AP newbie questions!

[Kuzco]

I have two questions concerning AP resort discounts. I am sorry if these have been previously answered...

1. Can you make your reservation using the code before you have exchanged your voucher for the real pass? I'm thinking of ordering my pass from Disneyworld.com, then exchanging it when I am at WDW in March. I wanted to try for a ressie in May after the codes are released. Do I have to have a valid, active pass or does the pass just need to be active/valid at check-in?

2. Are the AP rates difficult to secure? I am sure there are a limited number of rooms...Is this like an Illuminations Cruise deal where you have to call first thing in the morning the day they are released or are a few days later ok?

Thanks for all of your help!

 

[amandaC]

You do not need an AP when you make a ressie- you don't even need the voucher when you call. They say that you need the valid AP (not the voucher) when you check-in. The first time I did this, I went to DTD to exchange the voucher befor checking in. However, I was never asked to show it.

If you are getting an AP mainly for a hotel discount, I would wait for codes to be released, book my room, and then get the AP.

As far as when you need to get the ressie done, if you have your heart set on say WL, standard view, then, yes, I would call as soon as they are open. If you are flexible, you shouldn't have a problem. I once wanted Poly but couldn't get it for all of my nights. I called every few days and finally it was available. So, be persistent. I even got a night at POFQ for June 2 days before check-in.

Good luck,
Amanda

 

[Kuzco]

Thanks amandaC,

The main reason I am thinking about the AP is because I'll be at WDW once in March for 7 days and once in May for 7 days, and then possibly again in January '06...so the AP is the best option as far as price.

Thanks for the other information. Maybe I'll get a good rate heh...*Crosses fingers*

 

[Kuzco]

On that note, I guess I'll ask a more annoying question...were the rates for mid-May '04 good? I can't seem to find any information on what the rates were...