I've just returned from a
30 hour trip down to WDW, specifically to book a family vacation for August 2007.
While there, I had the chance to have an in depth conversation with the lady who began this program, in early November. As a fellow Disboard member, she was more than happy to give me the official details and clear up some misconceptions:
Details:
1) You DO need to be staying at a WDW resort (in Nov-Dec
2006) to book the August/September 2007 free dining plan. They have computers on site and can easily verify that you're lodging there. HOWEVER, if you do check out and hit the parks, then make your way home, you can STILL book the room for next year. They are there until 10PM every night. As she stated "we're not going to deny someone a room in 2007 just on a technicality, because they didn't phone prior to checking out." However, you DO need to book that room before 10PM that same evening. It states this clearly on the 2007 reservation card I received "or call once you return home."
2) To book your room, DO NOT phone the usual 1-407-W-DISNEY line (even though it states this on the 2007 reservation card). Only about 33 CMs even know about this program - it's a special group. THE NUMBER TO CALL IS: 1-407-541-xxxx. When phoning this number, you will probably speak with someone very familiar with the program. If you have any difficulties, please ask to speak directly with xxx, who is the CM that passed along these details. She may also be found at the "Your Next Disney Vacation" desk, in the main reception area of the resort (as pictured below):
4) While there is a three day MINIMUM for booking the future stay, there is NO MAXIMUM. It has been stated here that 10 days was the maximum, but I was told that a Canadian family had booked a 20 day future stay the first day this program began, in early November.
5) ALL RESORTS are available and you're eligible to book this no matter where you are staying at present. I lodged in a room at Pop Century and it ran somewhere around $72 for one night, including taxes and fees. We're booking a stay at the Polynesian, so you can definitely see that there's no connection as to where you're lodging now and where you wish to be in the future.
6) Interesting Fact: This is the first time in 35 years that WDW has ever done face-to-face vacation booking.
7) Deadline:
DECEMBER 31, 2006. This program will officially end then, and depending on how well it is received, may or may not be opened to the public in April (no official word on this yet). Now, here's an interesting detail. She mentioned that September 2007 is booking very fast. I attempted to book for 10 nights at the Polynesian beginning August 5th, but there were no Garden View rooms left. Thankfully, by moving the beginning night to August 6th, 10 nights were available. The key points on this are plan on being slightly flexible with your travel dates and if you're looking to book free dining at a smaller, desirable resort (especially since British residents that have been booking for quite some time now) get down there and lock in your 2007 trip before the end of December. Folks - for these saving, why take a chance? While the program may be offered in April, you could miss out on the hotel or dates of your choice.
8) Special details. You can take care of all of your needs, including special requests, when you book. It helps to come prepared, but if you're not sure where you wish to stay, simply check out the maps and views, then call that special number by December 31st (2006) to put that request in. After that date, call the regular WDW number and they will also be able to assist.
That's all I can recall from my 30 hour quick trip. Think of it as a wonderful investment for next year and the chance to do some quick holiday shopping for the members of your Disney Family!
Thanks to xxx for all the wonderful information and help for the Disboard members!
