Someone Cheer me up :(

[myxdvz]

So, to some degree this is what's happening to me too.

I booked our Nov-Dec trip at 11 months coz I know we'll be staying the 2 full weeks. My DB/SIL didn't know that early if they are staying before or after the cruise so I can't book a 2BR for us - so I just booked a 1BR just in case.

They finally decided early this week to only do the post-cruise. I had 1 BR Kidani at that time, and NOTHING else for 2BR, only SSR.

Since then, I've booked us at AKV 2BR Standard, but lock-off (might actually be better off). I booked this one day at a time, and once I had all three, called MS to combine them all. So LOOK EVERY DAY if you can, and don't be afraid to book 1 day at a time (as long as the room type is the same).

Now, we're still thinking about doing RPR instead, but that's another story!

 

[crisi]

Is your brother in law fully committed? Cause I have this odd feeling that this is all about your in laws for everyone, and when park tickets and food are priced out, your brother in law will have to say "sorry Mom, too expensive even if my room is paid for by my lovely sister in law."

 

[DougEMG]

I feel for you. Two years ago we had a room book at BWV over Christmas. My daughter had some friends that wanted to come with us so we switched resorts to SSR because there wasn't anything left at BWV and we needed a larger room. Then a month before the trip her friends all jammed out. So we ended up moving and using more points for nothing. Lesson learned. From now on I'm not changing my room for anyone. Guests are more than welcome to stay with us if there is space, otherwise they can get their own room at whatever resort has space.

 

[Luv2trav]

Is your brother in law fully committed? Cause I have this odd feeling that this is all about your in laws for everyone, and when park tickets and food are priced out, your brother in law will have to say "sorry Mom, too expensive even if my room is paid for by my lovely sister in law."

Oh yes he's fully committed. He's already paid us for our points for the 1 bedroom and booked his airfare. They will not back out. This is really just us feeling like they need more room (1 bedroom vs 2 bedroom) and keeping all the families at the same resort. They didn't ask us to move to SSR. They have rented our points in the past and never any issues.

 

[crisi]

Oh yes he's fully committed. He's already paid us for our points for the 1 bedroom and booked his airfare. They will not back out. This is really just us feeling like they need more room (1 bedroom vs 2 bedroom) and keeping all the families at the same resort. They didn't ask us to move to SSR. They have rented our points in the past and never any issues.

Oh good. Sometimes this sort of thing turns out poorly. But since he's committed, just keep trying for a bigger room. Something is likely to turn up. And it sounds like he'll understand if he is at the other end of the resort.

 

[castleri]

I have had success this week in getting three of four nights I need to complete a reservation for August by putting in 2 waitlists for 1 day at a time at BLT. Now if the last day just comes through. You might try doing that for your AKV larger room. Good luck and hope you and your family have a wonderful trip.

 

[circhead]

I waitlisted a 2bdrm std view for the week of 12/8 - 15 at Jambo and Kidani - Jambo came through. I would waitlist AKV and book SS for them - the waitlist might come through mine did - (someone waiting for VWL is very happy).

The worse that happens is you go to different resorts at night and that might actually be better - give everbody a little space.

Good luck - I'm pulling for you.

 

[disneynutz]

We were waiting for a bus at SSR and listened to an extended family complaining to each other about another member of the family who is the DVC owner. They went on and on about how the owner was controlling their vacation and how she had no business telling them where to go and what to do. They also complained about the resort and restaurants that the owner had selected for their family meals. "she thinks that she knows it all, I'm getting sick of her telling us what to do".

The best part of the conversation was when they insisted that she was making money off of them because DVC points don't really cost that much.

When she joined them at the bus stop pushing a baby stroller with her child and a basket full of drinks for the entire party, we really had to bite our tongues as her family acted like everything was fine.

Bill

 

[bumbershoot]

Just wanted to say...you are super sweet for considering moving resorts. I don't think I would.

I know I wouldn't!

Look at the dancing banana that you posted beside your concierge snag. Look at the joy in his dance. Do you want to squish him? NO, YOU DON'T.

We accommodated familiy's needs for years, then when the first time came up that we needed consideration of needs, they were not even slightly considered- game over! Stick with your plans and help them learn to consider your efforts.

I'm starting to learn that lesson, too. Sad.

They even offered to stay somewhere else but it's my in laws that I would be concerned about. this will be the only trip where all of their grandchildren together. I want us all together in the same resort.

Is there any possibility at all that he actually didn't want to be with everyone else? That maybe your wishes aren't exactly his?

We were waiting for a bus at SSR and listened to an extended family complaining to each other about another member of the family who is the DVC owner. They went on and on about how the owner was controlling their vacation and how she had no business telling them where to go and what to do. They also complained about the resort and restaurants that the owner had selected for their family meals. "she thinks that she knows it all, I'm getting sick of her telling us what to do".

The best part of the conversation was when they insisted that she was making money off of them because DVC points don't really cost that much.

When she joined them at the bus stop pushing a baby stroller with her child and a basket full of drinks for the entire party, we really had to bit our tongues as her family acted like everything was fine.

Bill

That makes me so sad.

And FWIW, I would want to know. I'm the planner for our extended family trips, and if my family were saying stuff like that about me, I would 100% want to know at that moment. I wouldn't want you to bite your tongue about it. Even if you're a stranger. Points are too scarce to waste them on people who are going to say nasty things about the points-giver.

 

[Coach81]

You asked months ago, and NOW they want in???? I don't think so!

 

[Dean]

I know in the scheme of things this is not a tragic or anything but you will all understand my situation.

We are taking my in laws for the first time ever with us this Nov 30th-Dec 7th. I planned this at the 11 month window. I was able to get 2 concierge studios at AKV for our stay. Super right?? I was very excited until In Laws asked if brother and family could come with us. We asked him 2 months ago if anyone else wanted to come. They decided THIS week they wanted to come. They need a 2 bedroom. Of course NOTHING available at AKV. The only place available for all of us is SSR... Now I love SSR but I was SOOOOOOOOOO looking forward to concierge...

My husband's feels it's more about my In Laws visit because this might be the only time they ever go with us... There is always next time for us. I know this but still very disappointed.

From a technical standpoint I agree that you should keep what you have, take what you can get and WL the rest. On a more emotional level, this sounds very much like drama to me no matter how it works out.

I presume this must be your husband's brother. First red flag is that in-laws are asking for adult married brother and family, why are they not asking you themselves? The second red flag is that the husband would even put you in this situation of having to make this decision and come across as the heavy if it doesn't work perfectly. I hope I'm reading far too much into this but it has the makings of drama in my mind. A word to the wise, people in this situation are rarely on their best behavior. Don't assume they will be because it's Disney and you're paying for the room. If there is a history of drama with the group being discussed, it will likely be worse at WDW in this situation. I've even seen where people complained that the family covering the room didn't pay for their tickets and meals.

We were waiting for a bus at SSR and listened to an extended family complaining to each other about another member of the family who is the DVC owner. They went on and on about how the owner was controlling their vacation and how she had no business telling them where to go and what to do. They also complained about the resort and restaurants that the owner had selected for their family meals. "she thinks that she knows it all, I'm getting sick of her telling us what to do".

The best part of the conversation was when they insisted that she was making money off of them because DVC points don't really cost that much.

When she joined them at the bus stop pushing a baby stroller with her child and a basket full of drinks for the entire party, we really had to bit our tongues as her family acted like everything was fine.

Bill

And that does happen no matter how well intentioned, there likely was some valid complaint there. When we plan family trips, we make every effort to avoid situations where we're depending on others and to make sure we don't control their vacation. I insist on one family meal together and the rest everyone is free to do as much or little with the group as they want. For WDW it's a case of we make appropriate dining reservations for what my wife and I want, but large enough party for the group where feasible. Or we ask if they want to join us before we make reservations, regardless we tell everyone where we're going and when and that they're welcome to join us. It seems to work well for us.

 

[JWG]

From a technical standpoint I agree that you should keep what you have, take what you can get and WL the rest. On a more emotional level, this sounds very much like drama to me no matter how it works out.

I presume this must be your husband's brother. First red flag is that in-laws are asking for adult married brother and family, why are they not asking you themselves? The second red flag is that the husband would even put you in this situation of having to make this decision and come across as the heavy if it doesn't work perfectly. I hope I'm reading far too much into this but it has the makings of drama in my mind. A word to the wise, people in this situation are rarely on their best behavior. Don't assume they will be because it's Disney and you're paying for the room. If there is a history of drama with the group being discussed, it will likely be worse at WDW in this situation. I've even seen where people complained that the family covering the room didn't pay for their tickets and meals.

And that does happen no matter how well intentioned, there likely was some valid complaint there. When we plan family trips, we make every effort to avoid situations where we're depending on others and to make sure we don't control their vacation. I insist on one family meal together and the rest everyone is free to do as much or little with the group as they want. For WDW it's a case of we make appropriate dining reservations for what my wife and I want, but large enough party for the group where feasible. Or we ask if they want to join us before we make reservations, regardless we tell everyone where we're going and when and that they're welcome to join us. It seems to work well for us.

We do the same. Offer up dining to the group and only include those who want to do. People can do what we do or not.

 

[crisi]

And that does happen no matter how well intentioned, there likely was some valid complaint there. When we plan family trips, we make every effort to avoid situations where we're depending on others and to make sure we don't control their vacation. I insist on one family meal together and the rest everyone is free to do as much or little with the group as they want. For WDW it's a case of we make appropriate dining reservations for what my wife and I want, but large enough party for the group where feasible. Or we ask if they want to join us before we make reservations, regardless we tell everyone where we're going and when and that they're welcome to join us. It seems to work well for us.

Yeah, I'm kind of a type B person, and when I read some posts here from people planning family trips, I can think "boy, I'm glad no one is doing me the favor of making this MY vacation." Not everyone thinks its important enough to ride Dumbo to get up at 6am on vacation. Sometimes its worth it for the teens to spend part of the day in the single rider line at Rock N Rollercoaster and not spend precious time watching Beauty and the Beast onstage.

Tell people what you are doing and what you are willing to do for them. "We are going to the Magic Kingdom on Monday, you are welcome to join us, but we will be there by 8:30, which means we will be leaving the resort by 8am. If you want to join us later, you have our cell number and we can meet up." Or "Good restaurants at Disney fill fast. I suggest we pick our restaurants now and I'll make reservations for the entire party for a few night - we can try and move them later."

 

[BEASLYBOO]

Well I take a much different view than many here about vacationing with family, extended family and yes even friends (the family we choose for ourselves). The more the better, we've never been stuck due to someone cancelling or leaving us holding the bag. In 35+ DVC trips shared with the above, I have albums full of fantastic memories.

Was it always rosy, were there bumps, melt downs, disagreements about where to go and what to see, sure, but none of these things outweighed the fact that we rarely all see each other and that DVC makes it easy for us to be all together.

My view, its a fun time with your family, you have 40 more years +/- to be able to get concierge etc. Personally I don't obsess about which resort, I"m just glad to be there with the people I care about. You have the ability to waitlist or book him somewhere else if need be and he seems quite understanding and appreciative of anything you can do.

Any disappointment you feel now will quickly fade once you're all there.

 

[lisaviolet]

Well I take a much different view than many here about vacationing with family, extended family and yes even friends (the family we choose for ourselves). The more the better, we've never been stuck due to someone cancelling or leaving us holding the bag. In 35+ DVC trips shared with the above, I have albums full of fantastic memories.

Was it always rosy, were there bumps, melt downs, disagreements about where to go and what to see, sure, but none of these things outweighed the fact that we rarely all see each other and that DVC makes it easy for us to be all together.

My view, its a fun time with your family, you have 40 more years +/- to be able to get concierge etc. Personally I don't obsess about which resort, I"m just glad to be there with the people I care about. You have the ability to waitlist or book him somewhere else if need be and he seems quite understanding and appreciative of anything you can do.

Any disappointment you feel now will quickly fade once you're all there.

Me too on the bold BEASLY BOO. Me too. And in fact, due to health issues of some, these wonderful memories are held onto very tightly right now. I'm so very happy I have them.

I've only had wonderful experiences in a myriad of trips with family and friends. (But as many have said - I make sure that the vacation has tons of open time for those involved.)

As for the concierge - in my opinion there is no reason to drop it though - she will probably get the two bedroom especially if she grabs some and adds more. And SSR will remain open for a bit as well.

 

[disneynutz]

Well I take a much different view than many here about vacationing with family, extended family and yes even friends (the family we choose for ourselves). The more the better, we've never been stuck due to someone cancelling or leaving us holding the bag. In 35+ DVC trips shared with the above, I have albums full of fantastic memories.

Was it always rosy, were there bumps, melt downs, disagreements about where to go and what to see, sure, but none of these things outweighed the fact that we rarely all see each other and that DVC makes it easy for us to be all together.

My view, its a fun time with your family, you have 40 more years +/- to be able to get concierge etc. Personally I don't obsess about which resort, I"m just glad to be there with the people I care about. You have the ability to waitlist or book him somewhere else if need be and he seems quite understanding and appreciative of anything you can do.

Any disappointment you feel now will quickly fade once you're all there.

I think that it depends on the people involved. Some families and friends are close, others not so much. Some can get along, some are jealous of each other. You may love Disney, others just don't get it and may put a damper on your enjoyment. Others may go on the vacation because they feel obligated or don't want to be left out.

Bill

 

[Dean]

Well I take a much different view than many here about vacationing with family, extended family and yes even friends (the family we choose for ourselves). The more the better, we've never been stuck due to someone cancelling or leaving us holding the bag. In 35+ DVC trips shared with the above, I have albums full of fantastic memories.

Was it always rosy, were there bumps, melt downs, disagreements about where to go and what to see, sure, but none of these things outweighed the fact that we rarely all see each other and that DVC makes it easy for us to be all together.

My view, its a fun time with your family, you have 40 more years +/- to be able to get concierge etc. Personally I don't obsess about which resort, I"m just glad to be there with the people I care about. You have the ability to waitlist or book him somewhere else if need be and he seems quite understanding and appreciative of anything you can do.

Any disappointment you feel now will quickly fade once you're all there.

We routinely have between 25 & 40 people and we don't have issues to amount to anything.

 

[disneynutz]

We routinely have between 25 & 40 people and we don't have issues to amount to anything.

Do you give out happy pills.

Bill

 

[Dean]

Do you give out happy pills.

Bill

No but if I had avoidable drama, I'd leave them off the list next time.

 

[rocketriter]

A related piece of advice: if your whole family comes including the late-comers, do not overplan! Put together a few meals where everyone attends, and let folks do the resorts and parks on their own schedules. Natural groupings will come and go comfortably (if they don't then it's not your fault) as the trip evolves. But if you try to move that whole group from place to place together, everyone will be miserable and everything will get blown up by one person with a slow hair-dryer or a tendency to sleep in.