Will AP rates and Codes be better than S/D?

[sm4987]

I have a friend whom I have been helping to make a WDW vacation. She and her DH have never been to Disney. I know that she qualifies for the special rates at the S/D, but I've been talking to her about getting an AP. Will the rates for the Disney owned resorts be better than those at the S/D. She wants to do all All Stars (I'm trying to talk her out of that since it is her first time and her stay will be short), but I need her convincing her that it is beneficial to get an AP or to go with the S/D. Thanks in advance!!!

 

[A Mickeyfan]

Depending on the rate you can get at the S/D is how your question can be answered. If you want to stay at a Deluxe (Poly, CR, GF, Y&B, BWV) the AP rate will still be more than the S/D (if that is the $129 Teacher/Nurse rate). The A/P rate for WL & AKL would most likely be cheaper than S/D, if not the same price. All of the moderates & value resorts would would be cheaper with an A/P rate. Hope this helps you....

 

[sm4987]

Thanks. That's what I was looking for. The $129 teacher rate would be what she qualifies for. I am trying to get her to see that getting an AP would be beneficial not just for the hotel but being able to visit again.

 

[A Mickeyfan]

Personally, I would rather stay at one of the moderates (PO-Riverside) than the S/D anyway. I think you would be better off getting the AP and getting an AP rate. As long as you use the pass enough to make it worth your while. I live in FL and have gotten more than my money's worth! Good Luck trying to convience her!!!

 

[kda]

You say that "her stay will be short". Whatever discount she would get on the room at an AP rate, she'd have to also consider the increased price of the AP. If she's not sure she's returning within a year, this could cost her MORE. Generally, you have to go to the parks about 8 times to break even on the cost of an AP. Since there's no guarantee that an AP rate will be available, it's best to book the AP rate first and then buy the AP.

If it's her first time and she's going to be spending all the time at the parks, she might not care where she sleeps at night -- many people don't see the value in spending $$$ on a room. I'd prefer to spend the money to stay at the S/D because I enjoy spending time at the resorts, love the location and choice of restaurants, and want a larger bed and a chance for a balcony. Not everyone cares about those things.

There's been a lot of discounts available this past year that were within $10/night of the AP rate, but it wasn't necessary to buy the AP.

 

[sm4987]

kda-that's true. She is trying to get her husband to keep going back every year. She doesn't mind the value, I was just trying to get her nearer to some things so that she could do more. Her family will be staying at least 8 days as this is her first vacation in a while. I will pass on the information. This is my first year with an AP and I don't know all the in's and out's of them, so I brought it to the boards to help out.