| T.R | Title | User | Personal
Name | Date | Lines |
|---|
| 52.1 | see note 28.* for more details | ATE012::CLAUDE | Claude G. Berube | Fri Mar 17 1989 07:36 | 7 |
| Yes it's called the Grand Plan (with a few more extra's) at the Grand
Floridian and World Vacation Plan for the rest of the resort Hotels
with exception to Caribbean Beach Resort and the Hotels at Village
Hotel Plaza in Lake Buena Vista.
Vista.
Claude
|
| 52.3 | Great deal | AYNRND::REILLY | Get outta here, you hockey puck! | Fri Mar 17 1989 10:07 | 26 |
|
I should point out the Grand Plan gives a little more "extras"
than the World Adventure Plans (but staying at the Grand Floridian
is more expensive than staying elsewhere).
Disadvantage: Cost (2 of us for 6 nights = $3000+)
Advantage: I don't think there is *ANY* better way to see WDW
than these "pay one price" plans. When they say it
includes everything but alcohol, they aren't kidding.
And *NO* restrictions. Eat anywhere at all on WDW
and eat *ANYTHING* you want (we racked up some pretty
expensive meals), use all the recreation you want (tennis,
boats, the works), and get into *everything* by flashing
your Grand Plan Credit Card. The intersting thing is
that they do record everything you've spent on the Plan
(like even though a CamCorder rental is free, they give
you a reciept for the $150). After the trip, you can
see how much you spent, given the oppurtunity to have
a "no holds barred" vacation. It ends up being plenty
worth it and you don't spend your vacation deciding
whether or not you want to pay for something.
Highly recommended if you got the bucks.
SEAN/BEER=LABATTS
|
| 52.4 | modified repost of .2 | ATE012::CLAUDE | Claude G. Berube | Fri Mar 17 1989 11:10 | 20 |
| This is a modified reposted of .2 which was deleted since it appears
differrent plants in DEC seem to have different MKC Chapter #'s
Claude
================================================================================
Note 52.2 WDW on pay-one-price? 2 of 3
ATE012::CLAUDE "Claude G. Berube" 11 lines 17-MAR-1989 08:10
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
rep to < Note 52.0 by GRYHWK::WITHERS "It's So-Crates dude! Lets bag 'im!" >
> Costs, etc?
As far as cost please see your Employee Activities rep at your location
and obtain the membership guide (it's just to much info to type in
here) or you can always call MKC Travel Center (407) 824-2600 and
reguest the latest guides.
Claude
|
| 52.7 | World/Grand/Admiral Vacation Plans ... are they worth it? | NITMOI::WITHERS | So shines a good deed in a weary world.. | Thu Apr 27 1989 11:26 | 24 |
| World Vacation .. is it worth it?
A brief background.. FYI, The World Vacation Plan for $917 per person
(1989 MKC Rates) gives, 4 nights at the Polynesian Resort (Lagoon View),
Five days admission to the parks and transportation, Breakfast Lunch &
Dinner at WDW restaurants (sit down only, snacking not included), and
unlimited use of WDW recreation facilities.
More background.. I just got engaged (:-)) and plan on going on my
Honeymoon at WDW staying at the Polynesian. My future-wife has never
been to Disney before (this is my 5th WDW vacation) and I am just
curious from others who have gone on this plan or just vacationed there
if they think it is worthwhile?
Because my fiancee has never seen any of it before, I'm sure we'll spend
alot of time at the parks. The recreation facilities are nice, but aside
from an hour or two in the Water Sprites I don't see myself using too
much else. And finally, the B-L-D is great..but I'm, again, unsure that
we would eat enough (and richly enough) to merit the money.
What do you think?
George
|
| 52.8 | It Depends | INDMKT::GOLDBERG | Len Goldberg | Thu Apr 27 1989 12:30 | 50 |
| Congratulations. I'm glad that you are getting the important things
taken care of first. There is plenty of time to book a hall and
hire a band after you get the honeymoon arranged. ;-)
You have posed a tough question. It depends on what you want to do,
and what you can afford. It is definitely the way to go IF you have the
bucks.
The room alone during value season, (which based on the package price
you quoted is when I assume you are planning to go), will cost
$215/night + 8% tax = $232 (MKC rate). A five day passport will
be about $115/pp (rates including the Studio haven't been set yet,
so this is a guess.) The breakdown looks like this:
Non-Plan
Room $232x4 $929
Admissions ~115x2 230
Gift Certificate 10x2 20
Birnbaum Guide 10
-----
$1189 = $238/day
World Vacation Plan
Includes all above $917x2 $1834 = $367/day
plus recreation and
meals.
Difference $645 = $129/day
The question you have to answer for yourselves is can the two of
you eat and recreate (not including the theme parks) $129 worth
for each of five days. I suppose if you eat well, and do at least one
activity per day, it shouldn't be to hard to spend that much.
When I did this analysis for my family I couldn't see spending the
extra to feed my four year old twins fancy meals when they would just a
soon have PB&J.
I opted for a Vacation Kingdom Holiday, that includes some meals
and recreation instead of an unlimited amount. That way we could
still do the Hoop-dee-doo Revue, River Country, and a Character
Breakfast or two and cheap out the rest of the week. I might have
made a different decision if it were just my wife and me.
Now, have you considered the GRAND PLAN?
|
| 52.9 | World Vacation Veteran | FRIEZE::FRATTURELLI | I'd rather be at Disney World | Thu Apr 27 1989 15:17 | 37 |
| George,
First of all, congratulations. This is an exciting time for you...
best of luck.
Well, my wife and I went on our honeymoon to WDW, and we went
on the World Vacation Plan. Looking back, I believe we could have
taken another package. We really forced ourselves to the 3 sit down
meals a day. We were hard pressed to spend the added money it cost
us on a daily basis, (although we did) let alone trying to enjoy the
recreational facilities. However, it depends on what time of the year
you go to WDW. If you're going when the park will be open late (11 or
12 PM), you might have enough time in the day to spend a considerable
amount of time in the Parks, PLUS go and experience the recreational
facilities as well. It all depends on what you want to do.
On the positive side, we had a GREAT TIME!!!!! My wife was a
first timer also, and she was overwhelmed. We also stayed at the
Poly, it was fantastic. We ate at ALL the best restaurants on the
property, including those in DISNEY VILLAGE. A hint from someone
who went the WORLD VACATION route: Spend the mornings in the park,
spend the afternoons by the pool, or golfing, playing tennis, walking
thru Discovery Island, etc..., have dinner, and then head back to
the parks in the evening. The beauty is that you have unlimited access
to the parks and the WDW transportation system.
When we got back from our honeymoon, and I figured out how much
we spent as opposed to how much we would have spent without the
package, it came out pratically even.
So there you have it...your probably no better off now then
you were before I replied. Hopefully it helped a little bit.
Good Luck!
John F...
|
| 52.10 | | ATE012::CLAUDE | Claude G. Berube | Thu Apr 27 1989 17:48 | 12 |
| I really can't add any more other than to say, You will need to eat 3
meals a day and do 1 activity other than going to the park each day,
and you sould come out even or slightly ahead. On my last 2 trips both
on the Vacation plan, I was $100 short on the 1st trip and about $100
over on the last trip, thereby breaking even for both trips. We had
good meals (didn't mind picking one of the most expensive one on the
mnu, ;^) and either rented a boat or went to river country for a few
hours each day. If eating all those meals make you feel you'll gain
weigth, well remember you'll be doing a lot of walking;^).
Claude
|
| 52.11 | Don't forget your cameras!!!!!! | SA1794::HENRYC | | Thu Apr 27 1989 19:43 | 12 |
| In addition to all of the good info before this response, my best
advice to you is to invest in a good pocket-sized 35mm camera and
a video-camcorder. I went to WDW in March and I video taped every
place we went, even the Japanese resturant we ate in. The entire
trip was a real joy and we were also able to take the one-day cruise
to the Bahamas, which is also on video. Now when I am home freezing
in CT, I can watch the serenity of our trip to Florida. The video
tape is a big hit with our family and friends who are thinking about
going down also...
Have fun and congrats! My husband and I went to Ochorios for our
honey-moon and we had a pocket-sized 35mm camera which made our
memories of the trip ever-lasting. We used a Cannon Freedom II.
|
| 52.12 | | AYNRND::REILLY | Instant Pink Floyd! Just add Waters | Thu Apr 27 1989 20:51 | 19 |
|
One of the best things, for me, about the World Vacation (or Grand Plan,
in our case), is a mental one.
You pay one price and THAT'S IT!
You don't have to think about or plan having money; you just flip
a your credit card at whatever restaurant/activity you want to do.
I know that if *I* didn't go on the Plan, every time I sat down
to eat, I'd be thinking about the cost. I'd make my early reservations
for things with the cost in the back of my head. I might waver if I
thought about it. And I'd *never* do things like eat at Victoria and
Alberts ($200!).
I dunno, if you figure it out, you may not save, but on a vacation
I like the liesure of not having to budget anything.
SEAN/BEER=LABATTS
|
| 52.13 | NEED INFO ON VACATION PLANS | SPGBAS::CAMPBELL | | Fri Apr 28 1989 10:36 | 8 |
|
Does anyone have a copy of the MKC vacation packages that they
could xerox for me. I have called MKC twice and asked them to
send me this information so I can book a vacation this summer.
If anyone has this could they send it to me at PKO3-2/H7.
Thanks
Pat
|
| 52.14 | thanks | NITMOI::WITHERS | So shines a good deed in a weary world.. | Fri Apr 28 1989 13:18 | 11 |
| Re: .all
Thanks everyone for the input. I belive that I will just go down with
an empty VISA in hand. After looking at the time constraints and the
packages I don't think (for this trip) that they'll be worth it for
much more than breaking even. So thanks again for the input, and look
for the trip report April 21, 1990 and also June 29, 1989 (Staying at
Fort Wilderness).
George
|
| 52.15 | Correction | INDMKT::GOLDBERG | Len Goldberg ...202 Days | Fri Apr 28 1989 16:26 | 21 |
| The room tax at WDW is 9% not 8% therefore the figures I posted in .1
should be:
Non-Plan
Room $234x4 $937
Admissions ~115x2 230
Gift Certificate 10x2 20
Birnbaum Guide 10
-----
$1197 = $239/day
World Vacation Plan
Includes all above $917x2 $1834 = $367/day
plus recreation and
meals.
Difference $637 = $127/day
|
| 52.16 | Get MKC Guide from Employee Activites | INDMKT::GOLDBERG | Len Goldberg ...202 Days | Fri Apr 28 1989 16:34 | 10 |
| re: .6
� Does anyone have a copy of the MKC vacation packages that they
� could Xerox for me.
The Magic Kingdom Club 1989 Membership Guide is available from employee
activities. I'm sure they have an office in Parker St. or the Mill.
If not, Corporate Employee Recreation is in West Concord (CFO).
See note 2.* in this conference for more information.
|
| 52.17 | MKC packages | SPGBAS::CAMPBELL | | Mon May 01 1989 10:53 | 15 |
| Len,
I did get a card last December before I went to Disney, but they
didn't give me anything with vacation plan info in it. I called
down to Employee Activities again and they only had the card and
other basic information. I called the MKC telphone number in conf.
2.0 again on Friday and they said they would send me out immediately
the new 1989 vacation club guide. I am planning to go back again
in August for a week and want to compare the vacation packages at
the MKC with the one I got from the Disney Channel club so see how
close in price they are. I'm afraid after last nights preview of
MGM people will take up all the hotel space in the park that was
available two weeks ago.
|
| 52.18 | Check out American Express | JUNCO::NAVIN | | Mon Jun 05 1989 15:39 | 11 |
| George,
You should check with American Express, I went on there package
deal in March 89, we got 6 days/5 nights at the Polyonesian Resort
overlooking the beach, and the Floridian. There meals a day, 6 days
into the park, all for $750. The room we had, we paid $98.00 a night
usually goes for $198.00. So, you might want to check out there
package deals.
Good luck,
Arlene
|
| 52.19 | Wow!! | SEAVU::TBUTLER | | Tue Jun 06 1989 08:58 | 4 |
| Wow, that sounds like a great deal, is there an 800-number to
call for info on the Amex packages?
Tom
|
| 52.20 | amex | ESKIMO::NAVIN | | Tue Jun 06 1989 09:29 | 10 |
|
Tom,
I had received that in my monthly bill, but I know that there is
an American Express travel agency in Framingham, they have similar
package deals. I also forgot to mention, that River Country, horse
back riding, and the rental of the boats were included. The hostess
that checked us in at the hotel couldn't get over the package deal.
Arlene
|
| 52.21 | AE in Framingham said no such package | GUESS::MCKENNA | | Tue Jun 06 1989 13:33 | 12 |
| Arlene,
I justed called American Express in Framingham and they said that they
have no such package. They could provide airfare, hotel, and admission
to the parks but no meals. Could you please tell us how and when you
booked you package. If you could include a phone number or address that
would be very helpful. I am very interested in this package. In July we
have 14 people going to WDW on the MKC's World Vacation and the price
you gave was a lot cheaper.
Norb
|
| 52.22 | Try AMEX | ESKIMO::NAVIN | | Thu Jun 08 1989 13:43 | 9 |
|
I booked my trip in December 88. The only thing I could suggest
is to call American Express. It might of also been just a one
shot deal. I don't have the 800 number with me, but I'm
sure that you could get the number from the operator.
Arlene
|
| 52.23 | THE way to go...!! | ENGINE::PAULHUS | Chris @ MLO6B-2/T13 dtn 223-6871 | Wed Oct 04 1989 12:46 | 8 |
| .5 hits the mark for the rational behind this choice. The last
time I went down, I, Mom, and sister stayed in a Treehouse in the
Village. One day we went to the Deli in the village and had them
pack a lunch for the three of us. We then shuttled over to the Poly
where we rented one of the big float boats. We putted around the
lake and anchored in front of the entrance to MK where we had lunch.
We will never forget that lunch. And all just by waving the Gold
Key Card around. It's THE way to go!! - Chris
|
| 52.24 | | TECRUS::JIM | Jim Pappas | Sun Apr 08 1990 19:24 | 47 |
| The comparison of the World Vacation Plan (or Grand Plan) vs
an a la carte vacation depends largely on individual taste and
style.
For my family (2 adults, 3 children), we decided to pay a la
carte for a "no holds barred" vacation, and it proved to be
much cheaper that way. I am certain that you could come out
ahead either way, but in my opinion, you would have to try
hard to spend all the extra money built into one of the plans.
A couple with no kids (or older kids) would probably find it
easier than a family with small kids.
Several people have talked about how nice it is to "flash the
gold card". However, I do not think that the gold card gives
you any more convenience than a regular resort ID. On our
last trip down, we charged everything possible to our room.
Some people have commented that with the plan, they did not
feel guilty eating at the best restaurants, or ordering the
most expensive meals. We ate wherever we wanted, and ordered
without worrying about price. We rented boats and didn't
watch the clock. Basically, we knew we wouldn't go broke and
we had a ball. We really did not worry about cost and that
was nice. See notes 28.131 and 39.92 for more details.
Furthermore, for us, not being on a plan was actually less
worry that if it was all prepaid. For example, under the plan
we would have felt guilty about eating a sandwich in a park
when we knew that we were paying for the most expensive meals.
There are times that you just do not want to travel to one of
the nicer restaurants.
After we returned and added up all the bills, we found that
our 9 day/8 night a la carte vacation was about $1,745 cheaper
than if we had used the World Vacation Plan. This was due to
several factors, but primarily:
- annual pass vs. regular pass;
- $99/night passholder's special (Polynesian Lagoon View);
- $121/night for meals vs. approx $225 built into the plan.
Now the 5 of us have annual passes for MK, EPCOT, MGM, River
Country and Discovery Island. We are planning a 2 week trip
June and this will help reduce the cost of this vacation.
/Jim Pappas
|
| 52.25 | Ditto | COEM::SCOPA | MAJOR | Mon Apr 09 1990 10:53 | 7 |
| Jim,
I agree regarding the World Vacation Plan. By doing some creative
planning anyone can come up with a more economical vacation without
sacrificing anything.
Mike_who_used_his_own_plan
|
| 52.26 | May be worth it | CLOSET::AAARGH::LOWELL | Grim Grinning Ghosts... | Mon Apr 09 1990 14:24 | 25 |
| We've done the World Vacation Plan twice. I never did the math to
determine what our loss/gain was. The advantage was knowing how
much it was going to cost ahead of time. All we had to bring was
spending money for snacks and souvenirs.
In our case it was important to know the cost ahead of time. For
our first trip we included one of my sisters and my two youger
brothers. For our second trip we included my other sister and her
family. In both cases I paid for the trip ahead of time and then
had them reimburse me. This allowed me to make the reservations
and helped them determine how much money to save for the trip.
I don't know how to put this delicately... My family tends to have
problems dealing with somewhat large sums of money. Having the trips
paid for in advance prevented us from running out of money on the
first day. And, having a limited amount of spending money helps
reduce impulse spending. If you have problems with an open ended
budget you might want to take advantage of some sort of package.
I will not be using the World Vacation Plan again - we have annual
passes which make the plan a waste of money. When I take my two
brothers back I'll do up my own package for the three of us to fit
their budget. For each of them I'd probably include an annual pass,
1/3 room price at the Caribbean Beach Resort, one day at Typhoon
Lagoon and some money for meals.
|
| 52.27 | lotsa questions here... | MIDI::DAN | Dan Gosselin, CUP Engineering | Fri Apr 20 1990 16:51 | 38 |
|
Hi all,
It looks as though my wife and I are planning on 'starting the process'
for a trip to WDW in mid-September of '91, and we're leaning towards
going via the World Vacation Plan. We don't have any chidren (yet :^)
so we'd like to have the 'no holds barred' type vacation and do as much
as we can, while we can. We're planning on staying at least six nights
because we want to enjoy WDW as a resort as well as for the rides. We
plan on staying at either the Contemporary Resort or the Polynesian
Resort.
Here's my questions:
1) Is it too early to start booking right now? What is required for
a deposit? How will we know what price they are charging
since only the '90 rates are presently available?
2) Could we reserve the Hoop-dee-doo Revue, Polynesian Revue, Top of
the World Show, and lots of other 'dinner shows' (or 'breakfast
shows' and have them all covered under the World Vacation Plan?
3) Could we take in Victoria and Albert's under the Plan? More than
once? How far in advance do these reservations need to be made?
4) How is September for water activities - is the lake still warm
enough (pardon my ignorance)? Can we rent the water-skiing
boats under this plan? More than once?
5) How many of the parades and other activities do we miss out on by
going in the off-season versus the middle of the summer? Is it
worth the price and not having to fight the crowds?
6) What *other* restrictions are there to this Plan?
Thanks,
Dan
|
| 52.28 | Some Answers | COEM::SCOPA | MAJOR | Fri Apr 20 1990 17:31 | 50 |
| Dan,
I'll let the others who know/use the World Vacation Plan answer some
questions. Here is some insight that I feel I can give you:
Regarding: Booking Early
It's never too early to book. The earlier you book the more time you
have to start saving and plan on other parts of the vacation. Usually
it's one night's deposit however the World Vacation Plan may be
different.
Regarding: Dinner Shows
Once you have your reservation confirmed you'll receive your
confirmation number which can be used to reserve dinner shows like
"Hoop-Dee-Doo".
Regarding: Victoria and Albert
I don't understand this.
Regarding: September water activities
You have to remember we're talking Florida so I wouldn't worry about
the temps cooling down too much in Florida in September.
Regarding: Off-season parades and such.
This is a matter of choice. Having been down in the "off" and "on"
seasons I prefer the Summer months because of the long park hours and
also because when I went in the "off" season many attractions were
undergoing repair or PM and it seemed that everything was at its peak
in Summer.
Birnbaum mentions that room reservations are easy to come by in
September. Smaller crowds is why the parks close at 7 and 8 in
September and that means no Electrical Parade or Fantasy in the Sky
Fireworks in TMK. Also, afterdark stuff like Illuminations in EPCOT
would also be scratched at that time.
You may want to adjust your vacation and go the 3rd or 4th week in
August just to be there for the long hours and to do all the things you
want to do. Just a thought.
HOpefully others who have gone in both the Summer and non-Summer months
can add to my comments and tell you which of the two times they
preferred and why.
Mike
|
| 52.29 | merci | MIDI::DAN | Dan Gosselin, CUP Engineering | Fri Apr 20 1990 17:58 | 27 |
| Mike,
> Once you have your reservation confirmed you'll receive your
> confirmation number which can be used to reserve dinner shows like
> "Hoop-Dee-Doo".
I was aware of this (I have Birnbaum's book), but what I was really wondering
was, with the World Vacation Plan including meals, could I book *tons* of
dinner shows and have them all covered under the Plan?
> Regarding: Victoria and Albert
>
> I don't understand this.
As above, I want to know if there's a limit as to 'how much' or 'how many times'
one could take part in such an activity under the Plan.
I'll wait for someone else to answer about the WV Plan.
Thanks for all of your other suggestions.
It'll be a tossup whether to go in August or September - I'd like to see all the
parades and fireworks, but I don't want to have to deal with lots of people and
I'd like the 35% off accomodations...
Thank again!
Dan
|
| 52.30 | SURE, IF that's what you want! | OFFPLS::HODGES | | Mon Apr 23 1990 13:55 | 33 |
| You may well be in a position to 'have it both ways'! I believe that
the last few days in August are considered 'off-season' so rates are
somewhat lower (maybe NOT the lowest!) Also, you should call CRO and
get the latest scoop about parades and such. Illuminations in EPCOT
runs year 'round now, weather permitting, because EPCOT stays open
until 9 PM and they do Illuminations at 9 PM even during the
off-season. I believe the parks may stay open later on the week-ends
so you may get things like the electrical parades on the week-ends?
My off-season trips are usually business related so happen on
week-days, so I don't have much first hand information about off-season
week-ends.
As for the World Plan, when I used it 3 years ago, it covered all
shows. We did Hoop-de-doo Review, the Luau at the Polynesian, The
Broadway Dinner Show at the top of the Contemporoary (can't remember
it's official name!) and the formal dinner on the Empress Lily (can't
remember it's name either!) You'll also want to plan for meals in some
of the countries in EPCOT. Styles and tastes differ radically here so
I won't recommend any in particular, but don't assume that you'll want
to spend EVERY evening at one of the shows. Don't think anything in
'the rules' would prevent you from doing it however.
My only 'negative' about World Plan was that we did end up paying for a
few snack type meals, because we got hungry at odd-hours and none of
the 'sit-down' type places near where we were happened to be serving OR
they were serving but were filled with folks who had reservations.
Hope this helps!
Maryann
|
| 52.31 | can't wait! | MIDI::DAN | Dan Gosselin, CUP Engineering | Tue Apr 24 1990 11:20 | 20 |
| Hi Maryann,
> Hope this helps!
Yes it does. Thanks!
> My only 'negative' about World Plan was that we did end up paying for a
> few snack type meals, because we got hungry at odd-hours and none of
> the 'sit-down' type places near where we were happened to be serving OR
> they were serving but were filled with folks who had reservations.
I have the feeling something like this will probably happen, regardless of all
the planning we do. Even if we have reservations for all of our 'dinners' and
special breakfasts and/or lunches, I'm sure there will be times when we just
won't want to eat a full meal and we'll have to pay for our own snacks. But,
again, with all of the water activities, and *expensive* dinners we hope to
be taking in, I think we can save big $$$ by going with the world plan.
Thanks again,
Dan
|
| 52.32 | A plan question???? | EXIT26::SNODGRASS | | Tue Apr 24 1990 13:06 | 10 |
|
I have a question for anyone who has previously taken one of the meal
plans. The latest MKC brochure in the WDW resteraunt section doesn't
list much in the way of lunch availability in any of the parks. Is this
something new or has it always been this way?
Thanks
Steve
|
| 52.33 | | INDMKT::GOLDBERG | Len --> �o� & ��� in 214 days | Tue Apr 24 1990 14:01 | 19 |
| It was like that last year when we did the Vacation Kingdom Holiday.
We took the opportunity to leave the parks for a while and visit some
of the resort restaurants. We ate at Narcoosee's in the Grand
Floridian twice, racking up a "bill" of >$100 each time for two adults
and two children.
I would have liked to have had lunch in Epcot or the Studio on the
plan, but alas they are not included. They are, however, available for
dinner.
I don't know if the World Vacation Plan or Grand Plan differ from the
Vacation Kingdom Holiday on where you can have lunch.
BTW, I think the Vacation Kingdom Holiday is a good compromise between
paying you're own way and going full bore Gold Key plan. You get to do
six meals, one activity, and one night at PI. That way you can still
max out on dinner shows and fancy lunches without feeling like you have
to work every day to get your money's worth. Of course if I had
unlimited financial resources it would be Grand Plan all the way!
|
| 52.34 | | MAMTS3::JAMES | | Tue Apr 24 1990 15:49 | 7 |
| While we were there this past october we ate lunches in the parks on
the gold key. We had lunch twice at Crystal Palace in MK, once at
Living Seas and once at The Land in Epcot.
So as of October '89 lunches were still available on the plan.
John
|
| 52.35 | | BEATLE::REILLY | Don't have a cow, man | Thu May 10 1990 16:40 | 10 |
|
Anyway, Victoria and Albert's is covered under The Plan, for as many
times as you want. Reservations are hard to come by for that, though.
Our bill was $200 for 2 people.
Another thing to remember is that alchohol is not covered (even at
meals) on The Plan. Well, except for The Hoop-Dee-Doo, they beer
was included in the price. Tip of 15% is included, too.
SEAN/BEER=LABATTS
|
| 52.36 | | VNABRW::TRAXLER_B | Nothing compares ..... | Wed Aug 01 1990 05:48 | 21 |
| I hope some of you can give me an advice with the following:
My fiance an I are going to WDW for our honeymoon in early October. We have
reservations for the CBR for 3 nights (waitlist for the remaining 5 nights)
and for the Disney Inn for 5 nights. We choose the CBR because it sounded nice
and the price reasonable.
We never thought of some package because during my last stays in the States
I fed myself almost the whole time with sandwiches only, which was quite
cheap. Now, my fiance just recovers from a very bad illness and from now on
he will have to eat at least 3 times a day, slowly and relaxed. Meaning:
no quick hamburgers anymore.
Well, now we start to think about a plan. IMO the World Vacation Plan would
be best as it covers anything, but in all your lists I haven't found the CBR
mentioned for this plan. Is only the Floridian, Poly, Contemporary and Disney
Inn included? What would you recommend if so? And, above all, do you from your
experiences believe that we can still change our reservations??????
Thanks for advice,
Billie
|
| 52.37 | World Plan not for everyone | ATE012::BERUBE | Calling Dick Tracy, Det.. | Wed Aug 01 1990 09:10 | 49 |
| Rep to <<< Note 88.29 by VNABRW::TRAXLER_B "Nothing compares ....." >>>
>Well, now we start to think about a plan. IMO the World Vacation Plan would
>be best as it covers anything, but in all your lists I haven't found the CBR
>mentioned for this plan. Is only the Floridian, Poly, Contemporary and Disney
>Inn included? What would you recommend if so? And, above all, do you from your
>experiences believe that we can still change our reservations??????
Billie,
You might be able to change your reservations if you act now, but read
on first.
The World Plan is only available at those hotels you mention, the CBR
is not available since it's considered a moderately priced hotel, where
the others are expensive $$'s.
The Other hotels will most likely double your hotel bill portion of
your stay, without even getting into the World Plan. The only
advantage to the WP (and I've stated this elsewhere) is that you don't
need to carry as much $$'s since you must pay for it prior to arrival.
Also in order is to benifit from the WP (pay less than by doing it
seperately), you MUST
Eat 3 meals a day, one of them BIG $$'s (ie Dinner Show, or
expensive supper at the Gran Floridian etc.)
Do 2 activities in a given day (that would require $$'s if doing it
seperately, no World Plan, at least every other day) ie.
One of the Parks and a choice of
Typhoon Laggoon
River Country
Pleasure Island
Fishing Excursion
Round of Golf
Rent a boat (water sprite)
etc.
Otherwise if you weren't planning to stay in a more expensive Resort at
WDW, weren't planning on doing 2 $$'s ACTIVITIES IN A DAY every other
day, then by all means stay at the CBR and do 3 meals a day at your
leisure, you can still do the Dinner Shows, it'll cost you far less
than doing the World Plan. You don't need to be on the World Plan to
enjoy any of it features as long as you are staying on property your
OK.
Claude
|
| 52.5 | What is the "gold key"? | CSC32::J_HANLON | JOEY | Sat Jan 05 1991 11:53 | 7 |
| Hi,
I've heard there's something called a gold-key that is a pay-one-price
type of deal. Is this the same as the Grand Plan?
Thanks,
Joey Hanlon.
|
| 52.6 | | GORE::J_PARSONS | George Stark: Not A Very Nice Guy | Sat Jan 05 1991 15:48 | 13 |
| The Gold Key is a feature of the Grand and World Vacation Plans,
offered by the Magic Kingdom Club. It looks just like a credit card,
and can be used to charge meals, recreational activities, and so forth.
With both of these plans, you pre-pay when you check in, and have
unlimited use of all recreational activities (including fishing, at
$110/session, water skiing, at $75/session, etc.), and all meals are
provided at your choice of any full-service restaurants within WDW,
including the hotels and shopping village.
If you want more information on these packages, drop me a line (I'm in
CXO3). We're going to WDW on our 2nd package deal next month.
Jack
|
| 52.38 | Prices drastically up?? | TRNPRC::WERBER | Help Mrs. Fletcher get up! | Tue May 14 1991 18:28 | 20 |
| Well.
Someone here at DEC just came back from Disneyworld on the World Plan.
He went down with 2 other adults and 2 children, and stayed at the
Polynesian Report for 10 nights. Total cost for the plan for all 5
people: $3,300.
I am looking at a brochure from a travel agency (with no Disney #
listed anywhere) and get this: for only 2 adults, and only 7 nights,
and in off-season, the total price is $3,510.
That's $210 more for 3 less people and 3 less nights.
Could prices possibly have risen THAT MUCH in a few months? I called
Disneyworld to get a brochure straight from them, but I doubt there
will be a price difference.
Sheesh! Does that price sound right?
-Peg Werber
|
| 52.39 | endless possibilties | EXIT26::SNODGRASS | Yoikes and Away!! | Tue May 14 1991 19:18 | 11 |
|
Peg,
Does the package from the agent include airfare? These days that could
make a huge difference in costs. The MKC packages don't include air,
also there is the supersaver season wich is only available through the
MKC( I Believe ). There are so many variables it can make a big diff.
I'll bring in my brochure tomorrow. If I can remember.
steve
|
| 52.40 | | TECRUS::JIM | Jim Pappas | Tue May 14 1991 22:07 | 13 |
| RE: 88.31
Your price sounds about right and the other sound very low.
When I looked onto the world plan in 1989, the price would
have been over $5K for 5 of us including 2 adults and 3 kids.
We ended up going a la carte and ended up saving over $1700
from the plan on a no holds barred vacation. See note 88.17
for more info. This year there are a lot of specials going on
and are documented all over this file. I have not heard of
any discounts on the world plan, but there are a lot of
specials for stockholders, annual passport holders, Gold MKC
cardmembers, Disney channel subscribers etc.
|
| 52.41 | No air fare | TRNPRC::WERBER | Help Mrs. Fletcher get up! | Wed May 15 1991 15:53 | 24 |
| Steve,
No it doesn't include air fare at all, but the other person I referred
to didn't have it either. I'd really appreciate you letting me know
what your pamphlet says - I just can't see me and my boyfriend
spending $3,500 total between food and hotel and recreation for just one
week. We want to go in October which is off season and still that price
is way too high.
I also have a US AIR pamphlet here that has 7 nights at the Caribbean
Resort, round trip airfare, and a compact rental car for $529. It
doesn't include any tickets but I still think that is going to end up
being a lot cheaper. I just love the thought of being able to go in
any Disney park, do anything, rent anything, eat anything, see anything
-- you know.
Re -1. I know about some of the specials - but they seem to me that
you have to be some sort of a member somewhere, and since I am contract I
can't become a DEC member of the Disneyworld club, etc.
Thanks again,
Peg
|
| 52.42 | Oh! This sounds great!! | JIT081::ARAKAWA | Minako -> EIC/BAE/BAC SWDC 12F #7345 | Thu May 16 1991 03:05 | 36 |
|
> I also have a US AIR pamphlet here that has 7 nights at the Caribbean
> Resort, round trip airfare, and a compact rental car for $529. It
> doesn't include any tickets but I still think that is going to end up
> being a lot cheaper. I just love the thought of being able to go in
> any Disney park, do anything, rent anything, eat anything, see anything
> -- you know.
Hi Peg(gy?), I am Minako Arakawa form EIC of DEC-Japan.
I want to know about this package!! This sounds great to me because
I live in Tokyo and when I go to WDW (maybe next May), I have
to transfer at some int'l airport to get to Orland. If they still
offer this deal I can use USAir for the domestic flight and stay
CBR for only $529!! If you know the validation of this packeage
and that they stop offering this packeage before May '91, we may
move up our visit to WDW.
Questions: validation date
rount trip from where to Orland
any other limitations
(like: you have to be US citizen to use this packeage )
do they have package with no car, but cheaper
So, please let me know everything you know about this package.
I can be reached at...
Minako Arakawa @ TKO ( may changed to JIT )
jit081::ARAKAWA
001-81-3-5992-7891 ( fax # at office )
Thanks in advance,
Minako
|
| 52.43 | will fax | TRNPRC::WERBER | Help Mrs. Fletcher get up! | Thu May 16 1991 09:57 | 11 |
| Minako,
I will fax you the most important parts of the pamphlet if that's ok.
(Moderators: FYI I will not use the Digital fax machine here).
I believe that package is an off-peak package (for this year that means
September-December) and the air fare is based upon Boston departure. I
don't know about anything international. I do know it doesn't include
any Florida taxes or air fuel surcharges.
-Peggy
|
| 52.44 | ex | CUPTAY::FARINA | | Thu May 30 1991 19:28 | 5 |
| See my note in non-MKC discounts. There's an offer for American
Express Card holders that is an excellent deal!
Susan
|
| 52.45 | Take the meal plan or not? | DEBET::WOLFF | | Tue Jul 09 1991 14:08 | 11 |
| Disneyphiles,
I'm about to schedule an early December trip to WDW. We are planning
to stay in a resort, probably Grand Floridian. Shall we take the
package with the meal plan (3 meals a day) included? What is your
experience and advice.
Two middle-aged people -- first trip to WDW.
Thanks. Renee
|
| 52.46 | We didn't care for it. | LEDDEV::MCMILLEN | | Tue Jul 09 1991 14:27 | 6 |
| Hi,
I found that we were never near the restaurant when we were hungary.
Either that or we were in the middle of something and did not want to
go back to the hotel. We lost $ on the deal, plus it was not
convenient.
|
| 52.47 | | BEATLE::REILLY | Sean-miester,makin' notes,Sean-man | Wed Jul 10 1991 09:09 | 29 |
|
We found that it was very convenient. As far as as being near the
restaurant, any restaurant on the property is valid, so if you are
at Epcot, in any restort, at MGM, Pleasure Island/Disney Village,
or River Country, you're near one (which basically leaves out Magic
Kingdom and Typhoon Lagoon).
We found it very very nice to never have to budget what we wanted to
spend to eat ($200 meal for two at Victoria an Alberts), worry about
how many times we wanted to rent boats, or decide whether we wanted
SuperPasses, Annual Passports, etc.
BUT... it is expensive, no question about it, and it would be nearly
impossible to justify on a dollar for dollar basis with paying for
things separately (i.e. you don't recoup the cost of the plan with
what you do at WDW, no matter how much you eat or do).
Still, when I have the money, and when the occasion is special, the
"I can do anything at WDW by flahing a card" factor outweighs the cost
for me - I feel like I'm *really* on vacation.
If this is your first time at WDW, you might want to skip it. WDW can
be very confusing - not till the end of your trip may you have realized all
the places *you* really wanted to try. If you like WDW, maybe the next
trip might be better for the Plan.
- Sean
P.S. The Grand Floridian is incredible!
|
| 52.48 | The Second Time Around | VISUAL::SCOPA | I'd rather be in Orlando | Wed Jul 10 1991 10:31 | 6 |
| Sean's right.
You need to plan on how you'd use The Plan. You may get more out of it
on a return trip rather than your initial trip.
Mike
|
| 52.49 | | TOKLAS::feldman | Larix decidua, var. decify | Wed Jul 10 1991 13:33 | 6 |
| I believe that the only way any of the plans work out financially better is if
you fully exploit all of the meals. Sounds great, but there are times when
I really do prefer a quick sandwich or a light dinner to a full meal with
appetizers and dessert.
Gary
|
| 52.50 | an opinion on world vac. | HPSTEK::PASCO | Mark 'PASCO' Pascarelli | Wed Jul 10 1991 16:05 | 27 |
| We ( 4adults, 1 child) did our first trip to WDW on the WORLD VACATION.
Stayed at the POLY.
By using this notes file, the Birnbaum book, and this notes file again
I believe we got our money's worth. We planned and booked reservations
for EVRYTHING before we left home. Because of going in the summer when
temp is up and the parks are open late , we took a looong lunch break
everyday and enjoyed meal times and recreational activities and still
had lots of hours to spend in the parks.
As a matter of fact we currently have room reservations for next JULY.
We're going to try 4 days of the World Vacation at the Poly followed
by 4 days of the Vacation Kingdom plan staying the the CBR.
Bottom line...My opinion only.... If you plan ahead, like to keep busy,
are going during the times the parks
open late, want to try some really good
food, and most of all CAN AFFORD IT.....
.....then the WORLD VACATION IS A GREAT DEAL.
otherwise you can probably do everything you'd want
and save a little money.
pasco
|
| 52.51 | | DELNI::BRYDON | | Wed Jul 10 1991 17:45 | 18 |
|
My family has gone to Disney on the vacation plan several times. We've
always broken even with a few dollars after adding up what the expenses
would have been off the package. We did always eat 2-3 meals a day and
rent boats, bikes, golf carts etc...We like it because other than
souveniers we can pay for our vacation prior to leaving. I think its
all personal vacation style.
Do you like to eat?
Can you eat 2-3 full service type meals a day?
Do you golf (green fees at disney world could drive your costs up)
Do you like to watch expenses while vacationing?
Kathy
|
| 52.52 | the plan's value is in never wondering 'is it worth it' | TOHOKU::TAYLOR | | Wed Jul 31 1991 16:18 | 13 |
| A little late but, my 2�
My wife planned every meal (3 every day), made reservations and
we went over a hundred for two several times. I kept every
receipt for every meal and misc 'on-the-plan' expense. The
result is that I calculated that we 'saved' a few hundred
dollars on the plan over what it would have cost retail. Of
course on the plans you always eat from the top half of the
menu, while on your own money you eat from the bottom half
because the top half is over priced. (My wife eat several $25
lobsters.) We also gained 10 lbs each, and spent (IMO) too much
time going to or coming from eating. It was great once, but I
probably (~.5) would only do it once.
|
| 52.53 | | BEATLE::REILLY | So I rewired it... | Thu Aug 01 1991 09:56 | 25 |
|
� The result is that I calculated that we 'saved' a few hundred
� dollars on the plan over what it would have cost retail. Of
� course on the plans you always eat from the top half of the
� menu, while on your own money you eat from the bottom half
� because the top half is over priced.
That's they key.
We did the same thing - saved all our receipts and calculated what the
damage would have been - and found the same thing: we made out.
However, what you say is very true - it's because you're eating all
the "best" stuff, getting the appetizers, trying the deserts, etc.,
etc.
Me and my wife found that, in fact, we ate *way* more than we normally
would. You're "spending too much time" quote rings a bell, too,
because what we started doing was planning the events of the day around
where we wanted to eat, rather than vice-versa. Which, actually, was
fun for us, 'cause we've seen everything, and trying all the expensive
dishes at different restaurants was great. But when we go off-Plan we
find that, eating what we want to, an early breakfast and a late dinner
is *more* than plenty, in which case it's hard to come out ahead.
- Sean
|
| 52.54 | Time...the final frontier | VISUAL::SCOPA | I'd rather be in Orlando | Thu Aug 01 1991 09:58 | 11 |
| re:.46
I think you hit on an important aspect...that of time. Obviously if you
want to make good use of The Plan you need to schedule and take time
using it. This could mean allocating anywhere from two to three hours a
day for meals...maybe more if you figure 75-90 minutes per meal and you
have three meals a day.
Time is a factor.
Mike
|
| 52.55 | What's the best deal? | PMAX0::DANIELSON | | Tue Sep 17 1991 10:47 | 37 |
| My fiance and I are planning to go to Disneyworld for our honeymoon next
spring. We would like our iternary to look like this:
Sunday, May 17th: Leave from Boston to Florida
May 17 - 20 : Stay at my aunt's condo at Boca Raton
(no charge)
May 21 - 25 : Spend 4 nights, 5 days at the Polynesian Resort
May 25 : Leave from Florida to Boston
At this point, we are trying to explore all the possible packages to get the
best deal. Our travel agent offerred us a Delta Dream Vacation package which
includes direct roundtrip airfare, 4 nights and 5 days at the Poly, unlimited
superpass admissions to the attractions, and a midsized car for the week (17th-
25th). For the two of us, it came to a total of $2200. Is this a good deal?
I don't know the type of room at the Polynesian, but it really doesn't matter
to us. Also, we really only need the car at Boca Raton, and traveling to
Orlando. Once we're at Disney we intend to use the monorail. We will need
transportation to get to the airport from Disney. Are there shuttles
available from the resorts? Would it be cheaper to keep the car the entire
week?
Looking at the World Vacation MKC Plan from the 1991 brochure, the cheapest
room at the Poly in our time frame is $880 per person. The plan doesn't
include airfare or the car, but it does include 3 meals a day at any of
Disney's restaurants, which we would really enjoy. Has the 1992 prices come
out yet for the MKC plans?
If the increase isn't that much, I think I would be better off reserving the
Poly under the plan, and trying to get cheap airfare and car rental later.
Any suggestions?
Thanks in advance,
Serena
|
| 52.56 | Delta Dream Vacation vs Ala Carte? | EISJAT::TEDESCO | | Wed Sep 18 1991 13:17 | 21 |
| I'm in the process of planning my family's WDW trip for next spring (not during
any school vacation periods, though). What I'd like to get from of all of you
experts on WDW is some thoughts on issues I'm dealing with now.
First, we'd love to stay at the Polynesian (2 young children ages 4 and 7 make
it very attractive) but it is ~$800 more (excluding meals) than staying at the
Guest quarters Suites (our other possibility). I realize we'd use bus shuttles
(or rental car) to get to/from the parks but is it really worth this difference
to stay at the Polynesian?
Also, I'm wrestling with how I should make my reservations. Should I make them
through MKC (which doesn't have any pricing for next year yet) or through
Delta Dream Vacations? DDV includes airfare while MKC does not. Right now
the airfare from boston is $338 so DDV is looking more attractive. Has anyone
used one of Delta's packages before? Because of the exhorbitant airfare, going
ala carte seems to be more expensive. Also, going this time of year negates
any advantage of being a disney stockholder, I assume?
Any thoughts anyone might have would be appreciated,
John
|
| 52.57 | My input to 88.50 | CUPMK::JETTE | | Wed Sep 18 1991 14:23 | 24 |
| re: 88.50
I think you need to consider a few things first:
What type of meals do you and your family plan on having during your
stay. Do you plan on using any of the recreational vehicles during
your stay. The World Plan is (IMHO) geared for people that will eat at
least one expensive meal a day and do one activity (water sprites for
example) each day. If not, why don't you check out the Carribbean
Beach Resort on property? Price this per night along with the passes
and what you would allow for food. This should be much
cheaper than a World Plan at the Poly. And from this notesfile the CBR
is a great place especially with kids! As for airfare, it really is
a crap-shoot. You could call this week and be quoted over $400 and
next week at $298.00. You just have to be persistant in checking all
airlines many times over. I did put in the airline expense note that
Crimson Travel has a charter flight for $250 adult and $199 per child.
I do not know the dates it's available though. If you'd like more
detailed information - put in the note the dates you are travelling and
what you plan on spending - there are some of us here who can come up
with some good estimates for you!
Kathy_who_has_296_days_to_go!
|
| 52.58 | $$$ say no, mind says YES | ROULET::ROBROSE | | Wed Sep 18 1991 14:32 | 24 |
|
Is it worth an extra $800 to stay at the Poly? Well in real green
dollars, I would have to say no. It depends on your budget but if you
don't stay at the Poly that 800 could be meals/spending money for your
family instead of already being spent before you arrive. I love
staying on Disney property but in my opinion the benefits of being a
resort guest are outweighed by the cost (Unless you can find a
passholder special, camp at FW, or stay at the CBR). If you are not
going during a peak period then Epcot restaurant reservations will not
really be an issue, and the other "benefits" of being a resort guest
will not add up to equal that $800.00. But, if you enjoy the Disney
atmosphere staying on property becomes part of the experience, I can't
give up any other reason to stay on property but to say that when you
do stay on site, you never leave the magic behind you, and you can't
really put a dollar figure on the feeling you get when you can watch
the fireworks from the beach every evening. Hope I didn't confuse ya.
I have never used a delta package but have seen them and they look
to be good deals for the most part, you would probably do better with
the package than you could on your own, and it is easier.
Good luck,
-Rob
|
| 52.59 | Read | VISUAL::SCOPA | I'd rather be in Orlando | Wed Sep 18 1991 16:05 | 30 |
| Rob makes a good point.
Having children those ages makes the Poly, the CR, FW, and maybe even
the GF tempting because of their proximity to TMK and in 3 cases the
monorail.
I am an avid fan of the CBR and I think the Disney folks hit the
jackpot when they put the CBR on the map. It's prime purpose is to
offer affordable lodging for families. I'll bet that there was some
thinking that said, "Let's hook the young families with affordable
lodging and they'll come back, and come back...."
Anyway, the CBR (or PO) give you the same magic. The CBR may not be as
close to TMK as the aforementioned resorts but it is close to EC, MGM,
and TL.
So to answer your "Is it worth an extra $800 to stay at the Poly?" I'd
say no if you could turn that $800 into extra nights somewhere else and
possibly use some of it for a dinner show.
Also, why not split up the vacation with some nights in the Poly and
the others in another resort?
Best advice is to read this conference and then decide.
Speaking from my own experience my choice has always been to get as
many nights on the property as I can....the CBR/PO/DL trinity is the
best....with the exception of the specials of course.
Mike
|
| 52.60 | ALL-INCLUSIVE WDW VACATION? | ICS::HOWE | | Mon Feb 17 1992 11:53 | 13 |
| A few years ago, friends of ours took their family (two kids)
to WDW on something called the Grand Tour (?) The point was they
stayed at the best hotel in WDW and everything (I mean everything)
was paid for upfront. They wore special bracelets that got them
food, drinks, entertainment (horseback riding, sprites, etc) --
as much as they wanted, when they wanted it.
It sounded like a dream (admittedly expensive).
Does such a program still exist? Does anyone have any specifics?
Thanks
Ann
|
| 52.61 | some info, see elsewhere for more | SALEM::BERUBE_C | Good Morning WDW!, in 68 days | Mon Feb 17 1992 12:37 | 27 |
| Rep to <<< Note 88.54 by ICS::HOWE >>>
Ann,
> They wore special bracelets that got them
> food, drinks, entertainment (horseback riding, sprites, etc) --
> as much as they wanted, when they wanted it.
Well I've done the World Plan which is basicly the same as the Grand
and Admiral minus the VCR and a couple of trinkets. We were given a
Plastic Gold Key Card similar to a credit card to charge all things
too. Basicly you pay up fron and depending on what you do you'll
either make out or loose some money. I don't remember any bracelets
(is this new), and the Alcoholic Drinks were not included as well as
some special things like golf/tennis lessons etc.
> It sounded like a dream (admittedly expensive).
It can be depending on how you use it.
> Does such a program still exist? Does anyone have any specifics?
Yes they still exist, see earlier replies as well as some of the ones
in topic 28. Also see 2.31 on how to obtain the MKC card and
membership guide from Personnel.
Claude
|
| 52.62 | easier to relax knowing its already paid for | TOHOKU::TAYLOR | | Mon Feb 17 1992 17:35 | 9 |
| re: are they worth it?
We took golf lessons, rented a pontoon boat, ate at V&As (twice) and
the empress room as well as room service at midnight in the pool. All
things that I would never have done if I had to look at the price.
The service is always good since they know they get 15% without question.
However, adding up the slips we didn't save much. If you can have fun
without looking at the price, do it. But you sing like a canary (cheap
cheap) buy the plan up front and enjoy yourself.
|
| 52.63 | | SALEM::BERUBE_C | Good Morning WDW!, in 67 days | Tue Feb 18 1992 06:57 | 17 |
| Rep to <<< Note 88.56 by TOHOKU::TAYLOR >>>
> We took golf lessons
When did they start including Golf lessons in the Inclusive plans? In
'84/'87 things on a personal level like Alchoholic Drinks, Lessons for
Golf/Tennis, Haircuts, Suit Cleaning etc. were not covered. I know
that the Grand/Admiral add things like Valet Parking Vouchers,
Babysitting, VCR, but don't see any metion on Golf Lessons. Golf Fee's
are included but I know in '87 Lessons weren't.
Since I'm not doing a World Plan this time (just doing Port Orleans
without a plan) I don't have the latest Vacation Plan handbook with me,
Any of you recent World/Grand/Admiral plan goes care to list the
specifics?
Claude
|
| 52.64 | | LAVETA::J_PARSONS | George Stark: Not A Very Nice Guy | Tue Feb 18 1992 11:03 | 4 |
| We went to WDW on the World Vacation Plan in 1990 and 1991. In both
cases we could have had golf/tennis lessons had we wanted them, as part
of the plan. In fact, both times I took a fishing trip which actually
cost more than the golf/tennis lessons would have ($120 for 2 hours).
|
| 52.65 | what is excluded | NODEX::MMCKENNA | | Tue Feb 18 1992 12:01 | 21 |
| We just recieved our confirmation for the World vacation Plan staying
at the Treehouses, from March 26 - April 2. This is what the literature
they sent us says;
NOTE: The unlimiteed feature excludes airport transfers/external
transportation, alcoholic beverages, arcades, barber/beauty shop,
babysitting, Mouseketeer club, Sandcastle Club, Victoria and Albert's,
kennels, private golf or tennis lessons, room service,
snack/refreshments, special parties, flowers, guided tours, food from
counter service facilities in the theme park, Resort New Year's Eve
parties, WALT DISNEY WORLD Dolphin and WALT DISNEY WORLD Swan
restaurants and facilities, laundry/valet services, merchandise, rental
car, telephone/telegram, theme park special events, or any items of a
personal nature.
My note: I'm really disappointed about V&A's. This trip will celebrate
OUR 20th anniversary and we were hoping to go there. Going to try
anyway, I think.
Marcie
|
| 52.66 | | SALEM::BERUBE_C | Good Morning WDW!, in 67 days | Tue Feb 18 1992 13:04 | 33 |
| Rep to <<< Note 88.59 by NODEX::MMCKENNA >>>
Marcie,
Thanks for the info, I knew when I recieved some Vacation plan info
back in '89 they hadn't included the golf lesson back then.
Looking at the '92 plan the Grand/Admiral does include the following
extra's beyond the World Plan
Babysiting 6hrs/day (mouseketter Club, Sandcastle Club or in-room)
Round trip Airport transportation is needed
Use of Strollers/Wheelchairs
Valet parking (two per party)
Use of VCR
Wonders of the World learning programs
misc trinkets
In case your Wondering
Grand Plan is only available for guest at the Grand Floridian Beach
Resort.
Admiral Plan is only available for guest at Beach/Yatch Club
Resort.
World Vacation Plan is available at Polynesian Resort, Contemporary
Resort, Yatch/Beach Club Resorts, Grand Floridian Beach Resort,
Disney Vacation Club, Disney Inn, Village Resort (Villas) and Fort
Wilderness Resort (Trailers)
Claude
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| 52.67 | Well...somebody *had* to say it... | COOKIE::SEAGLE | Disneyland junkie! | Tue Feb 18 1992 18:49 | 27 |
| RE: .59 and plan exclusions
Sure; I know. Disney is a business and is in business to make money.
While I concede many of the items on the list, my (cynical/sarcastic)
question is "so what *do* you get in the plan?". To wit, the Disney
folks lead you to believe that you will "own the resort" for X days if
you give them Y dollars up front. It appears to me that certain
individuals have taken them at their word, so now anything "expensive"
or "exclusive" or (I argue) "worthwhile" outside of the passports, 3
square meals a day, and hotel rooms is excluded. What a joke!
I maintain that *no one* could eat at V&A's *every day* of a week long
stay at WDW (except, maybe, Orsen Welles...and he is no longer with us)
and for $2000 per couple for the World Plan you would think WDW could
let you eat there free a couple of times or something! Scheezzeess!
Furthermore, to designate the Dolphin and Swan (Westin run, and
very up-scale) effectively "off limits" reeks of snobbery. I have not
been to WDW since 1985 and thought seriously about taking the World
Plan the next time I went because, until recently, it looked like a
great deal on the "bear necessities" ;-) plus some other goodies.
Now, in addition to having second thoughts, it looks like my friendly
neighborhood travel agent's WDW package is equitable (if not better).
Hrrruummmph!
David.
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| 52.68 | Don't like it, but may have been a reason other than $$$ | WONDER::REILLY | More 'Itchy and Scratchy!!!!' | Wed Feb 19 1992 10:06 | 19 |
|
I think excluding V&A's kind of stinks. Does this go for the
Grand/Admiral plans as well as the World plans? I would have never
done that without the Grand Plan, and I'd go as far as saying I might
not think of getting the Grand Plan without that on it (I'm a
picky guy :^)).
I wonder if the chefs and workers there didn't like having all the
"experimenters" coming in - not dressed right, wrecking the atmosphere,
being loud - just 'cause they had a free go of it. I could actually
understand that (I'm not being snobby, but the food *and* atmosphere
is important at a place like that, and people who make the decision to
shell out all those wallet $$$ are probably more apt to make the most of
the event).
Anyway, make the Grand Plan or don't in my opinion. This would be a
BabyGrand Plan to me.
- Sean
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| 52.69 | The Rules vs. Reality | LJOHUB::GOLDBERG | Len Goldberg | Thu Feb 20 1992 11:59 | 15 |
| Re: V & A on the World etc. Plans.
Every written document I have seen on these plans say that Victoria and
Albert's is excluded. However, I know several people who have eaten
there on the plan. It seems that the people who run the place don't
read the literature. Has anyone done V & A on the plan lately?
Re: Swan and Dolphin exclusion:
In spite of their names, their unfortunate location, and the actual
ownership of the land and buildings, the Walt Disney World Swan and
Walt Disney World Dolphin are *NOT* Disney hotels any more than the
hotel plaza hotels are. They are Westin and Sheraton hotels
respectively. As a result there are may aspects of WDW Resort life in
which they do not share.
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| 52.70 | Maybe Someday | VISUAL::SCOPA | I'd rather be in Orlando | Thu Feb 20 1992 15:04 | 11 |
| Len,
Is it possible that Disney could approach these chains and say, "We're
sorry to see you leave...we are taking over."
Who is to say that Nunis or someone on that level someday wakes up and
realizes these two monstrosities need to undergo a change? I really
think they serve a business purpose as far as attracting companies for
seminars, shows, business meetings, etc.
Mike
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| 52.71 | RE: .63 | COOKIE::SEAGLE | Disneyland junkie! | Thu Feb 20 1992 18:35 | 4 |
| Fair enough. I stand (sit?) corrected.
David.
|
| 52.72 | | LJOHUB::GOLDBERG | Len Goldberg | Fri Feb 21 1992 12:19 | 9 |
| > Is it possible that Disney could approach these chains and say, "We're
> sorry to see you leave...we are taking over."
Sure, someday. You can bet that the companies have long term leases with
Disney.
BTW, it is fairly common in the hotel industry for one company to own the
property and another to operate it. I am pretty sure that Disney owns the
buildings in Hotel Plaza. I know they own the land.
|
| 52.73 | | TECRUS::JIM | Jim Pappas | Sun Feb 23 1992 18:37 | 20 |
| The Grand/Admiral Plans include dinner at V&A, but the World
Plan does not.
In any case, my personal recommendation (as stated here a few
times) is to go a la carte and not worry about the prices.
You will probably have a great time and not spend as much as
you would on one of the plans.
As far as V&A's, my wife and I celebrated our 15th there last
summer and had a wonderful time. It is highly recommended. I
should post a report.
Last summer we had a great 2 weeks (actually 18 days) at WDW,
staying for 2 weeks at the Beach Club Resort (Lagoon View),
eating every dinner and most lunches in sit down restaurants
(including V&A's), and spending considerably less than we
would have on a short 5 day Grand/Admiral Plan vacation. Read
the notes on specials (note 135) and annual passports (150)
for more details.
|
| 52.74 | Victoria & Albert's | PLUGUG::NMCKENNA | | Thu Mar 05 1992 16:30 | 7 |
| Well I disregarded what the info package said and called Victoria & Albert's
to make reservations. I asked if they were included on the World Vacation Plan
and they said sure. So I made my reservations for March 31st, 9:00pm. Marcie and
I are so excited I don't know how I'm going to be able to work between now
and the end of the month.
Norb (21 days to go, and I'm going crazy)
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| 52.75 | | TECRUS::JIM | Jim Pappas | Thu Mar 05 1992 16:38 | 7 |
| I would double check. I personally know people who went on the World
Vacation plan and for them, V&A was not covered. I also know people
who went on the Grand Plan, and it definitely was covered. I would not
be surprised if you were to find out that they would not cover it,
requiring you to pay out of pocket. I hope that I am wrong, but those
are the rules as I understand them. Your vacation plan will clearly say
that V&A is not covered.
|
| 52.76 | V&A's | PLUGUG::NMCKENNA | | Thu Mar 05 1992 17:14 | 5 |
| Well I'm going to be careful and call and ask them before we go and eat. If
they say no, oh well. But, I hoping we'll get lucky and be able to eat there
on the world vacation plan.
Norb (how believes asking never hurts)
|
| 52.77 | | GORE::J_PARSONS | George Stark: Not A Very Nice Guy | Thu Mar 05 1992 18:10 | 12 |
| re: past few
We have been to WDW twice on the World Plan. On both occasions, even though it
V&A's was specifically *not* included in the plan, we were asked by the Guest
Services person at the hotel (Poly and Yacht Club) whether we wanted to make
reservations there.
We were also told that whole lobsters would not be included in the plan, but my
wife must have had at least 4 while we were there (all at Narcoosee's at the
Grand Floridian).
Still, a phone call just before you go would be well-advised.
|
| 52.78 | my experience | GWYNED::PASCO | Mark Pascarelli | Fri Mar 06 1992 07:47 | 19 |
| We went on the "World Vacation" in 1990.
Friends told us V & A was included so we went. NO PROBLEM. We met
others on the plan during the week we were there and most seemed to
have been told that it was NOT included. We were told that golf was
not included but have friends that went down on the plan in 1991
and greens fees were included. We were also told in 1990 that
The Neverland Club for kids was not included as a dinner even though
the kids get fed. When I tried to pay with cash they asked if we Were
on the plan and accepted the plan as payment.
Now 1992..... we're going down on the World vacation in july. I'm very
interested in how this turns out since V & A's is only on my list if
it's covered..
PASCO
|
| 52.79 | V & A's YES on World Plan! | NODEX::MMCKENNA | | Fri Apr 10 1992 13:51 | 25 |
| Well the verdict is in! We had dinner at V & A on Tuesday March 31
and it WAS covered under the World Vacation Plan. That wonderful little
gold key card!!!
As a side note, the "ONE MAGIC BREAKFAST" that is included in the
plan was really not ALL that magical. I suppose if you have young
children with you, it would have been good. We took the train
over to Mickey's Starland and walked to the Tomorrowland terrace
where a MACDONALD'S type breakfast (fast food) was served. Then we
had expected that perhaps space mountain would be open, but no.
The rides that were open were ALL part of Fantasy Land. (Dumbo,
It's a small world, Mr. Toad's Wild Ride, Snow White's Scarey
Adventure, the Carousel.) Pretty disappointing for 5 Adults who
got up pretty early to get there so they could be the first to
ride Space Mountain :-) So we rode the rides that we probably would
NEVER have gone on. The one good thing that came out of this is that
we were able to get into line CLOSER to space Mountain, than "noraml"
people could. This helped us to ride on Space Mountain with NO wait.
Oh, Disney Videos and Characters were available all during Breakfast.
So, After riding Space Mountain we went and got a REAL breakfast using
the Gold key Card.
Marcie
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| 52.80 | One that's not included!! | SHIP::KCUNNINGHAM | | Tue Apr 14 1992 16:58 | 3 |
| My husband and I spend our honeymoon at the Floridian with the
Honeymoon Grand Plan. I know one restaurant that was not covered was
definitely the Empress Lily!
|
| 52.81 | Was included under World vacation plan | NODEX::MMCKENNA | | Tue Apr 14 1992 17:01 | 8 |
| >>I know one restaurant that was not covered was definitely the
>> Empress Lily!
Wow! I was there from March 27 - April 2 on the World vacation
plan, and we ATE at the Empress Lily ($465 for 5). I am REALLY
surprised it wasn't covered under the GRAND plan.
Marcie
|
| 52.82 | No Empress Lily!! | SHIP::KCUNNINGHAM | | Tue Apr 21 1992 16:11 | 7 |
| I was very surprised myself. From the day we booked the trip, I had my
heart set on eating dinner there. We asked out travel agent to make
the reservations for us. She got back to us saying it was not listed
as one of the restaurants in our package. We ended up eating there
anyways. I believe the bill was $130.00 for the two of us. We had
such a great time at Disney...can't wait till next March, our next trip
down! Although, this time it won't be the Grand Floridian for a week!
|
| 52.83 | Passport to Fun plan | IMTDEV::GULLIKSEN | Longing to be at WDW | Thu Nov 12 1992 11:47 | 26 |
|
Reprinted without permission from
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|