We were 7-night moderate resort, pretty commando people before
DVC. We always did the
DDP.
Changes with DVC:
1 - Longer trips - we do a two week trip (with 4-5 nights at Vero) every year now. We did the first one because of developer points, and then added on. Vacation is now seen a time to relax - previously I always said I needed a vacation to recover from vacation! We'd come back happy but exhausted - now I come back happy and relaxed/rested.
2-BIG changes in dining. We started off still doing the DDP but it did not take long to realize that with extended time on the DDP we were getting sick of the typical table service. This coincided with the discovery of what a pleasure signature dining is. We now use the DDE(TIW) to do a signature meal most evenings. Regular TS just lost most of its appeal. We spend lots more on dining now.
3 - We became view snobs. I never cared about view before (would never had paid more cash for one) - but with so many dedicated view offerings, I got hooked. Now, view is at the top of my list of what I look for in a resort.
4 - I travel alone with the kids. Would not have done this without DVC - my kids (and I) are so familiar with the resorts/transportation/parks now that I am 100% comfortable going alone with them.
5 - We'll go into parks just to ride one or two things or eat. No more rushing. We've also gotten into doing the "off the beaten trail" activities and attractions that would have seemed like time-wasters before - like the activity room in Sounds Dangerous or Tom Sawyer's Island, which is one of my favorite things now.
6 - We spend a lot more time at the pool (no more feeling like I need to suck every second park-time possible and that we can swim at home).
7 - I don't buy many souvieneers anymore.
8 - We're able to be generous with the people we love. Whether that's bringing grandparents along "on us" or giving a honeymoon trip to friends. It's pretty cool to be able to "share".
