Code vent....But for a different reason... (VENT)

[SeaSpray]

Note: I am not talking about AP discounts here, because I honestly don't know whether a discount is a true perk (Listed as a benefit) of having APs or not. For this discussion, I am referring ONLY to general public room-only discount codes.


I usually do not use message boards as a means for "venting" but I am just wondering if I'm the only one who feels this way;

It seems that a LOT of people expect the codes, period. They think that Disney almost owes it to the public to distribute codes to the general public, and when they don't, many people get angry about it.

People, the rooms at Disney are NOT inexpensive. Book what you can afford OR are willing to pay, and if a code comes out, then great. But get over the feeling that you are "owed" a discount.

Yes, Disney is a business and wants to make money, but so what? So does every other business in the world. MOST companies do not give out random discounts.

I know supposedly these discounts have to do with selling more rooms if they see a time frame in which they need to fill rooms, but a lot of people are making recommendations to other people that they NOT book their room if they DON'T have a discount,with the understanding that "Disney won't give a discount if too many rooms are already booked". Well you know what? Too bad! Do you want to be that family who missed out on booking a room they wanted because they waited too long, hoping for a code??

If the difference in price means THAT much to you, then I think you have bigger problems than whether Disney issues a discount code or not.

Don't get me wrong, I am booked at the Wilderness Lodge concierge using the AAA discount (I've been a member of AAA for years, and why not use the discount that's already there), and it'd be nice to save a few more bucks if a room-only discount comes out, but we'd be going to WDW and staying at the Wilderness Lodge in a concierge room whether we had ANY discount or not.

Pick a room you can afford OR that you're willing would pay for, and then just be happy if a code comes out! DISNEY OWES YOU NOTHING, in the form of a discount.

Am *I* the only one who sees this situation like this?? Or do all of you basically feel that Disney SHOULD be issuing discount codes...?

P.S. This is not directed to ANY one person; this is the way I've felt on this issue for years now!

[MickeyFlirt]

I agree with you. Although I am watching for a code I will not be mad at Disney for not making them available and the way rooms are booking up I would not doubt it if no codes or very limited codes come out. I maen why do they need to offer codes if there rooms are full? I booked my room at AKL paying rack rate and if I have to pay rack rate so be it, but I am not saying a code coming out wouldn't be nice. I say book with what you want to pay and if a code comes out try to upgrade. I feel lucky just getting FL discounts on AP's and tickets.

[Magic2000]

I feel the same way - Disney does not "owe" me a code or discount. Sure, I love getting a discount, but I always book what I know I can afford at the time. If a discount comes along, great - I'll switch. If not, that's OK; I already booked what I knew we'd like and could afford. Last summer, I booked Pop Century!! We were very excited to be trying this new hotel. Then the codes came out, and so we did a split stay - Pop Century for 3 nights, Wilderness Lodge for 5 nights. We were perfectly content to be staying at Pop Century, but the ability to be able to try Wilderness Lodge (which we did LOVE) was great - and we were still able to stay within our budget!

[Chuck S]

I'm an AP holder, and I feel the same way as you. With my DVC, I rarely use the AP discount rooms, and when I do, they are usually for the first night of our stay since we tend to arrive a day early when we drive to FL (I allow extra time for weather/road conditions). We stop in Ocala to check availability, and if there is an AP discount for a night at POP or AllStars, great. If not, we stay offiste that night...while we certainly prefer to stay at Disney that first night, it has no major impact on our overall vacation. Book what you can afford, and then if a discount code becomes available you can upgrade. Either way, the value resorts are every bit a Disney resort. If you have to stay offsite, there are MANY nice locations for that, too.

I'd never even encourage anyone to buy an AP with the express desire for a room discount. Buy an AP because the number of park admission days makes sense for you, anything else is pixie dust.

[MagicKingdom05]

I don't personally think that WDW owes anyone codes or discounts, but they do really help out when they are released. Sure during regular or value season, the AAA discount works well.

Now my Febuary trip is just a spur of the moment thing because AP rates were available. For my May trip however, I will book CBR again with my AAA rate and then if AP rates come out we will see. $140.50 a night is still better than $166.13 a night.

[WDWBetsy]

I fully agree with you.

Thankfully I have AAA and have booked our upcoming trip to WL with the AAA MYW package + dining. But I won't book something I can't afford and hope that a code comes out enabling me to stay there.

I think codes are great. However, just because Disney has released codes in the last few years - or even last few months - doesn't mean they will automatically do so in the future. If rooms are booking without them, the chances are far less likely that Disney will offer a discount. If they do release them, it's just a bonus.

I've worked in a hotel and know that if rooms are not selling, you offer special discounts or packages to fill them. If you're selling out, the rooms go for the higher prices and no discounts.

Our Sunday newspaper's travel section indicated that cruise prices are also going to be going up due to increased travel.

It's a matter of supply and demand.

Just my 2 cents.

[Beth76]

I voted for the last option (what codes?). I'm currently planning our first trip to Disney. We have AAA, so I was glad to hear about the discounts they offer. Then I started reading about all these "codes". And you're right, people seem to think you can only go if you have one of these codes. So, I'm freaking out. I don't know anything about codes, how do I get them, where do I find them? I still haven't seen any of these codes and am not sure I'm going to. I'm glad to know that some people do actually pay full price. Because I think that's what we'll be doing.

[weluvpluto]

I agree with the majority of what you say but if a person is just going to cancel their reservation if they don't get a code, then they shouldn't reserve a room in the first place. You are 100% right, book what you can afford and are willing to pay.
I just don't like a lot of people giving the advice book it now, then when codes come out, have them apply it to your reservation. If they are not willing to pay what they book the room at, then they should wait to book it. If they're willing to pay rack rate or AAA rate, then by all means go ahead and book it.
Personally, we wait for the codes :flower:

[goofy4tink]

My first trip to WDW was all rack rate...got a package. Who knew any better. But, after finding wonderful boards like this one, I have been lucky enough to not have to pay rack rate again. Do I wait for a code to come out before I book? Nope. I do have APs and have used them to get a better rate. But, since we own DVC we tend to only need AP rates for a night or two each trip. Does Disney owe us codes? No, not in any way, shape or form. Are they nice to have? Absolutely. But, take for instance my upcoming June trip. We are booked at BCV for the first 6 nights. Then I have AllStarMovies booked for the final Fri and Sat nights. I have already told my DU agent to switch me over to POR if/when AP rates come out. I don't want to pay more than $100 a night for those last two nights. I will be quite happy in Movies if nothing comes along..at $111 a night. However $80 a night at POR would be even better.

I have to agree with SeaSpray though. People sure do get worked up about those codes. For crying out loud...just book when you can afford. THen, if something terrific comes out, change your resort. We did that in '03..were booked at POR and when the Fairy Tale pkg came out we were able to switch to Polynesian for almost the same amount of money. But don't sit here and whine about when the codes are coming out and how you just won't be able to go without them. Stay at a lesser resort. Climbing down off that box now.

[DISNEYFAMILYOFFOUR]

Totally agree with you. Right now we have 10 nights at WL reserved. If a code comes out, great--we will save some money. If not, we will still stay where we want to and have a great time.

[mamapajama]

I don't know how many people actually expect codes but I know a whole lot are hoping for them. We are booked right now at Pop with AAA but may change to a moderate with AAA. We have 3 trips planned in 2005 so a short trip at a Value is okay. If codes come out for WL we would like to try that but I wouldn't book anywhere that my budget wouldn't allow at the time I book the room. I also would not book no room at all until codes came out because ...you're right ....you may end up with nothing. You're just setting yourself up for disaster that way. If you're counting on a code to get the rate down & then one does not come out or there are none for your resort then what do you do? You may or may not be able to book something else & you could be S*** out of luck with a room. That would be bad.

I don't feel as strongly as you do on this subject. Being from metro NY $84 for a room doesn't seem excessive to me although I have gotten Values for much less. That's the way it goes. So it's not make or break for me but I also would not spend $300 a night for a room that we're hardly in. I just feel that's a waste of money. I'd have to have a LOT of it for that not to bother me. I don't cringe at a lot of prices there because of what food costs here. Except for the bottled soda...that kills me!! LOL!!

So for me codes are nice but we're going anyway & we'll stay wherever that trips budget allows but it will ALWAYS be on property, no matter what!!!

[CarolA]

SeaSpary,
I agree with you that we see a lof of people who post and seem to think that a Disney "owes" them a code. I have read lots of posts in the past from people who announce that "we are never staying at Disney again since we didn't get a discount" (wonder if they all carried through on those threats?)

However, I see it as Disney is a business whose job is actually to provide a return to the investors. So if Disney can get rack rate then they should. IF thier stock goes up I can sell and make more money then I would have saved on my reservation (hopefullly!) Codes/AP discounts and any other "freebies" are designed to fill rooms. If the rooms are full or close to it, Disney has no reason to offer a code.

I figure that Disney is hoping the combo of the new tickets and free transport will help them fill the rooms without discounting the rooms and they may be right. Only time will tell.

[TigrLvsPooh]

I don't think I'm "owed" a code, but I still watch for them. We've taken about 15 trips to WDW in the last 4-5 years and we haven't paid rack rate for any of them. When there wasn't a code available we just rented DVC points instead. As long as I'm getting a good deal I don't care how I get it. ;)

My vent right now is that there are just way too many posts on this board about codes. Can people not see the huge thread with hundreds of responses from people looking for codes?? I guess not because they keep starting new threads. Pretty soon this whole board will be about codes. :rolleyes: I've had posts and threads of mine locked by moderators, so I say lock all these new threads or merge them into one. And let's get back to talking about the RESORTS!!!!!!! :teeth:

[swilphil]

I take the reserve what you can afford approach, then I upgrade if codes become available.

I don't agree that there should be fewer posts about codes. If that's what people want to talk about, that's fine with me. I found out about the Winter Code special and the AP discount by reading this thread. I suppose it might be nice if there were a Codes FAQ thread sticky at the top of the board, if there's not already. If people want to read more threads about the resorts themselves, then they should start those threads. The DIS board seems to operate under the supply/demand concept;)

[jenr812]

I voted for the third option. This is our first trip to WDW :Pinkbounc and codes are the only way we're going. We were going to go President's Weekend but then found out that for just $400 more we could stay for twice as long the first week of July with a postcard code. Um, no brainer!!!! :) I don't feel WDW owes anything, but I sure do appreciate what they do!

[F1Julie]

I don't think WDW owes us codes, but for some trips, I wouldn't have gone had it not been for a code. Last summer, I got such a great rate for AKL with a code, that I couldn't pass it up. I wouldn't have made a trip to WDW at all at that time but the code was very enticing. We'll probably take a trip this fall, and if a code doesn't come out for our timeframe, we'll stay at a value resort. Otherwise, rack rates for moderates and deluxes are just not worth the cost to me. My rant with people waiting for codes is that they should NOT book a room and then hope of changing it or upgrading resorts when a code comes out. If WDW sees a lot of rooms are already booked, then why would they release a code?

[Gillian]

They don't owe anyone codes, of course. We booked a moderate and will stay there whether we get a general public code or not. The savings would just mean more dinners at the world. The money goes to disney either way.

However, I am insanely jealous of the people getting email or postcard codes!! And if there weren't several new threads every day saying, "I got a pin code and saved boatloads of $$$" I'd probably be less grumpy about the subject. :teeth:

[dpic]

One question--If you feed birds everyday and then stop feeding them, what happens? Do you "owe" the birds food?

Disney created the system you are venting about. If people come to depend on the system Disney created, who's to blame when people get tense when that system is altered?

One point I agree with, wholeheartedly. I have a ressie booked with a AAA for Dec. I do not condone the thought of not making a ressie so the bookings are depressed to help create a need for Disney to release codes. I book when I want to book, I book a room I feel comfortable (not giddy, just comfortable) paying the price. I do not begrudge Disney for charging for whatever they want for a room.

Also, I do not begrudge people for getting tense when hundreds of dollars are on the line. Especially when they are loyal customers who have helped Disney through some tough times.

[DMRick]

Book what you can afford OR are willing to pay, and if a code comes out, then great. But get over the feeling that you are "owed" a discount.

***************

I certainly don't see the majority thinking they are owed a code. Myself, if one doesn't come out that makes Dis affordable to me, I'll vacation elsewhere. I happen to think with a code, it just makes the room more in line with what other vacation areas offer. You betcha I'm going to reserve a room and hope for a code..and I might even cancel that room if one doesn't come...or I might not..but that's my right and choice. However, in the past few years, that hasn't been a problem as the codes have come out (we are now going 4-5 times a year, using either "regular" codes or AP codes..I don't see Disney turning away my money). When I call to reserve my room, Disney CMs suggest I reserve a room, and change over if a code comes. So I go by what they suggest. Why should I reserve "just what I afford", if the past has shown codes for what I want? I don't want to stay in the All Stars with no shade in May, I want to stay in POR in May, and I'm willing to take the gamble. Of course if it doesn't happen, then our vacation plans will change. We , and discovered things outside of the park to enjoy and spend our money on. So if there doesn't end up to be codes, I'll cancel within the time Disney (the people who own the hotel) give me.
Also, we don't spend a ton of time in the parks..so if the AP's stop offering discounts (room, food) we can use, I won't get an AP. Nothing wrong with my thinking that. Anyone can decide for themselves what value an AP is to themselves. Some people think AP's should only be bought for park use..well, that's never been why we buy ours...and that's our right to think that.

[luvmk]

Most of the threads I've read has been people "anxiously awaiting" codes. ;) The tone hasn't been--disney better give me a code or I'm not going. I will admit, I haven't read all of the threads on codes. If I did, it might take me all day. ;) It seems to me that people are so used to codes, that anticipating them is part of the planning process. They already know where they would like to stay, so now they are waiting to see if codes come out. Hence, this is what they choose to talk about. We are going in May and it won't matter if there are codes. I have already set the money aside to pay rack. If we get a discount, then I will apply the extra money to food and souveniers.

I also think the person who mentioned the postcards has a point. I'm sure it can be very difficult for some people to keep reading about how others have gotten a great discount for the same resort they are staying at. Especially for those who have booked what they can afford, but would love to have a little extra money to spend in the parks. After all, it all ends up in disney's pocket anyway! :rolleyes:


Rachel :earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsboy: :earsgirl:

[DMRick]

My rant with people waiting for codes is that they should NOT book a room and then hope of changing it or upgrading resorts when a code comes out. If WDW sees a lot of rooms are already booked, then why would they release a code?
This is the rant every single month before codes are due out. I have just as much right to book a room with the hopes of getting a code as someone does booking a room on the possiblity they may be able to get away and vacation...or for any reason. A zillion people know nothing about codes, or these boards. In comparison, the amount of people who book and will not stay if they don't end up with a discount, are miniscule. If the few (in comparison to the overall numbers) who book hoping for codes are what is filling up the rooms, then I would be very surprised. More people stay in one day in Pop Century alone than are on these boards. Good grief, a few rooms booked in hopes or anticipation of a code are not going to be what breaks the camels back. A lot of people book a value or mod room, and then upgrade to a mod or deluxe once codes come out..because now they can afford more. Same difference, the rooms were frozen..same amount of rooms.
The codes aren't even due out yet (if they come at all), so I guess I never understand why so many get theirselves in atizzy, and start venting about what we should book, who is entitled, etc. This is a hotel, they have marketing directors, they know how many outside rooms are already booked, I'm sure they have a fair handle on how many will cancel without the codes, how many extra they'll get with the codes. This is no small company. At this time, they don't appear to be overly booked for anything but holidays. Based on all the info they have, they'll decide to have them or not. If codes don't come out..I'll make other plans for May. Or go through SOG, or stay outside, or visit the Grand Canyon, or head over to Universal, or maybe visit at Tropical Palms. It's just not a biggy..however, I did make a ressie in anticipation or hope of codes, so I could go ahead with my plane ressie, cat sitter etc.

[Nolcrest]

I don't think I'm "owed" a code, but I still watch for them. We've taken about 15 trips to WDW in the last 4-5 years and we haven't paid rack rate for any of them. When there wasn't a code available we just rented DVC points instead. As long as I'm getting a good deal I don't care how I get it. ;)

My vent right now is that there are just way too many posts on this board about codes. Can people not see the huge thread with hundreds of responses from people looking for codes?? I guess not because they keep starting new threads. Pretty soon this whole board will be about codes. :rolleyes: I've had posts and threads of mine locked by moderators, so I say lock all these new threads or merge them into one. And let's get back to talking about the RESORTS!!!!!!! :teeth:

I have to agree. I remember a while back someone asked for a thread just about codes. This way there was one spot to find them and discuss them. Maybe now is the time for the moderators to look into this. :confused3

[CBCit]

I think you have nailed it! I almost wish I could go back to the old days when I didn't know about these boards or codes and was just happy to get a room!

[paults]

of course disney doesn't owe us any codes but think of this

SMOKERS smoke -- now there hooked on nicotine :crazy: :crazy: :crazy:

COFFEE drinkers love coffee (me)-- now hooked on caffine :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

SKYDIVERS love jumping out of planes-- now there're hooked on parachutes :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:



Disneyites love discount codes -- now we are hooked on CODES :love: :love: WE NEED CODES :banana: :banana: :banana:

[LSUDis]

One question--If you feed birds everyday and then stop feeding them, what happens? Do you "owe" the birds food?

Disney created the system you are venting about. If people come to depend on the system Disney created, who's to blame when people get tense when that system is altered?

One point I agree with, wholeheartedly. I have a ressie booked with a AAA for Dec. I do not condone the thought of not making a ressie so the bookings are depressed to help create a need for Disney to release codes. I book when I want to book, I book a room I feel comfortable (not giddy, just comfortable) paying the price. I do not begrudge Disney for charging for whatever they want for a room.

Also, I do not begrudge people for getting tense when hundreds of dollars are on the line. Especially when they are loyal customers who have helped Disney through some tough times.

You made some very good points.

People here just like to chat about what is on their minds--and since it is about time for codes (going by previous years), codes are uppermost on a lot of people's minds.
Who wouldn't want to save a significant amount of money on a Disney vacation? Plus, we get a lot of new people on here who have legitimate questions about issues that confuse even people who have gone to Disney for years.

I don't mind seeing all of the threads on codes....if I am not interested in it, I just don't open it, but I have learned a lot about Disney and codes from these boards. So, I am willing to pay back for what I've received by helping when I can and listening when someone needs to sound off to probably the only people (us) who really care or even relate to their Disney fix in a world of jobs and people who do not understand or care about "our" issues, questions, or frustrations with Disney.
I'm just glad the board is here for whatever people need to say about Disney "stuff."

Now that my Pollyanna speech is over, I will go read some more threads since there is nothing good on t.v. until the Pro Bowl.

[debster812]

I agree that there have been some threads that just have me shaking my head, and hitting my back button.

I've been fortunate enough to stay at WDW 2x on AP Discount codes. Both times we booked what we could afford (PO-R) and actually had it paid in full by the time the AP discounts were announced.

The first year, we stayed at PO-R, and used the excess money for much of our food budget (booked at $139/night, AP discount $79/night).

The second year, I switched from PO-R to the Cabins at Ft Wilderness. EXACTLY the same money, tons more room, and we were able to eat breakfast in every morning, and we ate 2 lunches, and a few dinners in as well.

I don't feel that WDW owes me anything in the way of codes/discounts, etc. If they happen to have one I qualify for, and can take advantage of, FANTASTIC. Otherwise, we book what we can comfortably afford, and enjoy ourselves just the same.

Disney had to work very very hard after 9/11 and the slump in tourism. Hence the codes became VERY widespread. As the tourism industry has been bouncing back, the discounts are scaling back. I don't think they will ever go away altogether, but they will become slightly more scarce.

Alas--we are not planning on going back until February of 2006. I am, quite frankly, not sure if I can make it that long............

[cobbler]

I voted they don't owe us codes. I have AAA and so I am not paying rack rate right now anyway.

I budget a few ways. The first way is what I am paying right now with my AAA discount. The second way is if there aren't any AP rates for my moderate resort but there is for somewhere like WL and AKL how much the difference would be and if I could afford it. Being that moderate would run 134/night and AP at WL would be 121 (historically). Well then I plan that scenario as well.

I always take the highest cost of the different scenarios and plan accordingly.

Now I do love a code and hope AP rates come out for my time frame. It would save me 30/night. Now will I go if AP rates don't come out? You bet because I am already saving 25/night with AAA.

Would I go without any kind of discount? Sure but it would probably be value and not for as long.

I guess my pet peeve is people telling others to buy APs for the room discounts. Now granted they will probably hand out discounts but if they decide not to then there would be some upset people who just dropped 400 for a 5 or 6 night vacation in the hopes of a cheap room.


I book what I can afford, if I feel like upgrading when a code comes out I will, but I book where I want to stay and what I can afford. And I do it in advance. I booked early Jan for my Oct and Nov trip this year.

[DMRick]

I guess my pet peeve is people telling others to buy APs for the room discounts.
**
I don't understand why anyone would tell anyone that. I say just the opposite. If you are buying the AP for the discounts (that's why I buy it), then wait and see if there is an AP discount for your room (otherwise, if that is yoru reason, it may not be worth it). You do not have to have the AP in hand, therefore, there is no risk.
However, on the other hand..no discount, no AP for me. I only buy them for the room/food discount, not the parks. No AP rates, no AP purchase, and we'll vacation elsewhere. Whatever works for each person.

[dreamflight99]

One question--If you feed birds everyday and then stop feeding them, what happens? Do you "owe" the birds food?

"No...but IF you want the birds to RETURN, you would be WISE to continue feeding them." :confused3

[TigrLvsPooh]

Originally Posted by dpic
One question--If you feed birds everyday and then stop feeding them, what happens? Do you "owe" the birds food?



"No...but IF you want the birds to RETURN, you would be WISE to continue feeding them."

Yeah, or maybe the birds will all head to US/IOA??? :rotfl: :rotfl2:

(just kidding) ;)

[SeaSpray]

Hey everyone :wave2:

You know, it's great to see that this thread didn't get nasty. After I posted it, I was afraid that it might.

I probably shouldn't have posted it because in the grand scheme of things, whether anyone wants, gets, waits for, or expects a discount code is really of very little importance.

It's uncharacteristic of me to post something where I complain, so I do apologise if I caused anyone any aggravation.

I think there are valid points on both sides of the codes issue; Disney owes us nothing in the way of any discounts, yet they have set the precedence of having discount codes for a very long time now so people have come to expect them.

Thanks to all of you for keeping this discussion civil :grouphug:

[EEyorelover22]

Yeah, or maybe the birds will all head to US/IOA??? :rotfl: :rotfl2:

(just kidding) ;)

That's what the birds did that use to eat at US/IOA. There is a thread over on the Universal resort board about people leaving their hotels at US and staying at Disney instead because codes were out for WDW and the rooms at US are very high this year. There are no ENT rates for their hotels this year. This was the Jan-April time frame. DH and DS are going for one night so I've been watching and learning about Universal resorts. I don't have any idea whether their resorts were full or not, but there were several posts that people were not doing US/IOA due to no codes and they were staying at a Disney resort instead for hundreds of dollars less. They have a lot less rooms to fill than Disney so I am not sure of the impact on their hotels. When people are use to paying $150 for a room and then asked to pay $300...it's difficult. There are basically no discounts for peak and regular season that are significant.

So, only time will tell what Pavlov's Birds will do :)

[taximomfor4]

I just looked into Universal, funny enough, for the first 1-2 nights of our week-long vaca 3/26-4/2. It was booked solid at the package rate, and waaaaaayyyyyyyyy expensive otherwise!! Never been there, and guess I still won't. THe only way i was going there is if we stayed on site, for the line-cutting priveleges, lol.

On the AP code stuff, I read the advice on AP rates, and booked hotel WITH AP discount BEFORE buying my AP. If the AP rates had not been available, my Disney trip would only be for 3 or 4 nights, instead of 6. And only 3 of those 6 nights are with AP rate! The food discount for my family of 6 once I add the DDE will make my AP worth it. I am ever so grateful to have heard about the codes -- just wish I had not lolligagged around so long between hotels. That is how I missed the first 3 nights' discounts!

Beth

[DianeV]

My personal opinion is that I can go to travelocity or expedia or whatever and find hotels and get a AAA rate, senior rate, govt rate etc on almost every hotel listed it seems but you cannot ever do that with Disney hotels. I dont feel Disney owes me anything however they are very different then the majority of hotels out there including the Universal ones which you can get discounted rates to as well (there just isnt as much choices)

I just dont understand why it has to be so difficult to get a discount on a Disney hotel and so much work and so frustrating. Nearly every other hotel chain does it and they are not losing money

[vanyel]

Isn't watching for codes part of the planning process, part of what makes it fun? I booked what I could afford with the AAA discount. If a code comes out, great - if it doesn't we're still going.

Right now I have 3 nights at POP & 5 at AKL. IF a great rate comes out, I'll try to switch them all to AKL but either way, it'll be in my budget.

Personally, planning, budgeting, saving is all part of the fun for me. I don't worry about the codes though I hope a good one comes along. Whatever!

[kelscross]

I budget what we can afford and if a code or discount package comes out then we upgrade. This year I have budgeted for GF without a code. Getting AAA next month so I'll use AAA and if a code comes out then that's more to save. Still gonna take the same amount of money though...more to PLAY with!!

[d96j97]

We certainly don't expect a code but are like many...hoping for one! I booked the WL with a AAA rate and am secretly hoping for a code so that I can book GF to surprise DH because it is our anniversary during our visit with our 2 DSs and that is where we stayed on our honeymoon. I check each day in hopes that I can upgrade to the GF without him knowing. Keep your fingers crossed!!! :wave2:

[bengalbelle]

I voted for option #1. We've booked Wilderness Lodge with the AAA discount and that's where we plan to stay-code or no code. I did ask my DU agent to watch for AP codes if they become available because we are tentatively planning another trip in Feb. 2006. If an AP rate comes out and the math works in our favor-you better believe I'm going to get one. Codes are nice and I'll be thrilled if one comes out, but totally not necessary.

I will say, though, WDW got a bonus trip out of us due to the awesome fall rates they put out last year. The rates came out and we decided to go near Christmas. Had they not had the good rates we wouldn't have gone. But like I said it was not a planned trip.

As far as the code threads go - I don't really read them.

[Melrosgirl]

This is the second thread I've read on this board lately where people are complaining about people wishing for codes.

Who cares? Let people want codes. Let them ask for codes. Life's too short. If someone wants to ask a question about if a code is out, let them.

(and to stop worrying about codes in the future, join Disney Vacation Club!) :)

[CarolA]

I don't think posters are complaining about people wanting codes. I don't mind that at all. I do mind people who post nasty things when the codes they want don't come out and we have all seen that. (I have read several posts on here over the years where people get very upset and indicate that in return for "all the money" I have spent Disney owes me a discount)

I sometimes think some people think Disney is like Mickey Mouse, A big stuffed friend, and are disappointed when it turns out to be an big company concenred with profits instead.

[BevS97]

We always plan on the basis of paying rack rate (which normally means we plan on staying off site and just spending a few nights on site to end our trip in style)
As a result of codes, we have been able to upgrade those few nights to nicer accomodation, or spend more nights onsite than we originally planned, which is definitely a bonus, but it doesn't make or break the trip.

I will admit to being frustrated when codes are released and I can't get through to get one myself - but I also think we tend to get into a tizzy on here and think that if we don't get it booked within an hour of the code being released we won't get a discount. In the past I haven't heard about the discount until a week or two later (maybe even longer), and while I probably had less choice I was still able to get a very nice room at a good rate.

[PamNC]

the logical side of my brain has to admit that you're absolutely right. Disney certainly doesn't "owe" us codes. But the side of my brain that I typically use, the right side, wants the darn codes and feels like I am a repeat guest, I am loyal to Disney and I deserve a "perk" or two. We have been staying at the deluxe resorts since 1999. Prior to that we stayed at either All Stars or a moderate. These codes, AP and general public, have afforded us the chance to stay at the wonderful Deluxe resorts. I would have a hard time going back to a moderate but if codes were to magically disappear, that's most likely what we would do. I just can't see paying rack rate, whether I can afford it or not.

PamNC

[CBCit]

The hard thing to deal with is reading about the people who get the random e-mail and postcard codes and not getting a little jealous that their rate is not available to you! Same thing happens on cruise ships when they give out random upgrades and you can't help but feel,hey why not me?
I had a much easier time of it last year when I opened the newspaper one day,saw a FL resident rate ad,said we deserve a little Disney Magic this year(our dog had just died and due to budget problems we had no family vacation planned for the year),picked up the phone and booked the room. Our dates were available and the CM recommended the brand new Pop Century and off we went. No worrying,no computer 3 times a day,no code mania! Oh,for the good old days!

[pumpkinboy]

I think a lot of folks feel entitled to some sort of discount bcs they have gotten them in prior years, when domestic travel has been much weaker (eg time following 9/11). Well, things have picked up, as in Demand, so they no longer need to offer great code to the general public. They can offer better deals only to their most loyal customers (like AP holders or DVC members), or whatever makes the most business sense. So while I'm disappointed I won't get a great deal like in prior years, I'm still getting a pretty good deal.

We also have a permanent "code" or room discount since we're DVC members. So being repeat guests (like so many of you on this board) we will always get a great room deal bcs we've already paid for it by buying DVC. So it's back the the Boardwalk or Saratoga Springs two or three times a year; no waiting for or worrying about codes or any of that nonsense; as long as we own our points, we can and will go to WDW. Now when decent codes come along, it gives us a nice change for those weekend nights (weekend nights are pricy using DVC points, while weeknights are a bargain); so when that General Public BDP code came out in the fall, we booked our opening weekend for our April trip at AKL (or rather rebooked as we already had AAA rates and were waiting for AP rates, which turned out not to be as good as the BDP code).

And since I am also a stockholder, I am glad they are having to offer fewer discounts (as that will eventually trickle into my retirement account, if I don't spend it all at WDW that is)

[Ariel Wanna-be]

I don't think I'm "owed" a code, but I still watch for them. We've taken about 15 trips to WDW in the last 4-5 years and we haven't paid rack rate for any of them. When there wasn't a code available we just rented DVC points instead. As long as I'm getting a good deal I don't care how I get it. ;)

My vent right now is that there are just way too many posts on this board about codes. Can people not see the huge thread with hundreds of responses from people looking for codes?? I guess not because they keep starting new threads. Pretty soon this whole board will be about codes. :rolleyes: I've had posts and threads of mine locked by moderators, so I say lock all these new threads or merge them into one. And let's get back to talking about the RESORTS!!!!!!! :teeth:


The only time I get aggravated about "Codes" posts is when they're looking for codes for dates that I don't need! ;)

[tomerin]

last year we booked our stay at WL for july as room only with a AAA discount and were happy with the rates. i believe the rate was 188$ a night. combined that with the price of the park ticket it was almost 700 dollars cheaper the doing the package thing. my travel agent told me about codes when i booked with her but didnt know if or when they would come out. then a code came out and i was suprised with a discount of almost 200 dollars. it was like free money came my way. i wasnt really aware of what codes were about then but now i am.

actually the info about codes influenced me to buy pap's for this trip so we can do a kid-less trip this winter. the codes will influence where we may stay but will not keep us away from wdw. looking to stay at WL again but honestly we will be happy staying anywhere in the world!!

[gardengal]

I booked deluxe but will have to cancel if a fl resident rate doesnt come out. The cm I booked with recomended that i go ahead and book and expected the codes to come out.

I do think it is in Disney's interest to offer the resident codes. Since residents go to disney more often we dont tend to try to maximize our time in the parks and on rides. Instead we are more likely to spend time and money shopping and dining.

I simply cannot rationalize spending rack rates at the deluxe for something that is not a once in a lifetime trip. However, were I to stay offsite or even at value I wold probably not spend nearly as much as I will staying at the deluxe and making it a more luxurious trip.

Michelle

[DMRick]

They can offer better deals only to their most loyal customers (like AP holders or DVC members), or whatever makes the most business sense. So while I'm disappointed I won't get a great deal like in prior years
*************
How so we know this? The time frame for when they come out isn't even here. I got a code for my Jan trip, I got a code for my Feb trip..and I haven't started to worry about the May trip yet, since they traditionally haven't been released by this date yet.

I'm also a stock holder..and I just want the rooms filled, so they can make money on the tickets, food, souvenires, etc. and keep people employed. Our CM friend just left Disney to work in TX..her and her husband weren't getting enough hours at Disney.

[dreamflight99]

No complaints about codes here... (just filling my pockets with birdseed...LOL).

*eeyore...PAVLOV'S BIRDS!!! :rotfl: :rotfl2: :rotfl: :rotfl2: :teeth:

[ihearttink]

When I went to book our trip in May I was told by our TA because of the Magic your way Plan, there was a very good chance that codes would not be available during our stay. Did it stop me from booking, no way. If codes come out, wonderful. But we are going anyway.

[chobie]

Must have been a slow week on the RB. Where's a pool-hopping debate when you need one? :confused3

[spiceycat]

Disney a couple of years ago - thanks to internet sites like this one - started to offer a general public code or discount - even put it on their websites.

before then they offer codes to only certain areas of their countries....not fair at all (my opinion)

this system is much fairer.

when I talked to a cm last week to make my reservations for a trip I wasn't going on without a discount - and I got a postcard - she acted like the annual pass discounts will be offer soon - but my postcard rate was better.

if new guest get a discount on their rooms - they think that WDW is being fair and will probably return more often.

I think the current method is great - everyone is treated equally - and everyone has a chance at the discount codes. no complaints.

hopefully some of the people who are complaining will get the postcards.

[susy]

It's simply the nautre of the hotel business-nothing more. If rooms are sitting empty-that's not good. That's the only reason any hotel offers discounts. If we wait to book, we'll probably get them. If not, then there will just be less.

I always wait to book. I am flexible as to where I want to stay, so it works.

[Bugsmom73]

For our next trip as much as I would like to stay at a deluxe for 7 nights, we are probably looking at 5 nights mod and 2 night deluxe, unless some great deals come out with packages for the 50th anniversary. I think we will probably return to CBR and then AKL for 2 nights. I would love to stay at the Poly but as this maybe our last trip for a while. I want to be able to spend as many days as we can.

[shatzjsl]

So, tell us, Seaspray, how do you really feel about this? ;)

[marycaym]

I answered codes what codes??? And I do know about the codes and the AP rates and the resident rates and the nurse rates and the teacher rates, etc. etc. What about the "I am a nobody code"!

Seriously though, we have been to WDW 20+ times and on the DCL 2x and I have never seen a postcard nor do I think I ever will. Am I waiting for one, no but it would be bonus, we plan our trips during the time of year we can afford to go and where we can afford to stay, I would rather go in January, when I may need to wear a jacket and stay in a deluxe than in high season and stay in a value if the price is right.

It is all about preference. However, I do think that some people feel they are owed a code....

[bishop1989]

Noone owes anybody anything, BUT as has been past practice, people rely on codes to help them out. Especially people who purchase AP. That is one of the perks associated with the purchase. To say it is not, would be false. That would be like Disney saying dining discounts will be discontinued as well.

[EEyorelover22]

Must have been a slow week on the RB. Where's a pool-hopping debate when you need one? :confused3

:rotfl:
or...can I bring my mug back ;)

[clkelley]

I book when I want to go and the hotel I want to stay at. For us, that is a Value resort. Codes, or rack rate. That is where we will stay.

We have only stayed at a moderate once because of codes (POFQ) and my boys hated it!! (Not enough teenage girls around). I have stayed in a Deluxe for one night for a very specific reason. (I wanted to be in walking distance of the Studios to try and get on Who Wants to be a Millionaire).

So for us diehard cheapskates, we book at a Value early cause they do book up quicker, then apply a code to the Value if one comes available. However, I won't stay offsite unless it's a last minute trip.

I will admit however, that once the boys aren't travelling with us, we may be inclined to try the Moderates with a code more often.

Carol

[dreamflight99]

Must have been a slow week on the RB. Where's a pool-hopping debate when you need one? :confused3Can I sleep "8" in POP? :confused3 :rotfl:

[sherry8253]

My DH and I have AP's and I don't think I am owed a code. However, a code or lack of a code depends on where I am going to stay. No code, I stay at the Swan/Dolphin if I can get a reasonable rate. If I cant get a resonable rate at the Swan/Dolphin then it is a moderate for us. Code, we stay deluxe. I think Disney deluxe resorts are overpriced at rack rates and I refuse to pay rack rates for the deluxes. Also, I don't book until codes come out. And, I am willing to stay at where I can get a great rate when the codes do come out. My theory is if I book before codes are announced knowing I am going to cancel if I don't get a code, Disney thinks that room is filled and it is not. More booked rooms means less discounted rooms. So, while I don't think I am owed a discount, codes or lack of codes does impact where we stay.

[susy]

Sherry, I completely agree!!!! Although, I have paid rack at deluxes when I really wanted to stay there (WL).

[LauraAnn630]

Codes are the only way a lot of people can afford it! I wish they didnt wait so long to offer the codes. Its business tho! I was so shocked and happy to get a code last year! I need one this year too!

[CarolA]

LauraAnn,
I see that you stay at All Stars so don't take this personnally because it is not directed at you!

Last year there was a BIG outcry on this board when they didn't release codes for one month in the year (Aug/Sept?) and I just kept cracking up when I would read "We can't afford to go without a code" and then read that the same poster wanted to stay at someplace like the GF or YC/BC. No, they could afford to go, they just didn't want to go. BIG difference. If you can afford GF with a code you can afford a mod without.

Now I know there are people who need a code to afford the All Stars and I appreicate that, but that IMHO is differnet from needing a code to stay at a Deluxe. A deluxe is a luxury IMHO and there are times I stay there when I am feeling well off and LOTS of times I stay at values. The values do meet the basics, they are on Disney and to be honest they are fun!

[mill4023]

I certainly don't think Disney owes anyone codes. The only reason the lack of codes upsets me is that there are no affordable options for a family of 5. I would be perfectly happy to stay in a value resort if it was an option for us, but obviously it isn't. At $150/night for POR, I just cannot afford to spend all 9 nights of our trip onsite. I'm just jealous that some people are able to get the same room for half the price.

[iloverags2]

Oh, I agree! We will be staying at WL. Made our reservations a few months ago and figured if we got a discount, great. But we were planning on going no matter what, and staying at WL. This just means we can book things like a tour, take a spin on sea raycers, and maybe even enjoy a fireworks cruise with the savings.

[BuckNaked]

Noone owes anybody anything, BUT as has been past practice, people rely on codes to help them out. Especially people who purchase AP. That is one of the perks associated with the purchase. To say it is not, would be false. That would be like Disney saying dining discounts will be discontinued as well.

AP Dining discounts and AP room discounts are two different animals. The dining discounts are listed as a flat % (10?) at certain restaurants. The room discounts are advertised as Disney "may" offer discounts to passholders.

[DisneyDotty]

I have to admit--I'm oblivious to the codes. Wonder how long they've been around--did Disney start them after 9/11? Clever marketing technique--how many people have decided to go to WDW only after receiving postcard with codes?
And, I'd be curious to compare vacation costs between those with AP codes, general codes, and the schleps like me who just call up 407WDISNEY and book room/MYW passes. Or maybe that wouldn't be a good thing... :crazy:

[ihearttink]

AP Dining discounts and AP room discounts are two different animals. The dining discounts are listed as a flat % (10?) at certain restaurants. The room discounts are advertised as Disney "may" offer discounts to passholders.


New AP holder here. You get a dining discount too :earboy2: ? How does that work?

[scanne]

I totally agree with you! We're booked at the Contemporary with a AAA rate. We had a AAA rate in October at WL and were "hoping" for a code or AP rate, but nothing came out for our dates. We went anyway and had a BLAST! We don't worry about what we pay for the room...and that's not because we have money. We save up to stay where we want to and expect to pay rack rate (or at most AAA rate if it's available). I, too, do not think Disney owes any of us a thing. We make our choices based on what we can afford - and like you said, if a code comes out, GREAT. If not, we don't let it bug us OR ruin our planning! Planning is half the fun to us!!!

[LauraAnn630]

Ok, I got a code, tried to use it and was told no more rooms were available. My DH calls today and they let him use the code! Im glad they did but why wasnt I able to use it???

Ive heard of people having to call 3 times to get someone to let them use a code! :confused3

[Gymbomom]

I voted for the codes determine where we stay. We only book for a couple of nights because we always stay DVC, so we look for Fri and Sat night places.
We can always upgrade if codes come out. I plan on booking for our Jan trip for three nights and have budgeted $500 for it, I would love to get AKL or WL for under $150, if not, we will stay at POP.

[cjsmith]

Note: I am not talking about AP discounts here, because I honestly don't know whether a discount is a true perk (Listed as a benefit) of having APs or not. For this discussion, I am referring ONLY to general public room-only discount codes.


I usually do not use message boards as a means for "venting" but I am just wondering if I'm the only one who feels this way;

It seems that a LOT of people expect the codes, period. They think that Disney almost owes it to the public to distribute codes to the general public, and when they don't, many people get angry about it.

People, the rooms at Disney are NOT inexpensive. Book what you can afford OR are willing to pay, and if a code comes out, then great. But get over the feeling that you are "owed" a discount.

Yes, Disney is a business and wants to make money, but so what? So does every other business in the world. MOST companies do not give out random discounts.

I know supposedly these discounts have to do with selling more rooms if they see a time frame in which they need to fill rooms, but a lot of people are making recommendations to other people that they NOT book their room if they DON'T have a discount,with the understanding that "Disney won't give a discount if too many rooms are already booked". Well you know what? Too bad! Do you want to be that family who missed out on booking a room they wanted because they waited too long, hoping for a code??

If the difference in price means THAT much to you, then I think you have bigger problems than whether Disney issues a discount code or not.

Don't get me wrong, I am booked at the Wilderness Lodge concierge using the AAA discount (I've been a member of AAA for years, and why not use the discount that's already there), and it'd be nice to save a few more bucks if a room-only discount comes out, but we'd be going to WDW and staying at the Wilderness Lodge in a concierge room whether we had ANY discount or not.

Pick a room you can afford OR that you're willing would pay for, and then just be happy if a code comes out! DISNEY OWES YOU NOTHING, in the form of a discount.

Am *I* the only one who sees this situation like this?? Or do all of you basically feel that Disney SHOULD be issuing discount codes...?

P.S. This is not directed to ANY one person; this is the way I've felt on this issue for years now!


I'm just going to give another spin to this since we have 5 in our family. Now we're very lucky that we can afford to spend the $400 per night to stay at The Yacht Club when we go if there isn't a discount available but there are plenty of families that can't with they have 5 people. You've got to remember that when you have 5 in your family, it's either a deluxe resort or two rooms, that's the way it is. If your kids are little you can get a trundle bed at one of the moderates, but once they're slightly tall, it's too small.

Disney may not owe anybody a discount code, but they should at times reward those who keep the park going when no one else goes. Most hotels have some kind of program, paid or unpaid to reward upgrades and bonus nights once you've stayed enough with them. Airlines do this as well, enough miles and you get a free ticket. I don't believe that Disney owes a general code, but I do firmly believe that they need to take care of those who are at Disney a lot and spend a tremendous amount of time and money there.

One of the problems that I see with Disney is their hotel rates at the deluxes seem to be going through the roof at times. Again, we're a family of 5 so if we want one room, this is on of our only choices on site.

Now just a quick question (nothing mean spirited at all in it!) if you didn't have the AAA discount, would you be staying on the same level that you are now? I also have AAA, but if Disney does away with other discounts then AAA should also be one of them!

[Phrank40]

Just my 2 cents-

The moderates are usually more in my price range than a deluxe, but if a code comes out and I can get a good rate on a deluxe then I try to book deluxe. On some trips it just makes more sense for me to stay at value or off site.

I don't expect to have a code for a deluxe (or moderate or value for that matter) every time I go to WDW. It would be nice to use codes all the time, but I think the mind set of a lot of people has to change about the codes. They just aren't going to be available in the future like they have been in the immediate past.

The codes appear to be a marketing tool that Disney feels it doesn't have to use at this time. Look for them, but just don't expect a code every time you want to go to WDW.

Phrank

[Becky2005]

I agree. We booked a tower room at the Contemporary because THAT is where we determined we wanted to stay and would be the best fit for our family. I booked it on the understanding that if we got a discount great but if not, I know the rack rate and since this is a "once in a lifetime" trip for us, I wanted the hotel/room we wanted. We are going in July and I think they are booked now. :o At least according to Disney's website. I was trying to crunch some numbers around and the only thing that came up was a 1-bedroom garden suite? (not sure if that is what it was but definitely no wing or tower room). I just did this again yesterday curious to see if any rooms opened up and now NOTHING for the Contemporary comes up for our dates!

I would be crushed if I had been sitting around waiting for a code and then couldn't get into the hotel I wanted because there ARE people willing to pay full rack rate to get specifically where they want.

Of course, I won't turn down a discount either but as of right now, I'm planning on paying the total I was told it was.