FEBRUARY 2008 WDW travelers post HERE!!!

bornwiththeears · Jun 27, 2007

Don't get excited.....those are 2007 prices.....she told me she would adjust prices when the 2008 rates come out. what I am asking is this - the total of the package she quoted was approx. $150 more than what the price of the room, plus 4 day passes, plus the DDP equaled. Since we need two rooms the price was around $300 more for both. does that make sense? I just thought the package would be about the same price (or hopefully cheaper) if you paid for each separately (even though I know you cannot get the DDP separately)

bornwiththeears · Jun 27, 2007

Sorry, I left out the word THAN in the last sentence. I thought a package would be the same or less than if you purchased the components (room, passes, DDP) separately. Hope that makes sense.

bornwiththeears · Jun 27, 2007

Disregard previous posts> I thought the basic package only included room, tickets and DDP. I did not realize there were other things included.

wendypooh · Jun 27, 2007

Oh, OK - I thought it must be for 2007!!! BUT, I wish those rates would hurry up!!!!! I'm ready to book - LOL

I"m not sure why her price was more? Is she adding a TA fee? or Taxes? I really don't know.

Anyway - What you would need to do to determine if a package is right for you is to add each component of your trip - including your meals, and see which way is cheaper. I know that with a package you are paying RACK RATE for your room - NO discount, you are paying FULL price for your tickets and you pay for the dining plan. For us, especially if we get a discount code it makes the most sense. Here is the reason why - my DH is a big eater, we like to have at least one sit down meal a day, we like to do the character meals and we like to do signature dining........ if your family doesn't then a package may not be right for you. ** Plus, you are right, you do get added things with a package, that you would not get doing each thing seperately. We added up each component, plus food - both ways- on the dining plan and not on. On our last trip we saved over $400 - that was on FOOD alone, plus we got the park hoppers free - which saved $, and there was a slight discount on the room - disney refunded me the difference so we added 2 more nights to our trip.

Here is an example of ONE day on the dining plan, and one day NOT on it
-- remember in this comparison you are paying FULL price for your room/tickets/dining.

This is for 2 adults - 1 child. The price INCLUDES tax for room/tickets.

This is LOOSELY based on individual component Aug. 2007 prices since I don't know the actual package rates - also, 2008 rates will probably be more.

2 Adult - 1 day park hopper tickets - $238.58
($71.36 each+ $47.93 per hopper)
1 Child - 1 day park hopper ticket - $112.89

Total for Tickets = $351.47

1 Night Room Only Resv. @ WL - $241.88

Meals for the day -

Breakfast @ Roaring forks -
2 Adult B-fast platters - $5.99 each (tax NOT included) = $11.98
2 drinks - coffee/water = $1.99 + $2.00 = $3.99
1 Child B-fast platter - $3.99 + 1 milk $1.29 = $5.28

Total for B-fast = $21.25 - excluding tax

Lunch @ Cosmic Rays
1 Adult rib/chick. combo - $13.99
1 Adult BBQ meal - $8.99
1 Child nuggets - $3.99 (drink included)
2 drinks - $4.78

Total for lunch = $31.75 - excluding tax

Dinner @ Chef Mickey's
2 Adults $27.99 each - $55.98
1 child $12.99

Total = $68.97 - excluding tax

TOTAL for one days meals = $121.97 - excludes tax and tip

Total for 1 day trip = $715.32

SAME TRIP w/Dining Plan

2 Adult Dining Plans - $38.99 each
1 Child Dining Plan - $10.99

Total = $88.97

Tickets - $351.45
Room - $241.88
Dining Plan - $88.97 - for one days meals.

Total = $682.30 This also INCLUDES Tax & Tips! SO, you could potentially save over $32.00 that day alone.

*** Remember though - you'd have to utilize the dining plan the right way - meaning that if you don't want to have to pay out of pocket for b-fast for example, you can use your snack credits for b-fast items under $4.00, otherwise depending on where you dine it could cost more.

You really need to just add up your trip doing it both ways and see which one makes more sense for your family. Again, we like the dining plan and will get it, it works out great for us!

I hope this helps - but again, it all varies on how you would use the dining plan, if any discounts come out, etc...... I'm basing everything on full pricing for each component and utilizing the dining plan in a way where I'm not paying OOP for my 3 meals.

emalone · Jun 27, 2007

Have you been in Jan? I noticed something said Jan 29th. Was just wondering what the weather was like and the crowd and lines.

bornwiththeears · Jun 27, 2007

Wendypooh -

Thanks so much for taking the time to do all the figuring in your previous post. You are right, we are just going to have to look at figures. We have been to WDW so many times, but just have not ever booked a package. We always make ADR's anyway and like you, we always have a table service meal at least once a day.

Again, thanks for the valuable info.

As far as the inquiry as to the weather at the end of January....we have taken two January trips. The best advice I can give is watch the weather and be prepared for anything. Layering is always best because some days warm up enough for long sleeve tees. On one day we even went to short sleeves and the next day we were buying earmuffs.

wendypooh · Jun 27, 2007

You are very welcome!!! I hope it all made sense - usually DH does the math!!! :rolleyes1

But - we really like the ease of the dining plan - good luck on the planning!

As for Jan. weather, we've been the last 4 years in a row during Jan./Feb. - as stated above, you will get a variety. Layering is your best bet! We've been when it was warm enough to swim at 8pm and other times you needed a jacket!

WETWHISTLE · Jun 28, 2007

We used the dining plan the last time we went and we LOVED it! We wouldn't go without it in the future!

Blueyed Girl · Jun 28, 2007

wendypooh said:
As for Jan. weather, we've been the last 4 years in a row during Jan./Feb. - as stated above, you will get a variety. Layering is your best bet! We've been when it was warm enough to swim at 8pm and other times you needed a jacket!

I totally agree. The only downfall is that your suitcase is packed so full of clothes so that you have a good variety. But it's good to be prepared. I think this year I will try using those space bags to make more room!

wendypooh · Jun 28, 2007

We LOVED it too!!! We always get it now!!!!

WETWHISTLE said:
We used the dining plan the last time we went and we LOVED it! We wouldn't go without it in the future!

wendypooh · Jun 28, 2007

Just a little reminder that you can use this date to figure out when to make your ADR's!!! We arrive on Feb. 2 - so, I can make mine on Aug. 6th!!!

Thanks Lori!!!

lori1043 said:
FYI- for those that will be there for Feb 1-the 180 days out day is August 5th-

lori1043 · Jun 28, 2007

hey Wendypooh! Thanks for the prayers-DD9's doctor showed little concern-she does want us to go to an allergist though, so we are going next week. Oncologist not until July 27th. It still bugs and baffles me though. I am hoping (and this may sound crazy) that they do an allergy test and something shows up on it and this is all allergies. Then at least we can stop using whatever it is and go on with LIFE. I am feeling a bit better but will be anxious for next week to pass.

I agree with all of the above about packing for whatever weather we may get ... and space bags are a wonderful idea-we used them for our Chicago trip last year sincwe we were not sure what the weather was REALLY gonna' bring. It was forecasted to be in the 60-80 range, but when we stepped off the plane it was 36!!! :eek:

I froze in my capris and sandals! But the next day it was 60-ish and got warmer as the week went on.

Lori

wendypooh · Jun 28, 2007

I'm certainly hoping everything is going to be just fine! Keep thinking positively!!! I can totally relate to how you feel about your Dr. that was the main reason we changed our ped. - he just was so lax it bugged me to no end!!! We LOVE the lady we have now, she is amazing! (DS had ear infect. constantly and he has allergies as well, we had the allergy test done, it's really no big deal - but I was just so glad to find something out one way or the other!) DS now has tubes as well, and I realize it isn't on the same level, but when your little one has any kind of med. issue it's just stressful and taxing! I know easier said than done, but try not to worry!! We are all thinking of you and your DD!!! Keep us posted on how it goes!

SO ~~ were you able to get over to the disney store? That sale was amazing! I've got 2 coupons for 15% off for July - if you'd like one PM and I'll send one to you!

Wendy

lori1043 said:
hey Wendypooh! Thanks for the prayers-DD9's doctor showed little concern-she does want us to go to an allergist though, so we are going next week. Oncologist not until July 27th. It still bugs and baffles me though. I am hoping (and this may sound crazy) that they do an allergy test and something shows up on it and this is all allergies. Then at least we can stop using whatever it is and go on with LIFE. I am feeling a bit better but will be anxious for next week to pass.

I agree with all of the above about packing for whatever weather we may get ... and space bags are a wonderful idea-we used them for our Chicago trip last year sincwe we were not sure what the weather was REALLY gonna' bring. It was forecasted to be in the 60-80 range, but when we stepped off the plane it was 36!!! I froze in my capris and sandals! But the next day it was 60-ish and got warmer as the week went on.

Lori

speedyf · Jun 29, 2007

wendypooh said:
This is LOOSELY based on individual component Aug. 2007 prices since I don't know the actual package rates - also, 2008 rates will probably be more.

2 Adult - 1 day park hopper tickets - $238.58
($71.36 each+ $47.93 per hopper)
1 Child - 1 day park hopper ticket - $112.89

Total for Tickets = $351.47

1 Night Room Only Resv. @ WL - $241.88

Meals for the day -

Breakfast @ Roaring forks -
2 Adult B-fast platters - $5.99 each (tax NOT included) = $11.98
2 drinks - coffee/water = $1.99 + $2.00 = $3.99
1 Child B-fast platter - $3.99 + 1 milk $1.29 = $5.28

Total for B-fast = $21.25 - excluding tax

Lunch @ Cosmic Rays
1 Adult rib/chick. combo - $13.99
1 Adult BBQ meal - $8.99
1 Child nuggets - $3.99 (drink included)
2 drinks - $4.78

Total for lunch = $31.75 - excluding tax

Dinner @ Chef Mickey's
2 Adults $27.99 each - $55.98
1 child $12.99

Total = $68.97 - excluding tax

TOTAL for one days meals = $121.97 - excludes tax and tip

Total for 1 day trip = $715.32

SAME TRIP w/Dining Plan

2 Adult Dining Plans - $38.99 each
1 Child Dining Plan - $10.99

Total = $88.97

Tickets - $351.45
Room - $241.88
Dining Plan - $88.97 - for one days meals.

Total = $682.30 This also INCLUDES Tax & Tips! SO, you could potentially save over $32.00 that day alone.

Wendy....

On your breakdown of the meals not included in the plan you have 3 meals. I thought the meal plan only included two meals and a snack? Can you use the snack to get breakfast platters AND drinks for breakfast?

Also...alot of times the kids meal comes with the drink already...but, I wasn't sure of the breakfast meal.

Just curious....
Speed

wendypooh · Jun 29, 2007

speedyf said:
Wendy....

On your breakdown of the meals not included in the plan you have 3 meals. I thought the meal plan only included two meals and a snack? Can you use the snack to get breakfast platters AND drinks for breakfast?

Also...alot of times the kids meal comes with the drink already...but, I wasn't sure of the breakfast meal.

Just curious....
Speed

It depends on how you use your credits. You actually can use your snack credits for b-fast items. As far as drinks were concerned, we actually purchased refillable mugs and used them while eating at the resort. So, if you didn't purchase the mugs, then you'd have to either use more credits for drinks or pay OOP for them. For example we stayed at Mara and were able to get oatmeal, the childs b-fast platter, tons of other things as well. Basically, a snack credit is good for anything $4.00 or less. It was more cost effective for us to use them for b-fast (since we aren't really big b-fast eaters anyway) and just pay OOP for a "snack" during the day. I've also read where others have used snack credits at the bakery on main st. to get b-fast items when entering the park. I wouldn't base your decision to get or not get the DDP on my breakdown....... as that was VERY loosley based on what could be done - it could be more or less depending on how you use the plan. My best advice would be to calculate your trip both ways - with the plan and without and see which works better for your family. You can find menus and prices on all ears to help with comparisons. It saved us over $400 last year - but that is because we would've eaten at a sit down meal at least once a day & we do the character meals as well. If you don't do this - it obviously won't be cost effective to get the plan. I mean if you eat only CS meals or grab a hot dog on the go.......... clearly that would be cheaper by comparison.

But, Yes, you can use your snack credits for b-fast items, so long as whatever you get is $4.00 or less! Good Luck with your planning!

lori1043 · Jul 1, 2007

Cool advice Wendypooh!

We are not doing DDP b/c we do not book a TS meal every day by any stretch-more due to not wanting to make ADR's for everyday. If I had DDP, I'd have every meal planned! and we are more of the eat when we get hungry and it's usually not during busy times type and when we do have an ADR, we plan around it. We will have more ADR's than usual next year (like 3 or 4 rather than 1 or 2!) since we we are staying longer and we are taking off days to explore and eat at other hotels. IF they offer free DDP fall 2008, we may book and I'll do all the ADR's(cause you have to at that time when it's free). That is IF we can afford it that soon after our Feb trip. I personally do not enjoy focusing that much on food when at WDW. Just me. I enjoy reading all of our different choices and ideas for WDW-it may be something to try one day!
Our possible ADR's for Feb:
*CRT (or some character dining)
*Whispering Canyon
*Spirit of Ohana(even though reviews are mixed that is what I want for my b/day!)
*Mama Melroses (for Fantasmic)

We will probably go to these places, but I will not make ADR's:
*Sci-Fi dine in theater
*Rainforest Cafe- outside AK

We have NEVER had to wait that long for these places, esp. since we do not go during peak times. I have never had to wait more than 10 minutes for Crystal Palace w/out ADR's our past 2 trips, either.

The rest of our meals will be brought(we are also not big breakfast people, hence cereals, nutrigrain bars, milk are brought mostly for kids) or at counter service places. We usually pack a small lunch of ham sandwiches/chips every other day or so and we bring snacks/water bottles for our backpacks. We will get the refillable cup from the resort (next year we may get 2-one for me/DH and 1 for kids). We to get more than the one or 2 since you can only use it at the resort-so we have it from the food court to the park and then at night we get a refill. I enjoyed hot chocolate(incl in refill cup price) sitting in a hammock at the ASmovies by MYSELF at night last time!

Just our ideas!
Lori

ConnieB · Jul 2, 2007

wendypooh said:
Anyway - What you would need to do to determine if a package is right for you is to add each component of your trip - including your meals, and see which way is cheaper. I know that with a package you are paying RACK RATE for your room - NO discount, you are paying FULL price for your tickets and you pay for the dining plan. QUOTE]

My understanding is that you only have to pay the rack rate for the hotel during the FREE dining (Aug/Sep 2007), that if you are paying for the DDP which we'd all be doing in Feb 2008, then you can still get discounts on the hotel room. Paying rack rate and full price for the DDP would be way to expensive....but rack rate and free dining often still makes the cost less than "regular". My reasons for not going during free dining is Aug/Sep is too hot..... and it's way more crowded during free dining than I want.

wendypooh · Jul 2, 2007

ConnieB said:
My understanding is that you only have to pay the rack rate for the hotel during the FREE dining (Aug/Sep 2007), that if you are paying for the DDP which we'd all be doing in Feb 2008, then you can still get discounts on the hotel room. Paying rack rate and full price for the DDP would be way to expensive....but rack rate and free dining often still makes the cost less than "regular". My reasons for not going during free dining is Aug/Sep is too hot..... and it's way more crowded during free dining than I want.

Actually, my understanding is that is not the case. When you book a MYW Package (which you have to book in order to get the dining plan) you pay rack rate on your room -regardless of season or anything else. We've done this at least 5 or 6 times now.. Now, by rack rate, I mean what the rack rate for the particular season is........ Disney has different seasons, they are Value Season, Regular Season, Summer Season, Peak Season and Holiday Season.

However, I do think that if you book through AAA you can get a discount, but that is the only way, unless of course a
discount code comes out for packages and it applies to what you have booked, then that can be applied. The last 2 years in Jan./Feb. when we've gone the package discount has been getting the free park hoppers, waterparks and more, with that there was also a SLIGHT room rate reduction. But, you will pay rack rate for your room, tickets and dining when booking a package. So, lets all hope a discount comes out too!!!!

You can also call CRO and inquire about this.