New Reservation Policy : Please Report Results Here ...

[jdg345]

Hello Everyone!

In light of all the activity on the original thread regarding the details of the New Booking Policy Based on Check-In Date, we were hoping we could start a separate thread to keep track of successes and failures of the new booking policy.

This thread is only for reporting back on the success and/or failure of your reservation request.

For Discussion of the Policy, etc, please post at the original thread here:
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1861954

Finally, a Big "Thank You!" to the Mods for allowing this thread and to simzac for suggesting it! :thumbsup2 :goodvibes

[jdg345]

To help get you started, some of the items to include in your post may include:

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
What dates were you calling to reserve?
What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
If Shutout, were any of the future days available?
If shutout, did you waitlist? How did you WL? Whole Period, first Day?
Misc Comments: May include future plans (for example, calling on Day-2 if shut out on Day-1), who you spoke to, knowledge of CM regarding new policy, etc.

EDIT ADDED BY CHUCK S: Also please note view or booking category, if the resort has those.

Thanks to Chuck S, laurabearz, simzac, and zulaya for their suggestions!

[jdg345]

Tally of Reported Results by Priority Window
---------------------------------------------------------------


MEMBER WIN DATES ARR DVC RM CAT S/F
AKV707 11 Jun 17 - 24 W AKV 2BR V Y
bjakmom 11 Jun 27 - 30 Sa AKV S C Y
bjakmom 11 Jun 24 - 27 W BWV S SV Y
bjakmom 11 Jun 24 - 27 W BWV S BW Y
bookwormde 11 Jun 14 - 19 Su OKW GV HH Y
Brave teacher 11 May 30 - Jun 6 Sa AKV 1BR SV Y
Cherta 11 Jun 13 - 19 Sa BWV 1BR SV Y
Chuck S 11 June 3 - 11 unk OKW S non-HH Y
DisneyJen 11 Jun 6 - 19 Sa BWV 2BR BW Y
DisneyJen 11 Jun 6 - 19 Sa BWV GV BW Y
DVC Jen 11 Jun 8 - 15 M VWL S any Y
jamstew 11 May 26 - Jun 2 unk VWL 2BR D Y
JenSop 11 Jun 21 - 26 Su AKV S V Y
juliebrooks35 11 Jun 13 - 18 Sa AKV 1BR C Y
juliebrooks35 11 Jun 28 - Jul 1 Su AKV 1BR C Y
keishashadow 11 Jun 28 - Jul 2 Su VWL S any Y
Kiderak 11 Jun 29 - Jul 6 unk AKV 1BR C Y
madduck 11 Jun 28 - Jul 4 unk HHI S any Y
mgrebenc 11 Jun 14 - 19 Su HHI GV any Y
mgrebenc 11 Jun 14 - 19 Su HHI S any Y
mikeandkarla 11 Jun 6 - 13 unk AKV 2BR V Y
MinnieGi 11 Jun 21 - 28 Su HHI GV any Y
mmcquire 11 Jun 14 - 19 Sa BCV 2BR D Y
mmcquire 11 Jun 14 - 19 Sa BCV S any Y
Monorail Purple&Gold 11 May 17 - 24 Su AKV S SV Y
OurDogCisco 11 Jun 28 - Jul 6 Su BCV 1BR any Y
pixie08 11 Jun 20 - 27 Sa AKV S V Y
pixie08 11 Jun 20 - 27 Sa AKV S V Y
pixie08 11 Jun 20 - 27 Sa AKV S V Y
ppjluvsdvc 11 Jun 20 - 26 Sa BCV 2BR any Y
ramkam 11 Jun 28 - Jul 3 Su VWL 2BR any Y
rangermom 11 Jun 7 - 12 unk AKV 1BR SV Y
rangermom 11 Jun 7 - 12 unk AKV S SV Y
rangermom 11 Jun 7 - 12 unk AKV S SV Y
Tine731 11 Jun 21 - 26 Su SSR GV any Y
Tine731 11 Jun 21 - 26 Su OKW 2BR D / HH Y
twebber55 11 Jun 21 - 26 unk HHI GV any Y
WebmasterRegina 11 Jun 28 - Jul 5 unk OKW GV any Y
JenSop 11 Jun 21 - 26 Su AKV S C N
WebmasterRegina 11 Jun 28 - Jul 5 unk OKW GV HH N
delmar411 10 May 3 - 8 Su OKW 2BR D / HH Y
dkellumw 10 Jun 7 - 12 Su VWL 1BR any Y
drusba 10 Jun 14 - 21 Su BWV 2BR BW Y
mimmiepnp 10 May 17 - 28 Su SSR S any Y
PrincessV 10 Jun 7 - 12 Su SSR S any Y
Tink-n-Belle 10 Easter Week unk BWV S BW Y
Tink-n-Belle 10 Easter Week unk BWV S SV N
DebbieB 9 Apr 25 - May 1 unk BWV S BW Y
DisneyFreaks 8 Mar 8 - 15 Su SSR 1BR any Y
DisneyFreaks 8 Mar 8 - 15 Su SSR 2BR any Y
DiznyDi 8 Mar 16 - 20 M VWL S any Y
DiznyDi 8 Mar 20 - 24 F SSR 1BR any Y
drusba 8 Mar 28 - Apr 4 Sa BWV 2BR BW Y
Judy WI 8 Feb 22 - 28 unk BCV S any Y
Brave teacher 7 Feb 21 - 27 Sa SSR 1BR any Y
bwvBound 7 Jan 15 - 25 R BWV 1BR BW Y
dopeyone 7 Feb 14 - 22 Su VWL S any Y
dopeyone 7 Feb 14 - 22 Su VWL S any Y
dzorn 7 Feb 22 - 27 Su OKW 2BR HH Y
hrsmom 7 Jan 17 - 24 Sa BWV 1BR Std Y
jpolak 7 Feb 15 - 22 Su OKW 2BR D Y
KarenP99 7 Jan 25 - 31 Su BWV 2BR P Y
KarenP99 7 Jan 25 - 31 Su BWV S P Y
KarenP99 7 Jan 25 - 31 Su SSR 2BR any Y
KarenP99 7 Jan 25 - 31 Su SSR S any Y
Monorail Purple&Gold 7 Feb 21 - 27 Sa BCV S any Y
Rigatoni 7 Feb 15 - 20 Su SSR 1BR any Y
dzorn 7 Feb 15 - 20 Su BWV 2BR any N
dzorn 7 Feb 15 - 20 Su VWL 2BR any N
jade1 7 Feb 8 - 15 unk BWV S SV N
KarenP99 7 Jan 25 - 31 Su AKV 2BR V N
KarenP99 7 Jan 25 - 31 Su AKV S V N
KarenP99 7 Jan 25 - 31 Su BWV 2BR SV N
KarenP99 7 Jan 25 - 31 Su BWV S SV N
DoOverDreams 6 Feb 12 - 16 R VWL 1BR any P
AlwaysGoofy 2 Sep 1 M BCV 1BR any Y





NOTES: I decided to sort by Priority Window instead of by Member Name as I think the biggest concern with the new policy is the comparison to the success of DBD at 11 months. If a member reported a success and failure in the same call (ie: they wanted OKW 1BR but it was booked so they went with SSR 1BR and got it) I listed both transactions. Likewise for multiple room bookings.

Updated Through: #55

[Judy WI]

Well I will start hope this is correct:

Called - 8 months out
Dates - Feb 22 -28
Studio - BCV
Got all dates when called.

[Chuck S]

Booked date: July 5. 2008 (11 month + 2 days)

Res dates: June 3 to 11, 2009 (Arrive Wednesday, depart the following thursday)

Studio, not HH category, OKW

Successful.

[jade1]

As reported on the other thread at 9:06AM July 8:

7 MONTHS OUT (July 8).
Check in Sunday Feb 8 for 7 nights (or even 5).
BWV Std View Studio.
One day was not available, Tuesday 10th.
Did not WL-making other plans.

DVCBELLE Reported all days (including the 10th) were available calling Sat the 7th and booked it-eliminating one studio for the 10th. Do not have CM's name but reporting on here asap meant anyone could have called and verified. CM did think it was a great plan until one day was not available.

[DebbieB]

I had a reservation for BWV bw view studio for May 2 to 8, which I booked on June 8 (did not use day by day). Because of my brother's wedding, I had to move the reservation to April 25 to May 1. Called on 7/21 and switched it with no problem, still have the bw view studio.

[Tink-n-Belle]

called 10 months out for BW standard view studio Easter week for 7 days:eek:

No availability for 7 days!!! :confused3

Ended up getting BW view studio !!!:banana:

[jamstew]

11 months; May 26 arrival (Tuesday) for 7 nights; dedicated 2BR at VWL; successful on first call

[delmar411]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
10mth window

What dates were you calling to reserve?
May 3rd through May 8th

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
2bedroom dedicated, near HH, OKW

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
got it first call, no issues

[bookwormde]

Called 11+5 7/14/08 9:02 am

For check in 6/14/09 check out 6/19/09 5 nights

Arrival day Sunday

OKW GV HH

Got all 5 nights

Comment: I would have called DBD in the old system

bookwormde

[Tine731]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11 month window

What dates were you calling to reserve?
June 21 - 26

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
SSR Grand Villa and OKW 2 bedroom dedicated near HH

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
No Issues. I was able to get both villas with 1 phone call and no wait time. So far I like the new reservation policy.

[mgrebenc]

Called- 11 months at 9:00am

Dates- Sunday, June14th- Friday.June 19th

Hilton Head- Grand Villa + Studio

Successful and extremely happy

Comments: Would have done DBD under old system. Do NOT feel this would happen a year from now once people figure out what is necessary to secure their desired result.

[hrsmom]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
7 month window

What dates were you calling to reserve?
January 17-24

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Saturday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
1 bedroom/standard view

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Yes

Misc Comments: I didn't know about the new policy, when I found out I realized I could make the change to our resv. that day instead of the next day which would have been the first day I could have called under the old policy. I don't remember who I talked to, but they were very helpful. Also, both of my choices for resorts were available for my dates - BWV and VWL. I went with BWV to save points and also we have never been there.

[DiznyDi]

Made a split reservation using points from both of our home resorts on July 25 - about 8 months out:
Arriving Monday March 16, Studio at VWL Checking out on Friday March 20.

Checking in to SSR in a 1-Bedroom on Friday March 20 and checking out on Tuesday March 24. Have requested Congress Park.

I made only one call and the CM helping me was great! This is my daughter's honeymoon :hug: and I was able to secure exactly what she wanted! :yay:

[dopeyone]

I called @ 7 mos. out and got what I wanted : 2 studios at VWL starting on Sun. Feb. 14 - Feb. 22 (President's week) Actually I called 1 day late and still got what I wanted! :goodvibes

[Monorail Purple&Gold]

Attempted at 11 month window:
Wanted: 7 nights @ AKV, Standard View Studio
Dates: May 17-24, 2009 (Arrive Sunday)
Succcessful

Attempted at 7 month window:
Wanted: A) 6 nights @ BCV (Studio) OR B) 6 nights @ BWV (Standard View Studio)
Dates: February 21-27, 2009 (Arrive Saturday)
Successful 6 nights @ BCV

Comment: For 11 month attempt, actually called on the 1st day new policy went into effect.

Comment: For 7 month attempt, BWV P/BW View was available all 6 nights as well, BWV St. View had all nights available except Feb. 24.

[DisneyFreaks]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
Called at 8 months out

What dates were you calling to reserve?
March 8 through March 15 at SSR

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sunday arrival

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
2 units. 1 2-bedroom and 1 1-bedroom
Requested Congress Park

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Got everything right off. No problems.

[mikeandkarla]

Booked: July 6, 2008
reservation date: check in June 6, 2009 - check out june 13
accomodation: 2BR value, AKV, Savanna view requested
Successful

[twebber55]

Booked Grand Villa at HHI for
June 21-26
successful

[DisneyJen]

To help get you started, some of the items to include in your post may include:

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
What dates were you calling to reserve?
What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
If Shutout, were any of the future days available?
If shutout, did you waitlist? How did you WL? Whole Period, first Day?
Misc Comments: May include future plans (for example, calling on Day-2 if shut out on Day-1), who you spoke to, knowledge of CM regarding new policy, etc.

EDIT ADDED BY CHUCK S: Also please note view or booking category, if the resort has those.

Thanks to Chuck S, laurabearz, simzac, and zulaya for their suggestions!

Successful calling the first day at our 11-month window.

Checking in June 6, 2009 (a Saturday) and checking out June 19.

We were able to book exactly what we wanted ... 2 BDR BWV with BW View. I checked on Grand Villa and it was available as well.

[MinnieGi]

Successful booking of GV for HHI for week of June 21st (Sunday)
Called a day after 11 month booking window opened

[DoOverDreams]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
Called 7/26/2008, 6 month before trip

What dates were you calling to reserve?
2/12-2/16

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Thursday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
1 bedroom at VWL

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
2/12-2/15 - VWL
2/15-2/16 - waitlisted for VWL - 1 bedroom reserved at OKW

CM Linda very nice and helpful. Really no difference for me from previous calls for reservations.

[juliebrooks35]

Called 12th July, 11 months out at 9am.

Successfully booked a 1 bedroom concierge level at AKV.

6 nights-Sat-Thu 13th June-18th June 2009 inclusive.

[mmcguire]

Called 7/14/2008, 11 months before trip

What dates were you calling to reserve?
6/14-6/19 2009 @ BCV

What is the day of week of your arrival day? Saturday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
1 2BR w/2 Queens in 2nd BR + 1 Studio

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Got it on first call

[mimmiepnp]

Sunday May 17 - Thursday May 28, 2009.

Called in middle of 11 month window to book ALL 11 nights with no problems.

SSR studio. Originally booked a 1 bedroom and was able to change same dates to a studio (wanted to save points) with no problems about 2 weeks after original booking date.

CM extremely helpful

[mimmiepnp]

Sunday May 17 - Thursday May 28, 2009.

Called in middle of 11 month window to book all 11 nights with no problems. .

Originally booked a 1 bedroom at SSR

Change to a studio (wanted to save points) with no problems about 2 weeks after original booking date for same 11 nights.

CM extremely helpful

[Brave teacher]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11mth window

What dates were you calling to reserve?
May 30th through June 6th

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Saturday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
1bedroom savanna view

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
got it first call, no issues

[Brave teacher]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
7 mth window

What dates were you calling to reserve?
February 21st through February 27th

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Saturday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
1bedroom SSR

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
using developer points, manager had to make reservation, called daily to check on ressie, ressie made successfully by manager yesterday

[ppjluvsdvc]

Called on 11 month window

June 20-26,2009

Saturday

2 bedroom at Beach Club

I had no problems. It went great!

[DVC Jen]

Called 11 month window for VWL - studio June 8th for 7 nights. Checking in on a Monday. No problems at all.

[rangermom]

11 mth window
AKV June 7-12, 2009
1-1Bd room and 2 studios (standard view)
Got exactly what I wanted on 1st try

[AlwaysGoofy]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other? 2 month window

What dates were you calling to reserve? September 1st (1 night only)

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su. We will be arriving on a Monday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve? 1 Bedroom at BCV

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout? Got it first call

[keishashadow]

Did you call at the 11 month window
yes
What dates were you calling to reserve?
6/28 thru 7/2
What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sunday
What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
WLV, Studio
Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Yes:dance3:
CM vague as to new practice, mentioned something odd re cancellation period that i questioned since i didn't recall hearing before re forfeiture of 1st day (he said i misunderstood-geared to late arrivals?, no problem with cancelling the 1st day or 2 or more days in the ressie if i need too...as i did with upcoming ressie in Oct:confused3

[Cherta]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11 month window
What dates were you calling to reserve?
June 13-19, 2009
What is the day of week of your arrival day?
Saturday
What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
1 Bedroom, BWV standard view
Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Got what I wanted on the first call
Misc Comments:
No problems! :thumbsup2

[PrincessV]

Called a couple weeks past 11 month window opening

June 7-12 2009

Arriving on a Sun.

SSR - studio

SUCCESS on first call

FYI: I'd originally booked an SSR studio online just inside the 11 month mark for Memorial Day weekend, with no problem. When my plans changed, I called MS and switched it to the new dates above.

I plan on a possible resort change at 7 months - where, I don't know yet!

[ramkam]

Did you call at the 11 month window
yes
What dates were you calling to reserve?
6/28 thru 7/3
What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sunday
What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
WLV, Two Bedroom
Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Yes

[juliebrooks35]

Success again.....called today at 11 month window to book the very last portion of my trip. Booked 4 nights 1 bedroom AKV concierge Sun 28th Jun-Thur 1st July.

Funny thing is that as we were lucky enough to get concierge for the 1st 6 days of our trip, I was really happy just to book a SV 1 bedroom with a view to switching to Kidani on 10th Aug but I thought I'd try for concierge almost certain they'd be booked & to my surprise I got one:banana: I don't think my DH believes me that these rooms are hard to book:)

[pixie08]

I have had great results with this system! I just booked 7 nights at AKv for 3 Value Studios for June 2009!

Did you call at the 11 month window
yes
What dates were you calling to reserve?
6/20 thru 6/27
What is the day of week of your arrival day? \
Sat
What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
3 value studios- requested pool or savannah view
Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Yes -got what I wanted

[Rigatoni]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
7 month

What dates were you calling to reserve?
2/15/09 to 2/20/09 (Presidents Week) SSR

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sunday to Friday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
One bedroom Grandstand

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Yes, got all five days

Misc Comments:
I called on either 7/15 or 7/16 and got the reservation. Today I called to request Grandstand and asked what the cash price would be if we added Saturday 2/14 or Friday 2/20 on. She told me there was no availability. I just started a thread on this, because after thinking about it, would this be because they are actually booked up or is it because they aren't booking those dates for cash reservations yet?

[dzorn]

Called at 7month window to switch from AKV

for Feb 15-20 Sunday arrival 2 bedroom at either BWV either view or VWL neither available.

called about 9:15 am yes I waitlisted for BWV

Also called at 7 month window for Feb 22-27th change to OKW 2 bedroom HH category and was successful

Denise in MI

[maminnie]

Deleted post due to original guidelines of the thread. Sorry for the oversight.

[AKV707]

Called on 7/17/2008 11 months out to the check in day

Looking to book 6/17-24 2009

Arriving Wdenesday


AKV 2 br L/o standard

Success on the first call

[JenSop]

-Booked two days into my 11 month window

-For trip June 21-26 (arriving on a Sunday)

-Originally wanted 3 nights value studio, 2 nights concierge studio at AKV

-Booked 5 nights in value studio

-NO CONCIERGE studios available that whole week. (I asked the CM, to determine if I should call back the next day which would've been my 11 month mark for the concierge portion.) Did not bother to call back to get on a waitlist.

-I'm not thrilled with the new system. In a few years we want to do a BIG family trip in an AKV GV. I am worried that with the new booking rules we won't be able to get one.

[drusba]

Our booking is more a reflection that for many things it does not really matter:

Both of following 2009 ressies are for a 2BR at BWV boardwalk view (the supposedly hard to get boardwalk view):

Got March 28 (Sat) to Apr 4 (Sat) and called July 7 (less than 9 months out)

Got June 14 (Sun) to June 21 (Sun). Called today July 30.

No waits, hassles, or anything else bad getting them.

[Regina]

Called June 28 for next year's June 28 - July 5 vacation at a OKW Grand Villa.

I was a bit surprised when the CM asked me if I wanted the Villa by the Hospitality House. I said sure. When she came back and said she couldn't get what I wanted, I thought ":scared1: :scared1: :scared1: " thinking she meant the Villa, not the location. She apologized and said someone else grabbed it.

I liked the new system. I would have been called each day otherwise. :thumbsup2

[Chuck S]

A reminder--

This thread is to report the success, or lack of success, of your bookings. All comments about the new policy belong in The New Policy Thread (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1861954)

I have removed several off topic posts. If it continues, we'll need to close this thread until such a time as Caskbill's thread tracking program is completed. Please stay on topic.

Thank you.

[jpolak]

Called July 15th (seven month window) for Feb. 15-22 for a dedicated two bedroom at OKW. Checking in and out on a Sunday. Got it all no problems.

[madduck]

I called July 28th for HH next summer June 28- July 4 for a studio.No problem.

[OurDogCisco]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other? 11 months
What dates were you calling to reserve?June 28 through July6
What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.Sunday
What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?1 bedroom at BCV
Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?Succesful on 1st call

[B]I called back on the next day to reserve my 8th night with no problems. [B]

[KarenP99]

Attempted at 7 month window:
Dates: Jan 25- Jan 31 2009 (Arrive Sunday) 6 Nights
Booking (1) Studio & (1) 2BR
Wanted:
#1 CHOICE: AKV, Standard View UNSUCCESSFUL - I'm not surprised
#2 CHOICE: BWV, Standard View UNSUCCESSFUL - This is what I got last year calling day by day. They had plenty of "preferred" available.
#3 CHOICE: SSR SUCCESSFUL

I'm on the waitlist for BWV, but not hopeful.

[bwvBound]

SUCCESS!

1. Called just a few days into the "new" 7 month window but 7 days ahead of my "normally scheduled call" based on checkout.
2. Reserved Jan 15-25, 2009 (10 nights)
3. Arrival day is a THURS
4. Booked 1BR Boardwalk View
5. Got just what I wanted in a single call.
6. Yes, the CM knew of the then new policy and was very helpful.

[dkellumw]

Called this morning around 8:10 CST

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other? Approx. 10 months, 1 week

What dates were you calling to reserve? June 7th - June 12th

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su. Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve? 1 Bedroom at VWL

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout? Success

[bjakmom]

Booked @ 11 mos
Ck in Sat 6/27 - Weds 6/30
AKV - studio - concierge level
success!

Booked 3 days past 11 mos (during same call as above)
Ck in Weds 6/24 - Sat 6/27
BWV - studio- standard view (bw view was also available)
success!

PS: Excellent CM interaction w/Darren!!

[Kiderak]

Om June 29th I successfully made a 7 day reservation at AKV for June 29th thru July 6th of next year. 1 BR, concierge

[dgaston]

SUCCESS!

Called at 7 month window for 2/15 (President's Week)
Vero Beach -- Ocean View Inn Room
Arrive Sunday, depart Friday

[pouncingpluto]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?

Sent an email through the member website instead of calling, as I was out of the country. Roughly 7 month window, but a couple days late.

What dates were you calling to reserve?

Just one night, February 20.

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.

Friday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?

BWV standard view studio

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?

Got it!

[crbruce_us]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11-month window

What dates were you calling to reserve?
Check-in July 4
Check-out July 10

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Arrive on Saturday and leave on Friday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
1 Bedroom Animal Kingdom Conciege!

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Got it.

[DISNEYFOS]

I called 8 months ahead BCV 1 bdroom/Studio Feb 15-20 Checkin Sun/Checkout Fri MA School Vacation week

Sort of successful. Got Resort (BCV).Wanted Studio for whole week. Got 1 bdrm for 15,16 Studio for 17,18,19

[ypv]

Booked @ 10 mos
Su 5/17/09 for 5 nights
SSR - 2BR

No problem, booked on-line.

[BroganMc]

Here's my experience booking the grand gathering with a HA room:

Called at 11 mos from check-in day. Dates were for Sunday June 21 - Friday June 26, 2009. I booked a dedicated HA 2bedroom at SSR. No issues. Also booked 2 studios at SSR for the same dates. Only issue of note was that at the time I called (July 21) the member cash nights were not available for June 26. I called back a week later and reserved that night on cash for the dedicated 2bedroom. Also with a HA room and no availability issues.

[aurorafan]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11 month window (a few days after it started actually)

What dates were you calling to reserve?
June 4-9 2009

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Thursday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
Value 1 bedroom AKV

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Got it, CM actually said everything for 1 bedrooms was available (including concierge) at that time

[DisneyHumbug]

On 7/21 (a few days into the 7 month window) I booked 1BR BWV Boardwalk View for Mon-Fri 2/16-20 (during President's week). I think 1BRs are generally easier to book. But I was really surprised Boardwalk View was available!!

[LadyKay]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
7 month window (4 days after it started actually)

What dates were you calling to reserve?
AKV Feb 28 & BCV March1-6 2009

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sat (AKV)& Sun(BCV)

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
AKV studio concierge & 2bdrm BCV (2nd room with 2 Qs)

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
:eek: utter disbelief, I got it ALL :woohoo:
__________________

[crbruce_us]

Called today (8/8) approx 4 1/2 month window for December 19 and 20, 1 - bedroom VWL. December 20th available for points. December 19th available for cash rate (not for points).

Exactly what we wanted. I was really surprised VWL was available for that weekend. We wanted to go to the Very Merry Christmas Party on Dec 19th. Worked out great! :banana:

[Sarahtink]

We booked at 11 month date, AKV, SV view, 2 BDRM, July 4 - July 10, with no problem ... MS very helpful.

[southtexasmom]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?

Called at 5 months out

What dates were you calling to reserve?

Jan. 14-19

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.

Wed.

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?

OKW 2 bedroom

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?

Got exactly what I wanted

[lesley.a.murray@talk]

Called at 11 month window(plus a week)
Booking 30th June 2009 -14th July 2009
Arrival day Tuesday
Beach Club Villas
Studio
Got it all in the one go! MS very helpful:cool1:

[littlestar]

Called at 7 month window
Booking March 8-13
Arrival day Sunday
Beach Club Villas
Studio
Got exactly what I wanted in 1 call. :goodvibes

[DisneyFreaks]

I called today right at the 7 month window to switch our march 8 thru march 15 ressie from SSR to AKV standard view. One 2-bedroom unit and one 1-bedroom unit sunday arrival. Had complete success which really surprised me especially when the CM asked what my second preference was. She was great too. Very friendly and helpful.

[Lexxiefern]

Called 7 months from check in day
booked BWV 1 bed standard view March 5-9
Got all days on first call
arrival day thursday

[tidefan]

Called at 7 month window
Booking March 15-22
Arrival day Sunday
Either AKV Standard 2BR or OKW HH 2BR
AKV Std 2BR was booked, but OKW HH 2BR was available. 1 call.

FYI, 2 BR BWV Std View was unavailable. 2 BR BWV Preferred was available as was 2 BR VWL. I didn't ask about BCV. I took OKW over BWV and VWL.

[njmeisje]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11 month window for initial 7 nights and called back daily for rest

What dates were you calling to reserve?
July 12-21, 2009 (9 nights)

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
BCV 2B w/2Q

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Got everything right away, no issues.

[atpatt]

BWV 7 months, 2/22-3/1, arriving Sunday, 1 bedroom, success

cancelled yesterday and changed to:

BCV 6 months, 2/22-3/1, arriving Sunday, 1 bedroom, success

[Goofy's apprentice]

3 calls all exactly at the 7 month window

Mar 12 - 2 nights studio VWL - T, F - success
Mar 14 - 4 nights two bedroom VWL - Sat to Tues - success
Mar 16 - 2 nights studio VWL - M, T - success

This year three calls. Last year would have called at least six times

Very happy to get what I thought was a hard to get reservation!

[Monorail Purple&Gold]

Called at: 9 mo., 16 day window

Dates: 6/2/09-6/6/09

Arrival Day: Tuesday

Accommodation Desired: AKV Dedicated Value Studio

Result: Success

[Judy WI]

Call 11 months out from check-in

BVC 1 bedroom

July 12-17, 2009, sunday check in

Got all on first call.

[Granny]

Booked at 11 month window from check-in successfully:

BWV 2BR
Standard View
July 11-19, 2008
Saturday check-in

[Hunclemarco]

Called 4 days into the 7 month window

SSR (2) 2 Bedroom Dedicated Rooms March 13-21
SSR (1) 1 Studio March 14-20
BCV (1) 2 Bedroom Lock-off March 9-13


All Successful reservations :cool1:

[polyhm83]

Called at 9:00 am at the 7 month window and got it.
5 nights
VB beach cottage
Mar 15-20

very surprised!

[Kathi OD]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
5.5 months

What dates were you calling to reserve?
Jan. 29 - Feb. 2

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
R

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
Originally 1BR OKW; changed a few days later to 1BR VWL

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Got it, no problem
.

[LUVMICKEY]

I called at our 11 mo. window for check-in on July 1 for our first 7 days and then called the next 3 days in a row to add on one more day each day till we hit 10 days at BCV. I had no problem at all.

[Fantasmic303]

Great morning for us!! :cool1:

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11 months to the day

What dates were you calling to reserve?
July 19-July 26, 2009

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
Boardwalk View Studio at BWV

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
100% booked, no problem! *phew*

I was worried about the BoardWalk view, as that's our bread and butter. :lovestruc We would be happy just getting our BWV studio, but it's MAGIC to have the boardwalk view!!

[Monorail Purple&Gold]

Called at: 11 mo. window

Dates: 7/19/09-7/24/09

Arrival Day: Sunday

Accommodation Desired: AKV Dedicated Value Studio

Result: Success

[crbruce_us]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
little after 11 months

What dates were you calling to reserve?
July 2, 3, 4

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Thursday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
AKV Kidani Savanah View Studio

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Got it!

[MdmMim]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
I called 22 days prior to check-in.

What dates were you calling to reserve?
Sept. 12 to 18

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Friday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
OKW Studio; no particular location

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
I was successful. :thumbsup2

[MichiganMouse1967]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
Called exactly at the 7 month window from check-in

What dates were you calling to reserve?
March 8 - 13, 2009

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
BCV, 2BR, any view

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Success - got a dedicated 2BR with 2Q's in 2nd bdrm.

[njmeisje]

Called at: 11 months to the day

Dates: 7.21.09 - 7.25.09

Arrival Day: Tuesday

Accommodation Desired: HHI 2BR

Result: Success!

[wildernessDad]

Called at 7 months, August 18, to book a 'HH' studio at OKW from 3/18 - 3/21. Result: Success

[loveswdw]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
7 month
What dates were you calling to reserve? March 15-20
What is the day of week of your arrival day? Su.
What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve? OKW 1BR HH
Did you get what you wanted on the first call? yes
Misc Comments: changed from a 1BR BCV reserved at 11 months

[wdwfan1]

Called 7 months, 9am
For check in 3/15/09 check out 3/19/09 5 nights

Arrival day Sunday

BWV, studio, standard view

No rooms available

Preferred view was available for all days , and Boardwalk View was available 3/16 through 3/19. I asked if I could book Preferred for 3/15 and take the Boardwalk view for the rest of the week. I was told I could not do that. All I could do was book the Preferred view for the full 5 days and waitlist for the Boardwalk view for all 5 days. I did that and called back the next day to snag the 4 days with the Boardwalk view and change my waitlist to one day only.

Comment: I have always gotten the standard view without using the waitlist by calling day by day under the old system.

A few days later I called to inquire about another existing reservation. I asked the CM to check my waitlist. She asked me if I needed 2 rooms since I was waitlisted for 3/15 through 3/19 for a Boardwalk view. I explained what I thought had been done and that I only needed one day. It was available and I was able to get my first day. I sure am glad I asked about it.

[Nikisha421]

had an OKW ressie for february 15 through 20..however, i waitlisted for any studio room for that time period anywhere but SSR.

was looking for something exciting???

i called today this morning at 9am to check to see what was available since we are at SSR and didnt want to repeat the same feel for our next vacation....

well arent waitlist suppose to match exact needs...or so they say???

n e wayz when i called the cm told me she had the same exact dates available at AKV.

so i booked...just skeptical that the waitlist didnt match on its on....and wondering how many other people may have had a waitlist that might have been ahead of me...

[buzz2]

Booked 11 months out
BCV
July 18-26 2009
2 br
Called for first 7 days all Available
Called next 2 days to add Day 8 and 9, no problem adding to reservation.

The planning begins! :banana:

[rstackjd]

Booked 11 month window
AKV
July 25th (saturday) to August 1st (Saturday) 7 nights
Concierge level Studio


Success!

[Pete W.]

Just booked at our 11-month window -- 2BR standard view BWV for 1 week - sunday, July 26th thru sunday Aug 2nd.

[keishashadow]

11 months

July 26th for 5 nights

Sunday

Standard Studio

yes :banana: :dance3:

[nicky mouse]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
7 month window
What dates were you calling to reserve?
3/30 - 4/3 (5 nights)
What is the day of week of your arrival day?
Mon.
What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve? 2brm at BWV any view
Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
got pool and garden view on 1st call

[NEMO93]

I just book reservations for July 28-August 7, 2009 at OKW. I got a two bed villa.-dedicated and a studio also with no problems. I also book a two bed villa for 4/23/09-again with no problems. JP

[preedymtnwest]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
7 month window, 9:00 a.m. EDT
What dates were you calling to reserve?
2/14/09 - 2/19/09 (5 nights)
What is the day of week of your arrival day?
Saturday
What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve? 2brm at BCV any view
Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Shutout (couple of days in middle of stay not available) but was able to WL BCV; instead reserved entire stay at SSR (home). MS said WLV had some 2 bdr available. Called back 3 or 4 days later to inquire about splitting ressie between WLV and SSR, and was told that our WL had come through for entire time at BCV!! YEA.

It's our first DVC trip and we're doing a big blowout with DS and family and her kids (9 and 4) have never been, so we wanted to be as close to the parks as possible for maximum time. Leave on the 19th for 3-day Disney Cruise, too.:grouphug:

[Juliet25]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other? 7 MONTH
What dates were you calling to reserve? MARCH 21-28, 2009
What is the day of week of your arrival day? SATURDAY
What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve? 1 BEDROOM VALUE OR SAVANNAH AT AKV
Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout? I DIDN'T GET A VALUE OR A SAVANNAH VIEW, BUT I DID GET A STANDARD VIEW AND I'M HAPPY WITH IT.
If Shutout, were any of the future days available? N/A
If shutout, did you waitlist? How did you WL? Whole Period, first Day? DECIDED NOT TO W/L FOR OTHER VIEWS
Misc Comments: May include future plans (for example, calling on Day-2 if shut out on Day-1), who you spoke to, knowledge of CM regarding new policy, etc. I MOSTLY GOT WHAT I WANTED (TO STAY AT AKV) SO I DON'T REALLY KNOW IF THIS POLICY IS GOOD OR BAD SINCE I DON'T THINK I WAS GOING FOR A "HOT" PROPERTY.

ETA: I originally booked a 1 bd at VWL for 3/22-3/28 earlier that day (at the 7 month window) and got it. I changed it that afternoon for AKV.

[RLRDA]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other? Exactly at 11 month window at 9am.

What dates were you calling to reserve? August 15th to August 20th (5 nights)

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su. Saturday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve? 1 BR Concierge at AKV

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout? All nights were available!

Misc Comments: May include future plans (for example, calling on Day-2 if shut out on Day-1), who you spoke to, knowledge of CM regarding new policy, etc. All I can say is that I'm shocked. I had been skeptical that I'd get this reservation - I think I was just preparing myself to be disappointed when/if I didn't get it. I tossed around the idea of "walking" but decided against it b/c I wanted to see if the new system would work for me "as is" and it did. The CM who helped me was William. He was very pleasant and knowledgable. I had to used banked, 2009 and borrowed a few 2010 AKV points and he made sure that his figures matched mine (they did). He went through what Club level includes, gave me the contact number/e-mail address. Now that snail in my countdown ticker is very appropriate - anticipation is going to get me!

[jamstew]

I don't know if anyone is still attempting to keep up with this, but I just booked a 2BR/2Q at BCV for 10/18-23 (Sun.-Fri.) this morning at my 11 month window--no problems.

[DebbieB]

7 month window, called on 11/14 @ 9AM (no hold)
Got AKV Kidani Savannah View Studio for 6/14-6/20 (Sat-Fri)
First Try

[SCDizneyDawn]

11 month window, booked 2br BWV Boardwalk view for 10-10 to 10-17 all at once, no problems. first try.:cool1:

[Starr W.]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other? Exactly at 11 months

What dates were you calling to reserve? November 20,2009-November 27,2009

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su. F

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve? GV SSR

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout? All nights were available!

:cheer2: :cheer2: GV for Thanksgiving 09

[ACDSNY]

So far I'm 2 for 2...:thumbsup2

Booked at 11 month window
AKV dedicated 2 bdrm SV 11/8 (Sun) - 11/15/09 (Sun)
AKV studio SV 11/14 (Sat) - 11/15/09 (Sun)

I'll be trying for a THV for 11/19 - 11/21/09 in Feb. Wish us luck!

[Paticake]

2 for 2 here also. I called at 11 months for SSR GV, check in Sat 6/27 for 6 nights, I also have SSR at 11 months 2 bdrm dedicated, check in Sat 11/7 for 7 nights. I am hoping to change that to THV when the booking window opens.

[eeyore0616]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other? 11 month window

What dates were you calling to reserve? 11/27/09-12/4/09

What is the day of week of your arrival day? Friday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve? 2BR Boardwalk View

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout? Got it in the first call

[Kewz1]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other? 11 month (which was Christmas Eve -- so glad I remembered to call)

What dates were you calling to reserve? 11/24/09-11/28/09

What is the day of week of your arrival day? Tuesday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve? 2BR HHI

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout? First call

[KristineN]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other? 11 month window

What dates were you calling to reserve? 11/18/09-11/23/09 & 11/23/09-11/28/09

What is the day of week of your arrival day? Wed & Monday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve? 2BR AKV Concierge & 2 BR BWV Standard View

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout? Got it in the first call

[DMKEDM]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?

9 a.m. on first day of 11-MONTH window

What dates were you calling to reserve?

11/22 to 12/1/09

What is the day of week of your arrival day?

ARRIVE ON SUNDAY; LEAVE ON TUESDAY (10 DAYS LATER)

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?

STUDIO AT BCV

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?

It took 3 calls, all of which resulted in me getting what I wanted w/out any problem...I "obsessed" about whether to "walk" the reservation, and ultimately decided to do so...so I called the first day of the 11th month window that included the Wed before T-giving and T-giving night (12/20)...that got me thru 11/27...then I counted wrong, and so would up having to make a third call (on my second call, I cancelled 11/20-21 and added 11/27-28, but couldn't add all the way thru check-out on 12/1 (that's where I counted wrong!) ...then I called again 12/26 to complete the reservation...each call there was no problem w/availability...I still don't know if I needed to walk this reservation and still have mixed feelings about whether I "should" have done so...but I do have our 9-night T-giving trip booked at BCV (the only reason for my add-on purchase earlier in November...hence, no "back-up" plan...)...I should have asked MS if there were still multiple studios available at each of my subsequent calls, but I forgot to do so! Oh, well...it'll be two years (at least) before we can do BCV at T-giving again (had to bank & borrow to do this reservation), and who knows, Disney may have changed the booking system again by then!

[wdw1972]

For almost every resort, every room type, every time of year - it won't be a problem if you call at 11 months. The exception is AKL concierge.

I called 12/26, got through about 9:10am and was unable to get a studio in concierge for Wed/Thu/Fri of Thanksgiving week. None of the 3 nights was available. So, I booked Kidani & went on the waitlist.

With only 5 2br lock-offs in that category, there were only UP TO 5 studios in the inventory, and they evidently are taken by people arriving earlier in the week. But, I'm not going to resort to the game-playing of booking earlier than I want & then canceling nights....that just seems so unethical to me.

[GrumpyBelle]

Exactly 7 months (12/21). Reserved a br at SSR Tuesday 7/21- Tuesday 7/28 with no problems.

[sskem96]

Booked at 11 month window, 9:30am

1 BR Savannah View AKL Kidani

Nov. 26-Dec 2, 2009

Arriving on Thurs. (Thanksgiving Day)

Could not get through on 1-800# after about 5 attempts, got though with first try on 1-407#

[Dean]

For almost every resort, every room type, every time of year - it won't be a problem if you call at 11 months. The exception is AKL concierge.
While I agree, assuming this is true, why was everyone up in arms when this changed was first announced as the only thing that would have made it a bad move is if your statement wasn't accurate.

[Buckeye Fan]

Success - AKV
* Called on 9/21 and booked a 1-BR value at AKV for 4/11 - 4/18. Called on 12/18 and modified the reservation to 4/10 - 4/17 with success. I will say that when I called (10 days after 7 month mark), a standard 1-BR wasn't available, but the value 1-BR was. I went ahead and booked it, so I didn't check the other views for availability.

Success - BCV
* Called on 12/26 around 10:30 and booked a 1-BR for 7/26 - 8/1.

Success/ Partial Success - VB :confused3
* Booked a 2-BR at the 11 month mark for 7/19 - 7/26 with my VB contract (success).
* Called on 12/19 to switch the points over to my SSR contracts. The only days that were available were later in the week (failure).
* Called back on 7/23 and switched 4 nights, 7/23 - 7/26, to my SSR contracts (success).

[danielle782001]

I called at 7-months to use my developer points and book a new trip...I got a two-bedroom savanna view for six nights (I was worried) and SSR two-bedroom for 5 nights (not worried)...My only concern was that we will be in Disney the week of the 4th of July..But we had no problems...

And I have to say I liked that I only had to call once :thumbsup2

[lisa3635]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?

11 months (12/29)

What dates were you calling to reserve?

11/29-12/4

What is the day of week of your arrival day?

Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?

Studio WL

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?

Got it!

[DisneyKidds]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?

11 months minus 1 day (12/29)

What dates were you calling to reserve?

11/28-12/4

What is the day of week of your arrival day?

Saturday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?

2 Br BWV, BW View

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?

Got it!

Have to say I was pleasantly suprised. No problem with this post Thanksgiving, early December reservation.

[DisneyKidds]

So, given the lack of negative responses now that we are past the Thanksgiving/first week of Dec 2009 window, it seems we have one big test, New Years 2010 bookings, before we can declare the new booking system a success. Yes? No?

It seems there have been a few isolated instances of people not getting what they want under the new system, but that may not be happening any more than it was under the old system. It seems us naysayers and worriers may have been wrong, and the new system will be ok. It was nice making one call to get 6 nights for our post Turkey Day 2009 trip, when in the past I'd have called 6 times on a day by day routine.

[DVC Mike]

So, given the lack of negative responses now that we are past the Thanksgiving/first week of Dec 2009 window, it seems we have one big test, New Years 2010 bookings, before we can declare the new booking system a success. Yes? No?

It seems there have been a few isolated instances of people not getting what they want under the new system, but that may not be happening any more than it was under the old system. It seems us naysayers and worriers may have been wrong, and the new system will be ok. It was nice making one call to get 6 nights for our post Turkey Day 2009 trip, when in the past I'd have called 6 times on a day by day routine.

It certainly appears to be a success so far...

[zulaya]

So, given the lack of negative responses now that we are past the Thanksgiving/first week of Dec 2009 window, it seems we have one big test, New Years 2010 bookings, before we can declare the new booking system a success. Yes? No?

It seems there have been a few isolated instances of people not getting what they want under the new system, but that may not be happening any more than it was under the old system. It seems us naysayers and worriers may have been wrong, and the new system will be ok. It was nice making one call to get 6 nights for our post Turkey Day 2009 trip, when in the past I'd have called 6 times on a day by day routine.

I don't mean to be the over cautious one all the time, but I think this upcoming week is still early December booking. Moreover, it will be the first full week of December (ie fully in value season/all days with fewest points of the year) that people can book. Whether that be Sat-Sat or the coveted Sun-Thurs reservations.

I know I'm one that will be booking Dec 5-12 specifically because it's a full week in value season. I can't be the only "points" pincher.

I do agree with you, that Christmas and New Years Eve 2009 will also be a big test period.

Patiently waiting (sort of) for Monday to come around so I can call (without walking)

[danielle782001]

I don't mean to be the over cautious one all the time, but I think this upcoming week is still early December booking. Moreover, it will be the first full week of December (ie fully in value season/all days with fewest points of the year) that people can book. Whether that be Sat-Sat or the coveted Sun-Thurs reservations.

I know I'm one that will be booking Dec 5-12 specifically because it's a full week in value season. I can't be the only "points" pincher.

I do agree with you, that Christmas and New Years Eve 2009 will also be a big test period.

Patiently waiting (sort of) for Monday to come around so I can call (without walking)

7 months out starting Thanksgiving week may also be a big test...I am concerned.

[Dean]

So, given the lack of negative responses now that we are past the Thanksgiving/first week of Dec 2009 window, it seems we have one big test, New Years 2010 bookings, before we can declare the new booking system a success. Yes? No?

It seems there have been a few isolated instances of people not getting what they want under the new system, but that may not be happening any more than it was under the old system. It seems us naysayers and worriers may have been wrong, and the new system will be ok. It was nice making one call to get 6 nights for our post Turkey Day 2009 trip, when in the past I'd have called 6 times on a day by day routine.Are there any reports of people calling day 1 eleven months out and not getting what they want other than concierge? Even if Xmas to NY is a flop, I'd say DVC stands vindicated overall.

[ILuvCrush]

Okey Dokey... here's mine

11mo out (minus 10 days :goodvibes )
2BR dedicated savanna view Kidani AKV Sat Nov 7-Sun Nov 15
got exactly what I wanted

7mo out (exactly)
1BR SSR (on developers points) thurs July 23- thurs July 30th

7mo out (minus 2 days)
OVIR Vero Beach Resort Tues July 21- Thurs July 23

Got exactly what i wanted for July as well:thumbsup2

Paula

[jimmytammy]

11 mos out, 1 bed VWL, booked 1st 7 nights, MS advised calling day by day for remaining 6 nights. Trip will be Nov 28 until Dec 11.
So far, no problems.

[Starr W.]

7 months out starting Thanksgiving week may also be a big test...I am concerned.

7 months at Thanksgiving was tough in the prior system too. A few didn't have their total waitlist come through for this past Turkey week. Wed-Thurs nights were tough to come by this year.

[jpolak]

I will be calling tomorrow 9 a.m. sharp to make my 11 month reservation at SSR.:cool1:

[CT_Bev&Jeff]

Question which I hope is not off topic.

We want to make an 8 night 2 bedroom Reservation for Dec 2009. Would it be best to book the first night, then call the next day for the other 7 nights? or would it be better to book the 7 nights, then wait until the 8th day to book that night?

Always something to think about when it comes to a Disney vacation.

Any help would be appreciated, by the way Happy New Year to all!

[Starr W.]

Question which I hope is not off topic.

We want to make an 8 night 2 bedroom Reservation for Dec 2009. Would it be best to book the first night, then call the next day for the other 7 nights? or would it be better to book the 7 nights, then wait until the 8th day to book that night?

Always something to think about when it comes to a Disney vacation.

Any help would be appreciated, by the way Happy New Year to all!

Book the first 7, then call back and add the 8th day

[CarolMN]

Are there any reports of people calling day 1 eleven months out and not getting what they want other than concierge? Even if Xmas to NY is a flop, I'd say DVC stands vindicated overall.I have to agree with you.

I was one who was sure that we would be getting reports for BWV standard views beginning with Thanksgiving week. We haven't.

I will now be surprised if there are any reports of getting shut out of a home resort, even for New Year's Eve. Perhaps we will get reports of someone not getting a standard view or a Boardwalk view for NYE, but I do not think anyone who calls when the window opens will be entirely shut out of a reservation at their home resort.

[Cinderelli]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?

Called on 12/30 for ressies starting on 7/19, so about 10 days beyond the 7 month window.

What dates were you calling to reserve?

7/19/08 - 7/24/09

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.

SU

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?

AKL Jambo Standard 2 BR

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?

Got the first 4 nights, had to waitlist the night of the 23rd.

If Shutout, were any of the future days available?

First 4 nights available, had to waitlist the final night.

[keishashadow]

vacation plans changed for end of June, had to cancel ressie @ AKV made @ 7 month window as one of my add on days was unavailable (fri, 7/2)

called 12/29

What dates were you calling to reserve?

6/29 checkout 7/5

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.

M

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?

AKL jambo value, standard studio or kidiani standard

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?

friday 7/2 missing

decided to just book WL & not stress re missing day

fyi, BCV n/a, along w/BW standard studios

OKW & SSR studios still open along with 2 other WL studios

[snowbunny]

Called (actually emailed the form) on first day of 7-month window for BWV.
Arrival Sunday 7/5/09, three nights.
Desired 1BR boardwalk view, got it for all nghts.

I was happy about the end of day-by-day booking when the new policy was announced, and no amount of hyperventilating changed my mind. :rolleyes:

[lsutigger2]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
Called at 11 month window, first day

What dates were you calling to reserve?
November 22 - November 28 (thanksgiving week)

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Arrive on Sunday, depart on Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
two bedroom at SSR, hoping to get a THV when reservations open up.

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
First call

Now, I'm crossing my fingers I can get a one bedroom beginning on Thanksgiving day for a week at the 7 month window, at any resort:dance3:

[Disneypirate85]

Called 7 months, less 1 day due to it being Thanksgiving and MS's closed, and got BWV preferred (Studio), CM did state inventory was going fast, and that was in Nove.
But we got ours.....:cool1:

[zulaya]

Called 7 months, less 1 day due to it being Thanksgiving and MS's closed, and got BWV preferred (Studio), CM did state inventory was going fast, and that was in Nove.
But we got ours.....:cool1:


I'm so sorry to have yet another non-report post on this thread...but the bolded red above is the deal.

I'm worried. I need 1 of the 25 dedicated 2BR with 2Q in 2nd BR at BCV. I know that's a small amount of inventory. Not as small as AKV concierge, but up there. And I'm just concerned that the members who can call days before me will have snagged some or all of the days I need ahead of time in all of those units.

I'm sure there will probably be a regular dedicated 2BR, which I will reserve if absolutely necessary, but I so hope I don't have to waitlist for what I need right away.

[dvcnewgirl]

I have to agree with you.

I was one who was sure that we would be getting reports for BWV standard views beginning with Thanksgiving week. We haven't.

I will now be surprised if there are any reports of getting shut out of a home resort, even for New Year's Eve. Perhaps we will get reports of someone not getting a standard view or a Boardwalk view for NYE, but I do not think anyone who calls when the window opens will be entirely shut out of a reservation at their home resort.

I thought also, those of us that are Sun.- Fri. wanting standard views would be shut out. I guess I was wrong too..

Called-exactly 11 months out at 9am

needed- 3 standard view BWV studios.

11/29 for 5 nights.

Everything available on the 1st call. I am shocked and HAPPY!:banana: :banana:

[PrincessV]

Another success! Called this morning at 9am, only had a couple minutes wait for a rep:

7 months out
8/2 - 8/7 2009 at AKV, Kidani
1 bed., Std. view
Sun. arrival

*I'm waiting to make room location requests until reports start coming in about Kidani stays.

[helenk]

Just called for my December dates at the AKV and got what I wanted!!! :thumbsup2

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other? 11 month minus a day due to MS being closed on NY Day
What dates were you calling to reserve? 12/1-12/6
What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su. Arrival day Tuesday
What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve? Studio- Savannah view in Jambo House
Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout? Got what I wanted !!!
I requested Jambo House because I am going solo and figured it would be easier for me to be in the "main building". Since I'll be in a studio it will be nice to be close to Mara.
I was really nervous since I am arriving on a Tuesday, but I did not want to start my vacation on Sunday or Monday because those days are such high volume travel days.

[Inkmahm]

Called at 11 months but at 11 am, not 9 am. I got 3 nights studio at VWL, just what I wanted for Dec 2, 3, 4.

[maminnie]

Very glad to see that Thanksgiving bookings seem to be going well so far.

It may be appropriate to keep in mind that bookings may not be quite typical or as high as usual as people, even DVC members, adjust their future vacation plans due to the issues with the economy.

I know we and many family members and friends around us have adjusted our thinking and plans relative to future vacations even those having/using timeshare.

Hoping that all continues to go well throughout the year with this new booking policy.

maminnie

[Dean]

It may be appropriate to keep in mind that bookings may not be quite typical or as high as usual as people, even DVC members, adjust their future vacation plans due to the issues with the economy.

I know we and many family members and friends around us have adjusted our thinking and plans relative to future vacations even those having/using timeshare.Indications are that WDW is busier this year during typically slower times. It also appears that curtailing longer trips has actually increased occupancy at WDW.

[maminnie]

Indications are that WDW is busier this year during typically slower times. It also appears that curtailing longer trips has actually increased occupancy at WDW.

I certainly hope this is true as it is good for DVC members, cast members, etc. as it would hopefully prevent cut-backs in staff, service, park upkeep, and park/resort special entertainment, etc. like was seen after 9/11.

I have only read a few reports thus far of these problems and hope that we will not see such cut-backs during our visit this year. Maybe the aggressive 4/3 promotion, free dining, etc. is working during this troubled economy.

maminnie

[jpolak]

Called yesterday at 9 a.m. and got right through. Booked a 1 bdrm at SSR for 12/2-12/7. Wasn't really anticipating a problem getting the reservation considering the size of SSR. I might call at the 7 month window just to see if anything is available elsewhere.

[bjakmom]

Success for Dec 3rd '09 ck in - 4 nights BWV 2 bedroom b'walk view.
Taking DD and our future Son-in-law (wedding in Sept) and his 'newbie' parents - he is so excited to be taking his mom to Disney for her first time ever - all adult trip for a change - and at Christmas time, no less!!:thumbsup2

[simzac]

I wonder if the OP is still walking their test reservation:confused3

[zulaya]

Called today (1/5/09) for Dec 5-12 at BCV in a Dedicated 2BR with 2Q in 2nd BR. Was on hold for about 7 minutes, calling at 9am.

Got what I wanted.


So, I guess I'm eating crow. Calling at 9am on the first day, I wasn't shut out of one of the 25 units available and got my whole reservation. I guess it's working if you are calling first thing in the morning.

Call me crazy, I still don't like the concept. But it is working and I guess will be here to stay.

Hopefully the rest of the early December people are having good results and Xmas/New Years will be workable as well.

[wildernessDad]

VWL
11 month window, to the day of check in
Arrive 12/2/09, a Wednesday
Depart 12/7/09
2-bedroom
Dedicated
Reservation successful

[jbrowna]

AKV
11 month window: Checkin Sunday 12/6, 4 nights
Grand Villa at Jambo House

Had about a 20-minute hold time, but had no problem booking what we wanted. :thumbsup2

[TLinden16]

I called right at 9:00 this morning to try to get a Boardwalk view studio in the BWV for Dec. 6-13. I went through all the prompts, and the phone kept ringing and ringing and ringing and ringing, never picked up.

I tried off and on all day, and just finally got through. After a 20 minute wait, there were no Boardwalk view studios available, and no standard view studios available for the night of Dec. 6th, so I had to book a garden/pool view.

This is the first time that I've booked at 11 months out that I was not able to get a Boardwalk view studio for December.

[TheDISneyFamily]

I called right at 9:00 this morning to try to get a Boardwalk view studio in the BWV for Dec. 6-13. I went through all the prompts, and the phone kept ringing and ringing and ringing and ringing, never picked up.

I tried off and on all day, and just finally got through. After a 20 minute wait, there were no Boardwalk view studios available, and no standard view studios available for the night of Dec. 6th, so I had to book a garden/pool view.

This is the first time that I've booked at 11 months out that I was not able to get a Boardwalk view studio for December.

:hug: I'm sorry! :hug: I won't be trying for a BWV Boardwalk View December/Christmas reservation until next year, but I already have nightmares about not getting it. :sad2:

[keishashadow]

I called right at 9:00 this morning to try to get a Boardwalk view studio in the BWV for Dec. 6-13. I went through all the prompts, and the phone kept ringing and ringing and ringing and ringing, never picked up.

I tried off and on all day, and just finally got through. After a 20 minute wait, there were no Boardwalk view studios available, and no standard view studios available for the night of Dec. 6th, so I had to book a garden/pool view.

This is the first time that I've booked at 11 months out that I was not able to get a Boardwalk view studio for December.

:scared1: hopefully, ur near the top of the WL:thumbsup2

i need to call Friday for WLpopcorn:: , which i hope to switch over to BLT in March;)

[jamstew]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11 months

What dates were you calling to reserve?
12/6-11

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
Studio

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
First call

Misc Comments:

I was also able to cancel/rebook an October trip at 9+ months. I had a 2BR/2Q for 10/18-23, cancelled that (after checking studio availability) and booked a studio for 10/18-24.

[DebbieB]

I called right at 9:00 this morning to try to get a Boardwalk view studio in the BWV for Dec. 6-13. I went through all the prompts, and the phone kept ringing and ringing and ringing and ringing, never picked up.

I tried off and on all day, and just finally got through. After a 20 minute wait, there were no Boardwalk view studios available, and no standard view studios available for the night of Dec. 6th, so I had to book a garden/pool view.

This is the first time that I've booked at 11 months out that I was not able to get a Boardwalk view studio for December.

I'm sorry! I had a feeling that the first problems with this new policy would come with this date. That week has always been popular at BWV. I booked it yesterday, arriving 12/5 (but it was a 1 bedroom bw view). I would try again tomorrow, maybe you can get the rest of your dates and just waitlist for the 6th. I started dialing at 8:58, kept hitting redial and hitting 1-1 until it went through (did not get the closed message).

[bobbiwoz]

I'm sorry! I had a feeling that the first problems with this new policy would come with this date. That week has always been popular at BWV. I booked it yesterday, arriving 12/5 (but it was a 1 bedroom bw view). I would try again tomorrow, maybe you can get the rest of your dates and just waitlist for the 6th. I started dialing at 8:58, kept hitting redial and hitting 1-1 until it went through (did not get the closed message).

That first Sunday is the day that I couldn't get for points at AKV for this past December...why did you feel that it would be so hard to get?

Bobbi:goodvibes

[maminnie]

I called right at 9:00 this morning to try to get a Boardwalk view studio in the BWV for Dec. 6-13. I went through all the prompts, and the phone kept ringing and ringing and ringing and ringing, never picked up.

I tried off and on all day, and just finally got through. After a 20 minute wait, there were no Boardwalk view studios available, and no standard view studios available for the night of Dec. 6th, so I had to book a garden/pool view.

This is the first time that I've booked at 11 months out that I was not able to get a Boardwalk view studio for December.

Sorry to hear that you did not get what you wanted and have always gotten in the past.

Despite many success stories thus far (from a minimal representation of the DVC community), I do believe that there may be further issues such as this for other high travelled periods for sought after accommodations and resorts at the 11 month window. At the 7 month window I feel issues such as this may be quite frequent; members not getting what they have gotten for years due to being shut out by those who simply have a check-in date earlier then another. Time will tell. But as some other members have expressed on these boards.....in any system there will be winners and losers. Fairness is what I personally agree with versus just the winners and losers being re-adjusted and I remain steadfast that the former day-by-day system was more fair to all.

As I have stated before, the economy may also be having an impact on the number of reservations taking place. People may be reluctant to book (especially when having to borrow points) due to the economic uncertainty and may be waiting things out before actually booking. This may have helped ones ability to reserve during the Thanksgiving travel period.

Hoping that the new system continues to yield many more positive then negative results.

maminnie

[TLinden16]

I'm sorry! I had a feeling that the first problems with this new policy would come with this date. That week has always been popular at BWV. I booked it yesterday, arriving 12/5 (but it was a 1 bedroom bw view). I would try again tomorrow, maybe you can get the rest of your dates and just waitlist for the 6th. I started dialing at 8:58, kept hitting redial and hitting 1-1 until it went through (did not get the closed message).

That's exactly what I intend to do. You never know :)

I think the main reason I'm a bit disappointed in it is more because of the ringing phone that never got sent into the system, and wondering if that would have made a difference. I let that phone ring for about 10 minutes this morning, all the while trying to get through on my second line.

I know I'll have a great time no matter what room type I'm in. Any room at the Boardwalk is preferrable to being home during the cold Boston winter. hehe. But I do get spoiled with the Boardwalk views, and it's harder to threaten the Jellyrolls pianomen that I'm going to throw water balloons at them if I'm staring at the clown pool ;)

[zulaya]

I think phones have been busy not only for December calls but the RCI thing. Talk about bad timing.

Someone asked why the first Sunday in December would book faster. People who want to save on points will book in Value Season and only Sun-Thurs. Therefore, since December is Value Season, and December 6 is the first Sunday that someone can book Sun-Thurs completely in that Value Season, of course that day will book up faster.

[donaldbuzz&minnie]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
7 months

What dates were you calling to reserve?
01/24-31

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Saturday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
2 bedroom, VWL

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Got what I wanted on first call

[DebbieB]

That first Sunday is the day that I couldn't get for points at AKV for this past December...why did you feel that it would be so hard to get?

Bobbi:goodvibes

As long as I've been a member (1999), that week is hard to get at BWV. It always sells out fast, especially standard or boardwalk view. Members seem to like early December, probably because it is the lowest point season and you can see all the holiday shows & decorations. I know I love it. I always did day by day under the old system. One time I called later in the day the first day and the cm said I got the last standard view 1 bedroom.

[bobbiwoz]

As long as I've been a member (1999), that week is hard to get at BWV. It always sells out fast, especially standard or boardwalk view. Members seem to like early December, probably because it is the lowest point season and you can see all the holiday shows & decorations. I know I love it. I always did day by day under the old system. One time I called later in the day the first day and the cm said I got the last standard view 1 bedroom.

OK...well, the week that follows is always exam week, so I'm not in the search for that week. It was only a lark that I was able to go for the quick trip this year. I'll be booking part of the next week very soon.

Bobbi:goodvibes

[TLinden16]

I called back today, and I was able to get the Boardwalk view beginning on Dec. 7th (I hadn't been very hopeful about it, figuring the Boardwalk views would be mostly sucked up by Sunday through Friday reservations).

I had a fantastic cast member helping me (Buddy), and he modified my reservation to move me to the Boardwalk view beginning on the 7th, and then he booked me a room on the 6th in a preferred view, and put me on the waitlist for a Boardwalk view that night.

So, at least I got my Boardwalk view (a day late) by making the second call. Getting through right at 9:00 really does make a difference.

[ead79]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11 month

What dates were you calling to reserve?
December 6-12

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
AKV - 1 bedroom savannah view in Kidani Village

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
First call

Misc Comments:

I called right at 9 AM, and the phone kept ringing and ringing. I hung up and called back, but the same thing happened, so I just let the phone ring until someone picked up. I was able to get what I wanted, so I'm quite pleased. We do plan to try to switch to BCV or BWV at the 7 month mark, but we definitely wanted to have something reserved at our home resort in case we're not successful with the switch at 7 months.

[CarolMN]

I called back today, and I was able to get the Boardwalk view beginning on Dec. 7th (I hadn't been very hopeful about it, figuring the Boardwalk views would be mostly sucked up by Sunday through Friday reservations).

I had a fantastic cast member helping me (Buddy), and he modified my reservation to move me to the Boardwalk view beginning on the 7th, and then he booked me a room on the 6th in a preferred view, and put me on the waitlist for a Boardwalk view that night.

So, at least I got my Boardwalk view (a day late) by making the second call. Getting through right at 9:00 really does make a difference.Good! Yours is the first report I've seen that didn't get what they wanted at 11 months using the new system. Sending pixie dust so that your waitlist comes through quickly. I think you will get it eventually.

[Dean]

Good! Yours is the first report I've seen that didn't get what they wanted at 11 months using the new system. Sending pixie dust so that your waitlist comes through quickly. I think you will get it eventually.
And they didn't get through until later in the day, they didn't say how much later. They were also able to call the next AM and get everything else on one additional phone call. Given the new system should decrease the total number of phone calls, the new system should help this situation rather than hurt it.

[SuzanneSLO]

One good thing has already come from the new booking policy: while checking online to see if my waitlist for SV studio at BWV for 12/3 has come thru yet (nope), I found out my AK concierge reservation booked on 12/31 for arrival on 5/8 has been confirmed! Sunrise Safari, here we come! -- Suzanne

[KAT4DISNEY]

One good thing has already come from the new booking policy: while checking online to see if my waitlist for SV studio at BWV for 12/3 has come thru yet (nope), I found out my AK concierge reservation booked on 12/31 for arrival on 5/8 has been confirmed! Sunrise Safari, here we come! -- Suzanne

Is that a studio? If so - your welcome!!!! :goodvibes

[DebbieB]

I called back today, and I was able to get the Boardwalk view beginning on Dec. 7th (I hadn't been very hopeful about it, figuring the Boardwalk views would be mostly sucked up by Sunday through Friday reservations).

I had a fantastic cast member helping me (Buddy), and he modified my reservation to move me to the Boardwalk view beginning on the 7th, and then he booked me a room on the 6th in a preferred view, and put me on the waitlist for a Boardwalk view that night.

So, at least I got my Boardwalk view (a day late) by making the second call. Getting through right at 9:00 really does make a difference.

Congratulations! With this new system, you really have to be quick!

[TLinden16]

And they didn't get through until later in the day, they didn't say how much later. They were also able to call the next AM and get everything else on one additional phone call. Given the new system should decrease the total number of phone calls, the new system should help this situation rather than hurt it.

I had tried to get through at 9:00 a.m. on the day I didn't get the Boardwalk view, and the phone just kept ringing and ringing and never picked up. I gave up after 10 minutes (although others told me that I should have given it longer after the fact). I tried to every 10 or 15 minutes until about noon time, when I had plans for lunch. I called around 1:30 and got through after a 25 minute wait.

I like the new system. I'd rather have to make just one call to book my trip. It's just good to remember that for certain accomodations (like Grand Villas or specific views at the BWV or VAK) you have to call first thing in the morning to ensure you get what you want during the more popular times.

[dianeschlicht]

Got it! I called at 9 this morning and was able to get a CL studio for next December 8-11! I had a few AKV points left from this year that I wanted to use, and I thought it would be great to use them at the start of our next December trip.
Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11months

What dates were you calling to reserve?
Dec. 8-11

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Tuesday
What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
AKV club level studio
Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
no problem with anything

Second part:
Dec. 11-15
Friday
OKW 1 bedroom HH area
No problem expected, and none occured.

[patsal]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
6 months out

What dates were you calling to reserve?
June 29-July 10 2009

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Monday
What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
1 BR OKW, no preference
Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
no problem with anything

[nobodies36]

I did two so I waited until I did both to post.

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11 month minus one day due to MS closed on Jan 1
&
11 months exactly

What dates were you calling to reserve?
12/1/2009- 12/8/2009
&
12/8/2009- 12/15/2009

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Tuesday both times

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
Studio @ BCV both times

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Got what I wanted both times

Misc Comments: May include future plans
Will probably call at the 7 month window for both to change out (in a dream world it would be BLT MK view Studio and AKV value studio to see where we want to add on, but will probably have to go standard for both). Will update again at 7 months.

[SuzanneSLO]

Is that a studio? If so - your welcome!!!! :goodvibes

Yes, it is a studio, so, Thank You! I hope you will still have another stay planned.

We never thought that we would be able to book CL, esp with such short notice. We had an amazing trip on the Kiliminjaro Safaris in Dec, with giraffes blocking our truck and delaying us for more than 15 minutes. It made us really want to take the Sunrise Safari when the truck is allowed to stop as often as it needs. -- Suzanne

[KAT4DISNEY]

Yes, it is a studio, so, Thank You! I hope you will still have another stay planned.

We never thought that we would be able to book CL, esp with such short notice. We had an amazing trip on the Kiliminjaro Safaris in Dec, with giraffes blocking our truck and delaying us for more than 15 minutes. It made us really want to take the Sunrise Safari when the truck is allowed to stop as often as it needs. -- Suzanne

Well, that's fun to know who got our room! Yes, we'll still be there only in a 1 bedroom CL! Starting on the 10th I had the 1 bedroom and had waitlisted for it on the 8 & 9th when we had the studio. It was a tough decision on the point difference but I finally decided to try and not change rooms since I had the pts with just borrowing a few. We're looking forward to doing the safari and hope that we can get reservations.

Maybe we'll see you at the hotel or on the safari! :goodvibes

[keishashadow]

What dates were you calling to reserve?
12/1/2009- 12/8/2009
&
12/8/2009- 12/15/2009

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
Studio @ BCV both times

Misc Comments: May include future plans
Will probably call at the 7 month window for both to change out (in a dream world it would be BLT MK view Studio and AKV value studio to see where we want to add on, but will probably have to go standard for both). Will update again at 7 months.

;) get in line lol

have a feeling the 1st week in Dec. @ BLT is going to be a hot ticket when we all get a shot @ it:wizard:

[TLinden16]

Just wanted to update my ressie. I just checked the member site, and I now have my Boardwalk view Studio for my first night. So it looks like I benefited from a walker, as it took about 3 days for my waitlist to come through.

[jjohnson]

Just wanted to update my ressie. I just checked the member site, and I now have my Boardwalk view Studio for my first night. So it looks like I benefited from a walker, as it took about 3 days for my waitlist to come through.

:thumbsup2

[Figment2]

I just booked a 2BR at BWV for 12/10 thru 12/15 (BW view) with absolutely no problem. I did call exactly at opening and was surprised that I got through right away. I can remember calling in past years and being on hold for (what seemed like) forever or getting busy signals.

Cyn

[DisneyJen]

I just booked a 2BR at BWV for 12/10 thru 12/15 (BW view) with absolutely no problem. I did call exactly at opening and was surprised that I got through right away. I can remember calling in past years and being on hold for (what seemed like) forever or getting busy signals.

Cyn

Thanks! Very encouraging! We are looking for a 2bdr BWV Dec. 19 to 23 so I have my fingers crossed!

[alldiz]

Got what i wanted with 1 phone call.
WLV
11-27 to 11-29 Studio
11-29-12-3....1BR
Kerri

Called MS a few days later and added a 3 night cruise on points:cool1:
Kerri

[justwinnie]

Forgot to post my Jersey week reservation:

Called 11 months out-- actually called a day early (Nov 30). Original c/in was going to be 10/31. Since I was on the phone, I decided to just make the reservation starting on 10/30. The 30th was available so I booked it. At this point, I wasn't sure if we were going to start the trip on Friday or Saturday since we definitely want to be there for MNSSHP.

1 BR AKV Concierge

Reserved 10/30 - 11/6/09

C/in on a Friday

[bobbiwoz]

Ok...got VWL studio for 4 nights starting December 12th. May change to a 1 bedroom once I find the total number who will be coming to cheer DDiL on in the 1/2 maraton next January. IF I have points after booking that, then this will be changed to a 1 bedroom. I figured that the studio would be harder to get so I booked it now.

Bobbi

Called first day at 11 month window.
Booked 12/12 to 12/16
Studio VWL
Saturday arrival...we will probably stay off site on the Friday night. We plan to get in very late and we will rent a car.

:goodvibes Success!

[eliza61]

Called today 7 months out.
Success.
1 bedroom savanah view at AKV's jambo house 8/6-8/10
1 bedroom WLV's 8/10-8/14

CM did mention that the new Kidani house was booked up.

[keishashadow]

Wilderness Lodge

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11 months

What dates were you calling to reserve?
12/10 departing 12/13 (3 nights)

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Thursday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
Studio

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
First call

now, to transfer over to BLT;)

[apurplebrat]

Beach Club Villas

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11 month window

What dates were you calling to reserve?
12/3 departing 12/15 (12 nights)

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Thursday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
1 bedroom

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
First call got 1st 7 nights, then called day by day to add additional nights
:cool1:

[wildernessDad]

Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge (VWL)

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
I called on the afternoon of 1/12, which was 11 months - 2 days

What dates were you calling to reserve?
Arriving: 12/10
Departing: 12/17 (7 nights)

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Thursday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
Dedicated 2-bedroom

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
First call

Notes
MS changed the dates from my previously planned vacation of 12/2 - 12/7. They had availability so MS just moved the arrival date and departure date. I retained the same reservation number.

[johde]

I called today for my December 13-18 portion of my trip.
Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11 months exactly

What dates were you calling to reserve?
Dec. 13-18

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Su.

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
OKW Studio Didn't care about view got Near HH

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Got on First Connected Call. Had 1 call that rang then the line went dead.

[cogero]

MEant to post this when I did it. This is for my first trip to my home resort

I called Christmas Eve Morning

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11 months

What dates were you calling to reserve?
11/24/09-12/1/09

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Tuesday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
2 Bedroom Savannah View in Kidanni Village

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Went really smooth took maybe 10 minutes for the whole thing.

[bevis]

I'm sure this has been mentioned somewhere in the last few pages but things are gonna get pretty interesting on this thread over the next couple of weeks. popcorn::

[maminnie]

I'm sure this has been mentioned somewhere in the last few pages but things are gonna get pretty interesting on this thread over the next couple of weeks. popcorn::

I agree Bevis. Christmas and New Years may be interesting but I still feel that part of the success so far over Thanksgiving and early December may be due to a reduction in bookings due to the economy not necessarily because the new reservation system is so great and fair. So we may see less demand for the Christmas/New Years holiday because of economic issues. It seems that anyone you talk to these days is making adjustments in their lives to deal with the troubled ecomomy; vacations being a major one.

There is also a post in the planning section I believe that references the success that members are having in booking certain types of reservations some of which they have not been able to do before or have had to do day-by-day in the past.

So booking success in this day and age may not be an indication as to whether the new system would be widely successful for members under previous and better economic conditions where demand might be much greater.

maminnie

[IWantMickey]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
I called at the 11 month window + 1 day.

What dates were you calling to reserve?
12/13/09 - 12/19/09

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
One 2-bdrm and two 1-bdrms

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
I got exactly what I wanted on the first call! :cool1:

The CM also (without me even having to ask) put in a request for all 3 rooms to be close to each other. I also requested a water view for all 3 rooms.

ETA: We booked VWL. Thanks for the catch, jbrowna!!!

[jbrowna]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
I called at the 11 month window + 1 day.

What dates were you calling to reserve?
12/13/09 - 12/19/09

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
One 2-bdrm and two 1-bdrms

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
I got exactly what I wanted on the first call! :cool1:

The CM also (without me even having to ask) put in a request for all 3 rooms to be close to each other. I also requested a water view for all 3 rooms.

Which resort? :confused3

[lsutigerita]

I called the first week of January.

Window: 6 mos
Dates: June 20-27
Arrival: Saturday
Resort: BWV
Room & Cat.: 1BR PV
Waitlist: BW View
Result: Able to book reservation on first call

[IWantMickey]

Which resort? :confused3

Oops! :) I'll edit it. It's VWL.

[barrysprot36]

Old Key West

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11 months

What dates were you calling to reserve?
12/13/09 - 12/20/09 7 nights

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Su

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
1 bed near HH

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Really easy even from UK, took 8 minutes max.

[DWFan4Life]

I'm new to this thread, I'll post my reservation after I call later today, we just decided to have a Christmas trip so, 10 months from now. :rotfl: Not that long to wait. :lmao:

Have a nice day everyone. :)

[VLee]

I called Sunday Jan 11 and availability was there for a BVW Standard Studio for December 11 - 18. However, I did not have quite enough points for the 7 days and did not want to borrow, so I booked Dec 11 - 16; then was able to call back on Jan 12 and drop Dec 11 and add on the nights of 16 and 17.

So we have a 6 night trip booked; hoping it won't be too busy that week. We were there Dec 7 - 13 this year and it was pretty crowded.

[CT_Bev&Jeff]

VWL

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11 months exactly for each

What dates were you calling to reserve?
12/11/09 - 12/19/09 8 nights - 2 Bedroom
12/13/09 - 12/17/09 4 nights - Studio
12/14/09 - 12/15/09 1 night - Studio

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Friday - 2 Bedroom
Sunday - Studio
Monday - Studio

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
2 Bedroom, Studio, Studio

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Called four times, first for 7 nights in 2 bedroom - no problems
Second for 1 additional night in 2 Bedroom - no problems
Third for 4 nights in Studio - no problems
Fourth for 1 night in Studio - no problems

We are very excited and happy that we got everything we wanted. :cool1:

[rie4630]

Hello - just subscribibg.

[dianeschlicht]

Hello - just subscribibg.

No need to post to subscribe. Just go to "thread tools" at the top of the page and use the pull down menu to add a subscription.

[PrincessV]

I swear, MS is going to blacklist me one of these days. ;) Called around 9:15 today to change an existing Aug. ressie at AKV and make a new Dec. one...

BCV
Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
a bit less than 7

What dates were you calling to reserve?
8/2-8/7

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Su

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
Studio - req. pool view

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
got it

SSR
Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11 months minus a few days

What dates were you calling to reserve?
12/13-12/15

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Su

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
Studio - req. Congress Park

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
got it

[eyeheartgoofy]

Which Resort?
AKV

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
9:00am at 7 months exactly

What Dates were you trying to get?
August 16-23, 2009

What day of the week is your arrival?
Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
1 bedroom, standard, Jambo House

Did you get what you wanted on the first call, or were you shut out?
Got it!

[JACKie SPARROW]

OK, here goes my crazy morning with MS

Which Resort?
AKV

Window
7 month exactly!

Dates
August 16-23

Unit, Category/view
1. 2BR, SV, Kidani
or
2. Grand Villa Kidani (only 5 nights)

Did you get what you wanted?
NO:sad2:
NO:sad2:

I was told there were standard views available in the 2BR Kidani section, but I have to use some banked points so only the SV would work. All GVs in Kidani for those days were booked. However, Jambo had one available-didn't want Jambo!:sad:

Ok, I can see this is going to be a long post so I'll shorten things up a bit.

NO GVs at OKW for my week either:sad2:

I ended up getting a 2BR @BWV-PV for August 16-23. No 2BR Standard views @ BWV either. I am waitlisted for AKV, 2BR, Kidani SV. I dropped my 2BR @ VWL for this, so we'll have to see how the waitlist thing goes because this is the 1st time I have not gotten my first choice at the 7 month window since we've become members in 2000.

Gool Luck to everyonepixiedust:

[bobbiwoz]

JACKie SPARROW, did you think about taking the GV in Jambo and waitlisting for the Kidani one? It seems the GV's a Jambo are pretty special with a pool table and other things that Kidani won't have.

Bobbi:goodvibes

[JACKie SPARROW]

Bobbi, I did think about it but we really wanted to stay in Kidani. We stayed at AKL before it was DVC and loved it. Still hoping my WL comes through for the 2BR. The only thing about the GV is we only have enough points for 5 nights which would require a split stay. We've done them before and since we are driving would be much easier than when we flew down in Nov/Dec. Ah, Decisions, Decisions:confused3

[BostonDisneyKid]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?[
Called at 10 month for home resort, OKW
Exactly 7 months to the date to change to AKL

What dates were you calling to reserve?
Aug 16 - Aug 22, 2009

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su
Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
2 BRV, Jambo House, Savannah View
Studio, Jambo House, Savannah View

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Yes, got exactly what we wanted

[LadyKay]

Saratoga Springs (developer points)

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
7 months (on the nose)

What dates were you calling to reserve?
08/16/09 - 08/23/09 7 nights

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
dedicated 2 bedroom

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Got it :thumbsup2

I did have concerns due to the amount of DPs in circulation and the close expiration on them!
__________________

[RachelTori]

I know this reservation wasn't much of a challenge, but the phone rang longer than normal before it picked up and after hitting "1" there was silence for enough time that I actually thought about hanging up and calling back. I didn't and it eventually went through. :thumbsup2

Which Resort?
SSR

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
9:00am at 11 months exactly

What Dates were you trying to get?
December 20-23, 2009

What day of the week is your arrival?
Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
Dedicated 2 bedroom (didn't make any location requests yet)

Did you get what you wanted on the first call, or were you shut out?
Got it

[DisneyJen]

Just off the phone with MS.

Called at 8:59 a.m. ... got through but it rang and rang and rang. Hung up and redialed and got busy signal. Final got through at 9:03 a.m.

Word of advice ... even if the phone keeps ringing stay on the line as it takes a while to get to the next prompt. The magical voice told me the wait time could be up to 15 minutes ... I was in the que 13 minutes:rolleyes2

Whole transaction took 20 minutes:wizard:

Which Resort?
BWV

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
9:00am at 11 months minus one day since DVC was closed yesterday which was my exact 11-month window

What Dates were you trying to get?
December 19-24, 2009

What day of the week is your arrival?
Saturday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
Two-bedroom, BW view


Did you get what you wanted on the first call, or were you shut out?
Got it:thumbsup2 :santa:

[ldo]

Did you call at the 11 month window?
11 months, 9 AM

What dates were you calling to reserve?
Dec 20-25, 2009

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su
Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
Studio, VWL

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Yes, got exactly what we wanted

[allshookup]

Beach Club Villas

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
7 months at exactly 8:58am & redialed till they opened.

What dates were you calling to reserve?
08/17/09-08/23/09

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Monday (Short RCCL cruise Fri-Mon)

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
2BR-Dedicated

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Got a 2BR Lockoff. Waitlisted for a Dedicated.

[johde]

Called today to finish up vacation
Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11 months exactly
What dates were you calling to reserve?
Dec. 20 - Dec 23
What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Su.
What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
OKW Studio
Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Got what I wanted after 20-25 on line.

[lisah0711]

Did you call at the 11 month window?
11 months, 9 AM

What dates were you calling to reserve?
Dec 19-22, 2009

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su
Saturday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
2 bedroom (dedicated) VWL

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Yes, got exactly what we wanted

[LVSWL]

Well, I wanted to call yesterday and I had to wait for today so I was ever so ready!!!:)
I called at my 11 month(and 1 day) for Saturday December 19th -26th for a 1bdrm at the BCV.
I called at 9 am sharp and the phone rang and rang on the 800 #. OK, I will admit that I began to panic around ring # 475:goodvibes and hung up and called back and got a busy signal twice:scared1: So..at that point..I did the unthinkable and :faint: called the 407 # and :cheer2:got right through!!! AND got a wonderful CM and got my ressie and I am very happy tonight. I was concerned since I had to wait a day to call, but so did everyone else.

[jamstew]

This isn't an 11-month or 7-month reservation, but I thought I'd report it anyway. I called today to cancel an October trip and was able to book 5/19-26 in a studio at OKW. All nights but one were available in the HH area, and I'm waitlisted for that one (and keeping my fingers crossed).

[hjgaus]

Beach Club Villas

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11 month window

What dates were you calling to reserve?
12/3 departing 12/15 (12 nights)

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Thursday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
1 bedroom

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
First call got 1st 7 nights, then called day by day to add additional nights
:cool1:




We called in at 11 months for Dec 17 - 27 and were told by MS only 7 days can be called in now then insisted to call back on 1/24 for remaining days. She said that was the only option.
Should I have ignored this and just called day by day?

[bjakmom]

Well, I wanted to call yesterday and I had to wait for today so I was ever so ready!!!:)
I called at my 11 month(and 1 day) for Saturday December 19th -26th for a 1bdrm at the BCV.
I called at 9 am sharp and the phone rang and rang on the 800 #. OK, I will admit that I began to panic around ring # 475:goodvibes and hung up and called back and got a busy signal twice:scared1: So..at that point..I did the unthinkable and :faint: called the 407 # and :cheer2:got right through!!! AND got a wonderful CM and got my ressie and I am very happy tonight. I was concerned since I had to wait a day to call, but so did everyone else.

I didn't know there was a 407# for DVC reservations!! What is it? TIA!

[DebbieB]

We called in at 11 months for Dec 17 - 27 and were told by MS only 7 days can be called in now then insisted to call back on 1/24 for remaining days. She said that was the only option.
Should I have ignored this and just called day by day?

On the 17th, you can call up to the 23rd.
On the 18th, up to the 24th
On the 19th (closed)
On the 20th, up to the 26th

Call tomorrow for the rest.

[Good Ol Gal]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11 months, 9 am

What dates were you calling to reserve?
Dec 20 - 25th

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
2 studios

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
we got them! :cool1:

[robinb]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11 month window, 10 months & 29 Days :(.

What dates were you calling to reserve?
12/19 - 12/23

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Saturday, but called on a Monday check-in 11 month window due to MLK Day holiday and inaugural festivities.

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
AKV Concierge Studio

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Shutout for 12/20 -12/23

If Shutout, were any of the future days available?
NO! Both 12/21 and 12/22 were also booked. So, anyone calling TODAY with a 12/21 check-in at exactly 11 months or anyone calling TOMORROW for a 12/22 check-in at exactly 11 months are also SOL.

If shutout, did you waitlist? How did you WL? Whole Period, first Day?
I booked 12/19 in a concierge studio and 12/20 - 12/23 in a savannah view studio in Jambo House. I am waitlisted for 12/20 - 12/23 in a concierge studio. The MS agent told me it would be easier to change room categories with a resort (Jambo House and Kindani are considered separate resorts) so I booked at Jambo House.


Misc Comments: May include future plans (for example, calling on Day-2 if shut out on Day-1), who you spoke to, knowledge of CM regarding new policy, etc.

I am very angry with myself. I called at 10 months and 29 days, one day later than the exact 11 month window. I tried to call member services on Monday 1/19 my exact 11 month window, but it was MLK day and they were closed. I forgot to call MS on Tuesday 1/20 because I got all caught up in the inauguration festivities. I remembered to call yesterday when MS was already closed so I called as soon as MS opened this morning and got through right away. 12/20-12/23 were already booked for a studio. A 1BR was still available but it would take all my current and banked points. A studio is available starting on 12/23 but it would also use up all my current and banked points because of the change from Choice to Premier season and the addition of another weekend night.

[BrADmatt]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
7 months

What dates were you calling to reserve?
Aug 9th - 15th 2009

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
2 - 2 bedrooms @ OKW

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Got both rooms on first call. :thumbsup2

[aurorafan]

I had to change our dates from June 4-8 to Memorial Day weekend because of a screwup by DH. I was worried about trying to book a holiday weekend 4 months out, but...

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
4 months

What dates were you calling to reserve?
May 21-25 2009

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Thursday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
Any 1 bedroom they had for all 4 consecutive nights. They had availability at SSR, OKW and VWL. We went with OKW b/c of the lesser points needed.

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Yes :)

I'm surprised and happy given the short notice and holiday weekend :thumbsup2

[goofygal1975]

SSR using developer points

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?

This isn't a 11 month or 7 month, but thought I would post. (Just became members yesterday) 4 months and a week

What dates were you calling to reserve?
May 30th-June 6th & May 30th & May 31st for inlaws

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Saturday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
1. 1 bedroom at SSR
2. Studio 2 nights (for inlaws)

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Yep, got what we wanted!

(our guide called and told us yesterday that there were about 200 room at SSR for our dates...since we were worried about getting a room using the DP. )

[LVSWL]

I didn't know there was a 407# for DVC reservations!! What is it? TIA!
Oops! sorry, just saw this! The number is on the back of your DVC member card where the 800# is. The 800# was busy so I was impatient:rotfl:

[bjakmom]

Oops! sorry, just saw this! The number is on the back of your DVC member card where the 800# is. The 800# was busy so I was impatient:rotfl:

Thanks! Now I see it - something I never knew!

[lisah0711]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11 month window

What dates were you calling to reserve?
12/22 - 12/26

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Tuesday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
AKV Concierge 2 bedroom

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Shutout for 12/22 and 12/23

If Shutout, were any of the future days available?
Yes and No. On 12/22 there was availability for 12/23 but when I called back on the 23rd it was gone.

If shutout, did you waitlist? How did you WL? Whole Period, first Day?
I was going to waitlist until I was told concierge is not a savannah view room. I would rather have the savannah and get my own goodies so it turned out not to be a problem. :)

Or maybe it was the euphoria from buying VGC yesterday lingering :cool1:

[PrincessV]

I can't believe I had to change my summer ressie AGAIN, thanks to freshly-announced school/summer camps dates being released. :headache:

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
7 months + 6 days

What dates were you calling to reserve?
8/16-21

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sun.

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
BCV studio

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Shutout for first 3 days

If Shutout, were any of the future days available?
Maybe, I didn't bother asking

If shutout, did you waitlist? How did you WL? Whole Period, first Day?
No, VWL was available, so I took that instead

[palhockeymomof2]

Called at 7 months to see if we could move our BWV 2 BR over to the BCV since my brother had a 2BR & studio reserved there

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
7 months exactly

What dates were you calling to reserve?
8/16-23

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sun.

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
BCV 2 bedroon

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Got it :thumbsup2

[palhockeymomof2]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
9 months

What dates were you calling to reserve?
10/16-10/21

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Friday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
BWV studio..standard/boardwalk/preferred

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
no standard or boardwalk studios available any nights
got a preferred view studio for the nights of 10/16. 10/17, 10/19 10/20

Waitlisted 10/18
__________________

[jeankeri]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11 months exactly- 9am on the dot!

What dates were you calling to reserve?
12/27-1/3

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
BWV 1br BWView

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Got it all!!

I started calling/redialing at 8:55 by my computer time. Call went straight through- no waiting!

[DisneyDreams21]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
7 months exactly at about 4 pm

What dates were you calling to reserve?
8/16-21

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
2 Studios at BCV

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Got the studios.

**NOTE: I was also able to book 3 nights (8/9-12) studio at VWL & 4 nights 8/12-16 at Vero (OVIR) on this day, just over 7 months out.

[robinb]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11 month window

What dates were you calling to reserve?
12/27 - 1/2

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
BWV boardwalk view studio

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
No and yes, see comments below.

Misc Comments:

This is my second attempt at the other part of my annual NYE reservation. We usually spend a few days with my husband's family over in Tampa and arrive back at WDW on the Sunday before NYE. We love to stay at Boardwalk for NYE because we usually do NYE at Epcot and we walk back to the resort when we're done. It's much nicer that battling the bus or auto crowds. I am a firm believer in the boardwalk view if you're going to spend the points and a standard view if you're feeling cheap. We were in a standard view the last two years and this year I wanted a boardwalk view.

So, I called at about 10:20 eastern time yesterday thinking that I would book starting Saturday instead of the more popular Sunday and then maybe drop the Saturday night later. There we NO boardwalk view studios left for 12/26! None. 80 minutes into the reservation period and they were all gone. As were all the Standard View studios. I asked about the availability of boardwalk view studios for 12/27 check-ins and I was told there were four. FOUR measly boardwalk view studios for the hordes and hordes of people who were dutifully calling at 11 months prior to their check-in date. I was in big trouble!

So, I called this morning at 8:59 and got the "We are closed" message. I redialed and got through and got the s l o w e s t agent on the planet. If I wasn't already a nail biter I still wouldn't have had any left because she was taking soooo lonnnnnggggg. To my relief I was able to snag one of the four boardwalk view studios but not without a great bit of angst on my part. While I had her on the phone I had her check the AVK concierge studio and she was confused about the savannah view studio back-up reservation so I thank my lucky stars that she was able to get in and get my studio successfully.

So ... next year I will seriously consider "walking" my reservations if the loop hole still exists. It will be better for my blood pressure and my nails (if I can stop biting them in the meantime ;)).

[Certifiable WDW Nut]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11 month exactly

What dates were you calling to reserve?
12/27 - 1/1

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sun.

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
BCV studio + 2BR

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Got what I wanted

If Shutout, were any of the future days available?


If shutout, did you waitlist? How did you WL? Whole Period, first Day?


I got what I wanted, but I was a bit nervous. I can see where people could get screwed, especially during the holiday window. I'm anxious to see if I can get the 2BR & Studio for the night of 1/1 when I call back at the 7 month window. Unfortunately I don't have enough BCV points for the entire reservation.

[kaffinito]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
I called at 7 months

What dates were you calling to reserve?
August 26th-Sept 1st

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Wednesday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
1 bedroom unit for one day and a 2 bedroom lockoff for rest of trip at SSR

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Got what I wanted :goodvibes

The process went quickly and smoothly. The CM gave me some really good tips on how to book rooms through DVC.

[paulh]

caled 7 months jan 15th out for 15th aug AKL for a standard studio in kadani got 7 nights no problem then added 2 nights 2 days later

[Debi]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
I called at 11 months. Started dialing at 9:03, got busy signals for 10 minutes, got in to the queue at 9:15, sat on hold until 9:30, got through to CM Sarah, and was off the phone at 9:35. Woohoo!

What dates were you calling to reserve?
December 27-January 1.

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
1 bedroom BW-view at BWV.

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Got what I wanted. I was shocked!

[jekjones1558]

Congrats, Debi! I seem to recall a NYE that you had waitlist woes!

[bzzelady]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
Just a bit over 10 months (3 weeks into my booking window)

What dates were you calling to reserve?
December 6-13, 2009

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
VWL 1BDR
(6-11th on points; 12th on MS cash)

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Yes! Amazingly enough, yes!

Maybe this system may work better for many reservations, but I still have a feeling that we will not feel the true impact of it until Kidani is open and BLT owners are using real points instead of developer points at SSR or Disneyland.

[Debi]

jekjones1558, yes, I had waitlist woes 2 years ago. I wasn't able to call until 12:30PM on my 11 month booking window in January 2007 for NYE 2007. By then, all BW view studios were gone, and I waitlisted. The waitlist never cleared. That's the only NYE that I stayed in a studio, and hopefully the last (point shortage that year). Always 1BR's for me now!

[jekjones1558]

BW view 1 bedroom for NYE. What could be sweeter? Enjoy! :thumbsup2

[kikiq]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
7 months

What dates were you calling to reserve?
Aug 27 - Sept 1

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Thursday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
Studio

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
First I was going to book AKV Jambo savannah view, but my DH asked me to see if we could get a BWV studio. We ended up booking a BWV studio std. My DH is excited to be close to Epcot but thinking he's going to miss his SSR :)

I had a wonderful MS CM. I could hear the keys clicking as I asked about AKV studio concierge and then as quickly as she said, "Just a minute, I can waitlist you". Then checking the savannah views, and didn't even care when my DH asked me to completely change to BWV. I have been very lucky to have had great CMs every time I"ve called MS.

[Doctor P]

Reservation #1: 2 Studios at BCV, Saturday December 19, called 11 month window 1/20/09 at 8:00 am CST, got them with no trouble.

Reservation #2: One Studio, one 2BR lockoff, OKW (Hospitality House), Sunday December 20-Saturday December 26, called 11 month window 1/20/09 at 8:00 am CST, got them with no trouble (reservation took a long time to complete, but there was no trouble).

Reservation #3: One 2BR, HH, Sunday December 27-Sunday January 3, called 11 month window 1/27/09 at 8:00 am CST, got it with no trouble.

[PrincessV]

I've been making changes... again! :rolleyes: But I'm happy to report yet another success...

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
Other - a bit more than 4 months out

What dates were you calling to reserve?
June 2-7

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Tues.

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
Studio - BCV, AKV or VWL

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
I would have been happy with any one of the three - AKV, Jambo, Savanna view was the only available and I'm pleased with that

[murcor]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
I called at 11 months.

What dates were you calling to reserve?
December 27-January 3.

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sunday

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
2 bedroom SSR Lockoff

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Got what I wanted.
__________________

[Debi]

jekjones1558, I had a 1-bedroom BW view villa this past NYE (as well as NYE 2006/2007), and there is nothing better. We watched the midnight fireworks from the patio (had a ground floor villa), people watched for a bit, went in around 12:30 and went to sleep. Talk about convenience!

[DebbieB]

Here's a report of a shutout:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2072957

It will be interesting if there will be more by the end of this week, booking for New Years Eve.

[emacek]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
11 month window

What dates were you calling to reserve?
December 28-January 2
What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
M

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
AKV-Jambo house-dedicated studio-savannah view

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
first call


EDIT ADDED BY CHUCK S: Also please note view or booking category, if the resort has those.

Thanks to Chuck S, laurabearz, simzac, and zulaya for their suggestions!

[teacher2525]

I was able to make a split reservation for August at the 7 month mark :thumbsup2 . I booked AKL Jambo 1 BR Savanah view and VWL 2 Br no problem

[FOTM_Ring_Bearer]

Did you call at the 11 month window, 7 month window or other?
5 months

What dates were you calling to reserve?
June 20th to June 26th

What is the day of week of your arrival day? ie: M, T, W, R, F, Sa, Su.
Sa

What size unit, category, and/or view were you trying to reserve?
BWV- 2BR - any view or BCV - 2BR

Did you get what you wanted on the first call or were you shutout?
Could not get into either one. We were able to book OKW. That was our 3rd choice. If our waitlist doesn't come through, it will be okay. We like OKW.

If shutout, did you waitlist? How did you WL? Whole Period, first Day?
I waitlisted for the BWV, any view for the whole period.

Misc Comments:
The CM was great. Very efficient, used my banked points first without me having to ask. I'm not surprised we couldn't get into the BWV.