AP Discounts Changing

[EthansMom]

Just to let others know, there are some big changes being made with regard to AP room discounts. Check out the Code Boards: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=840378

 

[CheapMom]

Mousesavers has a good description of this- I don't get it- it does not seem like any kind of deal at all. Seems like AP holders have gotten the short end of the stick lately like the free dining where you have to buy at least a 1 day ticket- which ap holders don't need...and now this lame looking offering. I wouldn't put down a non-refundable deposit- no way.

 

[drakethib]

Mousesavers has a good description of this- I don't get it- it does not seem like any kind of deal at all. Seems like AP holders have gotten the short end of the stick lately like the free dining where you have to buy at least a 1 day ticket- which ap holders don't need...and now this lame looking offering. I wouldn't put down a non-refundable deposit- no way.

I agree with the non-refundable rate.

You never know what is gong to happen.

 

[CarolA]

Well, it's probably due to abuse.... Folks booking AP discounts without APs etc....

 

[bicker]

I think I mentioned this in one of the other threads on this subject, but I wouldn't call it "abuse". While it was perhaps not the intention of Disney to (for example) have folks get just one child's AP in order to take advantage of AP rates, it was permitted. I don't think these changes can be tracked quite so tightly to any specific manner of past usage of AP discounts, but rather are probably a reflection of a more general understanding about what would be the best set of offerings from a profitability stand-point. Clearly, requiring a non-refundable deposit, for example, provides for more stable inventory.

 

[Taja]

There has been some clarification since the initial announcement, but it still isn't good.

While non-refundable "deposits" make sense for the resorts, as a consumer, it makes no sense. I refuse to pay for something that I may not be able to use due to unforeseen circumstances. I've had to cancel too many personal and business trips due to family crises--things travel insurance would exclude--or unforeseen circumstances at work.

And they are still offering a "pig in a poke," with 4-month lead time and no specific AP rates. Great for Disney--they would have the money. Very poor option for the consumer.

I definitely support requiring one adult AP per room (possibly 2 rooms, as some families require two rooms). That would minimize one significant loophole.

Disney appears to be returning to their former arrogant ways--no room discounts (or very few and minimal amounts) and very high prices for everything. After my WDW trip in 1981, I didn't return for 22 years. As much as I enjoy the Disney experience, it was not a good value for the money. The Fairytale Package and AP discounts changed that. At this point, my November trip is on hold until this is clarified and if the clarification goes the way I expect, it will be cancelled. In that case, I seriously doubt I will visit WDW again unless they offer significant discounts when they discover business has declined significantly due to their own greed!

There are far too many vacation options available that offer better value!

 

[bicker]

It was mentioned in one of the other threads on this that this new AP program is an addition, not a replacement for traditional AP discounts which Disney may offer as it sees fit.