Is it pretty much impossible to get the CA DVC at 7 months?

[jodifla]

I'm thinking about a California trip in the next 5 years. Am I correct in the notion that the DVC out there really only goes to owners? I know it is small.

 

[prov3v56]

We have not found that to be true. We stayed at the GC last Christmas for four nights in a studio and had no problem booking at the 7 month window. I know we also could have had a 1bd but I don't know about a 2bd as I didn't ask.

 

[SSRFred]

We stayed in a 2 bedroom last August. We booked it at about 5 months out.

 

[ajf1007]

We booked a 2 bedroom at VGC at the 7 month window, no problems at all! It was for our October vacation though! I take that back, only problem we had was that we usually stay in studios (it's usually just DH and myself) and since we were taking our nephew, we did the 2 bdrm. Problem is that now I never want to stay in a studio again! Time for an add-on!!!

 

[DebbieB]

I got a studio for the first week of May at 7 months.

 

[franandaj]

It all depends on the time of year, but many people get in at 7 mos. Also WLs come through easily. Since many people drive there for their trips, plans change often. I think most all of my WLs there have come through, usually with a couple weeks.

 

[Julylady]

The wait list did not work for me. I called on the morning of the 7-month window for a weeklong trip in late June (2-bedroom). I got the last 3 days (weekend) but not the first four. I went on the waiting list, but it never came through. We are staying the first four nights at Paradise Pier and then moving to GCH. Not sure I am thrilled about changing hotels, but at least I am not borrowing points!

 

[ChiSoxKeith]

I have two studios booked at VGC for this fall (2nd & 3rd week of September). We are staying at VGC on the way out to and back from a week at Aulani. We had no trouble booking the studios exactly at the 7 month window. First stay is over a weekend, the second stay is during the week.

 

[Pakey]

I was able to get 3 nights in February (Thu, Fri, Sat) at about 4 months.

 

[kikiq]

If you are flexible in your days wanted, I think most people have been successful. However, we are locals and wanted specific dates, anniversary, birthday, and a holiday weekend. After a year of unsuccessful 7 month calls, we added on. But I say give a chance, be flexible and it should be OK.

 

[MinnieFan4ever]

We went last September in a 1BR for 4 nights. I booked just over the 5 month mark.

 

[Joan S.]

The wait list did not work for me. I called on the morning of the 7-month window for a weeklong trip in late June (2-bedroom). I got the last 3 days (weekend) but not the first four. I went on the waiting list, but it never came through. We are staying the first four nights at Paradise Pier and then moving to GCH. Not sure I am thrilled about changing hotels, but at least I am not borrowing points!

Hi, We stayed at Paradise Pier last summer for 7 nites on points and really enjoyed the hotel.We had 2 rooms connecting for the 4 of us.(I booked it LAST minute) We ate a few meals at GC and enjoyed eating there. Be sure to check out sitting up from the pool at PPH to get a great view of the fireworks! Joan

 

[njmeisje]

We booked a week for this August in a 2BR -- booked right at the 7 month mark -- no problem. Was really happy Good luck.

 

[disprincessatheart]

We booked a studio for this fall around the 6 month mark - had to go with our second choice week. As it turns out we had to cancel that trip but there is hope at least this year. In 5 years who knows.

 

[pyrxtc]

I called at 7 months for labor day weekend and no luck. I just booked DLH using my points. That room sleeps 5 as well and we just need the beds to sleep in, none of the other stuff you get in a studio or 1 bedroom.

 

[flexsmom]

We were able to get a grand villa at less than 7 months out. Actually, we had a 2BR for 1 night and the GV for the next 2 nights. Our waitlist for the first night came through pretty quickly, and we had an amazing stay! This was October 2010 around the time of USC homecoming - can't remember the exact weekend.

 

[disneymayz]

The wait list did not work for me. I called on the morning of the 7-month window for a weeklong trip in late June (2-bedroom). I got the last 3 days (weekend) but not the first four. I went on the waiting list, but it never came through. We are staying the first four nights at Paradise Pier and then moving to GCH. Not sure I am thrilled about changing hotels, but at least I am not borrowing points!

Before the villas were done we stayed at all 3 DL resorts in one trip to see which one we like the best. PP was the one I liked the most. Next trip we are hoping to stay at DLH becasue of the new pool.

 

[Halle]

I have two studios booked at VGC for this fall (2nd & 3rd week of September). We are staying at VGC on the way out to and back from a week at Aulani. We had no trouble booking the studios exactly at the 7 month window. First stay is over a weekend, the second stay is during the week.

I'm in awe, have a great trip.

 

[franandaj]

I have two studios booked at VGC for this fall (2nd & 3rd week of September). We are staying at VGC on the way out to and back from a week at Aulani. We had no trouble booking the studios exactly at the 7 month window. First stay is over a weekend, the second stay is during the week.

This brings a whole new meaning to split stay!

 

[vakamalua]

We're on the waitlist for GC for three nights in September (studio or 1 BR); any chance?

As a backup, tell me about PP & the DLH. The points are pretty high for a hotel room. Is PP worn? Is the construction at DLH a big disruption--what will be done by September? Can you request an updated room?

Thanks