Changing resorts thru season changes.......what happens?

[disney4us2002]

We're still planning next Christmas' trip but thinking of 2 resorts rather than Poly concierge the whole time. If we start out at the Dolphin (for instance, not a definite) on Dec 18 and switch to the Poly on Dec 21, will that be two ressies in two different seasons? The holiday season for the Deluxes begins on Dec 20 so would we need to move prior to the 20th? I'm confused.

We were thinking the Dolphin could save us some money as dh is federal govt employee and it would be nice to be in Epcot area but not if that means the Poly rate would be astronical ($469 holiday gv rack rate - yikes!).

Any suggestions?

 

[dandave]

If "holiday season for the Deluxes begins on Dec 20 " ( I didn't check), then you would need to check into the Poly prior to Dec 20th in order to obtain the lower rate throughout your stay there.

 

[kda]

Do the math and see if you're really saving anything by staying at the Dolphin for those few days. Since the Dolphin isn't a WDW resort, it has it's own schedule of high and low seasons.

Yes, you would need to check into the Poly before December 20 to get the lower season rate. The rate will remain the same for your entire stay there, even though the holiday season begins 12/20. There's always the possibility --- certainly not a guarantee ---- that there will also be some discounts available for December. If so, you might have to start your stay before holiday season begins ---- no way to know that now. I'm trying to say that you might end up paying considerably less for a Poly room than $469 if you arrive before 12/20 and can snag a discount. (Did you try for a AAA rate at the Poly?)

If you do the math and decide you're still saving $$$ by staying at the Dolphin, you could book there AND book with Disney for the same time. If discount rates become available for Disney, you could cancel the Dolphin. If not, you might want to stay more nights at the Dolphin (if you can get the gov't rate) and shorten the time at the Poly, when the rates are the highest.

Good luck --- sounds like a great trip! Two great places to stay.