DLH - November 2010 - Price Hunting?

[blaqjaq]

Hello from Sunny Australia!

I am in the process of planning a 3 week trip to California for November. 4 nights of this trip we plan to spend at the DLH (I have fond memory's of this hotel at age 12 - some 14 years ago).

What has really sold me is I still remember travelling on the monorail into disneyland and having no line ups to deal with etc and the early hour was great. I would really like my kids to have the same experience....

Can anybody inform me if the lake area in the middle of the complex is still running? Off memory they had little remote controlled boats in there when I was there and their was a gaming arcade underneath?

What i'm struggling to swallow though, is the $362 per night rate, even if we get a renovated room, it's surely not worth that of a 5 star hotel. Where should I look to get the rate down? Is there any early bird rates available? Or should I wait until later to book it?

Your advice would be appreciated

 

[blaqjaq]

Bump!!

Can anybody help????

 

[Vala]

You're simply too early, although $ 362 is quite expensive. The rates do come down, but closer to the date. Last year the really good rates came out in August/September.

There is a little arcade near the pool and I think the motor boats are still running as well.

 

[farmfresh]

Hello from your smallish neighbouring island!

Yes, there are still remote controlled boats, and a games arcade. And yes, you can still catch the monorail -although it feels like a bit of a walk, because it is now part of the Downtown Disney area, rather than the DLH itself. I'm not sure it is an advantage entry wise anymore either.

As for cheap prices... can't help much there. Early bird rates are usually for AP holders. Try an Aus travel agent (old fashioned I know)- they might be able to access cheaper wholesale rates - we have done this from time to time, and they can be lower than the official website rates. Sometimes packages work out well in a low season like November.

Many here would recommend cheaper offsite hotels - we prefer to stay on site, but that is a way to reduce cost. Hojos is very popular. The offsite hotels are sometimes slightly closer, but IMO the environs are a bit ordinary. But it will save you a lot.

The other thing to consider is whether you will go back to your hotel during the day.Walking distance is the key here, especially if your kids are too old for strollers, but young enough to need a break.

Bear in mind too that the parks are larger and possibly more crowded than when you were a kid - so breaks are good. (might run out of time for the remote boats!)

As for Early entry (now magic mornings) - you will have one free entry with a three day plus park hopper ticket, but if you stay onsite you can have MM every morning it is offered of your stay.

Final thing - be picky about the days you choose. You are more likely to catch evening entertainment, fireworks etc around a weekend. If you have some ideas, ask here and people will help.

Hope that helps - keep firing the questions and you'll get the answers here for sure

 

[blaqjaq]

Thanks so much for the help so far!! Our kids will be 8 and 2 so old enough to not get tired and young enough to be in stroller so fortunately we can do solid days

next question: in this case, should I book now and then phone to change ro lower rates when they go down? Or just wait?

Cheers

 

[Vala]

They will ask for one night's deposit when you book.

Other than that if this makes you feel more comfortable book now. We did book in February for our 2008 stay and it was a nice feeling to have everything set. In 2009 I did not book in advance and waited for hotel rates to come down. If you're easily stressed, take option 1.

 

[heatherleigh]

Wait until this summer when the prices come down. That's what we're waiting on.

Does anyone know if the DLH standard rooms are bigger than the GC? We have a party of 5 for sure, and possibly a baby who would be in a pack and play.

 

[Mommy2PrincessAbby]

Our kids will be 8 and 2 so old enough to not get tired and young enough to be in stroller so fortunately we can do solid days

My dd is almost 6, never naps at home, and still naps every day we are at DL... and she rides in an stroller too. I wouldn't count on your solid days unless your 2 year old sleeps well in the stroller! We are up early to be at the gates 30 minutes before open... and usually not in bed until 10 pm, so naps are a must!

 

[blaqjaq]

Wow this feedback has been excellent!

Yes our son is really good at sleeping in his stroller and will just nod off when he feels the need so it shouldnt be a big problem.

What rate should I be looking at paying for a Upper Level Resort view, checking in Wed 3rd of Nov checking out Sunday the 7th of Nov?

Also, what are the advantages to going for the Concierge level? Do you feel it's worthwhile? and what sort of rate should I be paying for that?

Thanks!