Points used abroad?

[Ms.Mouse]

I want to plan a trip to Italy next year...have any of you DVC'ers used points to go abroad??? How did it go??? Is it worth it to use the points this way??? I'm getting tired of the Disney thing and wanted to try something different...

 

[CarolAnnC]

I want to plan a trip to Italy next year...have any of you DVC'ers used points to go abroad??? How did it go??? Is it worth it to use the points this way??? I'm getting tired of the Disney thing and wanted to try something different...

Just a heads up - you are going to get a faction of responses here stating that you should never ever use your DVC points for anything other than DVC resorts, and you should rent out your points and use cash instead.

Ok, I have used points for the DCL Mediterranean Cruise which included several ports in Italy and thoroughly enjoyed it. The Cinque Terre was one of our favorites and you may want to check out that area.

Besides the Cruise Board, you might check the Adventures by Disney Board also which has some great trips to Italy.

As far as using points, that will be up to you. I have done both - used points or gone on cash so they both have their merits. Some like the ease of booking via DVC and feel that their value is in what they pay for dues. Others want to rent out and only book on cash to get what they feel is the most bang for their buck. So that will be a personal decision for you to make.

Have fun planning, we would love to get back there some day ourselves!

 

[robert@dvcstore]

If you use an RCI exchange, there are 5 resorts in Italy to choose from. Based on the season you travel, points are 124 - 160 for a one bedroom stay and 207 - 270 for a two bedroom reservation. Points are comparable to a DVC stay and not a bad use of the points, IMO.

Remember, make the request for the exchange as far in advance as you can (you can start the process 2 years before your check in date).

Robert