I think that you may want to consider that people vacation the way that they want to vacation. I know a lot of people who only stay at all-inclusive resorts because there are no worries once they step foot inside that door. For whatever personal reason they have, it is important to them to make sure that their vacation is totally paid for and they do not need to consider finances when it comes to food, alcohol, etc. It works for them. They know how much it costs and there is a value for them.
And then there are others who find an all-inclusive resort a total waste of money. They prefer to make their own purchases as they go. This way works for them.
What I do not understand is why some people are so offended by either decision a family makes. Vacation values are not all tangible. Club Level is not always a great financial value yet their clearly is a reason some choose that route. Some folks factor in what the cost is and then determine if they will eat and drink enough to "pay" for it. Others want the convenience that the IPO provides. Who is right? The people who run the numbers and decide their family will "pay for it" by eating and drinking enough in the lounge to cover teh additional cost, ot the family who may use the lounge and may "pay" for it or not with the offerings but really wanted the peace of mind knowing that the IPO will be there if they need them?
FWIW- I always break even on the DDP. actually I never have lost a dime but that is not the only reason I like it. My reasons are valid eve if you do not consider them to be financially sound. Sometimes we stay CL and the offerings have very little to do with why I make that decision. Again, I have my reasons for spending my money the way that works for me. My reasons, even if you don't know what they are, should not bother you or anyone else.
For many families a Disney vacation is a very special event. They have saved and saved and planned and planned. They do not want to look at entree prices and have those prices factor into their decision. They want to step back and let the kids all order their own desserts instead of sharing like they do at home. It may be too easy to fall back into those "when at home" habits and for this vacation they don't want to do that and for them this is the best way to go. Break even, lose a little, come out ahead? They are not paying for only the food. They are paying to enhance their vacation experience and that does have a value. I don't understand why some people refuse to respect that decision.