Newbie, trying to understand

[laura12581]

If you are a member or DVC, can you only stay at DVC resorts? We like to try a different resort each time, and I am having trouble finding this info. Thank you!
Laura

 

[PamOKW]

There is an option to use your points to stay at the other WDW resorts (with the exception of All-Star and Pop Century). It actually "costs" quite a bit more per night to use points this way but it gives you the comfort factor of knowing you aren't missing out on any option. Once people have stayed at DVC (especially a one-bedroom or larger) they often lose the desire to resort hop to non-DVC options.

 

[Happy Birthday Cat]

If you are a member or DVC, can you only stay at DVC resorts? We like to try a different resort each time, and I am having trouble finding this info.

Pam has described our former Disney habits. Every once in a while we still need a "regular" WDW hotel fix (we just stayed at the GF a few months ago) but that was our first time since 2000. If you still feel you want to do other WDW hotels, then buy less points. You will probably find that you don't own enough and end up staying more and more in DVC accomodations, like we did.

If you want to stay at non DVC resorts, pay cash. But you can pay points but it will be at a premium.

HBC

 

[Disney Doll]

You can use your points to stay at any Disney resort, whether it is DVC or not. You can also use your points for the Disney druise, and to trade out to other timeshares that Disney contracts.

That being said, the best use of your points will be staying at DVC resorts. When you start to do the other things, the points per night cost goes up.

 

[DVCLiz]

I was a confirmed "stay in a hotel" kind of girl before I bought DVC. Now, I wouldn't trade the space and amenities for anything, but the thought of never being at AKL or trying a new resort was depressing. So, I "scratch that itch" by booking nights at other resorts on the weekends, when DVC points can be so high, and using DVC on the weekdays. I LOVE to have a two or more resort switch, so it works great for me!!!! Don't know if I'd use points, though - that's just a personal decision!!!

 

[power_alaska]

Laura - You have "all sorts of options" available. Hunting them down is part of the fun! If you scan the threads and postings, you will notice that many folks post their trips. For example - Mine as follows:

94,95,96,96 - OKW
97 - Vero
98,98,98 - HHI,HHI,OKW(Xmas)
99 - OKW & Bahama Cruise
00 - HHI, OKW & Eastern Cruise
02 - Western Cruise turned Eastern (Hurricane)
02 - OKW (Xmas)
03 - Tanque Verde (Concierge Collection)
04 - DL Grand
05 - Vegas (Cancun Resort - Passport Collection)

~~~ Future Confirmed Reservations!!! ~~~

05 - Wilderness Lodge & Western Cruise (Sep)
06 - Belize (Passport Collection) (Dec)

~~~Upcoming & Planned ~~~

07 - Serengeti?

As you can see my wife and I have been to a few locations ...

Go to the DVC site www.dvcmember.com and "study" it. There is a wealth of information and explanations on how to use it. Also, when you think you know what you want, call DVC (800)-******** and talk to them about what you want to do ... I have always found them helpful ... Some more than others, of course, BUT if you have an idea what you want to do, they will spend the time and help you understand the options. After I have done all that, I usually wait 24-48 hours before I commit my points unless I was absolutely sure about my plans & dates ...

One last thought, I prefer the DVC resorts to the hotels ... More space and usually quieter, kitchen facilities, etc etc. My wife and I have gone to OKW and never gone to the Parks ...

Hope that helps...