Why All the Discounts???

[dawgsgirl]

Just wanted everyone's opinion on all the discounts being offered by Disney resorts. Seems like a new one comes out every day. Are the bookings down that much? Or is this a new strategy to keep the resorts packed all the time? Any opinions???

 

[melcan]

I think there numbers are down....People are in a panic about the economy.
JMO

 

[sherreis]

My guess is the economy. People aren't paying that kind of money for vacations so they have more rooms available than they normally do for that time of year. Give a discount and you'll get more people booking rooms and spending $$$$$.

 

[cvjw]

Their strategy worked for us - we were not planning a trip, but with the free dining code, we are taking a fall trip. I called yesterday to make ADRs and got almost everything I wanted - less than 2 weeks before the trip. I have never had that happen before and we usually visit Disney twice a year.

 

[Brian Noble]

Disney resorts are already normally full all the time---they run something like 89% occupancy averaged year round.

I'm very surprised by the discounting. At the last quarterly report, Disney stated that bookings for this fall quarter (Sept-Dec) were ahead of last year's pace. That pace must have really fallen off, becauase free dining and a resort room discount is generous indeed. But, rest assured Disney is not trying to be nice. They are trying to fill their hotels.

 

[PolynesianPixie]

Even Disney is feeling the strains of this economy. How could they not? They recently offered a discount to those living in the states surrounding Florida. With all the people not going as far from home because of the gas prices, I think this speaks volumes! I also believe that many had booked room only and now they are being canceled. It isn't because people don't want to go, but it is getting to where people can't go.

 

[pumpkinfish]

It's funny the OP posted this thread because I was thinking the same exact thing when I saw the VISA code this morning.

Personally if they really want to attract some visitors they would offer a deal that includes airfare...not that I actually see that happening.

 

[ROEDISNEY]

I say never ??? good things lol

 

[Amy&Dan]

Disney resorts are already normally full all the time---they run something like 89% occupancy averaged year round.

I'm very surprised by the discounting. At the last quarterly report, Disney stated that bookings for this fall quarter (Sept-Dec) were ahead of last year's pace. That pace must have really fallen off, becauase free dining and a resort room discount is generous indeed. But, rest assured Disney is not trying to be nice. They are trying to fill their hotels.

But even a generous discount still doesn't allow for things like airfare, gas, tickets and all the other stuff a vacation involves. I am sure some of the people that made reservations have now cancelled, thinking that its better to have that money in savings or off the credit card balance.

I am hopeful things will settle down, but in the meantime, I know I am cutting back on lots of things. Thankfully, thus far my two planned Disney trips are safe. Unless things get worse to the point I feel its irresponsible for my family's financial well being to take those trips. Lord I hope it doesn't come to that!

But if I hadn't already paid off my upcoming trip next month, I'd be cancelling. I am thinking lots of others have and that's why we're seeing these incredible discounts for the fall.

 

[loopner67]

All of the different discounts and codes make my brain hurt.

 

[DisneyWisher]

Looked up touringplans and Oct looks to be very slow. On Columbus day its a 7 but the other days before and after are 4's.

 

[joleen76]

I agree with some of the other posters. I think people are warry of the economy for the next 6-12 months. I can only assume the discount codes are to bulster bookings. Sad to say this, but I am hoping attendance is down in Nov when we are there. It will make it a much more fun trip. I know that's selfish.

 

[OhMari]

Even Disney is feeling the strains of this economy. How could they not? They recently offered a discount to those living in the states surrounding Florida. With all the people not going as far from home because of the gas prices, I think this speaks volumes! I also believe that many had booked room only and now they are being canceled. It isn't because people don't want to go, but it is getting to where people can't go.

Are there discounted tickets for Georgia Residents. My dd is living in Georgia and she is going to spend a few days with us. (yes I put her name on my room ressie). I just need a 3 day ticket for her.

 

[su_A_ve]

We just almost had a blowout with my DW on not knowing what to do. We have a paid rez for Nov (Jersey week) for 6 nights at CBR (just tix w/hop) no dining. We are driving southbound and autotrain northbound, so we would end up dining out of the park some times. This can save a bit.

But now with the DVR code, we had an option to fly in Oct. for 4 nights with FD. We actually would save some money, but it's less nights. Our per night comes out cheaper in Nov (500 vs 600 a night total).

My head seriously hurts...

 

[dawgsgirl]

So, everybody thinks its the economy?? I have not seen this many discounts for a LONG time. Things must really be bad!

 

[su_A_ve]

Back in 2003 I remember the buy 3 days get 4 free...

But yes, blame it on the economy. Those who drive won't do it due to gas prices. But then you try to get plane tickets and they are all up because of gas prices.

Interesting though is that I've actually seen some prices go down. But that could be from full-fare businesses canceling.

And after this nice roller coaster of a market during the last few days, a tight presidencial race, noone knows what would happen, so many folks sit back and wait.

My .02...

 

[Twilightlover]

I think Disney has realized that in these hard times, which seem to get worst, they can offer an escape from the world. Also they aren't being greedy they realize that it's hard for people, especially families. What better way to make money and give people an escape from their worries.

 

[Bowbiejuke]

All of the different discounts and codes make my brain hurt.

where are you finding these codes,

 

[Spoisal]

where are you finding these codes,

You need to start here: www.mousesavers.com

 

[tinkerbell1967]

I already have reservations booked with the discount that was out for our stay 10/19 to 10/25. If the free dining came out could I take advantage of that? How would this work??