DDP 2008...The Positive Side?

[LindyN]

Its really a case of planning how you're going to use your dining credits. Like many posters have said, it is a good deal--its just no longer a great deal. You should at least break even, if not come out a bit ahead, with the DDP. Part of the attraction for the plan is you can eat a decent meal a couple of times a day and not worry about a huge expense as it is pre-paid with your package. (A tip is not a huge expense, and costs less per day than some souvenirs.)

With some restaurants its not about the food--its about the experience. (Chef Mickey is not exactly haute cuisine.) Disney restaurants just add to your overall immersion into all things Disney, especially for character meals. I still love the Crystal Palace, especially their desserts.

If I were only a one time a year person on a Disney trip then I'd book the dining plan. But as a five or six time/year visitor with an AP and the DDE card we no longer just eat--we do Signature Dining and share some CS. I also only eat when I'm hungry, and not because its time for an ADR. We just left Disney after a week and I didn't gain any weight at all--I also never ate one french fry.

I'm also fortunate that my kids like great food and don't care if we do a character buffet.

 

[Native NYer]

The deluxe dining plan seems to be a much more attractive offer than the regular dining plan. For $32 more/day, you get an extra snack, appetizer with your meals, 3 meals/day, a refillable mug, and the option of doing TS for each meal.

Someone posted on the boards that the price for the ddp went down $1.00 from last year to this year, but the appetizer and tip were lost. The only way this seems to be a good deal is if you get free dining.

Seems to be that Disney wants to just push deluxe dining.

 

[LSchrow]

more to add to the "positives" (which this thread was supposed to be about <ahem> ):
many are looking at the 2008 only in comparison to the previous plan. however, one needs to look at 2008 DDP simply as a new optional dining plan, removing the emotional aspect, & focusing only on the financial (considering convenience & abilty to order without considering prices just added "bonuses" ). of course (disclamer here ), use of credits for most buffets, b'fast & lunch, and signature dining (in our experience, the majority not uncommon enough to justify the prices ), makes the DDP of lesser value. add in some variables (ages of children, "park commando" vs been there, done that, time to just relax & enjoy it , dining habits, etc), & it might not be a "good deal" for everyone ~ but neither are MYW passes vs APs, DVC vs all-stars, off-site vs on-site, etc. ~ there is absolutely no "one size fits all" at wdw.

so onto the "analysis":
example of an "average" day's meals (numbers are rounded):
coral reef (mid-priced ~ we actually eat at more of the higher-priced tho; using items we used on our last visit):
steak $32
shrimp pasta $24
2 chocolate waves $16
2 drinks $6
total $78, $83 with tax
WPE (love their food!)
2 speciality pizzas $18.50
2 brownies $5
2 drinks $4
$26 with tax
2 iced mochacinos at writer's stop $7
$7.50 with tax

$116 total for the day, DDP cost $76 (2 adults)
$40 savings per night

change CR to tutto italia (which we really enjoy ), with the same items ordered as the last time we visited:
TI total $107, $114 with tax
add in the same CS & snacks, and $147 would be OOP expense, DDP cost $76
$71 savings per night

like i said, DDE doesn't come close to the savings we recognize on DDP (btw, we have APs ~ spend about 20-25 days a year at WDW, so did consider it). DDP saves us an average of $50+ per night over OOP (for the 20 nights of our currently scheduled 2008 vacations, that's more than $1,000 in savings) ~ not too shabby in our eyes

hth

 

[GreatLakes5]

I agree with previous poster - ideally this should be seen as the 2008 DDP - period. Not compared with the past year ('ideally'...it probably won't happen)

I sat down before our trip, listed our ADRs, went through the menus for each place, chose our food as I would regardless of plan or not....essentially did all the math. Included the tip, yes.

In order for us to beat the price of the DDP we would either have to eat a lot of hotdogs or turkey legs rather than a more balanced meal, I'd have to cook scared1: ), or we go on a diet while at WDW (equally ). I could only beat it if we ate a lot less.

SO, for our family (2 adults, 1 kid who equals adult, and 2 kids) we're still coming out ahead in 2008. I don't see this changing for us until my last child turns adult as she will still want to just eat chicken nuggets and carrot sticks. By that time there may not be a DDP and I won't have to do the math.

There's my positive posting....I'm positive we're still saving $ & vacationing the way we like to vacation.

 

[rosiep]

I agree with the poster who maintained that the 2008 DDP should be approached as a new entity in and of itself...and not compared to the previous DDP's.

I'm choosing to use the plan this year because I like having a large portion of my vacation already paid for. I always hate seeing the Visa bill the month after I return . Yes, there will still be tips and incidentals..but for the most part I'll be ahead of the game. I'll also try some of the higher end restaurants that I haven't tried before..and I'll order the lobster!!!!

 

[Marc A.]

I love the DDP for the kids (4) and (2). Let's face it, they waste food. With character meals we don't have to worry about ordering something and wasting it and just the one Ch. Meal basically covers the price of a child's day. Add the snack and CS and you are ahead.
I will miss the APP but still think we'll come out ahead.
I too hate seeing bills after a vacation. This way we're all paid up, except for tips....

 

[mom2my3kids]

I think its a great deal for adults or very young children. But for the middle aged kids that they want to charge 38.00 a day for its not a good deal in my eyes..

 

[I'mAlittleBitGoofy]

more to add to the "positives" (which this thread was supposed to be about <ahem> ):
many are looking at the 2008 only in comparison to the previous plan. however, one needs to look at 2008 DDP simply as a new optional dining plan, removing the emotional aspect, & focusing only on the financial (considering convenience & abilty to order without considering prices just added "bonuses" ). of course (disclamer here ), use of credits for most buffets, b'fast & lunch, and signature dining (in our experience, the majority not uncommon enough to justify the prices ), makes the DDP of lesser value. add in some variables (ages of children, "park commando" vs been there, done that, time to just relax & enjoy it , dining habits, etc), & it might not be a "good deal" for everyone ~ but neither are MYW passes vs APs, DVC vs all-stars, off-site vs on-site, etc. ~ there is absolutely no "one size fits all" at wdw.

so onto the "analysis":
example of an "average" day's meals (numbers are rounded):
coral reef (mid-priced ~ we actually eat at more of the higher-priced tho; using items we used on our last visit):
steak $32
shrimp pasta $24
2 chocolate waves $16
2 drinks $6
total $78, $83 with tax
WPE (love their food!)
2 speciality pizzas $18.50
2 brownies $5
2 drinks $4
$26 with tax
2 iced mochacinos at writer's stop $7
$7.50 with tax

$116 total for the day, DDP cost $76 (2 adults)
$40 savings per night

change CR to tutto italia (which we really enjoy ), with the same items ordered as the last time we visited:
TI total $107, $114 with tax
add in the same CS & snacks, and $147 would be OOP expense, DDP cost $76
$71 savings per night

like i said, DDE doesn't come close to the savings we recognize on DDP (btw, we have APs ~ spend about 20-25 days a year at WDW, so did consider it). DDP saves us an average of $50+ per night over OOP (for the 20 nights of our currently scheduled 2008 vacations, that's more than $1,000 in savings) ~ not too shabby in our eyes

hth

AMEN! You are totally right!

 

[Jennifer48]

I sat down before our trip, listed our ADRs, went through the menus for each place, chose our food as I would regardless of plan or not....essentially did all the math. Included the tip, yes.

I'm currently doing the same thing trying to see if I end up on top or not. I'm hoping to head down in December. Just 2 adults. So far, I'm leaning towards the DDP. Thank you everyone for your positive responses. It helps me out with my decision.

 

[tmonferdini]

I was really looking forward to the DDP when we booked our vacation (and yes, I knew it was the new/revised 2008 version). We have never stayed on-site before, never done DDP, etc. After reading all the negative posts, I started to think that maybe I had made a mistake. Yes, it would be nice to have it paid for before you go, but to what cost.

I sat down & figured about what everyone would be ordering at the different restaurants we would be going to & how much it would cost. Normally, we wouldn't do a dessert EVERY day - but we are on vacation at Disney, so why not.

My calculations say that I am saving around $400, not counting the snacks. That is for a 10-night stay with 3 adults & 2-9yr olds. Granted, my twins may not alway want chicken nuggets or pb&j, if that's the case, we'll get them something else. It's their vacation, too. If we have extra CS left over, because we ordered them a hamburger off the "adult" meal, then maybe we can get an extra snack or water out of it. Either way, I still think it is a fairly good deal.

Do I think it's as good as the deal that it used to be? NO WAY! But since I didn't use the plan prior to the 2008 changes, it really won't effect me & my "missing an appy & tip". I think each family has to decide if it is a good deal for them based on their own personal family & how they eat, etc. I feel it is a deal for ALL of us, DH, myself & DD13 (who enjoys seafood & steak just like we do) can get the higher priced meals at TS places. DD9 & DS9 make out with the 5 character meals or buffets we have chosen to dine at.

All said, I will be happy to save $400 + $200 for snacks (5 people x 10 days @ $4.00). Not bad.

 

[disney-super-mom]

I just wanted to remind everyone not to forget the tip for your TS meals in your DDP calculations.

So for two adults, out of pocket expense for the DDP would be $76 per day plus tip.

In LSchrow's example (the day she and DH ate at CR), her savings would actually be about $25 for the day (if you look at their total out of pocket expense).

Her second example using tutto italia, her savings for the day would be about $51 (if you look at their total out of pocket expense).

I hope that makes sense to everyone.

 

[TLSnell1981]

I just wanted to remind everyone not to forget the tip for your TS meals in your DDP calculations.

So for two adults, out of pocket expense for the DDP would be $76 per day plus tip.

In LSchrow's example (the day she and DH ate at CR), her savings would actually be about $25 for the day (if you look at their total out of pocket expense).

Her second example using tutto italia, her savings for the day would be about $51 (if you look at their total out of pocket expense).

I hope that makes sense to everyone.

Ah...I understood the PP was referring to the savings on the food cost. The "tip" is not included in the price of DDP or OOP, so I don't understand your analysis.

I get offended by posters that continue to make sure the "poor" servers get their "tip". I think for the most part, posters oppose the mandatory nature of a service charge and how it is asked for before the CC is totaled. I believe most have no problem with "giving" a gratuity. The waitstaff, also needs to take some responsiblility for this fiasco. Stop blaming everything on the guests and Disney.

 

[magic mouse]

I am not going to let Disney tell me how to tip. This is riduculous that I have to pay 18% or 20%. Sorry a tip is something you earn, period. From now on I will not put charging priviliges on my room key to make sure tips are not added to my room bill. I will be giving cash and/or disney gift card etc. If people feel they should leave 10% at a buffet thats up to them.

 

[disney-super-mom]

Ah...I understood the PP was referring to the savings on the food cost. The "tip" is not included in the price of DDP or OOP, so I don't understand your analysis.

I get offended by posters that continue to make sure the "poor" servers get their "tip". I think for the most part, posters oppose the mandatory nature of a service charge and how it is asked for before the CC is totaled. I believe most have no problem with "giving" a gratuity. The waitstaff, also needs to take some responsiblility for this fiasco. Stop blaming everything on the guests and Disney.

I assure you, I wasn't posting that tipping is mandatory. It's strictly up to the individual and the service they receive.

I was just pointing out the actual out-of-pocket expense for a TS meal if you were to leave an 18%-20% gratuity. (for those making their meal budget/trip expense sheet, if using the DDP)

I was trying to show a "positive" that the DDP is still a great savings for many, even though the 2008 plan no longer includes gratuity.

 

[Lewisc]

It doesn't make any sense to compare the 2007 DDP with the 2008 DDP. The 2007 plan is no longer available. There is no question the 2007 plan was a better deal then the 2008 plan. The only question is if the 2008 DDP makes more sense then paying meals out of pocket.

Disney is imposing "holiday surcharges" not just during on the holiday but for a month around some holidays. The 2008 is a better deal for guests who are planning on visiting during one of those time periods.

 

[distherapy]

It doesn't make any sense to compare the 2007 DDP with the 2008 DDP. The 2007 plan is no longer available. There is no question the 2007 plan was a better deal then the 2008 plan. The only question is if the 2008 DDP makes more sense then paying meals out of pocket.

 

[LSchrow]

I just wanted to remind everyone not to forget the tip for your TS meals in your DDP calculations.

So for two adults, out of pocket expense for the DDP would be $76 per day plus tip.

In LSchrow's example (the day she and DH ate at CR), her savings would actually be about $25 for the day (if you look at their total out of pocket expense).

Her second example using tutto italia, her savings for the day would be about $51 (if you look at their total out of pocket expense).


I hope that makes sense to everyone.

actually, the tip would be the exactly the same with DDP or OOP, which is why it was left out out both calculations
if you add the tip to both the OOP cost and the DDP cost (same tip amt as gratuity is based on OOP cost), the savings would be exactly the same. the only way this would be different, is if one "stiffs" the waitstaff when paying OOP (tho i agree it would be easier to do such a thing when paying OOP , it is certainly not something i would consider or recommend ~ and i'm sure you were not suggesting) .
the calculations are accurate, & 2008 DDP will save us, as well as many other people , significant $'s as shown

 

[disney-super-mom]

actually, the tip would be the exactly the same with DDP or OOP, which is why it was left out out both calculations
if you add the tip to both the OOP cost and the DDP cost (same tip amt as gratuity is based on OOP cost), the savings would be exactly the same. the only way this would be different, is if one "stiffs" the waitstaff when paying OOP (tho i agree it would be easier to do such a thing when paying OOP , it is certainly not something i would consider or recommend ~ and i'm sure you were not suggesting) .
the calculations are accurate, & 2008 DDP will save us, as well as many other people , significant $'s as shown

But you don't add the tip to BOTH OOP cost and DDP cost. You either add it to one or the other.

Here's a better way to look at it:

Using your calculations (the day you eat at CR)

Total food costs for the day: $116
Total DDP for 2 adults: $76
Total savings on food for the day: $40

So you just saved $40, and now you decide with that $40 you'll pay for an 18% tip for your meal at CR. 18% of $83 = $15

$40 - $15 = $25

So after all is said and done, you come out $25 ahead for the day using the DDP.

 

[VirginiaMom]

But you don't add the tip to BOTH OOP cost and DDP cost. You either add it to one or the other.

Here's a better way to look at it:

Using your calculations (the day you eat at CR)

Total food costs for the day: $116
Total DDP for 2 adults: $76
Total savings on food for the day: $40

So you just saved $40, and now you decide with that $40 you'll pay for an 18% tip for your meal at CR. 18% of $83 = $15

$40 - $15 = $25

So after all is said and done, you come out $25 ahead for the day using the DDP.

this doesn't make sense to me... I agree with LSchrow... when comparing the two plans, you have to assume you pay tip in both scenerios.

Total food costs for the day: $116 + $15 tip = $131
Total DDP for 2 adults: $76 + $15 tip (assuming 18% on the true cost of the meal) = $91
Total savings on food for the day: $40

The tip doesn't play into the equation since you pay the same amount of tip regardless of how you pay for dinner. This is a comparison situation....

 

[apostolic4life]

this doesn't make sense to me... I agree with LSchrow... when comparing the two plans, you have to assume you pay tip in both scenerios.

Total food costs for the day: $116 + $15 tip = $131
Total DDP for 2 adults: $76 + $15 tip (assuming 18% on the true cost of the meal) = $91
Total savings on food for the day: $40

The tip doesn't play into the equation since you pay the same amount of tip regardless of how you pay for dinner. This is a comparison situation....

Yes, this is correct (except 18% would actually be $20.88). You still tip (whatever % you choose) based on the actual cost of the menu items......not the price paid for the DDP. This would make LSchrow's calculation accurate.