Having an AP is costing us free dining. Is there any way around it?

[Disneylover99]

No, I wouldn't. Because, unlike you, I see it as a package discount and not "free".

Interesting. I guess we all see things differently.

 

[cjnix29]

Wow such a heated discussion! My only issue with "free dining" is that people always just assume it will be the best deal. Every situation is different. Sometimes it may be and sometimes it won't be. But you have to price it all out each time to see. For my family, we stay deluxe, don't do a lot of character meals, and honestly don't want to be tied to dining reservations. Also there are only three of us. Dining plan, free or otherwise, is almost never best deal. But I still price it out to see each time. For other families it really works, and saves them money. It's definitely NOT a one size fits all discount. Personally I think the dining plan has dumbed down the menus and raised the prices in restaurants...which is why food is not my Disney priority. Well...except for those Mickey rice Krispy bars!

Hopefully the OP can find a way for it all to work out for her and she can enjoy her vacation!

 

[ssawka]

Have you considered renting DVC points? You may save enough to cover the DDP and possibly get larger accomidations.