Dining Plan/Worth It?

[billyd52]

I am not going to the World until October 2009 and know things could change by then but could someone help me. Is the dining plan worth the expense. I have tried to do research on it but figured who would know more than you guys. Any helpful hints would be appreciated.
I dont know if this makes a difference but there will be 12 of us 8 adults,4 children ages 8,3,2 infants

 

[CanadianMegan]

I think it is fantastic because then you don't have to worry about how much your food costs. You can just eat what you like and you already know how much you paid. Nice and simple and stressfree!

 

[betteratmk]

We have used the dining plan since it was offered except this past April when we brought DS best friend. In the past we have always enjoyed the break in the day to relax and have a nice meal:slurp:

If you like more than fast food, the plan is still worth it even with the changes. We usually pay out of pocket for a quick breakfast at the food court and have lunch in whatever park we are in. Sunshine Seasons in Epcot and Flame Tree in Animal Kingdom are favorites for lu nch. We will be there Dec.8-13 and will get theDDP again:sohappy:

 

[tomm4004]

I think it is fantastic because then you don't have to worry about how much your food costs. You can just eat what you like and you already know how much you paid. Nice and simple and stressfree!

But isn't there stress in having to phone six months ahead and try to make all those reservations? Then planning your days so you can honor those reservations? And what if you want an appetizer. Do you pass because it's not on the plan? And then you have to pay out of pocket for a tip. And wonder what's covered under snack and what isn't. And seeing if your meals are costing more than the plan actually costs. Judging from the massive number of posts on various boards asking questions about the DDP and people being confused about various aspects of the plan, it doesn't sound stress free.

Also, its economic value is highly dependent on the users. We like to eat at a couple of the hotel restaurants, but they tend to cost two credits. This would mean an allotment of $50 (considering that $25 of the $38 daily cost is for the TS). But an entree and a dessert tend to cost less than $50. (Artist Point - salmon $34, dessert $9.) So where's the value? Also, we like to have lunch at Chefs de France with an appetizer and Perrier - neither covered under the plan. And a lunch entree and dessert would not be $25. It's not worth using the plan. Again, the value of the plan is highly variable depending on your circumstances and it's difficult for anyone to recommend it for you or not.

 

[billyd52]

Wow

Looks like i have lots of research to do and i really appreciate all the feedback. We are staying at Pop Century if i did not mention it. Guess i better do my homework and see if it is worth it for our group

 

[Master Yoda]

Looks like i have lots of research to do and i really appreciate all the feedback. We are staying at Pop Century if i did not mention it. Guess i better do my homework and see if it is worth it for our group

The price difference for an upgrade from a value to a moderate is not bad. Depending on what discounts you are getting, time of year, room type, etc it could be anywhere from a $30-$75/ night increase. Upgrading from a value to a deluxe can easily double or triple your room bill.

 

[WickedQueen22]

With the popularity of the DDP you would need to make a dining reservation either way these days.