Unfortunately "Dad" has come to the same conclusion I did a few years ago. During the 2000's I went to WDW trying to recreate the fun I had during the late 80's to early 90's. I finally had to come to the cold hard reality that the WDW I love is 700 miles away AND 25 years ago. There will always be the Disney fans that their religion is Disney, & will never admit the problems. The "good if you don't go it leaves more room for me" crowd. If things continue as they seem to be, it will be increasingly difficult for even the most ardent Disney believer to deny the costs.
How much is the Disney magic worth to you? $200.00/day? $500.00/day? $1000.00? The prices will continue to escalate as long as people are willing to pay. For me what I'm able to pay is different from what I'm willing to pay. Everyone has to make that determination based on their own finances & common sense. To be honest I wouldn't mind paying more if I felt like it was worth it, but high prices, average food AND large crowds? Will I go back to Disney? Probably, in 3 or 4 yrs when Star wars & Avatar are finished. But gone are the days of going to WDW exclusively for 5-7 days and staying on property. If I do go, it will be 1-2 days in conjunction with other attractions in Orlando.
It is, what it is. I'm just glad I went to WDW when I did & I have those memories. Times change and you have to adapt & adjust. I do feel sorry for all the families & kids that will only be able to go once or twice in their life, or perhaps not at all. Disney has always relied on brand loyalty, it's hard to be loyal to something you see only once or twice, or not at all. Sad.
