Rumor of future discounts

[Zippa D Doodah]

I don't get why Disney thinks now is the time stop discounts. MK is chock full of more plywood and sawdust than a dozen Home Depots. Generally speaking, Americans are being more judicious with their vacation dollars. Disney's ticket prices and rack rates have skyrocketed over the last decade. And they choose NOW to hold the line on full prices? I guess if they feel the international market is that strong, then I suppose they are on the right track.

While I abhor the idea of feeling "entitled" to discounts, I personally do not think WDW can build a good case for me bringing them my vacation money without some sort of carrot from them or adjustment on my part. The value for the expenditure is just not there. Whenever I feel like going again if there is no discount then I will cut back by either not buying their food and souvenirs, staying off site, or some such thing. One thing I think we all know is that we can live without Disney, just as I am sure Disney can live without any of us. WDW is something to be experienced on our terms, not theirs.

 

[skater]

That is precisely the point I was making. Go if you can, don't if you can't but don't expect of feel entitled to a discount or free dining, etc. You are exactly right you don't HAVE to go with no discounts but it's not Disney's job to give a discount so you will. It's all up to you as a consumer.

I guess I do expect a discount - because as much as I love Disney, there is a certain value/cost analysis I have to do. The vacation is great, but its only worth so much - definately not worth full price. It will be interesting, though to see what happens .

 

[loriville]

I feel entitled to fair market pricing and compared to hotels like the Waldorf, Disney's Deluxe hotels are overpriced. I don't understand the jean comparison because clothing is constantly going on sale. The sales strategy is to make as much money on the front end (when the item comes out) and to continue to mark the item down as it sits. We all know that clothing goes on sale (which is why the Coach Outlet near me is NEVER empty but the Coach store in Tyson's Mall rarely has very many customers.) Most smart shoppers know this and wait for the sales. Shopping 101 Likewise, if I know that I can get a particular pair of jeans at a lower price at one store, it would be crazy for me to purchase them at top dollar at another store now wouldn't it? Just saying....

Actually there are jean brands that don't go on sale, if I want that pair, I either pay, keep saving or walk into a different store and by a different pair that weren't the exact same brand that I wanted. Same thing, I may want to stay at the Contemporary so I pay for it, or if I can't afford it at rack rate than I keep saving or go to a moderate or value resort or go offsite and stay much cheaper. It's my choice. Geez people, all I was trying to get at was that we shouldn't expect (is that a better word??) a discount just because they've done it in the past and just because it would help us afford staying onsite vs. offsite or in a delux vs. a value, etc.

 

[loriville]

While I abhor the idea of feeling "entitled" to discounts, I personally do not think WDW can build a good case for me bringing them my vacation money without some sort of carrot from them or adjustment on my part. The value for the expenditure is just not there. Whenever I feel like going again if there is no discount then I will cut back by either not buying their food and souvenirs, staying off site, or some such thing. One thing I think we all know is that we can live without Disney, just as I am sure Disney can live without any of us. WDW is something to be experienced on our terms, not theirs.

 

[csharpwv]

The biggest flaw in Disney's pricing is this - they raise their prices in reflection of inflation. However, salaries have NOT kept pace with inflation.

When Disney Vacation Club first started selling Bay Lake Tower, they were touting that when the Contemporary Resort first opened in 1971 it cost $29.00 a night. With those costs at $350 per night, or more - the price has roughly increased 2.5% per month since the resort opened.

Do any of you receive a 2.5% raise each month at work?
Is anyone guaranteed a 2.5% raise each year?

I am LUCKY if I get a 3% raise each year, let alone each month!

If I am going to spend $350 per night on a deluxe resort it had better be in pristine condition - it had been be sparkling clean - and it had better FEEL like a resort room, not a hotel room.

For some Disney resorts that is true - for others - it is not. If there is dirt, hair, and lint on the bathroom floor of my $350 per night bathroom, there had better be someone there to clean it up ASAP when I call to ask why I am paying to sleep in a room that isn't as clean as my home.

BUT, there has to be promotional pricing of some sort, and there has to be a quality/value equation in figuring out if it is 'worth it' to stay on site.

We are DVC members, and while I know our dues will rise each year, at least I know that we are shielded from the 2.5% monthly price increase seen at the Contemporary. I can handle a 2-3% per year dues increase - we are good to go until we are really old! HAHA

 

[saskdw]

I like how the 3 Universal Hotels have a "stay more save more" promo. The longer you stay the better the rate. A promo like that could go a long way to attracting the business of those of us who come for 2 weeks. They would more than make up for a cheaper rate with all the money we would spend while we are there that long.

 

[twooley2]

I can agree with both of you, we have 5 kids, and it does feel like Disney caters to the "family of four" model. I do think that the art of animation suites is their way of trying to accomidate more of us larger families. We don't do the villa's it is still far cheaper to get two rooms. We can get two moderate rooms for less that one villa.

As far as the original topic of discounts, we are going in Jan whether discounts come or not. BUT, and it is a big BUT, if they do not have any this trip and I pay full price, I will be sitting out a few years, going other places, before we go back. I do think their prices are overinflated and that the "discounts" only brought them to reasonable rates.

the new art of animation resort prices are absurd if you ask me 359.00 a night? That is not value and still considered a value?

 

[twooley2]

I don't get why Disney thinks now is the time stop discounts. MK is chock full of more plywood and sawdust than a dozen Home Depots. Generally speaking, Americans are being more judicious with their vacation dollars. Disney's ticket prices and rack rates have skyrocketed over the last decade. And they choose NOW to hold the line on full prices? I guess if they feel the international market is that strong, then I suppose they are on the right track.

While I abhor the idea of feeling "entitled" to discounts, I personally do not think WDW can build a good case for me bringing them my vacation money without some sort of carrot from them or adjustment on my part. The value for the expenditure is just not there. Whenever I feel like going again if there is no discount then I will cut back by either not buying their food and souvenirs, staying off site, or some such thing. One thing I think we all know is that we can live without Disney, just as I am sure Disney can live without any of us. WDW is something to be experienced on our terms, not theirs.

I would have to agree we just got back and unloaded $6000. in food and spending not including accommodations or tickets for 6 adults for one week and it was hit or miss on the quality of the food. This was what we spent on the deluxe dining tips and extras... way to much IMO

 

[Sue M]

Interesting to see where Disney goes with this. Already this past year, we've noticed they've done discounts differently, benefiting those of us who book early, got the best discounts. Then they put out lessor discounts, and not for all resorts.

I have already booked our Jan trip at POR with a 20% AAA discount. I can live with that, but I won't stay mod or deluxe without a discount, so where in the past we would stay either mod or deluxe, or split stay, in the future if WDW didn't offer decent discounts I'l prob stay Value.

We booked a 4 star beachfront hotel in Ft. Lauderdale (before we end our vacay in WDW) for less then what we're paying for a moderate. I know it's a different city but still........ Sheraton has some good discounts out.
Or maybe have to look at Swolfin.

I'm already re thinking getting the DDP in the future, the pricing is getting to be less of a deal. When we first got the DDP it was a great deal with appies + tips incl. Now they dropped that but keep raising prices. I think the 2012 raise has nixed the DDP for us. We;ll just pay OOP, and not have 2 desserts a day, and I'm not a soda drinker, so I'l just be happy with water.

 

[jcemom]

Another thing I've noticed is that many seem to expect or feel entitled to a discount. Disney is a business like any other and the reality is none of us "need" to go there. We go there because we "want" to go there. I agree prices are ridiculous and overinflated but it is what it is, that's whay you pay for "magic" . If you want to go to Disney, you have to expect to pay their prices. None of us are entitled to a deal or discount. If they don't have discounts and you can't afford to go at rack rates, than you stay off site, or you don't go period. It's no different than going clothes shopping. I can walk into a high end store and want a pair of $200 blue jeans, I am not entitled to a discount just because I want them. If I can afford them I can get them, if not I walk out and go into another store and purchase a cheaper pair or go home and keep saving my money. Disney is a massive company and I'm sure they've done their research and crunched the numbers and forecasted the future quite sophisticatedly, they no doubt have a plan that will always revolve around them making the most profit they can (they've done pretty good at it thus far). My 2cents, plan a vacation you can afford with no discounts and in the event there is one it's like a little bonus.

I don't expect, nor do I feel entitled to a discount. Disney doesn't owe me anything. It has nothing to do with what I can and cannot afford to spend. It has everything to do with what I feel a Disney vacation is worth, to me -- the perceived value. I do not feel it is worth full price. Therefore, if there is no discount off the full price, I will vacation elsewhere. That vacation may cost more or less than a Disney vacation; it doesn't matter.

If I would like to buy a bottle of water, vs drinking from the water fountain, and it cost $3 per bottle, I'd buy it. Yes, the price is high, but I'm willing to pay for it because I want it, and it's worth it to me. Now, if the price gets raised to $6 per bottle, I will be drinking from the water fountain. Yes, I'd still like to have the bottle of water, but even if I have $500 in my pocket, I do not think it's worth paying $6 for it. Some people wouldn't think it was worth $3 and they'd drink from the fountain every time. Some people would pay $6. The perceived value of that bottle of water is going to be different for different people.

 

[Madonna3]

I will pay rack rates for Disney when rack rates at Disney are fairly priced.

Two years ago I would have told you that I would never stay off-site. Now, I can tell you this is likely my last year in a Disney resort with a dining plan. Next year, I have plans to stay at the Swolphin and since the dining plans no longer appeal to me or my needs, it's not a disadvantage to staying at the Swolphin. They use Disney transportation and have the advantage of location, but better rooms, cheaper rates, and good restaurants.

And as for the guy who thinks that if you can't afford to pay Disney prices for meals on vacation then you should stay home...

Well, you can sit on your hat.

 

[brea]

Interesting thread. I don't feel entitled to any discounts and I've never taken advantage of them. I'm a Dad that's been lurking, learning, and planning DD and DW's first visit and have been reading a lot.

What I remember - A place where nothing was out of place, few if any complaints were heard and kids dreams did come true.

Fast forward 20+ years

What I'm reading now - Disney works hard to maintain that however they're starting to falter in a few areas and it centers around the dollar.

Ultimately it comes down to feeling that you're getting something for your money. My wife and I went to Punta Cana for our honneymoon and I wasn't thrilled at all with the price I paid however you only get one honeymoon so....

What I found was a place that (save for the monorail, characters, and theme) reminded me of what Disney was as a kid. Granted this was an adult version so the similarities were much greater but you get the idea.

I'm just not reading that Disney has the atmosphere that I remember and their timing on the removal of the discounts is just bad. If they're saying "we can get better value from the overseas people" then that's what they'll get in the end.

Those die hards on the board will enjoy a bit less traffic but unlikely better quality in the areas talked about. Time will tell but I think it's fair to say people are watching.

 

[saskdw]

I will pay rack rates for Disney when rack rates at Disney are fairly priced.

Exactly!!

 

[couldbeme]

Time will tell but I think it's fair to say people are watching.

Perfectly put!

 

[saskdw]

I just quickly priced a few things out for a real numbers comparison. This for my family to stay this December from the 14th-28th.
The numbers are fees and taxes paid for room only.

Disney Contemporary Resort:

Standard room: $6924
Tower theme park room : $8792

Hard Rock Universal(stay more save more promo):

Standard Room: $3418
Club Level: $4782

Bonnet Creek Hilton (On Disney property beside CBR).

Booking through LastMinuteTravel: $1732
Rack Rate: $2220

These 3 hotels are all comparable for room size, amenities, and overall luxury. The Bonnet Creek Hilton is arguably the nicest resort of the 3. So you can see Disney is really not in the game at their prices. It's not even close. Yes I will pay more for the Disney atmosphere and the extras like the bus service, but the price difference here is crazy. Again, its not about what I can afford, its a matter of fair value.

 

[LuvLDM]

I will pay rack rates for Disney when rack rates at Disney are fairly priced.

I couldn't agree more! I don't feel entitled to a discount, I simply refuse to purchase something that I feel is absurdly over priced..that includes Disney.

 

[PersonalizedMouse]

Disney Contemporary Resort:

Standard room: $6924
Tower theme park room : $8792

Hard Rock Universal(stay more save more promo):

Standard Room: $3418
Club Level: $4782

Bonnet Creek Hilton (On Disney property beside CBR).

Booking through LastMinuteTravel: $1732
Rack Rate: $2220



When you see it in black and white is is absurd

 

[jjarman]

This will be our last time to stay onsite. We just can't afford it anymore and the boys are getting bigger and need more room. Our next trip will most likely include some Universal time so we are looking at a house. The prices are fantastic and friends who have done it love it.

 

[Tink2Day]

Actually all of this falls in line with what we heard from a Disney rep back in November at a seminar on customer service.

They didn't lower their ticket prices they just offered discounts and said as the economy started to improve they would be raising ticket prices. Check.
Doing away with deep discounts on rooms. check
Doing away with Free Dining. Check
Reducing Services and other freebies. Check.

They're just keeping their promises.

(small problem, the economy isn't really improving but the market tolerates it so there you have it).

 

[nrpofp]

I think it's interesting to read the responses to these "rumors". First and foremost no one really knows what Disney's master plan, you can only speculate. Secondly it seems as though I'm noticing that many of you who have visted Disney very frequently seem the most upset by the idea of no discounts as opposed to someone like me who goes once every 5 or 6 years. When I plan for Disney I never plan on getting a discount. If we get one great, if we don't, no worries bc I'm paying what I expected to pay. Another thing I've noticed is that many seem to expect or feel entitled to a discount. Disney is a business like any other and the reality is none of us "need" to go there. We go there because we "want" to go there. I agree prices are ridiculous and overinflated but it is what it is, that's whay you pay for "magic" . If you want to go to Disney, you have to expect to pay their prices. None of us are entitled to a deal or discount. If they don't have discounts and you can't afford to go at rack rates, than you stay off site, or you don't go period. It's no different than going clothes shopping. I can walk into a high end store and want a pair of $200 blue jeans, I am not entitled to a discount just because I want them. If I can afford them I can get them, if not I walk out and go into another store and purchase a cheaper pair or go home and keep saving my money. Disney is a massive company and I'm sure they've done their research and crunched the numbers and forecasted the future quite sophisticatedly, they no doubt have a plan that will always revolve around them making the most profit they can (they've done pretty good at it thus far). My 2cents, plan a vacation you can afford with no discounts and in the event there is one it's like a little bonus.

If the 200.00 dollar jeans are worth 200.00 because of the quality then its not a problem. If they are selling 20.00 jeans for 200.00. Who is going to buy them. I like deluxe resorts and I can afford to pay rack rate, but disneys rooms I would not consider deluxe.