Should I wait for discounts for December-I'm confused! About This Page:

[Mickey Lover]

We are planning a trip for 12/1 thru 12/8. I have recently stayed at the Dolphin using my nurse rate, however, it is not available for these dates, and they say it doesn't look like it will be either. I looked into renting Disney Vacation Club points from someone, she only has available Old Key West, which seems too far away, considering we have been able to walk to two of the parks from the Dolphin, and we don't rent a car either. I am considering POFQ. We've been very spoiled and lucky to have stayed in a resort where we have always been able to walk to a park, and I worry that we will feel like we have spent a large part of our vacation commuting to the parks. Also, there are no discounts out at this time, and I wonder if something will be forthcoming. I know I have lots of questions and doubts, and wonder if anyone can help me become "less confused"! Hardly a dilemna. I have the plane tickets, just can't decide where to stay. Any thoughts/help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

[Jennifer2003]

Disney busses are a great way to get from Point A to Point B! Think of it as an adventure!

Kepp us posted!

[OffKilter_Lynn]

Discounts are only running in blocks of about 3 months - the current 'available to anyone' room discount is thru July 4. Whether there will be codes out after that remains to be seen.

You only have to put a one-night deposit down on any reservation. You didn't mention if you have passes already (and there are AP and AAA discounts available), but you could wait and see if any codes become available. Discount codes could then be applied to your existing reservation.

If for some reason you decide to change resorts, the deposit money would be transfered over to the new reservation. My suggestion is to figure where you'd like to stay and whether you would stay there if no discounts are available. If so, I would then use a travel agent who would make the reservation for you and watch for any possible discounts. I love using Your Magical Journeys (my current agent is Maureen) as the service is superb! There's no fee for their services and it takes the worry off of watching for codes.

POFQ is a wonderful resort - we're staying there again in October. The bus rides aren't too bad - I look it as my "rest and regroup" time. Have a wonderful time with whatever you decide.

[Pris]

I think Lynn offers excellent advice. Book what you can afford through a travel agent ( I, too, have had excellent service with Your Magical Journeys!) and wait for discounts. The park transportation is excellent. It may take a little longer to get to the parks than the walking, but you are sitting. By the way, you said you checked the Dolphin, did you check the Swan for the nurse's rate?

[StephanieS]

Mousesavers has the historic release dates for codes here http://www.mousesavers.com/faq.html#codetrends .

For December 2003, there were package discounts for the general public, Annual Passholder room-only rates and a Florida resident room-only code. These discount codes were released in late August.

Do you have an AP, or will you consider buying one? With an AP rate in the value season you may be able to get a standard room at the Boardwalk or Yacht/Beach club for a little over $200/night; that would give you those extra transportation options. Of course, AP rates are not always guaranteed, so its usually a good idea to book what you can afford. Good Luck! -Stephanie