Should I join if I rarely go to Disney properties??? (Concierge questions)

[fracmeister]

Just returned from my once every 10 years trip to Orlando with the kids, the youngest now 13. We go to San Diego, DC, Hawaii, Europe, Mexico, etc and use 2-3 weeks vacation a year.... typically in 2-3 hotel rooms and 5-8 people. Anyone have some advice for us as to accessibility, value, etc. for someone mainly using the DVC for the concierge locations??

 

[rocketriter]

Do the math very carefully. Conventional wisdom is that DVC is best used for DVC properties and the value falls off when used elsewhere.

 

[disworldnum1]

I think DVC is great for DVC and you could get a better deal elsewhere if you want to travel other then Disney properties.I know theres tons of timeshares listed as red high prime weeks for sale in the orlando area for a fraction of the cost.

 

[calypso*a*go-go]

From the information you have posted, I don't think DVC is the most appropriate fit for your family. The standard rule of thumb that has been posted on this board time and time again is that you really need to travel to WDW at least every other year, and stay in DVC resorts to get the best bang for the buck. Never hurts to take a look though.

 

[Dean]

I agree, DVC would be a poor choice for the CC options both because the costs don't add up in your favor and the option could be eliminated at any time.

 

[dvc-NE]

Just returned from my once every 10 years trip to Orlando with the kids, the youngest now 13. We go to San Diego, DC, Hawaii, Europe, Mexico, etc and use 2-3 weeks vacation a year.... typically in 2-3 hotel rooms and 5-8 people. Anyone have some advice for us as to accessibility, value, etc. for someone mainly using the DVC for the concierge locations??

While you can stay nightly in concierge collection, you will pay a $95 fee to Disney to book it for you. There have been a few bed & breakfast places I considered trying that I could drive to, but that extra $95 for 1 or 2 nights might take the advantage out of using points. There are some really nice places to go however. Keep in mind that cc uses alot of points as well. Matt

 

[Disney Doll]

From the information you have posted, I don't think DVC is the most appropriate fit for your family. The standard rule of thumb that has been posted on this board time and time again is that you really need to travel to WDW at least every other year, and stay in DVC resorts to get the best bang for the buck. Never hurts to take a look though.

All the different scenarios we have researched in terms of use of DVC points has led us to this conclusion.

 

[fracmeister]

Thanks for the feedback. I have looked at a wide variety of opportunities all the way up to the "Exclusive Resorts" programs with major league buy-ins.

When I can priceline something it is clearly the best way to go. But the AMEX platinum concierge occassionally comes up with something great. Still trying to figure a way to get to San Diego (downtown preferably) every year for the next 4-6 years for 2-3 weeks at a pop. That would really be worthwhile as we are seriously considering retiring there.

Happy New Year to all!

 

[Dean]

All the different scenarios we have researched in terms of use of DVC points has led us to this conclusion.

I think the best option is to buy and only use points at DVC. The idea of going every other year is centered around buying less points and going, not using EOY for non DVC options.

 

[Dean]

Thanks for the feedback. I have looked at a wide variety of opportunities all the way up to the "Exclusive Resorts" programs with major league buy-ins.

When I can priceline something it is clearly the best way to go. But the AMEX platinum concierge occassionally comes up with something great. Still trying to figure a way to get to San Diego (downtown preferably) every year for the next 4-6 years for 2-3 weeks at a pop. That would really be worthwhile as we are seriously considering retiring there.

Happy New Year to all!

How about looking at San Diego Timeshares. I don't know if there are any fractional shares there but if so, that might be an even better option for you depending on specifics. Or you could look to buy a timeshare then try to trade in though this likely won't work for peak times. Maybe there are timeshare groups where you'd have an inside advantage trading in. I'll have to look more at the San Diego options to get a better feel for specifics. You should spend a few months getting educated if you decide to go this route.

 

[fishermouse]

Just returned from my once every 10 years trip to Orlando with the kids, the youngest now 13. We go to San Diego, DC, Hawaii, Europe, Mexico, etc and use 2-3 weeks vacation a year.... typically in 2-3 hotel rooms and 5-8 people. Anyone have some advice for us as to accessibility, value, etc. for someone mainly using the DVC for the concierge locations??

Simply put NO!Tou might want to look into Interval,

 

[drakethib]

Just returned from my once every 10 years trip to Orlando with the kids, the youngest now 13. We go to San Diego, DC, Hawaii, Europe, Mexico, etc and use 2-3 weeks vacation a year.... typically in 2-3 hotel rooms and 5-8 people. Anyone have some advice for us as to accessibility, value, etc. for someone mainly using the DVC for the concierge locations??

ter

I would say no.

I think you could do better @ CC with cash.

 

[debg60]

Hi,
I enjoyed your question. I have been looking at DVC to buy but my kids are now older teens and one at 21 who still likes to travel with us as long aas we pay. However, we like to go different places too. During the tour at Disney they say you can use the points all over the world which made this sound very appealing. However, this board has made me think twice. I looked into Marriott time shares but the point system is unique. Have you looked into any other companies seriously? I would like to share your insight. Thanks.

 

[fracmeister]

Hi,
I looked into Marriott time shares but the point system is unique. Have you looked into any other companies seriously? I would like to share your insight. Thanks.

I have looked at a few. The high end was "exclusive resorts" & similar. Big up front and huge, multimillion dollar homes in exotic locales. But nothing in San Diego. I may do a 1/6th type deal in Park City when it gets closer to really spending some serious vacation time. The Marriott/Four Seasons/etc are nice but nothing has hit it just right yet. Still appreciate suggestions.

 

[Dean]

Hi,
I enjoyed your question. I have been looking at DVC to buy but my kids are now older teens and one at 21 who still likes to travel with us as long aas we pay. However, we like to go different places too. During the tour at Disney they say you can use the points all over the world which made this sound very appealing. However, this board has made me think twice. I looked into Marriott time shares but the point system is unique. Have you looked into any other companies seriously? I would like to share your insight. Thanks.

There are many points systems that will allow you to travel much more than you reasonably could with DVC. Fairfield, Bluegreen, Worldmark and RCI points come to mind that will allow you to accomplish this goal directly without having to trade. There are a number of other points systems as well.