Adventures by Disney

[ATCMickey]

My apologies in advance if I've missed this somewhere else. Was just looking at the DVC member site and noticed a new program being offered to DVC members called "Adventures by Disney". It looks like a regular Disney program that they have now made available to DVC members based on a point reserve basis. From the DVC website:

Introducing Adventures by Disney
Now, you can use your Vacation Points to book travel with Adventures by Disney, a new escorted travel experience that takes your family to the world's most desirable destinations. In 2006, you'll have the opportunity to embark on seven incredible itineraries covering three continents, with journeys to Hawaii, Costa Rica, Europe, Wyoming and the Canadian Rockies. These adventures are filled with the unique Disney touches that create a truly magical vacation experience.

Two professional Adventure Guides will lead small groups of up to 40 travelers, providing everyone with personal attention and excellent service.
You'll meet some amazing local characters that make these destinations so unique, like a Venetian glassblower or a Hawaiian volcanologist.
Itineraries are designed to entertain the whole family, so you can share the extraordinary experience of Hawaiian surf lessons or Tuscan cooking classes.
Come explore the wonders of the world...Disney style!

Looks like a great program and our family would love to take advantage of it. The only thing that gave me reason to pause were the required points. It would take almost 1500 points for our family of 4 (2 adults/2 kids) to do the Hawaii stay (6 nights/7 days) and I don't believe it would include airfare. Has anyone ever booked this through Disney and/or what experiences has anyone had?

Thanks in advance for any feedback,

ATCMickey

 

[Boo]

We saw it too, and at first glance it looked like fabulous vacations. I wonder if Disney is tired of sending business to the other companies who run the biking/safari type adventures. However, I'm with you- the point requirements are sky-high. I understand that food is included, but still that's a lot of points!

 

[cobbler]

This is brand brand new so I doubt anyone has done this. Rolled out maybe a month or 2 ago.

 

[Dizma]

....Yes we were part of the test market last summer in "The Quest For The West". It was wonderful in every way and filled with magical touches every day. Lots of gifts and surprises. Yes it was expensive, but you get what you pay for. First class all the way. Every detailed covered and special touches of details. It is possible to pay for 1 member of your party with points and cash for the others. It is also a nice option for those with mega points who are looking for something new. I don't think we could realisticly do this annually, but if you are celebrating a special occasion and looking for a memorable way to spend it-it foots the bill. Do I regret it? Heck NO! I would do it again and spend the money again for a special occasion. Just my 2 cents worth.

 

[ATCMickey]

....Yes we were part of the test market last summer in "The Quest For The West". It was wonderful in every way and filled with magical touches every day. Lots of gifts and surprises. .

Dizma,

Could I impose on you to elaborate on what these trips are like? Interested in what the hotels, meals, and activities are like. Thanks in advance for your input.

ATCMickey

 

[Dizma]

.....I did post a trip report on the rumors board that will answer a few questions. However to elaborate a little the hotels that we stayed in were the best; Old Faithful Inn, The Wort Hotel, and The Spotted Horse Ranch. The food was excellant-even the boxed lunches we ate in the middle of the Tetons. As for special touches we were always greeted with gifts and a welcoming reception at every new destination. When we got out of the Snake River after whitewater rafting we were greeted by a warm luxurious coach and dry towels. When we came out of the port a potties in the middle of the forest our guides were there w/ a bottle of hand sanitizer. When we toured the geysers we were given ear pieces to hear the info the guide was telling and laser guns to shoot at the hot thermals to check their actual temperatures. We also recieved a new pin every night and so many more special gifts and surprises. If you are in to details and spoiling your family once in a while for special occasions-it fit the bill for us. Yes, we were celebrating a special occasion! Hope this helps. I can say that yes this was alot to spend, but we have NO REGRETS.

 

[calypso*a*go-go]

Thanks for your input Dizma! I just about fainted when I saw some of the prices listed...but it sounds like they really do try to make it an unforgetable experience.

 

[ATCMickey]

..... Yes, we were celebrating a special occasion! Hope this helps. I can say that yes this was alot to spend, but we have NO REGRETS.

Thanks Dizma!...I really appreciate the info.

ATCMickey