Park Tickets

[GlennI]

Greetings everyone, we are considering purchasing into the DVC at SSR. We were there just last week for a preview/sales pitch. I have a question that I didn't ask our sales agent and haven't been able to find the answer anywhere yet.

Do DVC members get any discount on buying Theme Park tickets with Park Hopping Option??

Also, if anyone can give me some brief pro-cons of buying, I would be greatful. It just sounds like too good of a deal, AM I MISSING SOMETHING??

You know the old saying, sounds too good to be true, RUN... So I am looking for any good information that any current members can share.

Thanks
GLenn

 

[Chuck S]

Currently the only park ticket discout is $100 off an Anual Pass and $125 off a Premium Annual Pass. Some of the condo association meetings are scheduled this week, if there are any major changes for 2006, they will probably be announced at that time.

The pros of purchasing are that you will basically lock in tomorrows vacatons at todays prices. If youintend on using your membership primarily to stay at DVC resorts, it is a good deal. Know, however, that dues, on average, increase about 5% per.

Cons - using points outside the DVC system for stays elsewhere or for cruises is not an efficient use of points, they are rather expensive point-wise. Also DVC is not a "forever" timeshare, the resort revert back to Disney in 2042 (all except SSR) and 2054 (SSR). Some folks like having a timeshare they can "hand down" through the generations. While you can will or gift your DVC membership, in all cases it will end in 2042 or 2054.

 

[crisi]

Additional cons:

DVC members have a "harder time" taking advantage of specials - i.e. some people were very disappointed that they couldn't take advantage of this falls "free dining."

DVC rooms generally don't have "the best" location or view. There is some question on if the upkeep is on par with the deluxe hotel rooms (we've always found our rooms in good shape).

Disney doesn't guarentee non-smoking (they don't at the hotels either).

Some people might think these are cons:

Addonitis is a problem. Suddenly you discover just 50 more points will let you take your brother and nephews for a trip. And 50 more will let you bring your Mom along. And another 50 and you could go for a long weekend every other year for Food and Wine.

Minimal housekeeping. Some people think this is a benefit.

 

[GadgetRick]

Pros are:

-You are a part of a part of the Disney family.
-You own a piece of the magic.
-You get some inside information.
-It's easier to set up vactions down there (IMHO).
-There are some discounts on merchandise (changes).
-There are discounts on park tickets.
-If you have a family it's an inexpensive way to take a vacation in a nice place.
-Resorts are very well-kept (IMHO).
-It's just cool.

Cons are:
-If you DON'T have a family and/or don't plan on one, it's sort of overkill.
-Annual dues.
-Annual dues increase a little each year.
-Resorts (other than SSR) aren't in the most convenient locations.
-Can only use points for accomodations, not anything else.
-Discounts can be confusing because the people offering discounts and the discounts they offer change often.
-Makes you wanna go down more. (Some people may consider this a con, I do not)

Hope this helps?