free dining question

[ellebelle430]

can someone please explain to me how this works, when it is offered and how you take advantage?

Thanks so much!

 

[Aimeedyan]

If it's offered again, there is a certain time in which you must book it (usually a span of a month or two), and a certain time of the year when you have to go (traditionally late August through Sept). You have to buy at least 1 park pass per person and there is a minimum and maximum night stay at a on-property hotel. I think it was 3-10 days. No room discounts, either (like codes or CM rates).

BUT, they might change the restrictions, dates, offer, or even not do it at all.

If I remember right, the past offers came out around March... But I could be wrong on that.

 

[TDC Nala]

Last year, the offer to the general public came out the first week in April. The first two or three days were open to bookings from Disney Visa holders only, then it was made available to everyone else.

 

[ellebelle430]

Thanks. And what exactly is free? All of your meals? Just at certain restaurants?

 

[beroh2253]

Last year, the offer to the general public came out the first week in April. The first two or three days were open to bookings from Disney Visa holders only, then it was made available to everyone else.

Exactly as stated this is how we did it last year (we have the Visa rewards card). Look for 180 days out to get your ADR's cause at free dining time the restaurants fill up quick.
2 years ago we signed up with about a week left (I think mid June) had a tougher time getting ADR's but did get some grreat place at off times. This year already on the free DDP from the bounce back offered at the resorts for people doing the DDP. So we will be on the phone at 180 days out. But in the mean time going in June and paying for the DDP. Disney nuts or what?

 

[SGMCO]

Thanks. And what exactly is free? All of your meals? Just at certain restaurants?

You get the same alloted meals as the Basic DP (FREE) but this
year 2008 you will have to leave the tip (it won't be included).
1 CS--1 TS--1 Snack per Day.
All of the Restaurants that are listed at taking the DDP are the ones
you can eat at.
We had FD for the 1st time on our last trip and it was wonderful not
to have to worry about how much food will cost--we loved it!
We were offered the Bounceback FD for this year while we were staying
there and we took advantage of it and Booked.

 

[ellebelle430]

Thank you all! And thank you for the clarification SGMVCO. Hopefully we will have the opprotunity to take advantage as well. All those meals out are what can make an affordable vacation not so much.