The eternal to AP or not AP debate!

[ptrbryant]

Next year, for the first time, there's a chance our annual WDW trips may be less than 12 months apart, so I naturally began wondering about the advantages of an Annual Pass...

If I'm just looking at the 3 MYW passes for (2) 7 day trips, it's kind of equal. Everyone says not to count on resort discounts, but that would really tip the balance. What we've done lately is to rent DVC points for a studio at VWL (runs around $130/nt. inc. tax) and then stay at a Mod or Value for another 2 or 3 nights. Would I do any better even with an AP discount?

Because of the way we eat, the DDP was a luxury we tried on our last trip, but it's cheaper for us not to use it. The DDE, however, would save us some money and it's my understanding that as an AP holder, you can purchase it for $65....

Any advice/opinions?

Thanks!

Karla B.

 

[WindyCityDisney]

Because of the way we eat, the DDP was a luxury we tried on our last trip, but it's cheaper for us not to use it. The DDE, however, would save us some money and it's my understanding that as an AP holder, you can purchase it for $65....
Karla B.

That's our strategy this year and next. We already scored an AP rate for July at a moderate and are hoping for another AP rate in early June 2008. I just purchased the DDE today. My kids can handle one sit-down meal each day, and we do counter service or food in the room for the others. Dining Plan was nice (OK it was freakin' awesome because it was FREE), but we ate a ton of food during that trip only because it was included. DH and I may split an appetizer, but I don't think we've EVER ordered an appetizer each, full meal and dessert. I don't think we'd choose as much food as we did during that trip. I believe AP and DDE is a good combination that will help us make two trips more affordable.

 

[mickeyluv'r]

You can book a room now, and if an AP discount comes out, then you can switch it around. But Disney is getting wise to the practice and is only releasing AP discounts closer to the travel dates. Also, the discounts aren't quite as huge, so they are closer to balancing out. As for DDE, the price went up last year. I think it sort of depends on how long you stay and how large your group is.

 

[Stinky_Pete]

I booked a room at the resort I wanted with a AAA rate. If a better AP rate comes out before my trip and the numbers work to the advantage I will secure the AP rate then purchase the AP. Remember, you do not have to have the AP in order to book the rate - just when you check in.

Then, of course, I will plan at least one other trip before the AP runs out...

 

[boomhauer]

If 2 trips fall within 12 months of each other and the price of an AP is no more than MYW tickets for both trips, then there is absolutely no reason not to buy an AP. Resort discounts aren't guarenteed, but you never know. Plus, the discounts you get on eating and shopping make it WELL worth it.