Should I book now?

[MinniesYooHoo]

We will be going in April/May 2009. Should I book now even though the rates aren't out yet? I've noticed some people stating that they've already booked for the same timeframe. I'm 99% sure we're going to be staying at CSR, so it's not like I'm tring to secure a MK view at CR or something like that. What do you guys think?

 

[rgf207]

book now if you know your dates. I believe they will only require a deposit of 200 for the package. When the rates come out, you will most likely get a lower rate since 2009 rates are the highest rack rates.

 

[brentalex]

You can book now and will be charged a one night deposit based on the peak 2008 rate for the resort. Then in the summer when packages are released, you can change to a package if you want, although they will likely cancel the existing resrevation, refund your deposit and ask for a new deposit. If you are not interested in a package, then you won't need to do anything and disney will contact you with what the real rate will be.

 

[cheerful chickadee]

We're going at the same time of year and if I could finally decide which resort we're going to stay at then we'd be booked by now. I like to get the ball rolling early plus I get excited to see "Mickey mail" when our confirmation letter comes.

 

[MinniesYooHoo]

My only concern is the grandparents are coming with us, so we will need 3 rooms. (The grandfathers SNORE!!!) We do not need to book a package so it will be a room only ressie. There is a slight chance that my in-laws might not be able to go. So will it be a hassle to cancel their room only, but maintain the other 2 rooms? I've never gone when we had to book so many rooms, so I'm not sure how this works.

 

[brentalex]

A room only reservation can be cancelled up to 5 days before you arrive with no penalty. So, if someone changes their plans, it is not a problem to cancel one of the rooms.

 

[MinniesYooHoo]

Okay, thanks for clarifying the cancellation thing! Another question if I may? Are we able to apply discounts after if any become available to us. (We are considering doing the implorible and becoming AAA members only for the discount. I believe for that season, we would get 15% off rates.) We are also hoping to get one of those coveted discount codes. If we were to get lucky enough to get one can we apply it to all rooms?

 

[Mrs Grumpy]

I am waiting to book until the packages are released since I know for sure we want a package vs. room only. Last time I did the room only early then switched to package and they had to refund my deposit and I had to put a new one down. Just easier if I wait and only do it once.

 

[justplaingoofy]

I would ask around for a travel agent that will keep you on a list for any new promo's. That way you can book now knowing what you have, and if a promo is released they could rebook you under the lower rate.

This past year I believe the promo for May came out around Feb.

If you are booking a package it would be a $200 refundable deposit up until 45 days prior to travel.

If you are booking a room only it would be one night deposit, refundable up until 5 days prior. (this may have changed, but that is the info I have for room only)

 

[MinniesYooHoo]

I would ask around for a travel agent that will keep you on a list for any new promo's. That way you can book now knowing what you have, and if a promo is released they could rebook you under the lower rate.

This past year I believe the promo for May came out around Feb.

If you are booking a package it would be a $200 refundable deposit up until 45 days prior to travel.

If you are booking a room only it would be one night deposit, refundable up until 5 days prior. (this may have changed, but that is the info I have for room only)

Is that a one night deposit per reservation, or room?

 

[justplaingoofy]

Is that a one night deposit per reservation, or room?

It is per reservation. If you are looking for 2 rooms have your travel agent (or yourself) call Disney directly to put the reservations together as one and they should only charge you one deposit and will only have 1 reservation #.

 

[MinniesYooHoo]

Thank you all so much for the info. I think you've convinced me to go ahead and book. It'll give me some peace of mind knowing that the rooms are secured. This forum is GREAT!

 

[Mrs Grumpy]

You won't be able to book a package for 2009 yet. The packages are usually released around August. You can do a room only reservation now.