Valet Parking

[Coastie]

We just returned from VWL. Free or not, we still paid the valet who helped us out with all our luggage and groceries. To me, these guys "turned to" with helping my family and me return home... they deserve the tips. I think they are the least appreciated of all the cast members - just my opinion and observance of others.

 

[Paul in CT]

CarolMN,

Are you sure about getting free valet parking as a DVC member even if not staying on points? Most other privileges are not available at the DVC's unless you are staying there. Do you mean staying at a DVC on a cash basis and being a member entitles you to free valet parking?

 

[ralphd]

DVC members can valet park at DVC resorts free even if you are not visiting WDW. Have done it in the past to eat at resort. Just showed DVC card to guard and valet and told them why we were going to the resort.

ralphd

 

[DebbieB]

I've used dining discounts on the DVC list when not staying on points by showing my member card.

 

[CarolMN]

Originally posted by Paul in CT
CarolMN,

Are you sure about getting free valet parking as a DVC member even if not staying on points? Most other privileges are not available at the DVC's unless you are staying there. Do you mean staying at a DVC on a cash basis and being a member entitles you to free valet parking?

Yes, I'm sure. It does sound too good to be true, though, doesn't it? Nevertheless, as the others have posted, DVC members get free valet parking at BWV, VWL & BCV even if they are not staying at WDW. My understanding is that our annual dues help to pay the cost of the service. And again, a tip is always appropriate!

 

[Certifiable WDW Nut]

Wow! Thanks Carol, that's great news. Now I just have to find a way to tell my husband I was wrong. It's not something I like to do very often. Upsets the balance of the universe.

 

[RweTHEREyet]

I can verify that we have valet parked for free many times when staying on points. We use this a lot to go visit the Boardwalk--that one is definitely a long walk. All you do is show your DVC card.

Coastie, I think most people are talking about saving the $6.00 parking fee, not in any way referring to not tipping the guys that actually park the cars. I think non-DVC'ers pay the $6.00 and then tip on top of that. We just tip when we drop off and then again picking up. I agree that they work hard for their tips and probably don't make much else in wages over and above the tips.

 

[Paul in CT]

CarolMN,

Thanks for the info. I did not know that. I'll remember it for the next time we stay at WDW at other than DVC on points, if that ever happens.

 

[ralphd]

My comments were to answer the question about parking free at DVC resorts when not staying on points. I am sure a tip is always appreciated by the valet CM.

ralphd

 

[Paul in CT]

ralphd,

I know you did not mean that tips are not necessary. I would not think of not tipping those people who have to retrieve those cars in the HOT and HUMID Florida! The good news is, when you don't have to pay $6 for parking, the tips can be larger.

 

[ralphd]

Comprendo Paul.
It usually costs me around $6 anyway. Normally tip CM's about $3 to park and retrieve the car.

ralphd

 

[Tony P. IL.]

Here is a thread to the same question I posted some time ago before the opening of BCV. If you read thru the thread someone quotes from the Vacation Magic with this explanation about DVC parking. Hope it helps.
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=125639