Booking first trip when purchasing direct

[HNElle]

We will be purchasing direct within a week and we’re curious if they will be able to help us with booking our “welcome home” trip or if it’s something we’ll have to do on our own after everything has been finalized. We would really like to visit for two nights towards the end of September (my husband has an event in the area around that time) and since I’m pretty sure most resorts (especially RIV) may already be booked for those dates, I was wondering what the process will be like to at least try to secure this trip at our home resort. Thanks!

 

[WannaGoDW]

We recently purchased direct and had our Welcome Home call today. We had already made our first reservation because I wanted to lock in certain dates. The rep on the phone call was pleasant, but didn't really tell us anything we didn't know already because we had done a ton of research. It also took over a week to get our call as they are all booked solid for appointments. If I were in your position, I would book what I want as soon as I could to make sure it was available.

 

[havoc315]

Your account and points will be active within hours of paying your deposit.
They will schedule a "welcome home" call to explain things to you but you do not have to wait for that call.

As soon as your account is active, you can call member services. Tell them it's your "welcome home" trip and they will almost certainly get you the days you want. (not totally guaranteed but they can usually make it happen).

Only caveat -- members services has been backed up lately. Don't be surprised if you're on hold for 1-2 hours.

 

[HNElle]

Your account and points will be active within hours of paying your deposit.
They will schedule a "welcome home" call to explain things to you but you do not have to wait for that call.

As soon as your account is active, you can call member services. Tell them it's your "welcome home" trip and they will almost certainly get you the days you want. (not totally guaranteed but they can usually make it happen).

Only caveat -- members services has been backed up lately. Don't be surprised if you're on hold for 1-2 hours.

Good to know. I’ll call right away. Thank you!

 

[UrsulaWantsYourSoul]

Additional caveat - the first couple weeks of October are *crazy* due to the 50th Anniversary. Most other times they can pull from their inventory for your Welcome Home trip. Have an amazing first trip!!!