Other Than Disney Resorts

[dfb]

Still looking but not yet member. We do plan on using points at other resorts. Skii resort in NC and Colorado. Hotels in NY and DC. What kind of experiences has everyone had using points in this area. Any problems with reservations, applying points other cost / detractors dealing with the other resorts.

Is there other DVC fees to do this?

Thanks

 

[RobDoc]

Yes, there is a $95 transaction fee for most of the non-DVC options (Disney Collection, World Passport Collection, Concierge Collection, Adventures by Disney). There may still be an exception for DL resorts where no transaction fee is charged.

Just be aware that you will usually get a better "value" using DVC points only at DVC resorts. If you have extra points some year, these other options can work well. Many DVC members purchase at other timeshares to use for trading.

 

[Coach81]

Yes, one of the long-standing sayings on this board is... the real value of DVC is at Disney itself, but good luck to you, and have a great time!

 

[Lynne M]

Another important thing to remember is that none of the other options (ABD, Concierge Collection, etc.) are guaranteed in the contract. For example, the number of resorts in the Concierge Collection was significantly reduced in the last year. The right to use points for cruises or ABD or anything other than DVC resorts could be modified or taken away. When you buy DVC, the only thing that's 100% guaranteed is the right to stay at your home resort.

Unlike point costs for the DVC resorts, the point costs for the non-DVC options are not fixed, and can and do go up every year. Down the road, you may find that you no longer have enough points to take the non-DVC vacations you wish to take.

I think most DVC members primarily use their points at DVC resorts. Most of us look at the non-DVC options as a perk, something to be used once in awhile, but certainly not as the primary use of the membership. Those who do want to do a lot of trading tend to buy a second timeshare for that purpose.