I Don't Understand

[lucysdad]

I think I'm missing a link or two here. We are traveling to the Dolphin in May at the teacher rate, $169 a night. I figure a very generous $200 per day for food for 2 adults and 1 child. Those costs combined still wouldn't get me the least expensive room at the POLY (my favorite resort). So how would paying rack rate to get the dining plan option be an advantage? I don't get it? Don't you have to pay rack rate to tag on the dining plan and then you have to pay for the dining plan itself? The free dining plan is very limited and probably not going to be available in May, right? I just don't want to think I am making the right decisions. I want to know I am and I am confused about what I have been reading on these threads. Can somebody lift my fog?
Lucy's Mom

 

[Amyrlin]

The Poly is a popualr hotel and it is more expensive thanthe Dolphin rate you have got.

 

[Linda 441]

You can get the dining plan with discounts, but you won't know until closer what is available. But, I'd say it will still be more than at the Dolphin with your teacher rate.

 

[kaytieeldr]

I'm not sure it's a reasonable comparison - you're not paying rack rate at the Dolphin.

Dolphin:
Deluxe non-smoking two double beds balcony: $304 (Best available rate)
Tax $34.96
Food budget: $200
Total per night $538.96

Polynesian (2006 rates):
Garden view two queen beds regular season $360
Tax $41.40
Dining plan $37.99 + $37.99 + $10.99 = $86.97
Total per night $488.37

 

[plutolovr]

The misunderstanding is that you only have to pay rack rate rooms with the FREE DINING. You can add the dining to a discounted MYW package. I know at AAA you can get a discount with the dining, not the FREE DINING though.

 

[Darian]

Also, the Poly is on the monorail which is an enormous benefit. Though its hard to put a dollar figure on it. Try comparing your rate with AKL or the YC which is nearby. You are also getting bigger beds in the WDW deluxe hotels: queen sized vs double. Of course you may be able to get adult cable in the Dolphin which you can't at a Disney hotel. I mean, not that I would personally view it, but well, some people do. I suppose.

 

[vanyel]

I've never stayed at the Swan/Dolphin but from what I read and hear, I think you'll be very happy there.

Don't worry about it - you'll be right near MGM & Epcot and you'll have a great time!

Yes the Poly's great to stay at but your rate is great plus you're staying at a beautiful resort.