Will the regular DDP ever be more aligned with QSDP or DxDDP?

[got2luvtink]

I've noticed the Deluxe DDP and the QS DDP both have 2 snacks per day and refillable mugs for each guest.

Just seems to make more sense (from the consumer side) to match the DDP with the two other plans IMHO. Esp since an appetizer, entree, and dessert seems like so much food for one sitting. Taking away the dessert or appie (maybe letting guests choose which one they want), and adding another snack per day, would work better for my family at least.(along w/ the refillable mug ;) )

Just wondering why the reg DDP is so different? :confused3

[catne]

it's not the regular dining plan that's Different...it IS the regular plan. It doesn't need to be brought in line with the other two: it's the original plan (used to allow appetizers of course, but that's what they changed when they came up with the deluxe plan.)

The basic "plus dining" as Disney website calls it is by far the most popular of the dining plans, so why would they change it? It apparently works very well for most people's plans. It's the other two plans (Quick Service and Deluxe) that are the variations they came up with to allow people various choices on dining plans.

The deluxe is not for everyone, but some people really enjoy that way of eating (we do, on short trips.) For what it's worth, we rarely use the refillable mug on the deluxe plan, and barely use the snack credits.

The quick service was developed in response to people wanting a dining plan with no table service restaurants.

[MamaCoog]

I completely understand what you mean! The DDP just doesnt have enough for our family. We dont really care to bring food with us so we eat all three meals on property at point everyday. So, say if we use our snack credit for breakfast, CS for lunch and TS for dinner, we would more than likely pay OOP for a snack(s) throughout the day. If we saved the snack credit, we would have to pay OOP for whatever meal wasnt the CS or TS. If the goal is for me to prepay for my food, I dont want to have to allot extra money for several OOP meals. That kind of defeats the purpose of prepaying. :confused3 We always buy at least one refillable mug because I like them as souvenirs and often drink out of them at home. On the other hand, the DxDDP is just too much food for us. We dont need both app and dessert with every meal and its a HUGE price jump from DDP. I just wish there was more middle ground between these two plans. I would be happy with 2 CS, 1 TS, 1-2 Snacks per day with app or dessert but not both required for each meal.

[prncess674]

Just seems to make more sense (from the consumer side) to match the DDP with the two other plans IMHO. Esp since an appetizer, entree, and dessert seems like so much food for one sitting. Taking away the dessert or appie (maybe letting guests choose which one they want), They don't offer a choice of appetizer or dessert because what would happen is parties would split an app and split a dessert hence making it essentially a 3 course meal but yet WDW would have a table tied up longer with no additional revenue.

[catne]

They don't offer a choice of appetizer or dessert because what would happen is parties would split an app and split a dessert hence making it essentially a 3 course meal but yet WDW would have a table tied up longer with no additional revenue.

And desserts are less expensive to make in most cases...desserts can generally be made up well in advance, and in large quantities. And they can be stored so there is less waste involved. You can make a huge layer cake on Monday and if all the pieces don't get sold that day you can still serve it on Tuesday. Can't do that with deep-fried calamari though;)

[princessallegra]

We think the "new" regular DDP STINKS without the appetizer. We personally are not big dessert eaters, but LOVE a great appetizer. So even though we still do the DDP every time, it really stinks that we're forced into dessert. Boo! We used to do the "old" DDP with the app, entree, dessert and that was perfect.

[asmit4]

I completely understand what you mean! The DDP just doesnt have enough for our family. We dont really care to bring food with us so we eat all three meals on property at point everyday. So, say if we use our snack credit for breakfast, CS for lunch and TS for dinner, we would more than likely pay OOP for a snack(s) throughout the day. If we saved the snack credit, we would have to pay OOP for whatever meal wasnt the CS or TS. If the goal is for me to prepay for my food, I dont want to have to allot extra money for several OOP meals. That kind of defeats the purpose of prepaying. :confused3 We always buy at least one refillable mug because I like them as souvenirs and often drink out of them at home. On the other hand, the DxDDP is just too much food for us. We dont need both app and dessert with every meal and its a HUGE price jump from DDP. I just wish there was more middle ground between these two plans. I would be happy with 2 CS, 1 TS, 1-2 Snacks per day with app or dessert but not both required for each meal.

I could not have said this better myself. I know it's not DW's job to make me happy, but 2CS, 1TS, and 1-2 snacks per day would be PERFECT. It's how most people I know eat. Then again- most people love the DDP so who am I to know what most people like! LOL!
I feel like the deluxe plan for us is too much, and the plus plan is too little. I want 3 'squares' a day and 1-2 snacks. I think making a plan in between the plus and deluxe would be great. SURE- I could spend the $$$ and do this using the deluxe but that's a waste of $$$ for us since we only want 1-1 credit TS per day.
Everyone chimes in all the time with 'the plan is not for everyone'...'don't do the plan if you don't like it, we like it!' blah blah blah. I think the plans are fine- I just wish there was a plan that fit what our family would use.

[kaytieeldr]

Just seems to make more sense (from the consumer side) And there's the catch.

First, the DDP is the original version of the Dining Plan - the 'basic' plan. It's had exactly the same components since it started in January 2005. The Deluxe Plan, being more expensive, has added features - including the mug and an additional snack - at a much higher cost. The newest version, the Quick Service plan, at not much less cost than the Basic plan, has the same mug and the same two snacks.

But, more important - not making changes makes more sense from the BUSINESS point of view.

Taking away the dessert or appie (maybe letting guests choose which one they want), This is a rrequent complaint, and the answer remains the same. Appetizers were removed for two reasons: cost (desserts are less expensive and overall less labor-instensive) and to allow faster table turnover. By allowing a choice, you negate both reasons for the change and add a third complication: parties of multiple persons where some choose appetizers and others choose desserts, and all share. Also not going to change, since the current version works well for Walt Disney World.

[kaytieeldr]

We think the "new" regular DDP STINKS without the appetizer. We personally are not big dessert eaters, but LOVE a great appetizer. So even though we still do the DDP every time, it really stinks that we're forced into dessert. Boo! We used to do the "old" DDP with the app, entree, dessert and that was perfect.
Then, respectfully, since your dining habits/desires don't mesh with any plan, you might want to consider instead estimating your dining costs and purchasing a Disney Gift Card instead of a Dining Plan, and using the GC to pay for your meals.

[kaytieeldr]

I would be happy with 2 CS, 1 TS, 1-2 Snacks per day with app or dessert but not both required for each meal.I could not have said this better myself. I know it's not DW's job to make me happy, but 2CS, 1TS, and 1-2 snacks per day would be PERFECT. So, what would be a fair rate for that plan? DDP is $41.99 going up to $47.99 at peak times; QSDP is $31.99. You want to add a CS meal. Thirteen to fifteen dollars sounds reasonable - remember, the dining plans really AREN'T about saving money, they're about convenience.

So, would you all be willing to pay between $54.99 and $62.99 for this compromise plan?

[SereneOne]

We went with the free QS plan, but plan on getting it for future trips. That way breakfast, lunch and snacks are taken care of and we just have table service to contend with, but that way we get to share our appie and our dessert, can order a mixed drink without a hassle.

[MamaCoog]

So, what would be a fair rate for that plan? DDP is $41.99 going up to $47.99 at peak times; QSDP is $31.99. You want to add a CS meal. Thirteen to fifteen dollars sounds reasonable - remember, the dining plans really AREN'T about saving money, they're about convenience.

So, would you all be willing to pay between $54.99 and $62.99 for this compromise plan?

Well, being that this is a theoretical discussion and that I, in no way, expect WDW to change any of these plans, it really is irrelevant what I think it should cost. I do not purchase the dining plans because they don't fit my family's needs and are not cost beneficial to us so it doesn't matter to me either way. BUT I think that the cost difference between the DDP and DxDDP is just outrageous... $583 more for our next trip. That is more than double what we would pay for the DDP ($571) and I just can't justify spending that much more for one more meal a day and some appetizers. I would rather pay OOP for all my meals and eat fewer expensive TS or eat off property. Of course, this is all based on my family's eating habits, budget and needs. Others may find the plans perfect for them.

[ReneeA]

Personally the regular DDP works great for our family. I don't mind throwing a couple boxes of granola bars in the suitcase for early mornings on the busses. It doesn't take much time or effort to do at all - and personally, we like to get to the parks for rope drop frequently during our trips. I don't want to have to take the time to stand in line or sit down and eat breakfast before that. I can't imagine spending the time for 2-3 TS meals a day like on the DxDDP, but I do enjoy one TS meal a day...otherwise I'd go with the QSDP.

[niknak310]

I completely understand what you mean! The DDP just doesnt have enough for our family. We dont really care to bring food with us so we eat all three meals on property at point everyday. So, say if we use our snack credit for breakfast, CS for lunch and TS for dinner, we would more than likely pay OOP for a snack(s) throughout the day. If we saved the snack credit, we would have to pay OOP for whatever meal wasnt the CS or TS. If the goal is for me to prepay for my food, I dont want to have to allot extra money for several OOP meals. That kind of defeats the purpose of prepaying. :confused3 We always buy at least one refillable mug because I like them as souvenirs and often drink out of them at home. On the other hand, the DxDDP is just too much food for us. We dont need both app and dessert with every meal and its a HUGE price jump from DDP. I just wish there was more middle ground between these two plans. I would be happy with 2 CS, 1 TS, 1-2 Snacks per day with app or dessert but not both required for each meal.


Good point. I too vote for 2-CS, 1-TS and snacks...that would be perfect for our family. However we are visiting in August for the first time and I wonder if our food intake will be less due to the hot weather. The refill mugs make a lot of sense in the summer since fluids are so important.

[princessallegra]

Then, respectfully, since your dining habits/desires don't mesh with any plan, you might want to consider instead estimating your dining costs and purchasing a Disney Gift Card instead of a Dining Plan, and using the GC to pay for your meals.


We make it work with the reg DDP. It's not perfect, but it works. I still want my appetizer though!!!!

ETA: If I was going to pay OOP I would just do so on my rewards debit card. No reason to buy a GC for that.

[maggiew]

If the dining plan doesn't fit the way you eat, then don't get it??? The plan doesn't fit the way we eat, so we don't get it. Not a big deal. Personally, for our family the regular plan is too MUCH food. We still usually eat one table service and one counter service per day, but we don't get 4 full meals for the 4 of us. One of my DDs (both teens) might share an entree with me and one might get an appetizer. etc.

Maggie

[asmit4]

So, what would be a fair rate for that plan? DDP is $41.99 going up to $47.99 at peak times; QSDP is $31.99. You want to add a CS meal. Thirteen to fifteen dollars sounds reasonable - remember, the dining plans really AREN'T about saving money, they're about convenience.

So, would you all be willing to pay between $54.99 and $62.99 for this compromise plan?

Absolutely! I just love the convenience of showing up, eating the way I want to and not having to think about what things cost. I'd gladly pay 54.99 for that plan. I think many others would to. I think a lot of people don't want 3TS meals, and over 70pp seems like a lot if you aren't going to eat that much. I think a lot of people want to eat CS at their resort for breakfast, then go to the park. Eat a CS for lunch at the parks. Then leave the parks and have a nice relaxing TS for dinner.

It's not about saving $$$, so much as convenience and not having to think about the $$$ issue. I think with deluxe- we are overspending for what we eat, and with the regular we are having to pay OOP for too much.

As an aside- I'm hoping to go in the fall for 4 nights. I am going to probably end up booking 2 ressies....1 for 3 nights on deluxe, and 1 for 1 night since we leave early in the AM the following day for a red eye flight and don't need the extra days worth of credits. (sharing credits works for large CS meals for us too spreading out credits more)

Everyone obviously has to do what works for them. For us- we eat 2CS, 1-2 snacks, and 1 TS per day...so working with that- and the plans DW offers, I have to work out a system that works for our family just like every other family does. If DW were to offer a system that worked for us that would be great.

[asmit4]

We went with the free QS plan, but plan on getting it for future trips. That way breakfast, lunch and snacks are taken care of and we just have table service to contend with, but that way we get to share our appie and our dessert, can order a mixed drink without a hassle.

This actually isn't a bad idea at all! I'll have to think about that:surfweb: Many places have huge platters of food for dinner. We could just get 1 meal for 2 adults and split.

[Tricia1972]

For anyone who likes the convenience of pre-paying, but can't find a dining plan to fit them, how about getting a Disney Gift Card? If you over-estimate what you'll spend, you have some extra cash for souvenirs at Disney. :goodvibes

[EclecticWAHM]

Good point. I too vote for 2-CS, 1-TS and snacks...that would be perfect for our family. However we are visiting in August for the first time and I wonder if our food intake will be less due to the hot weather. The refill mugs make a lot of sense in the summer since fluids are so important.

I like that idea, but I'd prefer a 2-TS, 1CS and snacks plan. It would be ideal to have a sit-down breakfast and dinner with a CS lunch and snacks.m I'd love that.

[kaytieeldr]

But then you're getting into TOO many versions, and too much confusion. Really, the Deluxe Plan provides exactly what you want, with flexibility: three meal credits per night that you can allocate any way you choose. You can opt to get a counter service and two table service meals per day. I know if I were getting the DxDDP, I'd have breakfast OR an early lunch, and a Signature dinner every day. I don't eat three meals.

[lblume91]

We've done the original DP for our last 3 trips. In '06 & '07, it included the appetizer (& dessert) & the tip. It was WAY too much food for our family. When we go out locally, we may order 1 appy for the whole table to split. Getting 3 appys (as oldest DD was "adult") was too much. Now that middle DD is "adult", it would be 4 for the table. :scared1: That being said, my DDs & I prefer dessert but DH is not a sweet eater so he misses the appys. The thing we agree on is missing the tip being included. I didn't like having to set aside cash for tips. We don't link a credit card to our KTTW cards. I would gladly pay the extra $4 or $5/person/day to cover the 1 TS tip just to have the tips prepaid as well. I know some people say service was not as good when tips were guaranteed but we didn't experience that. We take pop tarts & granola bars for a quick breakfast in the room before heading out, eat lunch around 11:00, snack mid-afternoon, then dinner at 7:00-ish. Often times we would get our dessert boxed to go & have a late night snack in our room because we were too full from dinner to even eat it at the restaurant.

[bdklein]

We think the "new" regular DDP STINKS without the appetizer. We personally are not big dessert eaters, but LOVE a great appetizer. So even though we still do the DDP every time, it really stinks that we're forced into dessert. Boo! We used to do the "old" DDP with the app, entree, dessert and that was perfect.

And it included the gratuity. It really was a deal. Now, I'm no so sure.

[stepdisney]

When we go, we go when they offer the free dining so it ALWAYS works for us :goodvibes I agree with PP's and OP that my ideal DDP would be 2 CS 1 TS but only 1 SC. We like a somewhat larger breakfast at times but what we end up doing is purchasing OOP a large breakfast and splitting it. One wants waffles, the other eggs, the other a biscuit with jelly and zoom, we're off to the park. We purchase 2 refillable mugs and that is all we need.

[Mason's Mom]

Deluxe Dining for us:cool1:

We use the sit down meals as rest time. We don't want to take the time to go back and forth to the hotel to rest.

As far as the apps are concerned, Disney is not forcing everyone to get one a piece. We usually get one to share. Then all order dessert:goodvibes.
We use our refillable mugs at night so we can take something back to the room with us. In the morning we just use what comes with our meals. We don't go back to our room after breakfast. We are ready to head out to the parks. I could really do with out the mugs but they are a nice thing to take home.

:cutie::cutie:

[kaytieeldr]

I like that idea, but I'd prefer a 2-TS, 1CS and snacks plan. It would be ideal to have a sit-down breakfast and dinner with a CS lunch and snacks.m I'd love that.
But that's exactly what the Deluxe Dining Plan IS - you get the flexibility of three meal credits per night, to be allocated any way you choose (in accordance with the plan's terms & conditions, of course ;))

TS breakfast or early lunch + Signature dinner or dinner show
TS breakfast + TS lunch + TS dinner
TS breakfast + CS lunch + TS dinner
CS breakfast + TS lunch + TS dinner
TS breakfast + TS lunch + CS dinner
CS breakfast + CS lunch + TS dinner
CS breakfast + CS lunch + CS dinner
etc - there are MANY more combinations, including a snack (plus last night's dessert?) for breakfast + TS lunch + dinner show or Signature dinner

AND you don't have to adhere to the same combination every day.

[catne]

Nice explanation, Katie:thumbsup2

For those that want complete variability in food choices, there is of course the ultimate flex plan: cash. Buy what you want, when you want it. No "have to order" anything. And agree with previous posts - if you want totall flexibility but also want to pre-pay it, put the cash on a gift card.:thumbsup2

[Gwendolyn]

almost 5 years ago the Disney Diningplan included 2 snacks, not 1.
But maybe it was different because I ordered it through the Brittish Disneyworld website?

We thought the diningplan was ok. Although we kind of hungry in the evening. So one day we got the cab to wallmart and grabbed some instant noodles.
We were used to eating 3 decent meals per day. And the ways one could spend their snacks was much more limited than now.

Now we upgraded our free dining plan to a Deluxe Diningplan. And I'm thrilled! Having 3 full meals a day, 2 snacks, and not needing to pay for the resort mugs.

To be honest I think the QS diningplan got a better value though. If you want to eat QS meals only or want to pay TS meals OOP. I mean you get 1 snack AND a 13 USD resort mug extra. For way less money.

[Gelfling_Jen]

If the basic plan won't be changed to include one more CS meal and/or one more snack, maybe they could at least throw in the resort mugs?! It seems strange that it's the only plan to not include the resort mug. If they took away the appetizer, they could have added the mug!

[kaytieeldr]

Nice explanation, Katie:thumbsup2Thank you :) I've said it before, possibly in this thread - my own personal preference, IF I got the Deluxe plan, would be a midday meal - late breakfast or early lunch - plus a Signature dinner. Except, being frugal, that's not a good use of credits :teeth: since one of my absolute favorite meals is the Brown Derby's* Cobb Salad. So, really, my best dining plan is exactly the one you suggest: cash!

*Okay, ANY good Cobb salad! But despite complaints I've seen from others, I do genuinely enjoy the HDB shredded version!

[kaytieeldr]

almost 5 years ago the Disney Diningplan included 2 snacks, not 1.
But maybe it was different because I ordered it through the Brittish Disneyworld website?Almost definitely. The Dining Plan to which I've had access every year since 2005 (January 2, to be specific) has always included one table service, one counter servce, and one snack per night of the stay.We thought the diningplan was ok. Although we kind of hungry in the evening. So one day we got the cab to wallmart and grabbed some instant noodles.Respectfully, Walmart's not close, and cab fare's not cheap. Wouldn't it have been more cost-effective to simply purchase additional food onsite - either a restaurant menu item, or if you could get to a DVC property without too much inconvenience, a grocery item?

[kaytieeldr]

No, it's actually NOT strange at ALL. It's the orignal/basic Dining Plan - with its original components: one table service meal, one counter service meal, one snack, per night. The mug is an added enticement in the DxDDP due to the plan's added cost, and in the QSDP due to that plan's more limited food selection. It's all about the value TO WALT DISNEY WORLD.

They don't NEED to offer a mug with the Basic Dining Plan. They never did, and people still book it left and right. They won't CHANGE that plan. In the HIGHLY UNLIKELY scenario where management determines there is a broad enough market for a fourth VERSION of the dining plan, that's exactly what it would be - an additional version, with different features at a different - HIGHER - cost. But if you want to add a CS meal and a snack and a mug - voila! There you are, smack dab in the middle of the Deluxe Dining Plan with its two snacks, and its one mug per Guest, and its three meal credits per night to be used however the Guest chooses.

[Gelfling_Jen]

No, it's actually NOT strange at ALL. It's the orignal/basic Dining Plan - with its original components: one table service meal, one counter service meal, one snack, per night. The mug is an added enticement in the DxDDP due to the plan's added cost, and in the QSDP due to that plan's more limited food selection. It's all about the value TO WALT DISNEY WORLD.

They don't NEED to offer a mug with the Basic Dining Plan. They never did, and people still book it left and right. They won't CHANGE that plan. In the HIGHLY UNLIKELY scenario where management determines there is a broad enough market for a fourth VERSION of the dining plan, that's exactly what it would be - an additional version, with different features at a different - HIGHER - cost. But if you want to add a CS meal and a snack and a mug - voila! There you are, smack dab in the middle of the Deluxe Dining Plan with its two snacks, and its one mug per Guest, and its three meal credits per night to be used however the Guest chooses.

I wasn't knocking the dinning plan. I got it last summer and actually loved it and recommend it to everyone I talk to. I understand that it is the original plan and it didn't initially come with a resort mug, but either way there is no reason why they can't update it at some point so that it makes more sense compared to the other plans. They have already made changes to it by taking away the appetizer, so it's not like changes haven't been made to it. Although it is a very popular plan, I'm sure that many people who opt for that plan end up paying OOP for the mugs, so while this may be profitable for disney, I'm sure guests on the basic DDP would be very happy to get the mug and some guests may upgrade to the basic DDP from the QSDDP because of this added benefit. I would love to be able to afford the deluxe dining plan but I can't.

On a side note, when you cap and bold words in your response it makes it seem like you're angry and are getting confrontational. I wasn't expecting such a strong response when I posted my casual remark.

[kaytieeldr]

but either way there is no reason why they can't update it at some point so that it makes more sense compared to the other plansWell, but the reason is WDW doesn't see any need to bring it in line with the later plans. The original Dining Plan IS "the plan". If anything, the newer plans would be brought into line with that, not the other way around. It's apparently not a good business decision to add any features - mug or additional food - to the Basic Dining Plan.

[kaytieeldr]

On a side note, when you cap and bold words in your response it makes it seem like you're angry and are getting confrontational. I wasn't expecting such a strong response when I posted my casual remark.

I bolded what I did - There you are, smack dab in the middle of the Deluxe Dining Plan with its two snacks, and its one mug per Guest, and its three meal credits per night to be used however the Guest chooses.in direct response to your recommendation that Walt Disney World add one or more of those features to the Basic Dining Plan: If the basic plan won't be changed to include one more CS meal and/or one more snack, maybe they could at least throw in the resort mugs?! It seems strange that it's the only plan to not include the resort mug. If they took away the appetizer, they could have added the mug! to point out that they did exactly what you suggested - they added all those features, and called it the Deluxe Dining Plan. Granted, they increased the cost to a point where it was a reasonable business decision, but that's only natural. I now realize I missed the part of your post where you feel they should have added the mug because they removed the appetizer.

That, too, was a business decision. After two or three years, Walt Disney World appparently determined removing the appetizer (and the tip) and not replacing them with anything was the most cost-effective move and so the best business decision for their owners (stockholders).

[soontobewed07]

I bolded what I did - in direct response to your recommendation that Walt Disney World add one or more of those features to the Basic Dining Plan: to point out that they did exactly what you suggested - they added all those features, and called it the Deluxe Dining Plan. Granted, they increased the cost to a point where it was a reasonable business decision, but that's only natural. I now realize I missed the part of your post where you feel they should have added the mug because they removed the appetizer.

That, too, was a business decision. After two or three years, Walt Disney World appparently determined removing the appetizer (and the tip) and not replacing them with anything was the most cost-effective move and so the best business decision for their owners (stockholders).

I think people are just trying to share an opinion here. I see that changing this plan doesn't seem like a good opinion to you,but to others it is something they would like to discuss. :hippie:

OP- I think a change would be good we have decided against the DDP this trip in exchange for the QSDP. We are going to pay OOP for 'Ohana and Crystal Palace. I just felt like it was a hassle to either get cash or give 2 cards to pay for our TS meals.

[Gelfling_Jen]

[QUOTE=soontobewed07;35984407]I think people are just trying to share an opinion here. I see that changing this plan doesn't seem like a good opinion to you,but to others it is something they would like to discuss. :hippie:

Thanks :)

[soontobewed07]

[QUOTE=soontobewed07;35984407]I think people are just trying to share an opinion here. I see that changing this plan doesn't seem like a good opinion to you,but to others it is something they would like to discuss. :hippie:

Thanks :)

Anytime. :thumbsup2

[Tara922c]

We are trying the regular DDP this May. I just couldn't justify the price, and the amount of food for the DxDDP. I do plan on paying for one or two meals, and maybe a drink or two oop, but I don't think that price will be anywhere near the amout to upgrade to the DxDDP. I think it would be nice if disney allowed people to choose if they want an appt. or dessert, but I doubt it would ever happen. I worked in the restaurant business for a long time, and only about 10% of people ordered dessert, and rarely did someone order their own dessert. I think disney gives the dessert so the can charge more, and know some people are going opt. out of dessert. Personally, I don't need two snacks a day, but that's just me. I think it would be awesome if they had a "build your own meal plan", but I think they would lead to several confused guest, and several confused CMs.

[SereneOne]

I wished they had it where you could buy however many snack/cs/ts credits you wished. The more you buy, the more the discount.


Let us say someone wanted one day to have a character bf, a counter service lunch and then a late dinner at a signature restaurant, then the next day they wanted a cs breakfast, lunch at CRT and then a TS for dinner, etc. Then the next day they decided to use nothing but CS, leave the next day and have a CB before hitting the road. They would purchase 7 TS, two CS, however many snacks and then add on refill mugs if they wished, just like one can the wines. And no, not the DDP, using a CS in place of a TS is a rip-off.

I am sure Disney will not ever do it, however, it would be nice IMHO.

[monkeybug]

The regular DP worked great for my family. We considered doing the QS plan for this next trip, but other than epcot, we don't love the counter service options in the parks, and the truth is that we had a hard time using all our snack credits last time, not sure we really need another. We are going with the regular DP again.
We don't drink a lot of soda, so we just bring water to the parks with us, and for breakfast we just would have fruit, yogurt, or bagels in the room. By the end of our trip we had a fridge full of uneaten dessert (and I LOVE dessert) because two a day was just too many. I think this time we will try to get fruit or muffins as our dessert with the counter service and then use those for breakfast.

[SunnieRN]

I love food and I love to eat. I have been to WDW with no dining plan, with the QS plan and this trip we will be splitting our stay with part of it at BLT and part of it at AKL. We are also splitting the dining plan. We will be doing DxDDP for part of the trip and QS for the rest.

Since I have a 2 and 4 year old grandson, I can tell you honestly that I am not sure how the DxDDP portion will go, but I am hoping for the best.

To me, the QS plan is an out and out bargain. Two snacks a day, say at $2-3 each on average, two CS meals a day, ranging from $10 to $20, can you say WGPE anyone? And a refillable mug that we DO use.

The DxDDP is a good buy, for certain. We will be taking the boys to such favorites as Donalds safari breakfast, Crystal Palace and more. We will really, truly get our moneys worth, but we normally would NEVER eat 2 - 3 meals a day. If we went to a buffet, we would normally have a lighter dinner, with a snack in between. But, since it is for a short amount of time, we thought it would be fun to try.

I would love to see a plan with 2 counter service, one table service and one snack a day. I know this won't happen, but hey, this is Disney we're talking about here, we can dream. For now, (I may feel differently after experiencing DxDDP), I am happy with QS and an occasional TS restaurant thrown into the mix, but our next trip will be our first ever December trip... Candlelight Processional, maybe Hoop De Doo and we are thinking about at least going with DDP, so maybe we'll upgrade, since this is our family Christmas gift! If not, we'll do QS and pay oop for the rest.

[smidgy]

On a side note, when you cap and bold words in your response it makes it seem like you're angry and are getting confrontational. I wasn't expecting such a strong response when I posted my casual remark.

actually, bolding is a way to emphasize certain parts of a post without seeming like you are yelling. (it's all CAPS that look like yelling. for a long time, I would "cap" to emphasize something, and found out that was "yelling", that you are supposed to boldinstead, so that you don't seem like you're yelling.
(now, in the previous sentance, if I were speaking, you would hear me empasize the word "don't". but you can't hear me speak, hence, the bolding.

I also tend to go overboard with "smilies", but do so becasue I discovered voice inflections don't translate, and people tend to take things the wrong way

[kittycat9]

If you can, try to stay CL, then buy Plus Dining (I know that's not realistic for all budgets). Then you get breakfast covered, extra+ snacks (and an evening drink if you're around), plus your TS.

OR... Go QS, and just buy a few TS OOP if you really want to limit those experiences and have a small family.

In our case, we budgeted for one really great vacay every 1.5 years - and this is it. We tested out DxDP last year, and loved it. We plan on taking full advantage of it this time. We rarely get a date night, maybe 4-5/year. Disney is kid-friendly when it comes to the restaurants so we plan on staying CL, and stacking several of our breakfast credits for dinners and shows with the kids at 2cr locations. I don't like stressing when the bill comes to the table, and that's why I like the set-up at disney - outside of tip, it's covered. And I was even more excited when I heard that we could order Jiko in-room, and tip would be included (still hoping that's the case when we arrive).

ETA: I don't see Disney offering 2CS, 1TS.. It would take away from their DxDP crowd. I think they knew exactly what they were doing when they structured things the way they did. From a marketing perspective - it makes sense to me.

[princessallegra]

And it included the gratuity. It really was a deal. Now, I'm no so sure.

True. Something I totally forgot to mention. That was the greatest trip ever!!! All we paid for was drinks!!! (Alcoholic ;);))

ETA: And souvenirs of course!!!!

[magpomom]

I'd love to see an all snack dining plan :mickeybar :) Guess it wouldn't really be a dining plan, but after looking through the snack thread, I could definitely see myself snacking my way through WDW. Could be an add on like the Wine package :cool1:

[Gelfling_Jen]

actually, bolding is a way to emphasize certain parts of a post without seeming like you are yelling. (it's all CAPS that look like yelling. for a long time, I would "cap" to emphasize something, and found out that was "yelling", that you are supposed to boldinstead, so that you don't seem like you're yelling.
(now, in the previous sentance, if I were speaking, you would hear me empasize the word "don't". but you can't hear me speak, hence, the bolding.

I also tend to go overboard with "smilies", but do so becasue I discovered voice inflections don't translate, and people tend to take things the wrong way

If you re-read the post I was replying to, you'll see that there are several bolded words, so based on what you're saying, she was in fact yelling at me. Her post started out with the word NO. I really didn't expect such a strong reaction to a little idea I had. I know WDW is a business that has to make a profit and they make decisions with that in mind...I wasn't giving an opinion from a marketing standpoint, I was giving an opinion from a consumer standpoint, and what my ideal dinning plan would be if I had the ability to decide.

[Tricia1972]

Point and counterpoint are noted. :goodvibes

If there are more questions of intention of the tone of a post, please take it to PM so we can keep the post on topic. This is an interesting thread, and if a debate about the tone of specific posts continues, it'll have to be closed.

[smidgy]

it's funny. hubby and I had been talking about how we would like a "CS only "DDP. then they came out with it, and it was too expensive, with too much food for us. we would have liked only one snack. no mug, and have it be cheaper. just the opposite of what some have stated they wanted!;). and we like just the bare bones. we don't need a dessert with CS, and those hugedrinks are silly, to us.
so next trip, we will pay OOP and book just a couple cheaper TS.
what I DO like about the regular DDP, with sit down meals, is I cna order the filet without blinking! (but I miss the tip being included.)
since we are fantasizing: I would like a "mix and match plan.:rotfl: like a "Magic Your Way" DDP. prepay for X amount of CS, X amount of TS, X amount of snacks, for the duration of your trip. your choice!! price determined by type and amount of choices. (just to make things even more confusing!:lmao:)

[Gwendolyn]

Almost definitely. The Dining Plan to which I've had access every year since 2005 (January 2, to be specific) has always included one table service, one counter servce, and one snack per night of the stay.Respectfully, Walmart's not close, and cab fare's not cheap. Wouldn't it have been more cost-effective to simply purchase additional food onsite - either a restaurant menu item, or if you could get to a DVC property without too much inconvenience, a grocery item?

We don't have a Wallmart in the Netherlands, so I really wanted to visit it :) Being a bit hungy was a "good" reason.

We purchased a whole tray of instant noodles, because I like them. And we ate every night during the 10 remaining days. In total it was cheaper than spending extra cash in the foodcourt every night :)
And I got to see Wall Mart with my own eyes :dance3:

[DisGirl23]

I'd love to see an all snack dining plan :mickeybar :) Guess it wouldn't really be a dining plan, but after looking through the snack thread, I could definitely see myself snacking my way through WDW. Could be an add on like the Wine package :cool1:

Now this sounds like my kind of dining plan!!! :goodvibes I'd be all over this one.

[soontobewed07]

We don't have a Wallmart in the Netherlands, so I really wanted to visit it :) Being a bit hungy was a "good" reason.

We purchased a whole tray of instant noodles, because I like them. And we ate every night during the 10 remaining days. In total it was cheaper than spending extra cash in the foodcourt every night :)
And I got to see Wall Mart with my own eyes :dance3:

So what did you think of Walmart? I only go there when I want to people watch it's an interesting place. :upsidedow

[Gwendolyn]

My first reation to Walmart was: HUGE! In the netherlands we dont have stores that big.

When I looked at the groceries they sell there, I was shocked to see how much fake stuff they actually sell. Like fake orange juice (water with all sorts of foodcoloring and flavours added, only 0,5% real orange juice has been used).
And all the other additives in all the foods were really shocking. We purchased "dutch" bread, and it was nowhere the same as our bread. It was loaded with sugars etc.

But still, it was fun visiting :) Walmart got lots of different kinds of stuff for sale. People watching is fun to do. And its another peek in the American society, which I really got to appreaciate a lot :)

[focusondisney]

But then you're getting into TOO many versions, and too much confusion. Really, the Deluxe Plan provides exactly what you want, with flexibility: three meal credits per night that you can allocate any way you choose. You can opt to get a counter service and two table service meals per day. I know if I were getting the DxDDP, I'd have breakfast OR an early lunch, and a Signature dinner every day. I don't eat three meals.

Exactly!! This is how DH & I use the Deluxe plan. We are not breakfast eaters so a juice & pastry (snack credits) are good for us ( or we stay concierge & eat there.) Then an early-ish lunch, about noon. A 2 credit dinner about 7:30 where we love a salad to start, a hardy entree & a few bites of dessert. We don't feel the need to "clean our plates" so if we're too full, we just don't eat everything or order dessert. I just checked prices for a 2 credit place where we'll eat: Narcoossee's. For an appetizer, a fillet & a dessert the price would come to at least $60, didn't ever figure in the beverage. If I paid $75 for that day's plan, for the extra $15 I still get another table or counter service meal, 2 snacks & drinks from the refillable mug. So even if we don't eat 3 courses at every meal, I still feel we get our money's worth.

I know eating this way doesn't work for lots of people, especially families who are focused on doing the parks all day. But we are 50 somethings, traveling alone & like to use our vacation to relax & enjoy leisurely dining, with a little theme park time thrown in. Makes our experience more of the "resort" type. There are lots of others who want this deluxe resort experience, too. So deluxe dining fits for that group.

You want to do commando park touring? quick service dining would probably work for you. Want some down time in there, maybe regular dining plan. Unless Disney decides to go to "magic your way dining" like they did with the tickets, I guess these 3 plans are good for a majority of travelers. For the record, I hope they DO NOT go to Magic your way pricing for the dining plans, I'm sure the pricing would be considerably higher than what we pay now.

Now I hope nobody from Disney is reading this thread, I don't want them coming up with "Dining Your Way" next year! Do you think I could get a commission if they do? :lmao: