As I roam our vast online Disney community, I find it interesting how people’s opinions can vary so widely about the Disney Vacation Club (DVC). The mantra from many DVC members is typically of the “best move I’ve ever made” variety, while others might attack it for any number of reasons. Since there’s quite a bit of misinformation presented, I thought I’d use my own particular soapbox to offer up a few of my own opinions. I will attempt to simplify some of the more complex aspects of membership and you will have to decide how successful I am. I should preface this dissertation by telling you that I am a DVC member since 2000, and yes, I consider it the “best move I’ve ever made.”
Disclaimer: While the information I offer here is factual to the best of my knowledge, in some cases, I’ve intentionally only given partial information. Trust me when I say that there is no intent to deceive anyone—I just don’t want this column to become larger than a Tolstoy work. I won’t debate the lease-versus-ownership issue because it would take too long and it causes throbbing over my left eye. To get further into the details, I would recommend Disney’s DVC site (link) or Tim Krasniewski’s excellent informational site called DVCNews (link).
[Editor’s note: Additional opinions are available from MousePlanet staff Tony Phoenix, who offered his own thoughts on how he decided to join DVC (“Buying DVC,” March 6, 2007), which also included a very helpful spreadsheet worksheet that allows individuals to calculate their finances to determine whether DVC was a good deal for them.]
link). The new Tree House Villas are being constructed as part of the Saratoga Springs Resort. Additionally, the left coast will be getting their first DVC resort when the Villas at the Grand Californian open in late 2009.
Q: What’s next?
A: There are some rumors about Myrtle Beach but we’ll have to wait and see. There are always rumors.
Q: Where else can I stay with DVC?
A: You can stay within the Disney Collection (mentioned above) and use your points for the Disney Cruise Line, other resorts at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, Disneyland Resort in California, and Disney Destinations Around the World (Paris, Tokyo and Hong Kong).
DVC members can also take advantage of the World Passport collection by trading out with similar timeshare facilities. You can arrange accommodations at Club Intrawest Resorts, Club Cordial, or with exchanges through RCI.
Members can also reserve stays in some very prestigious properties within the Concierge Collection and the Adventurer Collection for those special experiences offered with Adventures by Disney. Again, for details see Disney’s DVC site (link).
Q: What other benefits do DVC members get?
A: There’s an ever-changing list of member benefits that can be tracked via a members-only Web site. These are also presented to you in a Members’ Perks pamphlet at check-in. The benefits normally involve dining and shopping discounts at select restaurants and shops around the World. They also include discounts on boat rentals, salon visits, etc. A significant discount on an Annual Pass has also existed for some time. In addition, DVC members staying on their points are provided with free wired network access during their stay.
So what’s the bottom line? Do I recommend DVC to everyone? No, I don’t. For some folks like me, it’s a wonderful program, but I’d be the first to tell you it’s not for everyone. In my opinion (where have I heard that phrase before?), these are the questions that can determine if DVC is a fit for you:
- Will you vacation at Disney World (or one of the other DVC locations) annually or at least every other year?
- Would you prefer staying in deluxe resort accommodations rather than off-site, value or moderate resorts?
- Can you plan your vacations in advance?
- Is the concept of prepaying for your vacations attractive to you?
- Do the various sized villas available hold an attraction for you and your family?
- Do you like the concept of a timeshare but prefer the flexibility of staying when, where and as often as you want?
If you can answer “yes” to one or more of those questions, you should look deeper into DVC ownership. Sign up for and take the DVC tour. Unlike most time-share presentations, it is extremely low key with almost no pressure to buy. I think most people would feel it’s a good investment of time just for the educational aspect. And have I mentioned how nice it is to hear “Welcome home?”
That’s my opinion. What’s yours?
