Depressed over rates

[pennst8r]

I did not see where anyone was jumping on her.
She came back into the thread and said that was wrong of her to say it.So I dont see a problem

true--I jumped the gun! I read the reply from the OP to her, and started typing. sorry!

 

[minnie61650]

Leah,

what about two adjoining rooms at a value? I'm paying, with AAA discount, about $84 a night for the regular season at the ASMo. It would come out to $168 a night for you, and you'd have 2 bathrooms and more square footage than at a deluxe!

Elisabet

ITA
LizzyBB and I think alike,

I would get two rooms at one of the All Star resorts.
Then you will have 4 double beds and 2 yes two bathrooms.

All Star Music is my favorite.It is quieter because more couples stay there. I love staying at the Clypso building. It is closer to the pool,food court and bus stop.

Here is a site with a map of All Star Sports and All Star Music.
http://www.wdwinfo.com/resortmaps/allstarmap.htm
Scroll down.All Star Music is at the bottom of the page.
The Calypso buildings at All Star Music are #1 and #10 are nearest to the food court and bus stop.
They are the preferred buildings and cost about $12 extra per night.
The Calypso pool at ASMU has Donald Duck.

Here is the map of All Movies.
http://www.wdwinfo.com/resortmaps/allstarmovie.JPG
The Fantasia Buildings are the preferred buildings.
The All Star Movie Fantasia pool has Mickey.
It is a great place to stay .
Preschoolers love it.
It is like being in the middle of a Disney Movie Fantasyland.
All Star Movies has pop up fountains now also.
The buses are wonderful.

Bus rides are quite short from the ALL Stars according to PassPorter.com

All Star Buses-CBR buses---POP buses--PO buses--- Contemporary
MK 20 min---- 20 min-----25 min------10 min---20 min(mono)
Epcot 10 min-- 15 min-----20 min------10 min---15 min
MGM 10 min----12 min-----15 min------15 min---20min
AK 10 min------20min-------15 min----15 min---20 min
DTD 15 min----20 min------20 min-----15 min---35 min

It only takes 10 minutes to get to Epcot,MGM and AK from All Stars.
MK is 20 min away. That's the same amount of time it takes on the monorail from the Contemporary.

I have visited WDW more than a dozen times with the 1st time in Oct. 1971. It was brand new. I've stayed at FW, Disney Inn, a few the of Hotels on hotel Blvd., CBR and the towers at the Contemporary. I got to see the MK from my balcony at the Contemporary and I'm happy I got to experience it once. I just prefer the All Star Resorts.
The theaming is pure Disney.
My last 4 visits have been at The All Stars and this fall when we take dd,dsil, and our grandson age 3 we are staying at the All Stars Music. I thought about AKL and even though we can well afford AKL I just wanted Alex to experience the Disney Magic at the All Stars on his first visit.
Where else can one find Donald Duck or Mickey Mouse at the pool?
Have a great time at Disney!
Linda
AKA All Star Goddess

 

[nowellsl]

I couldn't agree more with the poster!! I couldn't justify spending hundreds of dollars a night for a room even if I were rolling in money!! The only way I can go is with FL resident rates and those have gotten higher over the last year or so!! There are only 2 of us - I can't imagine paying for a family of 5 to go. Spending thousands of dollars to go to Disney would stress me out so much I don't think I would ever enjoy myself! I realize everyone has their own priorities so I don't knock anyone else for doing it, it's just not something I would ever do. Anyway, I hope you find someplace nice that doesn't cost an arm and a leg.

 

[Lives4Disney]

I agree with the suggestion of the Dolphin or Swan. They are deluxe resorts with many ammentiies, great location, fabulous pools & restaurants.

Go online to Starwood and join their SPG (Starwood Perferred Guest) program. You will have access to great deals like stay for 6/ pay for 4 night deals and you can accumulate points good for upgrades and free nights on future visits.


I also have a family of 5. I have stayed concierge at the Poly, CR, GF (RPC and SL), YC,BC thru the years. This past year we tried the Swan and most recently the Dolphin (fave of the two). They are great hotels. I don't feel deprived of my Disney experience when we stay there. We are doing a split stay - another thing for you to think about - between the Dolphin and CR tower club over THanksgiving week. I am getting the Dolphin room at $169/night and also using points for a free night. That is $378 for 3 nights at a deluxe resort. I also purchased myself an AP and got great rates on the Disney resort thru BRP.

Good luck. Have an open mind to trying either the DVC or S/D. You won't be disappointed!

Happy planning!

Lives4Disney

 

[jhorras]

we are a family of 5 as well (young, school age 7, 6, and 4) and although we are DVC members if we weren't it would be almost downright impossible for us to afford what we've now become accustomed to staying in a DVC property.

I noticed you are in IL, if you're kids are as young as mine, their schools have suggested that in the elementary grades once in a while to miss a day or so isn't too bad and have mentioned educational opportunities (EPCOT Worldshowcase) to take advantage of.

We are going from 11/5 - 11/10 and due to Teacher's Institute Days and Parent Teacher's Conferences (we are going on 11/11 so as not to miss) they are actually only missing 1 day of school.

Last year, we left on the day before Christmas Break and stayed for 5 days so we beat most of the Christmas crowds. Maybe those times might be alternatives to consider.

We are staying our first night at AKL this time (got the BRP rate of $177) and will make the most of that time there, then we're off to a 2-Bedroom WL DVC villa with plenty of room, kitchen, etc.

Not a cheap vacation by any means, but better than $400/night!!!

Hope that helps a bit!

Julie

 

[MinnieSummer]

I agree that the price of WDW delux resorts is steep. But we love them. We go to WDW frequently as we live only 2 hours away. We stay in Mod's most of the time, or if it's a last minute trip we stay at POP. However, at least twice a year we stay at a delux. We save all of our change in a big jar. We use the Disney Visa to purchase everything, making certain we pay it off at the end of the month, to get the points. We take advantage of FL resident/AP BRP. That's how we are staying at AKL this weekend and BWI for Christmas. I just find any way possible to save. It's amazing how much change I accumulate in a months time. My DD7 likes to help me count it out so it becomes an educational experience as well -- this roll has $10.00 and we need 10 of them to pay for 1/2 of a night at BWI. How many do we need for a whole night? What fun!!!

 

[NancyIL]

I didn't see Julia's original post to know what "insult" she edited, but I agree with her 100%. The "seasons" at WDW are very clear, and spring break is during peak season. The only time it is MORE expensive is if you choose to be at WDW for Christmas.

We are a family of 5 also, and rather than stay at the least expensive WDW hotel that would accommodate us, which was Port Orleans Riverside (sure do prefer calling it Dixie Landings) with the trundle bed, we stayed offsite. We took our kids out of school the week after Thanksgiving once, and they were in 6th, 9th, and 12th grades. Missing a week of school to go during value season is no big deal, IMHO.

One more thing, attendance at all Disney theme parks is up because of Disneyland's 50th anniversary celebration. And more demand = fewer discounts.

 

[LeahA]

Thanks to everyone! You all have good ideas!

 

[Puffy2]

3&4 star hotels EVERYWHERE are expensive

First of all, I disagree. You can find some very good deals from time to time in most cities in the US on some really fine hotel (you might have to do some planning and searching - but you can still get a 4 star hotel for under 200$ - sometimes even slightly under 150).

Second, I don't even think of the Disney "deluxe" hotels as 4 star hotels. They just don't stack up against the quality of a Ritz Carlton or a good Loews Hotel (like the Portofino at Universal). The best thing Disney hotels have going for them is that you can depend on them to be clean and they offer decent transportation to their theme parks.

And finallly, I've been going to Disney for about 6 years now - almost every year. I've only stayed at the deluxe resorts. The best bed and service of the lot was the Swan (and it's not Disney owned) . Over the years I've watched as Disney has increased their ticket prices...their food prices....and their hotel prices....and in addition, they spend a great deal of time thinking up new ways to squeeze every dime out of their customers (right down to making it practically impossible for anyone to really "get a deal" , even for their loyal followers - for example, look at what has occured with the "ap" rates recently, and they replaced the Disney Card with the Visa Card...promising all these great deals to come...that haven't.

Some may say "that's just business" , but it's becoming less and less of a customer friendly business. Part of the "magic" of disney is the friendly/family atmosphere. Or it was. When that feeling is lost - there won't be any reason to go anymore. I for one will miss the old Walt, but it won't be hard to walk away from the new "corporate-greed Mickey".

PS., to the original poster: try renting points from someone on the DVC Rental Board - get references first and have a written "contract" to cover you because there is risk involved. But, you can get a really nice villa for a fraction of the cost that way. I rented a two bedroom with kitchen at the BoardWalk for 4 nights (you do have to do a Sun - Thur. ) and it was only about $850.

 

[leeserw]

Hi! I am new and love this board! What is "renting points" for the DVC? We are also a family of 5 planning on going in May. I am finding out quickly that it was much cheaper when we went to Disney w/ a family of 4! Another question: if we are not members of AAA would it be cost effective to sign up just to get the Disney discounts?
Thanks!
Lisa

 

[minnie61650]

First of all, I disagree. You can find some very good deals from time to time in most cities in the US on some really fine hotel (you might have to do some planning and searching - but you can still get a 4 star hotel for under 200$ - sometimes even slightly under 150).

Second, I don't even think of the Disney "deluxe" hotels as 4 star hotels. They just don't stack up against the quality of a Ritz Carlton or a good Loews Hotel (like the Portofino at Universal). The best thing Disney hotels have going for them is that you can depend on them to be clean and they offer decent transportation to their theme parks. .....

ITA
Most travel services only rate Disney's GF,Poly,and Contempory as 3 stars.
AAA still rates them as 4 diamond.
Sevice is not that of a 4 star at Disney's deluxes. The guests are paying for location and a few admenties.
Linda
AKA All Star Goddess

 

[Puffy2]

http://www.disboards.com/forumdisplay.php?s=&daysprune=&f=29
That is the link to the DVC rent/trade board where DVC members who can't use their points, will sell them (rent them) . Points usually go for $10 each (sometimes you can snag a 9$ deal or 9.50$ - which is good if you can). Go with a trusted person! This has risk involved as you pay for all of your vaction up front (and they make the reservation for you). Some offer a little wiggle room if you need to change something, but MOST are non refundable. Meaning, you bought it, it's yours - no cancelations.

If you go to the board, there are some posts at the top that explain a lot of questions. Read all that first. Another thing, usually reservations need to be made far in advance (because they can book up to 12 months out...or is it 11 months....?)

 

[Tinkbell]

If your heart is set on the deluxe, you need to travel during value season. For deluxes, it starts during July. Most schools are out then. It is actually less crowded in July (except for the 4th) than it is during Easter Week. Plus, AAA gives you 15% off of deluxes during value season. Right now, that's the best deal going.

 

[Sammie]

I am not addressing this to any one person, just a general observation, Disney is a business that prices their product like all other businesses, on supply and demand.

If and when Disney can't book their rooms at the prices they ask, then discounts will be offered. However many families can and do afford the rates at Disney deluxe resorts.

Each individual has to decide what is in their budget, but while I can understand wanting something one can not always afford or willing to pay, I do not understand the attitude of some on these forums that Disney is not being family oriented to ask these prices. Actually they are, but not to each and every family. But then many families can not afford to visit WDW at all, or even stay at a value resort.

As to what other resorts in other locations charge truly has no effect on Disney resort prices, anymore than real estate prices in other areas. Houses in California, for the size of the house, are sky high compared to a much larger house in another part of the country. So people that want to live in California have to pay the going price. Same with Disney to stay deluxe.

The main problem is that many have gotten used to the good discounts of the part and miss them, as I do. However I am not upset over the change, just glad I got the chance to experience the deluxe resorts at those prices for the times I did.

 

[WaltD4Me]

Each individual has to decide what is in their budget, but while I can understand wanting something one can not always afford or willing to pay, I do not understand the attitude of some on these forums that Disney is not being family oriented to ask these prices. Actually they are, but not to each and every family. But then many families can not afford to visit WDW at all, or even stay at a value resort.

As to what other resorts in other locations charge truly has no effect on Disney resort prices, anymore than real estate prices in other areas. Houses in California, for the size of the house, are sky high compared to a much larger house in another part of the country. So people that want to live in California have to pay the going price. Same with Disney to stay deluxe.

Excellent response! ITA!

Sure, I'd love to stay in a deluxe again...mostly due to their location. I've stayed at Poly and GF and LOVED being on the monorail. I also think the Deluxes are very nice...I can see giving them a 4 Diamond rating...Disney is a prime commodity, you may be able to find deluxe resorts cheaper in other locations, but probably not in a high tourist area like the heart of New York city for example and Disney's deluxes are certainly in the heart of WDW. Location, location, location!

I think Disney tries hard to accomodate a wide range of incomes. You just have to figure out what suites you best. A deluxe doesn't work for me now, so I am happy with a moderate and I'd be happy at a value....I feel blessed to be able to go to Disney at all.

 

[cdpa4d]

OK...time for me to chime in. What you pay for is what you get. When you pay big bucks to stay in a deluxe, you are not just paying for the room, you are paying for the amenities of the hotel; i.e. table service restaurants, nice pools, spas, transportation options (monorail, boats, etc). You are not paying for the 375sq ft. room.

Let's face it. You are paying for convenience and not the room. Having the ability to jump on the monorail and get to the MK in 5 to 10 minutes is going to cost you. having Stormalong bay right outside your room is going to cost you. Being able to walk to EPCOT is going to cost you. Staying in the same resort as Victoria & Albert's is going to cost you and then some!

You are paying for:
1. Convenience
2. Amenities
3. Location

 

[CharlesTD]

Julia M,

Thank you for insulting me this morning, that is exactly why I posted on this board to get an insult from a total stranger.

My family and I take 1 nice vacation per year. That is 1 week of vacation. We choose to go during Spring Break because the kids are out of school, and that fits our schedule the best.

For a family of 5 with my budget, the only options at this time is to:

1.) stay offsite
2.) book 2 rooms at a value
3.) stay at PR-Aligator Bayou

I have stayed offsite, I have done Priceline, I have stayed in a condo.

I don't think I am being a 2 year old for wanting or wishing to be able to stay in a "deluxe" resort without paying $300-$400 per night. I think that rates get higher and higher every year, and frankly Disney or not, no hotel room is worth that much money!

I've checked into DVC points for that time, the Friday and Saturday nights are a killer.

Thanks for those who posted constructive comments for me.

So rent points for the Sun-Thursday and then get 2 rooms for the weekend at All Stars. We decided in 98 to just buy DVC and it was the best money ever spent at WDW so many options and so much room for the money plus you don't have to fork out 3-400 a night for your room.

 

[Mamu]

I agree with you about the rates. I feel we are force to stay deluxe because Disney seems to think most families only have 2 children.

Nothing worst then cramping a family into a value room. We stay deluxe because our 2 Grandchildren are teens and the opposite sex.

I do think $400 a night is steep, just to get a day bed. I guess the perks of staying on site.

This past December we stayed at a 3 bedroom condo that offered everything you could want. Inside and out for $350 for the week. It was less then 10 minutes drive to the parks. We were all adults and it worked out great.

In less then 1 month I'm paying more for one nights stay at the Poly because there are 5 of us 3 adults and 2 8-years olds. I think I need my head examined. Oh well this will probably be my last on site trip for a while. With poor AP rates I think my next trip will probably be off-site.

I have let Disney know about my disappointment on this matter only to get the standard e-mail. At this time we are not offering any deals. I think I'll be looking somewhere where I feel wanted, not just a quota in the future. Sorry Disney you have priced me right out of staying on-site.

 

[dsnymomof4]

Leah,
I know exactly how you feel - and you have more options that we do - we are a family of 6, so we can't even get the extra bad in some of the rooms. I think it is very frustrating that our choices are so limited. Yes, we've done the connecting rooms at POP and this December we are renting DVC points, but I would like to have the option to stay in one of the deluxe resorts without having to pay $5000 for a junior suite because that's the only option for a family larger than 5. I have written to Disney about this, but all they say is that it is fire regulations that limit the # of guests in a room. I wish they would give larger families more options.

 

[tlbwriter]

First of all, I disagree. You can find some very good deals from time to time in most cities in the US on some really fine hotel (you might have to do some planning and searching - but you can still get a 4 star hotel for under 200$ - sometimes even slightly under 150).

The key words here are "from time to time in most cities." You can get good deals "from time to time" at WDW as well. It all comes down to supply and demand. If you insist on going during peak season, you have to realize that supply is lower and demand is higher, and there's no way around that.