DDP

[Memorymakerfor4]

The only time it made sense for us is when I had several character meals booked for the trip. Because they're a set price it really did save us money.

 

[FFMickey]

Agree with most everyone. We used to swear by TIW and probably will again as our family grows.But with most restaurants giving 10% for DVC including alcohol it's the way we go. Now after we retire next year and our stays become longer /more often we will revisit our habits.

Does the DVC discount apply to alcohol now? I know we got it on a bottle of wine at Storybook Dining, but we thought that was a one time thing. We are debating the new DDP right now, but if the DVC discount includes alcohol, then it might be a game changer.

 

[CraigInPA]

Years ago, we would do the deluxe dining plan and save money on it. That was when tips were included in the plan. When tips were removed, we broke even, but enjoyed the idea that everything was paid for. Eventually, we figured out that the plan was not going to save us money because we had eaten at all the restaurants we were interested in and aren't big on character meals, so we went out of pocket and used the Disney Visa and DVC discounts. We have calculated that we are saving an average of 25% using the discounts and ordering without trying to maximize the value of the plan. This has been a consistent savings over the last 4 years (38 nights of vacation). Your experience may be different, based upon your eating and drinking habits.

 

[Noodlez]

We got the DDP last time and we'll be getting the DxDP this time, but I'm not going to claim it saves us money at all. I've considered TIW too but we're only there for 5 days this year so it wouldn't be worthwhile.

Many on here may think my reasoning is daft, but to me it's not all about saving money. I love having everything paid in advance. It makes me feel secure, and gives me a freedom to try things I wouldn't otherwise. Normally, a Starbucks is a treat every couple of months but I can use a snack credit to get one every day. I wouldn't normally go for the most expensive cocktail just to see what it's like, I'd find a reasonably priced glass of wine instead. We love eating out, it's one of our favourite treats, and having it paid in advance makes me feel so much less guilty when I'm there.

I'm not trying to convince anyone else, this is just the way I am.