Can't hold out any longer, need advice!

[Lori of the Lodge]

I've been taking regular trips to WDW for the last 5 years--at least 7 trips since September 2000, actually. I've never had a problem finding a reasonable discount, until now. We already have the plane tickets and rental car, just need the hotel accommodations. I’ve been watching for codes every day for the last 2 months and I’m starting to worry about running out of time.

The plan:
Mother/Daughter getaway for 4 (2 moms, 2 adult daughters)
October 13-16. 3 nights; Thurs, Fri, Saturday-depart Sunday.
Need 2 rooms. Want deluxe accommodations, on property. Plan to attend MNSSHP on the 13th and spend a lot of time at the Epcot F&Wfest.

1st choice - Contemporary (garden wing is fine). My original plan has been to wait for a general public code and book the Contemporary. The refurbished rooms look great and are totally our “style”. Would like to get a rate around $199 - $225/night. Best rate I can find is $274.night, before taxes.

2nd choice - Swan, (or other Epcot resort). Would like to get a rate around $199 - $225/night. Right now SPG.com and expedia.com offer the Swan at $209 for Thursday and Friday Oct 13-14 but the rate skyrockets to $340 for Saturday Oct 15th (before taxes). I'd understand a small increase for a Saturday night, but that's nearly 65% more. (averages to $253/night before taxes)

So...I'm thinking of booking the Swan...despite how unfair that Saturday night price is....and hold out for a discount similar to the $139/night they are offering now for August/September. I'm afraid if I wait too long all the Epcot resorts may sell out due to the F&W and I'm also skeptical that there won't be any discounts for the Disney Resorts anyway.

Can someone please tell me-- if I make a reservation through spg.com and later the Swan offers a lower rate can I transfer to the lower rate? I've done similar things in the past with Wilderness Lodge or other WDW resorts but never with the Swan. I’m not familiar with their cancellation/change policy.

So what is the better plan?
The CR at $274/night and hope for a general public code. (Big perk of walking to MNSSHP from the resort.)
-OR_
The Swan at $253/night and hope for a Swan discount. (Big perk of walking to Epcot food & Wine Festival.)

I’m torn…and I’m tired What would you do?? Oh and by the way…my mother & I are long-time WDW veterans but this is a first-time for our travel partners. I really want the resort to be convenient and exceptional so values & mods are out (this time).

Thanks!

 

[tjmouse]

I would not hold out for a general code. There hasn't been one all year. If you aren't comfortable paying rack rate, go with the Swan. I am not familiar with their cancellation policy, sorry.

I hope I can eat my words about the code, but I really feel that there will not be one, especially with the free dining.