DVC/AP/DDE discount questions--so confused

[MineeBaby]

Okay, so we are planning our upcoming return home and we were debating doing the DDP for part of our trip. We looked up the plan on the net, saw all the changes, including gratuity and appetizer obmission, and have decided that it just plain isn't worth it and we don't eat enough to do the deluxe plan.


SOOOO, I remember reading about the DDE card and while it interests me, I am confused about it. I know I need to order it in advance, so that isn't a problem--the card will give our family a 20% discount at select disney restaurants. How is this different from the DVC member perks? DVC members get 20% off many of the restaurants also. Are they additive? (I wish!) or are there more restaurants on the DDE list? Hmmm...thoughts?

Oh, and we like to eat counter services, and places like Ohana, Boma, Le Cellier, any Epcot sit downs really. Crystal Palace too. Anyway, thoughts?

Thanks!
Heidi

 

[SSRFred]

Here's a link on the DDE. http://allearsnet.com/din/dde.htm You have to be an AP holder. On the site there is a PDF file that has a nice comparison of DVC,DDE, and AP discounts.

 

[MineeBaby]

What a great link, thanks!!

 

[I'mNoPrince]

And now you don't have to order or get it in advance it can be purchased right at a Guest Relation Location.

 

[LisaS]

The PDF file SSRFred referred to is here: http://allearsnet.com/pl/disc_dining.pdf Many of the DVC discounts are only for lunch, not dinner, and many are only 10% vs. the 20% you get with DDE. On the other hand, some of the DVC discounts are 30% so I always print out that table and bring it with me to remind myself which discount is better.

 

[JimMIA]

I don't think anyone has mentioned this, but the DDE card is purchased. I believe the cost is $65 for AP holders and $75 for Florida residents.

The main advantages of the DDE card are:

• The duration of the card (13 months, rather than just length of stay with DDP)
• Good at virtually all of the restaurants that are on DDP
• Good for all meals -- not lunch at one place, but not dinner, etc. like many of the DVC discounts.
• 20 % off food and beverage, including alcoholic beverages. This is the only discount plan that offers a discount on adult beverages.
• Can be used to discount up to ten diners at the same meal, provided they are all on the same check.
• Can be combined with some other plans. For example, can be used to discount non-DDP items when using DDP, or for guests who are not on DDP.

Disadvantages:

• There are some blackout dates, mostly around major holidays.
• You MUST be an AP holder or Florida resident to purchase. DVC membership does NOT qualify you for the DDE card.

 

[CarolAnnC]

Also, as of 2008 a mandatory tip of 18% will be added to the bill when a DDE card is used. This is regardless of sit down, buffets, number of people in party etc. Just fyi.

 

[Mtnman44]

Yikes, 18% mandatory at a buffet. That is outrageous.

 

[CarolMN]

Also, with only a few exceptions, the DDE discount is not valid at counter service restaurants.