Need some advice.

[Della Schuiling]

Just wondering if anyone has used the book that is advertised on this site. It's written by an ex-employee of Disney. Will it actually save the average middle-class person any money? We are staying in a value resort and I'm pretty good at trimming costs.

[JuniorMickey]

What book are you referring to? There are ads at the top of the page which are google ads, we have no control over them

[Della Schuiling]

Yes, it's from google. It's The Disney Worlds Savings Guide by Beth Haworth.

[JuniorMickey]

Never heard of it, but honestly, I'm guessing that whatever info is in there, someone here already knows :thumbs:

[Della Schuiling]

Thanks! Does Disney usually run some sort of package specials. We were planning on visiting in February and had plenty of time to save money. But plans have changed since I have decided not to tote around a 8 month belly, a one year old, 6 yr. old and 9 yr old. (all girls at that!!). Thought that it might be better to go yet this year. I have been checking the Disney website for specials but everything expires in September.

[JuniorMickey]

When are you planning on going? Package deals are usually announced at least 3 months in advance (IE Free Dining was announced April 1 for visits mid-august through end of September)

[Della Schuiling]

We are thinking about the last week in November. Is it better to book a package right from Disney (that's what we did last time) or tickets and room separately or maybe a travel agent?

[JuniorMickey]

I used a Disney TA who is wonderful. Unless you're going to do the DDP, then you will probably save money by booking a room only and tickets seperatly

[Della Schuiling]

Sorry, what is DDP? I have already called Disney to check about booking a package. It just suprised me that they don't have any specials. When we went in 2003 our whole 7 day package only cost just over $900 now it's closer to $1600. I know, I know, inflation, right?

[JuniorMickey]

Did you do the fairytale package back then?

The DDP is the Disney Dining Plan

[tajainaz]

Tourism was still down in 2003, and packages and discounts were more readily available. These days, resorts are selling out at rack or AAA discounts at popular times.

I'm thinking you're going around Thanksgiving, which is a pretty busy time at WDW, so discounts may not be available. Nothing has been announced yet, to my knowledge.

[Della Schuiling]

I don't remember what package we had last time. But it was obviously a deal.

We are planning on going the week after Thanksgiving. I was told that it slows down that week. Is this true?

[JuniorMickey]

It does slow down but it's become a popular time to visit as it's value season and the Christmas decorations are all up

[Mouselander]

We always go to WDW at Thanksgiving. It is a lovely time to go...the weather is not too hot. :wink: We were able to take part in the last days of Food @ Wine Fest. too.(that schedule now ends before Thanksgiving week)

Thanksgiving week is no longer Value Season!!! :( It is now Regular season!!! :eek: We may not be able to stay on property this year!!! :(

[JuniorMickey]

Value season never began until after thanksgiving :shrug: At least it didn't in '04 when I went

[Mouselander]

We went Thanksgiving week six consecutive years from 1999. :wiggle: It was always value season.:rotfl: It may have changed last year after we made our reservations the first of the year.:shrug: Regretfully, we had to cancel but I still have my confirmation showing the total cost - at value season prices.

[JuniorMickey]

It could depend on your check in. That tends to make it vary. Generally it drops to value season on the Monday after everyone goes back to work :D