Here's my "AP" dilemma - thoughts appreciated:

[ploto]

We've booked a trip for August with an AP rate. Will go as long as weather looks decent (no hurricanes) and buy the AP upon arrival. We are definitely going Dec. 17 - 21. I don't want to spring for the AP until I'm sure we're taking the August trip, but I don't want to book the December trip until I have the AP or at least the voucher #. Should I book the December trip now at rack rates, or am I likely to find AP rates still available for December if I wait until mid August? Not being an AP expert and having never been in December, I don't know how long I can afford to wait before booking. For what it's worth, we hope to stay at CR for the December trip.

 

[7thdwarf/dopey]

We've booked a trip for August with an AP rate. Will go as long as weather looks decent (no hurricanes) and buy the AP upon arrival. We are definitely going Dec. 17 - 21. I don't want to spring for the AP until I'm sure we're taking the August trip, but I don't want to book the December trip until I have the AP or at least the voucher #. Should I book the December trip now at rack rates, or am I likely to find AP rates still available for December if I wait until mid August? Not being an AP expert and having never been in December, I don't know how long I can afford to wait before booking. For what it's worth, we hope to stay at CR for the December trip.

If I understood your post you want to wait till August to book a December trip. If so.......I would definitely book your December trip now. Many folks have already posted that a few resorts had no availability left for certain dates in December. Also, if you were thinking of trying the Best Rate Plan, the 120 day window is getting close.
IMHO...I would call and order your AP now. You will receive the voucher/exchange certificate in about 7-10 days.
BTW...have you considered joining AAA for the discount? Beats paying rack.
I hope I've been able to help you.