this may be a stupid question, but how do you get a code?
There are so many types of "codes," which are combinations of letters you have to use when you book your book your ressie. For example, you would call CRO or
Dreams Unlimited, or
AAA and say, "Hi, I'd like to book these dates at this resort using code XYZ." Sometimes there's no availability for that code on that date at that resort, so you may have to be flexible about dates and resorts.
Most codes are available to only certain types of people, for example Annual Pass (AP) holders, Disney Visa members, Florida residents. Some, however, are available to the "general public." Occasionally, Disney targets specific households, either by e-mail or postcard, and offers something very special for a very limited number of people. That happened last spring, and the discount was 40% off rack rate for rooms. To be included in this marketing, it is necessary to be in the system somehow, so make sure CRO has your current demographic info. Sometimes, codes are attached to the phone number at CRO, so I always make it a point to ask, "is there a code attached to my household at this time?" For the first time this summer, there actually WAS one, but I couldn't use it.
Disney offers these promotion codes to fill up rooms. There is usually something offered, but availability is much more limited during peak and holiday periods.
The best way to find a code is to watch this board for rumors. There are other sites that offer breaking news about codes, but I'm not sure I'm allowed to mention them here?
The worst thing about the codes is that they are not released very far in advance of the dates for which they can be used. AP codes are only available now thru December, so if you want to travel in January, you're still waiting. I LOVE to plan my trips to Disney, so this is hard for me.
BTW, if you like to stay at deluxe resorts, sometimes it's cheaper to buy an AP to get the discount on the room than to save on your park pass and pay "rack rate" for the room. Only one adult needs the AP to get the discount.
Hope this helps.
ALOHA!