Using Points at Non-DVC Reports

[disney junky]

I'm curious to hear other's experiences regarding using points outside the DVC resorts. How has this worked out? What are some tips? As we approach retirement, I want to make full use of our points, and sometimes I can see that being outside of the DVC resorts.

 

[com_op_2000]

We have used our points for stays at:
DVC - HHI & VB
RCI - Ft Myers & Ft Lauderdale
Concierge Collection - Miami (Doral) & Grove Park Inn, Asheville NC
DCL - 7 cruises fully or partially on points with one more scheduled

Of the two RCI exchanges. Ft. Myers I would not do again but Ft. Lauderdale I would do again. Be sure to research your intended stay/location/resort/etc, I wish I had for that exchange.
Will do more DCLs and Concierge Collection exchanges.
I consider VB and HHI to be outside of WDW stays and treat them as exchanges, since the experience is so different than parks trips.

 

[AnnaS]

We have only exchanged once - Royal Sands (II).
HH & VB
DCL - 5 times - combination of points and cash (two cabins 4 cruises, three cabins 5th cruise).

Might consider an exchange again for next year or the near future (RCI now).

 

[AnnaS]

We have used our points for stays at:
DVC - HHI & VB
RCI - Ft Myers & Ft Lauderdale
Concierge Collection - Miami (Doral) & Grove Park Inn, Asheville NC
DCL - 7 cruises fully or partially on points with one more scheduled

Of the two RCI exchanges. Ft. Myers I would not do again but Ft. Lauderdale I would do again. Be sure to research your intended stay/location/resort/etc, I wish I had for that exchange.
Will do more DCLs and Concierge Collection exchanges.
I consider VB and HHI to be outside of WDW stays and treat them as exchanges, since the experience is so different than parks trips.

I have looked at Ft. Lauderdale once or twice - would you mind sharing where you stayed since you would stay here again. TIA

 

[bwvBound]

We used 200 DVC points last year for 6-nights at The Manhattan Club (NYC, booked through DVC's Concierge Collection). It was a fantastic location for our purposes. In our opinion, it was an effective use of points for that stay.

TIPS: If you intend to use DVC's World Passort Collection, be sure to "invest" $15 to join the Timeshare User's Group (TUG). While TUG's discussion forum is free, accessing their database of resort reviews is a member-based feature. The reviews are very helpful in determining "good fit" of quality, location, and amenities for your family.

 

[com_op_2000]

I have looked at Ft. Lauderdale once or twice - would you mind sharing where you stayed since you would stay here again. TIA

Marriot BeachPlace Towers between the ocean and the Intracostal waterway.

 

[Greysword]

We have used our points at the Disneyland resorts from the Disney collection. The price per night was generally in range of VGC, but not too bad if it climbed a bit higher. These resorts are a great base of operations to see the LA area and visit DLR.

The exchange process was smooth and Member Services handled all the transfer and bookings. We have done this for both Paradise Pier and the Disneyland Hotel. We are happy with it, and are not afraid to do it again.

 

[AnnaS]

Marriot BeachPlace Towers between the ocean and the Intracostal waterway.

Thank you. I went to look and don't see it as an option with RCI (you exchanged your dvc points, yes?)