A WDW Fan Tackles DLR in California - A DVC TR

[lisaviolet]

And Erika - once HI comes VGC will be almost impossible to book.

 

[wbl2745]

And Erika - once HI comes VGC will be almost impossible to book.

Help me with the abbreviations. HI = Hawaii? Do you mean that when the Aluani opens this will affect occupancy at VGC? I'm curious why you believe that would be the case?

 

[lisaviolet]

Help me with the abbreviations. HI = Hawaii? Do you mean that when the Aluani opens this will affect occupancy at VGC? I'm curious why you believe that would be the case?

Sorry I was on the phone typing with one hand. Yes Hawaii.

My perception is that Aulani opening sales will only bring in more and more west coast DVCers. And in my mind that means even more competition for non-owners at any point for VGC.

Heck VGC is so small that I'm sure even without adding Hawaii - well very difficult.

Look at this thread - Erika and others are wonderful advertisers for the place. Time will only bring more and more DVCers wanting to go there IMHO.

I think I want me some VGC points. I have to to find me some moulah. Thanks SO MUCH Erika.

 

[stopher1]

I think I want me some VGC points. I have to to find me some moulah. Thanks SO MUCH Erika.

Go for it Lisa! You won't be sorry.

 

[wbl2745]

My perception is that Aulani opening sales will only bring in more and more west coast DVCers. And in my mind that means even more competition for non-owners at any point for VGC.

Heck VGC is so small that I'm sure even without adding Hawaii - well very difficult.

Thanks for the clarification. We own at VGC and stayed there for the first time in April and wholeheartedly agree with Erika's evaluation. What a wonderful resort. In fact we're staying at the AKV in December and I wonder whether we'll feel the same way about AKV as we do about VGC.

I agree with you, I'm trying to talk DW into buying more points at VGC and then need to dig up the money for it. It seems like there are so many resorts at WDW that we won't have trouble getting reservations at 7 months, unless we're trying to be there for Christmas! I have 12/1 through 12/5 at AKV and am slowing adding to the reservation.

 

[Tinks "SS"]

Wow, love your TR. you have really made me want to try DL and VGC. I do have it on my plans one day but somewhere down the road. As you said, i live in GA and drive to the world as it's easier and can't see paying the plane cost for a 1 and 1/2 tank of gas for the trip. Will definitely have to try that out soon! Thanks for the wonderful pics of both DL and SW.

 

[Silly Little Pixie]

Sorry I was on the phone typing with one hand. Yes Hawaii.

My perception is that Aulani opening sales will only bring in more and more west coast DVCers. And in my mind that means even more competition for non-owners at any point for VGC.

Heck VGC is so small that I'm sure even without adding Hawaii - well very difficult.

Look at this thread - Erika and others are wonderful advertisers for the place. Time will only bring more and more DVCers wanting to go there IMHO.

I think I want me some VGC points. I have to to find me some moulah. Thanks SO MUCH Erika.

I think you may be right. Many California residents probably think (like I did)- what a waste, why buy DVC in the state where you live? I think there will be a lot of interest in a Hawaii DVC from the one million Disneyland Annual Passholders! And once they buy points, they're going to want to try VGC as well.

I'm anxious for our school district to finalize next year's school schedule so I can see if I can get in another May VGC trip... or do I have to wait for June!!

 

[3DisneyKids]

What a great trip report. First looking at Disneyland and VGC through a newbie's eyes, loved it. Then you headed to our family's old stomping grounds. Loved hearing about the zoo and Sea World. (Next time go out to the Wild Animal Park) You all come back to So Cal soon!!!

Is Wild Animal park better...or just different and thus worth seeing?

where did you get the kids' so cal tix? and do they have an adult version? We're planning a california trip next year and that might be a good option.

Yes, they make an adult option as well. If you just google Southern California City Pass you will find all of the details and prices. And then certain locations offer a discount on the advertised prices, so you can do a bit better. But you can get the passes just about anywhere, including the main entrance ticket booths at DL.

I haven't been to the San Diego Zoo in at least a dozen years, but I do remember it's awesome. There's certainly a reason they call it the "World Famous San Diego Zoo"! Do they still have the skyway type ride where you can go over some of the habitats (and hills?)

Yes, they still have it and it is included with admission price for those who purchase the daily pass. If you are an annual passholder to the zoo, then you have to pay per ride. This is the same with the open-air, double-decker guided tour buses. We did the guided bus tour. It takes about 40 minutes and the driver gives lots of information. Then you are able to go back and get up close and personal with the exhibits that caught your eye while driving past. We did the bus tour about half way through our day there and it was a good choice. Everyone got to rest a bit and just listen--and then we were all re-energized and ready to walk some more once the tour ended. The tour is included in daily admission price, and again, annual passholders have to pay per trip.

I really enjoyed your report.

Thanks so much, Christopher! This was my first time doing a TR for the "general DIS public." Lisa and I are on a "special" thread over on WISH, where really we are all just very close friends. And I always do TRs for them, but again, those are my buddies who know me and my kids, etc. So this was my first regular TR. I am still surprised so many folks read all of my blabbering!

Thanks for such a great report on DL (San Diego too). I think we'll be headed next May to DL for my first trip and my DH's first trip in about twenty years.

The DL Hotel looked amazing and I think we'll be staying there (since we are in perpetual borrowment with out points for our WDW trips ). Though I would love to get him to upgrade. Can I ask how you got your discount code? Same way people usually get them for WDW?

It was great that your DH wanted to stay longer...mine did the same thing once at WDW and we had no luck with anything being open at a Value or Moderate (we were in college and didn't have DVC/couldn't afford deluxe). I don't think that has happened since though

Ty

Yes, I used Dreams Unlimited Travel, which is the travel agency owned by Pete (who is the owner of the DisBoards). Hands down, the best Disney travel agency on the planet, bar none. They find you every discount imaginable and then some. And even after you have booked and paid in full, if a new code comes out, they apply it to your trip and REFUND the difference. www.dreamsunlimitedtravel.com Again, these are the DIS folks, so super on top of everything, trustworthy and all of that. That have been in business for 13 years.

Too funny Christopher. I got off here this morning and went straight over to our WISH thread and tried to convince her to reconsider as well. She is getting lovingly bombarded with VGC love.

Your A was my strongest point. Look - VGC has the power to sway minds. And she ADORES it.

Erika, reading this TR again - well - hmmmm - ummmm - sighing.

Your poor head. But your heart is there Erika. It's obvious.

Christopher and Lisa--you. are. killing. me. *sigh*

Yes, I love and adore VGC. Just adore it, no doubt. And Jeff loves it. And I know that if/when we stay there again, we will need the 11 month window. I so totally lucked out this time, getting it 5 days before our trip. But I just don't think we will ever actually plan at Cali trip that far out. That is what I keep coming back to. I am sure there will be other times when the kids and I tag along on Jeff's business trip, like we did this time (at least we save on his airfare this way and the company pays for the rental car...it all helps, right?). But he never knows his business travel schedule but for a few months ahead of time, if that.

I definitely understand the "buy where you love" line of thought. But really, the truth of it can more accurately be stated as "buy where you will stay..." and I just don't know that we will stay there, no matter how much we love it.

Then again, we love it enough that we may have dedicated trips out there. As Christopher said, it really is easy flying from MHT to LAX and then hopping on the bus. And with the massive inventory at World, there are *always* rooms at even one week out, as long as you aren't picky about which resort and it isn't Christmas week.

So. I am back to square one with my add-on! Fortunately, I can make changes and so I really still have a week or two to figure it all out.

Honestly, I think what would work well for us would be to have 200 at BLT and 200 at VCG (right now we have 200 at SSR and 100 at AKV). Because during those (majority) years where we don't go to Cali, we can use those points anywhere at World. And we love almost all of the DVCs there. (Actually, we are fine with ALL of them, just prefer some over others. There are none that we would refuse to stay at.) And having the BLT points would guarantee us there for when we want to be there, and then we can use the VCG points for anywhere else in World. So that is the best set-up for us.

So, if I did VGC now--since I already have my 200 SSR points--I would take a financial bath if I sold those via resale and then bought BLT. So that is the struggle. I also have 100 pts. at AKV, but I am already selling those to buy the add-on. (I bought those dirt cheap with my CM discount--$60 per point and I am selling them at $86...and my add-on price at BLT is $85, so it evens out.) I am getting 200 BLT points, but only paying for 100 of them oop since I will use the cash from the AKV sale to pay for the other half. Following? So, if I could sell the SSR points and then use that money to buy the VGC points, it would be a slam dunk. But SSR is selling so low via resale right now that I just can't rationalize it.

I guess my other option is this--sell the AKV and buy the 200 at VGC. Hold on to SSR for another year and hope the market comes back up, and then sell SSR and buy BLT. BLT will be selling longer than VGC, which will sell out this summer. Even assuming the market is back in a year and SSR is selling at a better price, there is no guarantee that the CM discount will still be what it is right now (running a GREAT deal right now where they bumped the discount up AND they are letting us stack discounts. Usually it is just one or the other).

Ok. Phew. Those are the thoughts swirling in my head. Comments? I know Christopher and Lisa are still with me--so sorry if I lost everyone else! DVC math, I know...it can be the death of us all!

 

[kikiq]

Is Wild Animal park better...or just different and thus worth seeing?


The Wild Animal Park (WAP) was developed for species conservation,animal breeding for San Diego Zoo and to provide areas that are close as possible to the animals' natural habitat. Their breeding and research programs have had animals sent to other zoo as well as released back into their natural habitat. They have the largest vet hospital in addition to their conservation breeding program. OK, now stepping down from my fund development box (We attended many fund raisers for the zoo/wap back in the day)

When we lived in North San Diego county, we lived at the zoo and wap. I think that's why we were at first underwhelmed after our first visit to Animal Kingdom. I really feel that the zoo/wap's conservation education program is why my DDs are both interested in that area of study. All that to say, it's fabulous. A different feel than AK, more of you observing zoology at work rather being entertained. There is some of that too, but that is not it's main objective.

 

[KAT4DISNEY]

DVC math, I know...it can be the death of us all!

Loved this whole post! Sorry - no helpful suggestions.

 

[SoCalKDG]

Oh, and here is a MAJOR, MAJOR tip for those heading to DLR soon.

PHOTOPASS!

Yes, they have Photopass in Land, just like World. And it works the same way. However, the main difference is that in Land, the Photoass CD is about $60 (I guess because there are fewer parks and thus you are going to have fewer pictures on your CD).

But here's the thing--you STILL get the DVC discount of $50 off. That means you get the Photopass CD for just over $12!!!! (Tax and shipping add the extra few dollars on.) OMG, talk about the best deal going!

Where did you purchase your Photopass CD, and how did you get $50 off. Couldn't find the info on the DVC discount.

Thanks

 

[SoCalKDG]

I think you may be right. Many California residents probably think (like I did)- what a waste, why buy DVC in the state where you live? I think there will be a lot of interest in a Hawaii DVC from the one million Disneyland Annual Passholders! And once they buy points, they're going to want to try VGC as well.

We are so looking forward to our vacation next week and we are SoCal people that have AP's. So many benefits to staying a week at the DLR over WDW. No air, no tickets, no food (just bring food from our kitchen with us for our 1 bedroom). Drive 40 minutes and check in. We are even running to dance recital photos for one night thus don't miss out on that.

 

[lisaviolet]

Ideas Erika. My brain stepping into your brain was simply way too traumatizing. I so need a nap. Or a BW rum and coke and I'll get back to you.

How I adore spending your money.

I LOVED your post. Once I got over the gulit of hurting your head so much.

(I bought those dirt cheap with my CM discount--$60 per point .
:

La LA LA LA. Can't hear you!

Let's just filie that under things you need not ever share. EVER.

Go for it Lisa! You won't be sorry.

Want is such a frustrating word. I should have put in brackets - I want to pay my mortgage too.

Oh such a lovely dream Christopher. So lovely.

But I shouldn't ever knock dreaming - that's how I got DVC. I dreamt for ten years. Strolling OKW - sitting on the BW porch - watching the DVCers and thinking "one day". And one day came. We suddenly had the money to buy it. You know how people say they wish they had bought earlier. I don't. The dreaming was lovely. And - for me - my situation - financing would only have bought stress.

DVC has been five years of pure joy.

Me still want me some VGC points though!

Thanks for the clarification. We own at VGC and stayed there for the first time in April and wholeheartedly agree with Erika's evaluation. What a wonderful resort. In fact we're staying at the AKV in December and I wonder whether we'll feel the same way about AKV as we do about VGC.

.

Nice. Lucky you. Enjoy!

 

[3DisneyKids]

Where did you purchase your Photopass CD, and how did you get $50 off. Couldn't find the info on the DVC discount.

Thanks

Super easy. First call MS and tell them you need a DVC discount code for a photopass CD. They will give it to you over the phone. Then, go to www.disneyphotopass.com, enter in your photopass number (after you return from your trip), add the CD to your "cart," and when you go to check out, there is a space for discount codes. Enter in the number you got from DVC and you are all set! It will calculate your total, you enter your payment information and that is the end.

We are so looking forward to our vacation next week and we are SoCal people that have AP's. So many benefits to staying a week at the DLR over WDW. No air, no tickets, no food (just bring food from our kitchen with us for our 1 bedroom). Drive 40 minutes and check in. We are even running to dance recital photos for one night thus don't miss out on that.

OMG, so so so jealous right now! If I was within driving distance of DL, well, let's just say I would likely be broke as I would buy oh-so-many points. Good point, though. Once you have paid for your APs and since you own DVC--a week's vacation there must seem almost "free" when you factor in bringing your own food! How wonderful for you. Seriously, considering I work full time from home (online), I would just do that ALL THE TIME. I don't have to take formal days off. I would just go as often as my points would carry me (and as much as I could get away with pulling the kids out of school).

Have a wonderful trip!

 

[lilpooh108]

Thank for your TR! I live in SoCal and I have to admit that I take DTD and DLR for granted! Growing up, we had APs every year and would drive up to DL after school, park at Donald Duck section (where the courtyard between California Adventure and DL is now) and hang out...we just joined DVC and now will definitely try a weekend trip to VGC (which is just 15 min from my house ) Thanks again, your TR was fun to read

 

[lisaviolet]

Ok unfortunately no drinks but a great sleep so here I go for what it's worth -

I would not sell SSR - ever. You will probably always be a DVCer who rarely uses the booking window. So these are your "playing" points. And even if you were forced to by some kind of change - well you don't dislike SSR. I also believe that maintenance will stay low there - with the outside hallways and the sheer number of owners. (I've lived in two types of condos in Toronto - one very small boutique style and one massive with loads of amenities - it was something to see the boutique style condo with few amenities shoot up in maintenance over the years> Another reason to keep SSR as the most points you own. Even more than the lovely VGC). Yes BLT is lower right now, correct? I don't believe it will stay that way. Just my guess.

I loved Christopher's idea of splitting the points. However, I felt that because both of the point charts were "expensive" that hmm it might not get you what you want if one year you decided to pool two years worth of points to book.

So - gosh you're going to hate this - hang on - could you buy 50 more points Erika? Do 150 at VGC and 100 at BLT? That is a better spread for a two year booking IMHO. And a two year booking that I do believe that you WILL choose to use even if it's once in a blue moon. And it satisfies the pull for both resorts. So what if you don't use either booking window for years. SO what. YOU CAN. ; And the feeling that you can is a glorious feeling. I own BWV points - my love. And this is the first year in five years that I'm using a booking window there for my trip. In fact, it's my first use of a booking window at any resort for me.

But every year I get off so to speak on the feeling that I own at BWV and can choose to use it.

It's quite satisfying.

 

[stopher1]

Thanks so much, Christopher!

You're welcome!

Christopher and Lisa--you. are. killing. me. *sigh*

Sorry. Not really. But had to say it.

Then again, we love it enough that we may have dedicated trips out there.

If you had the points, and you knew you had them to use, I would imagine that you WOULD have some dedicated trips out there...from time to time... since you all love it som much. But maybe that's just me. I don't know. Call me crazy, but it certainly is worth it, IMHO. When you are all in love with it (or at least in really big like with it).

: DVC math, I know...it can be the death of us all!

Oh yeah... It can be, shall we say, fun?

How I adore spending your money.




La LA LA LA. Can't hear you!

Both of these just cracked me up!

Want is such a frustrating word. I should have put in brackets - I want to pay my mortgage too.

Oh such a lovely dream Christopher. So lovely.

Yeah, yeah, yeah. I know. That's why I just took care of both of you today and added on more points for myself at VGC. Now I'll have more time out there and can just post more pics to drive you both crazy!

Tee hee. Kidding. But I did add-on today. Had to get them before they're gone. And I am here in WDW for the weekend.

I loved Christopher's idea of splitting the points. However, I felt that because both of the point charts were "expensive" that hmm it might not get you what you want if one year you decided to pool two years worth of points to book.

Well thank you.

So - gosh you're going to hate this - hang on - could you buy 50 more points Erika? Do 150 at VGC and 100 at BLT? That is a better spread for a two year booking IMHO. And a two year booking that I do believe that you WILL choose to use even if it's once in a blue moon.

I love this suggestion myself! The best of both worlds... and yes, Erika, I do think it would cause you and your lovely family to choose to go to CA once every few years to enjoy VGC and DL! Carsland in 2012 is looking pretty cool... that'd get everything pretty much completed at DCA, and is a nice break between CA trips. Nudge, nudge.

 

[stopher1]

Morning EMH @ Epcot today. Phew, that hike in to get to Soarin'...I'm bushed already. Can't wait for November and December and that 30 second walk!!

 

[lisaviolet]

But I did add-on today. And I am here in WDW for the weekend.

s

LA LA LA LA.

Can't hear you EITHER!

Have fun lucky guy. And congratulations on your purchase as I'm sighing in sheer envy.

Morning EMH @ Epcot today. Phew, that hike in to get to Soarin'...I'm bushed already. Can't wait for November and December and that 30 second walk!!

Perfect. Fine work.

Love it.

Erika! I'm officially obsessed with your purchase. I woke up suddenly this morning not of thoughts of yummy breakfast or plans for the day or a relaxed mind but with the thoughts of "wait - not two years of points -what was I talking about - banking AND borrowing!"

I'm so busy borrowing - I forgot all about banking. I know nothing of banking windows.

But then again that's a lot of organization to not touch BLT or VGC points during other trips to have that going. (Yes I know people - I know it's nothing for some of you but you don't understand those of us who don't plan ).

So yes let's still put the extra 50 on the table.

 

[stopher1]

And these buses are driving me nuts today. It seems Every. Other. Park. Has 4 running, but where I want to go...NO. Just one. Can't wait for November and just walking a few seconds to hop between (maybe a minute...if there's a line at the turnstiles)