Disney Hotel pricing question

[july2011]

Hi! I posted this on the DLH super thread & realized many probably don't check that thread just because of it's size so figured I should start a new thread.

I am really wanting to stay at DLH next July and have been scouring these boards but cannot find quite what I'm wondering so thought I'd post here

The current price listed is over $400 per night for a standard room (I'm looking at July 25-29, 2013) and if you request a high-level resort view it's over $500 per night pre-tax. Is this typical? I've seen a couple of other posts where people are quoting prices under $200 per night so I'm not sure if I'm just looking too early or if there's that big of a difference in summer vs. other times.

Any recommendations for the best strategy to get a better price? Should I join AAA? Or should I get 1 annual pass so I can get a discount (and park hoppers for the rest of my family)? I'm assuming that they'll offer AP discounts and that the $200 price difference for my AP would be offset by a significant enough hotel savings plus we'd get restaurant discounts but is that normally the case for summer vacations? And do I go ahead and book the room now so we can get what we want (do they sell out - specifically the resort view upper level) and hope for a discount/deal/AP savings or do I wait? I'm just kind of ready to get the ball rolling but want to do the smart thing.

 

[KalamityJane]

My posts may have had lower pricing in them. We booked a special convention rate through Gay Days Anaheim - it is only valid during a few days in October. I have heard of people getting better rates with AP or with a PIN, so that may work?

 

[Girimama33]

My tip for discounts at a DLR hotel is to bring a senior with you...they get the best discount year round.

 

[Jrpbabe2003]

How do you get the senior discount? We are bringing my MIL in Feb and have been waiting to book until a discount comes out.

 

[Girimama33]

When you call to make your reservation, tell them you want the senior discount. It is usually 30% off at least.

 

[ArchOwl]

Feel free to make a reservation and then just check back periodically to see if there are any better deals. You can always change your reservation or cancel it if necessary to book something different. That way you have the security of knowing you have a reservation.

The DLR normally doesn't release any discounts or deals until a couple of months out. They did have AP discounts for select days this summer. When your dates get closer, you can crunch the numbers on that and see if it makes sense for your family.

Just pay attention to your cancellation dates and you should be fine. Most people don't book that far ahead, but there is no reason why you can't.

 

[july2011]

Thanks guys! Unfortunately no seniors available ;-)

I think I will probably go ahead & book like you recommended and then watch & see what happens. At least then I'm spreading out the cost by making payments although I might have to cancel if I don't get enough put down over the next year. I've already booked a back-up at Hyatt Regency Orange County but we REALLY REALLY want to stay at DLH if possible. Sounds like AP discounts are far from guaranteed as are promotions. We got lucky last year with WDW promos - cost much less for more days plus dining for theme-park view at Contemporary but they appear to offer more deals b/c they have more Disney hotels to fill.

I really appreciate the feedback and look forward to tracking the boards!!