Curious about AP rates

[colleen costello]

I am curious about AP rates. Been waiting (impatiently) for summer rates to be released and have looked at rates for past years. What confuses me is that some resorts with higher "rack rates" have been offered for less - -for example, the expensive Polynesian was offered at a lower rate than some less expensive resorts, I believe.

How does this work? Do AP rates (or codes, for that matter) ususally apply to ALL resorts? Why does the amount of discount vary? Have resorts with deeper discounts been less busy? Does anyone understand any of this or is it one of great mysteries of our time?

 

[Grumpy92]

Usually when they offer the AP rate all the resorts are included. The discounts follow the different resort levels, deluxe, moderate or value. The deluxe hotels for the most part vary on the rates they charge therefore the discounts will vary. The rack rate for GF is not the same as the rack rate for WL even though they are both considered deluxe resorts. Where as the moderates and values pretty much share the same rate within their catagory.

Often more discounted rates are available at resorts that are harder to sell. A good example is AKL the AP rate is the same at WL but does not book as quickly. You will find that it is often offered as an alternative by CRO when WL is unavailable.

The rates normally come out 2-3 months in advance. So keep watching mousesavers.com.

Hope that helps.

 

[colleen costello]

Grumpy92, that does help a lot! I knew the "deluxe" rates varied considerably, but couldn't figure out certain discrepancies (again, like why the expensive Poly was coming out for $199). I am watching Mousesavers and these Boards, but the waiting is making me crazy. When I was a kid, my Mom would have to book our WDW reservations well over a year in advance -- not as many rooms to choose from back in the 1970's!

Thanks for the help.

 

[karnold]

Just to let you know that the Delux Resorts have a season rate change too in July. There for there rack rates are lower then verses June. I think the Delux rates turn into a value season rate in July. This also makes a difference when comparing to a Mod or value which are still at the regular season rate.

 

[colleen costello]

Karnold, I had forgotten that too. All the different "seasons" are confusing. With DVC, before mid-June is a "lower" season... It's hard to keep it all straight.