence, maybe, but I think not.




Now how many people are really on these boards compared to ALL that go !

The real reason is more profit for dI$ney.
IMO they have little to care about with people in the US . They know the dollar is weak and people from other countries will take up the slack fillling the parks ! Visitors from other countries will be able to absorb any price increases with ease.....Its the American worker who will have less and less .......


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/DisneyDad.gifhttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/DisneyDad.gifhttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/DisneyDad.gifhttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/DisneyDad.gifhttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/koo.jpg

[Katiebell]

At least 20-30$ x 8 times (days), is a couple hundered dollars for the week and no chump change. There are allot of ways to spend money. Making vacation as efficient, cost wise, as possible means squeezing in a longer vacation, or adding other bells and whistles to your stay. It's not about being able to afford the tip at the place of your choice, it's about not having to before, and now having to spend extra money that can be used in oh so many ways. If people did not care about saving money in any way that they can, to have more for later, or for something else, why even bother with the dining plan, or with getting the free one. I am not going to look a gift horse in the mouth, I am excited to have saved over 500$ with the free plan. It's just a fact that the deal was better with App and Tip included. And for buying the meal plan, they reduced it by 1$ per person compared to taking at least 30-40$,per person, in value out of it.

I suppose the only way that the Gratuities not being included can help overall(although it doesn't help the wallet), is making the servers more accountable for their service. Howevere, I never had any issues, and has been said before, you are always able to leave a bit more for good service. Perhaps not enough people did this to set the expectations of Servers that thier performance would matter. Or perhaps they were happy with 18% regardless and let their effort lag. But isn't that on the resteraunts shoulders to ensure good help as well?

I agree. We had no problems with service when the tip was included. And yes, now we can choose exactly how much we wish to tip -- but it's all extra, above and beyond what we already paid for the plan. So whether we tip .02 for the worst service ever (can't imagine how horrible it would have to be :eek:) or 25% for the best server at WDW...it's all coming out of our own pocket. That's not an improvement that benefits the guest.

"Industry standards and guest comments indicated that guests prefer desserts and the freedom to reward excellent service as they choose."

If they were trying to benefit the guest, the price of the plan would have come down to accommodate the loss of the appetizer and tip, even factoring in inflation, rising food and transportation costs, etc. But realistically, Disney was trying to cut costs -- the previous version of the DDP was a loss-leader to get people into the parks, but evidently there was a little too much "loss" in the "leader" :confused3 :laughing: I believe the only effect guest comments had was to give Disney executives a good idea of what the public would be willing to give up and still pay basically the same price.

I do kind of wonder if it will have any effect on what people spend on "extras" -- alcoholic drinks, appetizers, etc -- that all significantly increase the expected OOP tip. For example dinner for 2 at 50's PT:

Salmon 19.99
Pot Roast 16.99
Coffee 2.00
Coffee 2.00
S'more's 4.79
Brownie Sundae 5.99
Total 51.76
Covered by the DDP
OOP tip 18% 9.32

If you add in OOP
Shrimp cocktail 7.99
Caesar salad 5.49
Heineken 5.25
Mowie Wowie 9.50
That's another 28.23 OOP
and now the 18% tip is 14.40

So...our "free" DDP meal is costing us 42.63.

So maybe we'll just get one appetizer and split it. Or maybe we'll just skip the appetizer. Skip the liquor? Dunno...maybe both get beers. Or one specialty drink and two straws :laughing:

[RACHELSMOM1]

Now how many people are really on these boards compared to ALL that go !

The real reason is more profit for dI$ney.
IMO they have little to care about with people in the US . They know the dollar is weak and people from other countries will take up the slack fillling the parks ! Visitors from other countries will be able to absorb any price increases with ease.....Its the American worker who will have less and less .......


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/DisneyDad.gifhttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/DisneyDad.gifhttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/DisneyDad.gifhttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/DisneyDad.gifhttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/koo.jpg

Please see post #129 - must have been one of those who posted last year complaining about tips and wishing he/she could leave their own tip!! I'm just sayin' - Disney must listen to customer complaints and these boards a little, if only to glean what the public is thinking. Yes, it was a business decision, but it is possible that the complaints from these boards could have been a factor in the decision.

[RACHELSMOM1]

I would've liked to have kept the appie on the new plan, but I am happy that I can choose what to tip. If you can't afford the $20 tip on a $100 meal (and assuming the server earns it), then maybe you should order less expensive food or eat elsewhere.

I was tired of poor service earning 18% gratuity. Most servers were worth that and more (and I left more when deserved). Our servers at Le Cellier and Narcoossee's, on the other hand deserved NO tip. Empty drink glasses, food/orders wrong, etc. No one checking to see if our food was acceptable.

It is possible that these servers were just bad at their job, not because the 18% was guaranteed, but now I have the choice to tip $.02 or $20, depending on the service I receive.

We didn't complain at Le Cellier, as we were late for Illuminations. At Narcoosee's the manager was appologetic, but I felt like he was just trying to get rid of us, not make the situation right.:sad2:

Ah, so you were one of those who wished this upon us ! ;) Seriously, though, yes it is a lot of money when you add it up over a trip of 8 or 10 days. And, no I don't wish to go to places where the food is less than stellar quality just to save on tips!!

[Joyce Kingkade]

Let's just hope the servers don't get the bad end of this or the service will be horrible for all on the DDP.

[black562]

After not reading this post for some time, I returned to find quite a bit of grief thrown my way. I'm not sure why, but because I asked a few questions, I've been turned into some sort of miser.

I can assure you that I'm not a miserable person, I'm not one to punish a server by withholding their tip and I'm not one to cherish in trying to make someone squirm. I've been a part of every dining plan that's been offered and I've seen them come and go, but I've never been sent information that was a direct conflict with what was actually offered....so it intrigues me and makes me ask questions.

I never would have posted here if I knew it would turn into this...that wasn't the purpose. The reason was to merely see if anyone else had recieve it and if the plan had somehow "changed without notice".....sorry, I guess I should have known better.

[Joyce Kingkade]

Hey, Black, I hope you did not take offense or get grief from my comment. I'm just concerned with Disney sending out wrong information to guests (and my reservation may have the same information when I get it), that it will cause a lot of confusion and the servers will go without tips either because the guests believe a gratuity is already added or some will stiff them just to make a point. Never did I think this was directed to you. I agree you have every right, as do all who get the info, why there are crossed signals. Disney needs to take responsibility to everyone on the DP to insure they have a wonderful experience! Forgive me if I sounded critical of you.

[aubriee]

Let's just hope the servers don't get the bad end of this or the service will be horrible for all on the DDP.

I wonder if more of those '07 flyers were sent out previously. I was just down there May 3rd-10th and used the DxDDP. At most restaurants, as soon as I told them I was on the DxDDP and started pointing to an appetizer, the waiter asked to see my card (before he would let me order). The reason they usually gave was that alot of people really didn't know which plan they were on. By the end of the week, it was getting a little old, so I would mention that I knew the regular plan did not include the appetizer, but the DxDDP did. They continued to say that alot of people still thought they got an appetizer and a couple of waiters said they had had some problems with people on the regular DDP ordering an appetizer, then getting upset when they were billed for those appetizers at the end of the meal. They said that some managers have had to be called, so now they just ask to see your room key, before you order so they can explain which plan you are on, so no misunderstandings occur.

[my2minnies]

I agree with you Mr. Black! I got the same brochure that you did with the 07 plan details. Now I frequent the dis boards so I know it is a mistake, but for many others this is the only info they have. Surprise, surprise when they get their bill and have to pay for how ever many appetizers they have ordered as a family and then the gratuity on top of that. I would be furious if it happened to me.

I too get so annoyed with stupidity. I honestly do not know how such a large company could make such a dumb mistake. It is not Jan of 2008--it is May. The year is half over--why are these old brochures even around.

I would never make a scene--I am just not that way, but I can see how others might.

[mickey2000]

I agree with you Mr. Black! I got the same brochure that you did with the 07 plan details. Now I frequent the dis boards so I know it is a mistake, but for many others this is the only info they have. Surprise, surprise when they get their bill and have to pay for how ever many appetizers they have ordered as a family and then the gratuity on top of that. I would be furious if it happened to me.

I too get so annoyed with stupidity. I honestly do not know how such a large company could make such a dumb mistake. It is not Jan of 2008--it is May. The year is half over--why are these old brochures even around.

I would never make a scene--I am just not that way, but I can see how others might.

They will know after thier first meal.:scared1: Disney use to be the company that others would model from. Things have changed if you have been around for many years. They now use outside companies for many thngs they use to do. IMO thier workers are also underpaid and under a lot of pressure.

[chuckx]

I have taken some time to get back to this thread.

Today I received a phone call from someone claiming to be in the executive branch of Disney. They called to respond to my inquiry about the flyer. The lady stated that this was the first that they heard of this issue. I want to repeat that today is the first time that the executive branch has heard of this issue.

I stated, "But aren't you in the executive branch and isn't that the top branch?" She said yes, but they don't know everything the other branches are doing.

I suggested that they send out a mailer to those who received the wrong flyers letting them know what the real dining plan is. She said she would pass on the suggestion.

But come on! Am I really the only person that has made an inquiry to Disney about this? She seemed so genuine over the phone when she said this is the first that the executive branch heard of this. I honestly believe that I am the only one that contacted them about this mistake. I am amazed that after all the forum discussion and various threads that no one else has bothered to contact Disney, and I don't mean making some comments to the operator that happens to answer the phone, but actually contacting them in writing.

I suggest others contact them via email or letter.

I am not trying to get anything for free, but letting a company know of the mistakes they make sometimes is a moral obligation of a customer.

[RACHELSMOM1]

Well, maybe everyone else realizes how irrelevant this whole subject is. Some people got the wrong flyer (from a year ago), Big Deal!! ; and it is pointless to stir :stir: up trouble over it. We all know what the dining plan is and what is included, so why make it look like anyone is owed anything due to an outdated mailer? :confused3 Did you expect any different response than what you got? IMHO everyone should just put this one to rest. It was a
**** m i s t a k e **** :rolleyes1 We all make mistakes, but they are not all going to cost us lots and lots of money (esp. a silly one such as this, since most of those who got the outdated flyer can read). :cool2:

[Katiebell]

Well, maybe everyone else realizes how irrelevant this whole subject is. Some people got the wrong flyer (from a year ago), Big Deal!! ; and it is pointless to stir :stir: up trouble over it. We all know what the dining plan is and what is included, so why make it look like anyone is owed anything due to an outdated mailer? :confused3 Did you expect any different response than what you got? IMHO everyone should just put this one to rest. It was a
**** m i s t a k e **** :rolleyes1 We all make mistakes, but they are not all going to cost us lots and lots of money (esp. a silly one such as this, since most of those who got the outdated flyer can read). :cool2:

Well said :thumbsup2

[Halbleib1]

I do not think it is stirring up trouble at all. I think the OP has a good point. Disney should be careful about what they send out. That flyer is very misleading. Even if the person receiving the flyer knows that it is not the right information it is not up to the receiver to research for the correct details. It is up to disney to give everyone the correct information and they have got to know by now that they sent out the wrong flyer. Yes everyone makes mistakes but it is also the responsibility of the company to correct this mistake. Companies are responsible for their employees mistakes. The least disney could do is send out the correct information with a letter of appology. It makes good customer service to admit when you have made a mistake. As many have said on this thread as well not everyone knows that this is the wrong information. As hard as it is to believe not everyone reads these boards or even have the internet. Its not as if this brochure has 2007 in big letters across the top. It has very small print on the back of the brochure that we have since deduced on this board is a date mark.

OP as I have said before I would talk to disney about this and see what they will do for you. Maybe they will not do anything and maybe they will.

Good Luck and Im sorry that you have had such a harsh response from some.

[cmwade77]

Here's how I would handle it:
I would take the flyer with me and the envelope that it came in and anything else that can put a date to the letter.

Upon checking in, I would show them this and ask what they can do to honor this, as it was clearly their mistake.

If the person checking you in refuses, ask to speak with a Manager, explain what has happened and that it would show a lot of goodwill on their part to honor the offer.

If the manager isn't sure how to handle it, ask him/her if they would be willing to credit any gratuities and appetizers that you pay for back to your card upon checkout. If not, figure out about how much value this has and ask for something equivalent or a little better, perhaps free Refillable Mugs, T-Shirts, Pins, etc.

What ever deal you are able to strike, make sure you get it in writing and note the Manager's name.

NOTE: In California they have to have a California Travel Agent License, which means that if they are dealing with someone from California they are required to abide by California law. In the state of California they are required to honor the lowest advertised price and/or best deal, in this case they would be required to honor this or risk being fined or loosing their California License. The requirement to honor the best advertised price is thank to K-Mart;s old practices of advertising one price, then when the customer goes to purchase the item it rings up at a different price, when this law first came out, they then tried the trick of removing the lower price when they were going to do a "price check". With Camera Phones so prevalent now it is hard to do this, but that is :offtopic: My point is that other states may have similar laws on the books that would still apply to Disney, also note that it will be a lot easier if you can get this sorted out before you go and be sue to take down names, numbers, dates, times and get it in writing! (Also, ask if you can record the conversation, most cell phones now will allow you to do so. explain to them that way if there is any confusion it is easy for you to go back and make sure of what was said.)

I am not saying to stiff the servers, just ask for credit in the amount that you tip (up to 18% say?) and the cost of the appetizers.

[kaytieeldr]

Today I received a phone call from someone claiming to be in the executive branch of Disney. They called to respond to my inquiry about the flyer. The lady stated that this was the first that they heard of this issue. Call me a cynic ("Okay, Ronda - you're a cynic") but I find this hard to believe.
Given that the DIS is such a microcosm of actual Guests, even if each DISer represents the ridiculously low number of, say, 100 Guests, and even if six people have posted getting the same paperwork you got - only one of 600 Guests contacted Disney in advance about the misinformation? Okay.........

[kaytieeldr]

Here's how I would handle it:
I would take the flyer with me and the envelope that it came in and anything else that can put a date to the letter.

Upon checking in, I would show them this and ask what they can do to honor this, as it was clearly their mistake. Okay. Prove that paperwork came in that envelope.In the state of California they are required to honor the lowest advertised price and/or best deal, in this case they would be required to honor this or risk being fined or loosing their California License. Not applicable. This is interim documentation. You have already purchased, in this case, a package including the Disney Dining Plan package under and with the knowledge of the current restrictions/rules of said package. Yes, the flyer you got after you booked and deposited/paid is outdated - but it IS outdated. It's obviously outdated. Notwithstanding, the Guest bought the 2008 package at 2008 rates and under 2008 conditions. I'm relatively certain 2007 paperwork would not affect Disney license to sell travel in California, or any other state with similar consumer protection laws.The requirement to honor the best advertised price is thank to K-Mart;s old practices of advertising one price, then when the customer goes to purchase the item it rings up at a different price, when this law first came out, they then tried the trick of removing the lower price when they were going to do a "price check". With Camera Phones so prevalent:offtopic: Standard bait and switch. It predates camera phones. It predates cellphones. It predates me. Heck, it probably even predates cameras. But this mistake by Disney, while unreasonable, is NOT bait & switch. It was a mistake.

[DiszyDean]

I'm sorry....but to understand how the plan really works and then try to use a "loophole" to try to get something for nothing is just not morally right. It may have been Disney's mistake but it was not malicious, was not a bait-and-switch.

What people fail to realize is that you are not really "punishing" Disney by trying to use this to get something extra that you are not entitled to. If enough people did it, Disney's cost would increase and that cost would be passed directly on to future customers. So, in effect, you are letting future guests subsidize your free food or whatever else you would ask for in exchange of this flyer which you already knew ahead of time, was incorrect.

[LittleStinkerbelle]

But come on! Am I really the only person that has made an inquiry to Disney about this? She seemed so genuine over the phone when she said this is the first that the executive branch heard of this. I honestly believe that I am the only one that contacted them about this mistake. I am amazed that after all the forum discussion and various threads that no one else has bothered to contact Disney, and I don't mean making some comments to the operator that happens to answer the phone, but actually contacting them in writing.




I'm sure you're not the first person to contact Disney about it, but maybe you're the first person to escalate it to the executive branch.

I suspect others aren't calling because a)they know the ddp and realize the old brochure was sent in error or b) they don't realize they got the wrong brochure. I would fall in category A and to me it wouldn't be worth my time and aggravation to call about something like this. I wouldn't expect or try to get something out of the fact that Disney sent me an old brochure.

[RMulieri]

ok vent coming...I can not believe that this is still going on...:confused3 First it is not a "bait and switch" .Second, I seriously doubt that going to check-in with said flier and a bug up your behind is going to net you anything.I hate the new incarnation of the dining plan as much as the next person, but it is not going to ruin my trip, nor do I feel a sense of entitlement(I got one of the outdated fliers thru AAA).I feel fortunate enough to be going.All I have seen is complaining...last year people complained because the dining plan was too much food, the gratuities were included etc..Now people are complaining because there is no more appy, and they have to tip oop. At least you are going to disney, and not struggling to find food,or living in the Sudan or Myanmar..how about a little perspective?

[ReneeA]

Geez...and some posters here wonder why the some of the waitstaff makes it a point to verify that the gratuity is no longer included.

Poor CM's are damned if they DO point it out ("now they don't DESERVE a tip because they dared to mention it and now I'm going to STIFF them!") and damned if they don't ("Disney told me it was included, so no way am I leaving any money for them").

I feel badly for those that really suffer through this.:headache:

[wdwmaw]

I have followed along since this thread started and I can not believe people can not agree that Disney should honor what they put out there. Disney is a huge vacation destination and you would think that they would inform there guests better on a regular basis.Please before you respond just read through a few examples that I have came across. All of the info I am sharing I have confirmed most of what they are telling people. The TA's that gave the info range from a couple local Disney specialist and even a AAA agent.I work in a elem. school and I am now helping about 8 families and these are there stories.

1. Disney does not release discounts on there rooms.The AAA discount is the only discount available ever!!
2. You do not need to book dining reservations on the dining plan you just use the coupon book provided and that gives you priority seating. Just choose the resturant you would like to eat at for the day and present your coupon and your all set.
3. On the dining plan you must eat at a resturant within the park you have chose to visit for that day.
4. You must purchase tickets for the length of your stay, if you book 8 nights you must purchase a 9 day ticket.
5. In order to use disney transpertion you must purchase hopper option.
6. Family of 6 must book a suite. One family is not allowed to book 2 seperate rooms since the dining plan and tickets will be only attached to persons name on reservation. When family wanted to add 1 more person the TA just told them to show up since they do not track # of people in suites.
7.A TA told one family that Free dining is not that good of deal and the husband will not book based on TA telling them that Disney allways offers 2 bedroom suites for less than $100 per night including dining plan in Sept.I have there ADR's and their daily plans but he is waiting on the TA to call them with there deal!! I will post there ADR cancelations on here as soon as they decide not to go.
8. And every family that booked for this year was told that tip is included.

I can go on and on and on and all of these coments were made within this years planning.I agree that we are only a small # of people visiting Disney so I hate the thoughts of vacations ruined by miscomunication or lack of correct information on Disney's part. I help and run to anyone I hear that might be going to disney just to make sure the info they are getting is within reason. Please feel for all the people out there that do not know what we do and Disney does need to be pressured about there false advertising. Remember these are Disney specialist and people believe and are putting there trust in that name.

Ok I am ready to be flamed!!

[RMulieri]

Sorry I disagree,even on my old 2007 dining plan flier (that I got this year with this pkg)It says in very fine print the usual Disney "reserves the right to change dining plan inclusions at anytime" .Like I said previously, anyone is welcome to go to checkin with the flier and an attitude and see what it nets you, but I personally can think of better things to be devastated over, or have a ruined trip over.Most likely, they will tell you "sorry" and leave it at that.I think it is awful that there are uninformed people out there working in the Ta position that have no clue, but there isn't a whole bunch you can do about it.I tell everyone I know going to disney to buy a good guidebook.I know people that research the heck out of a trip to the movie theater, but somehow can't be bothered to do a little research before an expensive vacation.

[DiszyDean]

I have followed along since this thread started and I can not believe people can not agree that Disney should honor what they put out there. Disney is a huge vacation destination and you would think that they would inform there guests better on a regular basis.Please before you respond just read through a few examples that I have came across. All of the info I am sharing I have confirmed most of what they are telling people. The TA's that gave the info range from a couple local Disney specialist and even a AAA agent.I work in a elem. school and I am now helping about 8 families and these are there stories.

1. Disney does not release discounts on there rooms.The AAA discount is the only discount available ever!!
2. You do not need to book dining reservations on the dining plan you just use the coupon book provided and that gives you priority seating. Just choose the resturant you would like to eat at for the day and present your coupon and your all set.
3. On the dining plan you must eat at a resturant within the park you have chose to visit for that day.
4. You must purchase tickets for the length of your stay, if you book 8 nights you must purchase a 9 day ticket.
5. In order to use disney transpertion you must purchase hopper option.
6. Family of 6 must book a suite. One family is not allowed to book 2 seperate rooms since the dining plan and tickets will be only attached to persons name on reservation. When family wanted to add 1 more person the TA just told them to show up since they do not track # of people in suites.
7.A TA told one family that Free dining is not that good of deal and the husband will not book based on TA telling them that Disney allways offers 2 bedroom suites for less than $100 per night including dining plan in Sept.I have there ADR's and their daily plans but he is waiting on the TA to call them with there deal!! I will post there ADR cancelations on here as soon as they decide not to go.
8. And every family that booked for this year was told that tip is included.

I can go on and on and on and all of these coments were made within this years planning.I agree that we are only a small # of people visiting Disney so I hate the thoughts of vacations ruined by miscomunication or lack of correct information on Disney's part. I help and run to anyone I hear that might be going to disney just to make sure the info they are getting is within reason. Please feel for all the people out there that do not know what we do and Disney does need to be pressured about there false advertising. Remember these are Disney specialist and people believe and are putting there trust in that name.

Ok I am ready to be flamed!!

I would think that if these were consistent practices, you would hear a lot more about these specific issues on the DIS. Although CMs have been known to give incorrect information, people throw around "false advertising" and "bait and switch" without really understanding what that means in legal terms. Essentially you have to prove intent in order for there to be an element of "false advertising" or "bait and switch". This would be very hard to prove and regardless probably isn't true anyway.

Sometimes businesses will choose to honor mistakes made in print or by one of their mis-informed associates but it is not as common as people might think and in most cases, they are not legally required to do so, at least not on a large scale.

I think in many of the examples cited above are you totally eliminating the possibility that the client somehow mis-understood what the CM was telling them or that they made it up to try to get a freebie (people do that)?

Mis-understandings happen all the time.

[catne]

holey schamoley! Can't believe this is still going...

I agree with the posters who say Disney's covered with "reserves the right to change at any time" statements. That's "in the contract."

Good luck to anyone that wants to try challenging. Would love to be therepopcorn::

[cmwade77]

I have followed along since this thread started and I can not believe people can not agree that Disney should honor what they put out there. Disney is a huge vacation destination and you would think that they would inform there guests better on a regular basis.Please before you respond just read through a few examples that I have came across. All of the info I am sharing I have confirmed most of what they are telling people. The TA's that gave the info range from a couple local Disney specialist and even a AAA agent.I work in a elem. school and I am now helping about 8 families and these are there stories.

1. Disney does not release discounts on there rooms.The AAA discount is the only discount available ever!!
2. You do not need to book dining reservations on the dining plan you just use the coupon book provided and that gives you priority seating. Just choose the resturant you would like to eat at for the day and present your coupon and your all set.
3. On the dining plan you must eat at a resturant within the park you have chose to visit for that day.
4. You must purchase tickets for the length of your stay, if you book 8 nights you must purchase a 9 day ticket.
5. In order to use disney transpertion you must purchase hopper option.
6. Family of 6 must book a suite. One family is not allowed to book 2 seperate rooms since the dining plan and tickets will be only attached to persons name on reservation. When family wanted to add 1 more person the TA just told them to show up since they do not track # of people in suites.
7.A TA told one family that Free dining is not that good of deal and the husband will not book based on TA telling them that Disney allways offers 2 bedroom suites for less than $100 per night including dining plan in Sept.I have there ADR's and their daily plans but he is waiting on the TA to call them with there deal!! I will post there ADR cancelations on here as soon as they decide not to go.
8. And every family that booked for this year was told that tip is included.

I can go on and on and on and all of these coments were made within this years planning.I agree that we are only a small # of people visiting Disney so I hate the thoughts of vacations ruined by miscomunication or lack of correct information on Disney's part. I help and run to anyone I hear that might be going to disney just to make sure the info they are getting is within reason. Please feel for all the people out there that do not know what we do and Disney does need to be pressured about there false advertising. Remember these are Disney specialist and people believe and are putting there trust in that name.

Ok I am ready to be flamed!!

No flames here, as a matter of fact, I agree, I also think that the OP owes it to others to attempt to hold Disney to this, as it may indeed help others that simply don't know that this information is wrong down the road.

[Halbleib1]

These mistakes the poster above mentioned are more common than people think in my opinion. Not all disney CMs have the same information. I found this out the hard way when I called to make my adrs. I was told that I had to call back by the first CM because I was a couple days early from my 180 day mark. However people on here were already making their adrs for the same dates. I called back and got another CM that sent me to group dining since I am traveling with a party of 8 for part of my trip. This CM booked my reservations no problem up to 9 days. Yes 9 days not the 10 that you are supposed to be able to book if staying on site. So again I called back to try to get that last day and could not do it. Later that day I called back to make my mils adrs since we are not eating together all the time (mainly because of the gratuity issue) and again was told I was early. I called back and asked for group dining and again I was able to book all of her adrs since she is only staying 7 days.

We are going for 14 days so I was told that I had to call back each additional day to make my adrs exactly 180 days out for these extra days. So I did this and was told that I could make adrs for the 10th day- 12th day but I would have to call back for the rest. I got off the phone and called right back and was able to make the rest of my adrs.

Yes problems are common when booking a disney trip- people are given the wrong information everyday. I have read over and over on these boards about CMs not having the correct information for booking.

When it came time for free dining many people called to book All Star Music suites and were told that they did not qualify for free dining yet others got it. Go figure.

Last year we even had problems using the dining plan- as not all waiters knew what was and was not allowed on the dining plan. For example: at sci-fi we were told we could not get shakes and yet a little while after we had asked another table was seated nearby but had a different waiter and the first thing the waiter said was the adults may order shakes on the dining plan if they would like to.

I understand that Disney World is a big place and they have a lot of employees but come on people working in the same restaurant right next to each other should have the same information and if the person isnt sure of the answer they should ask someone that is.

[kaytieeldr]

Sometimes businesses will choose to honor mistakes made in print Exactly. Years ago, when airlines used to run ads with fare sale prices in newspapers on a regular basis AND $249 was an excellent deal for a cross-country flight... a misprint in a Delta ad listed Boston to Los Angeles for $49. Round trip. It was obviously a mistake - but they honored that price for bookings through noon that day.

No flames here, as a matter of fact, I agree, I also think that the OP owes it to others to attempt to hold Disney to this, Hold Disney to what? Mailing outdated information? To what goal? Being able to enjoy the benefits of the 2007 Dining Plan if the Guest can somehow turn back time and visit in 2007?

At any rate, I think there would be interesting ethical issues involved when one knows information received is incorrect (e.g. outdated) but expects it to be honored.

[TDC Nala]

All this was already covered on this thread back when it was realized that WDW had mailed out some incorrect brochures regarding the dining plan.

This thread has now run its course.