Conference koolit::disney

    Yes it's  called  the Grand Plan (with a few more extra's) at the Grand
    Floridian and World  Vacation  Plan  for  the rest of the resort Hotels
    with exception  to  Caribbean  Beach  Resort  and the Hotels at Village
    Hotel Plaza in Lake Buena Vista.
    Vista.
    
    Claude

    
    I should point out the Grand Plan gives a little more "extras"
    than the World Adventure Plans (but staying at the Grand Floridian
    is more expensive than staying elsewhere).
    
    Disadvantage:  Cost (2 of us for 6 nights = $3000+)
    
    Advantage:  I don't think there is *ANY* better way to see WDW
                than these "pay one price" plans.  When they say it
                includes everything but alcohol, they aren't kidding.
                And *NO* restrictions.  Eat anywhere at all on WDW
                and eat *ANYTHING* you want (we racked up some pretty
                expensive meals), use all the recreation you want (tennis,
                boats, the works), and get into *everything* by flashing
                your Grand Plan Credit Card.  The intersting thing is
                that they do record everything you've spent on the Plan
                (like even though a CamCorder rental is free, they give
                you a reciept for the $150).  After the trip, you can
                see how much you spent, given the oppurtunity to have
                a "no holds barred" vacation.  It ends up being plenty
                worth it and you don't spend your vacation deciding
                whether or not you want to pay for something.
    
    Highly recommended if you got the bucks.

SEAN/BEER=LABATTS

    This is  a  modified  reposted of .2 which was deleted since it appears
    differrent plants in DEC seem to have different MKC Chapter #'s

    Claude
================================================================================
Note 52.2                     WDW on pay-one-price?                       2 of 3
ATE012::CLAUDE "Claude G. Berube"                    11 lines  17-MAR-1989 08:10
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

rep to < Note 52.0 by GRYHWK::WITHERS "It's So-Crates dude! Lets bag 'im!" >

>    Costs, etc?
    
    As far as cost please see your Employee Activities rep at your location
    and obtain the membership guide  (it's  just  to  much  info to type in
    here) or you can always call  MKC  Travel  Center  (407)  824-2600  and
    reguest the latest guides.
    
    Claude

    World Vacation .. is it worth it?
    
    A brief background.. FYI, The World Vacation Plan for $917 per person 
    (1989 MKC Rates) gives, 4 nights at the Polynesian Resort (Lagoon View),
    Five days admission to the parks and transportation, Breakfast Lunch &
    Dinner at WDW restaurants (sit down only, snacking not included), and 
    unlimited use of WDW recreation facilities.
    
    More background.. I just got engaged (:-)) and plan on going on my
    Honeymoon at WDW staying at the Polynesian.  My future-wife has never
    been to Disney before (this is my 5th WDW vacation) and I am just
    curious from others who have gone on this plan or just vacationed there
    if they think it is worthwhile?
    
    Because my fiancee has never seen any of it before, I'm sure we'll spend
    alot of time at the parks.  The recreation facilities are nice, but aside
    from an hour or two in the Water Sprites I don't see myself using too
    much else.  And finally, the B-L-D is great..but I'm, again, unsure that
    we would eat enough (and richly enough) to merit the money.
    
    What do you think?
    
    George
    

    Congratulations.  I'm glad that you are getting the important things
    taken care of first.  There is plenty of time to book a hall and
    hire a band after you get the honeymoon arranged. ;-)
       
    You have posed a tough question.  It depends on what you want to do,
    and what you can afford.  It is definitely the way to go IF you have the
    bucks. 
          
    The room alone during value season, (which based on the package price
    you quoted is when I assume you are planning to go), will cost
    $215/night + 8% tax = $232 (MKC rate).  A five day passport will
    be about $115/pp (rates including the Studio haven't been set yet,
    so this is a guess.)  The breakdown looks like this:
                              
                              
    		Non-Plan      
                              
    Room       		$232x4		 $929
    Admissions 		~115x2		  230
    Gift Certificate	  10x2		   20
    Birnbaum Guide			   10
    					-----
    					$1189 = $238/day
                                                    
    		World Vacation Plan                 
                                                    
    Includes all above	$917x2		$1834 = $367/day
    plus recreation and                             
    meals.                                          
                                                    
    Difference				 $645 = $129/day
                                                    
                                                    
                                                    
    The question you have to answer for yourselves is can the two of
    you eat and recreate (not including the theme parks) $129 worth
    for each of five days. I suppose if you eat well, and do at least one
    activity per day, it shouldn't be to hard to spend that much. 
                    
    When I did this analysis for my family I couldn't see spending the
    extra to feed my four year old twins fancy meals when they would just a
    soon have PB&J. 
    
    I opted for a Vacation Kingdom Holiday, that includes some meals
    and recreation instead of an unlimited amount.  That way we could
    still do the Hoop-dee-doo Revue, River Country, and a Character
    Breakfast or two and cheap out the rest of the week.  I might have
    made a different decision if it were just my wife and me.

    Now, have you considered the GRAND PLAN?

    George,
    
    	First of all, congratulations. This is an exciting time for you...
    best of luck.
    
    	Well, my wife and I went on our honeymoon to WDW, and we went
    on the World Vacation Plan. Looking back, I believe we could have
    taken another package. We really forced ourselves to the 3 sit down
    meals a day. We were hard pressed to spend the added money it cost
    us on a daily basis, (although we did) let alone trying to enjoy the 
    recreational facilities. However, it depends on what time of the year 
    you go to WDW. If you're going when the park will be open late (11 or 
    12 PM), you might have enough time in the day to spend a considerable 
    amount of time in the Parks, PLUS go and experience the recreational 
    facilities as well. It all depends on what you want to do.
    
    	On the positive side, we had a GREAT TIME!!!!! My wife was a
    first timer also, and she was overwhelmed. We also stayed at the
    Poly, it was fantastic. We ate at ALL the best restaurants on the
    property, including those in DISNEY VILLAGE. A hint from someone
    who went the WORLD VACATION route: Spend the mornings in the park,
    spend the afternoons by the pool, or golfing, playing tennis, walking
    thru Discovery Island, etc..., have dinner, and then head back to
    the parks in the evening. The beauty is that you have unlimited access 
    to the parks and the WDW transportation system.
    
    	When we got back from our honeymoon, and I figured out how much
    we spent as opposed to how much we would have spent without the
    package, it came out pratically even.
    
    	So there you have it...your probably no better off now then
    you were before I replied. Hopefully it helped a little bit.
    
    	Good Luck!
    
            John F...
    

    I really  can't  add any more other than to say, You will need to eat 3
    meals a day  and  do  1 activity other than going to the park each day,
    and you sould come out even or slightly ahead.  On my last 2 trips both
    on the Vacation  plan,  I was $100 short on the 1st trip and about $100
    over on the last  trip,  thereby  breaking even for both trips.  We had
    good meals (didn't mind picking  one  of  the most expensive one on the
    mnu, ;^) and either rented a  boat  or  went to river country for a few
    hours each day.  If eating all  those  meals  make you feel you'll gain
    weigth, well remember you'll be doing a lot of walking;^).
    
    Claude
    

    In addition to all of the good info before this response, my best
    advice to you is to invest in a good pocket-sized 35mm camera and
    a video-camcorder.  I went to WDW in March and I video taped every
    place we went, even the Japanese resturant we ate in.  The entire
    trip was a real joy and we were also able to take the one-day cruise
    to the Bahamas, which is also on video.  Now when I am home freezing
    in CT, I can watch the serenity of our trip to Florida.  The video
    tape is a big hit with our family and friends who are thinking about
    going down also...
    Have fun and congrats!  My husband and I went to Ochorios for our
    honey-moon and we had a pocket-sized 35mm camera which made our
    memories of the trip ever-lasting.  We used a Cannon Freedom II.

    
    One of the best things, for me, about the World Vacation (or Grand Plan,
    in our case), is a mental one.
    
    You pay one price and THAT'S IT!
    
    You don't have to think about or plan having money; you just flip
    a your credit card at whatever restaurant/activity you want to do.
    
    I know that if *I* didn't go on the Plan, every time I sat down
    to eat, I'd be thinking about the cost.  I'd make my early reservations
    for things with the cost in the back of my head.  I might waver if I 
    thought about it.  And I'd *never* do things like eat at Victoria and 
    Alberts ($200!). 
    
    I dunno, if you figure it out, you may not save, but on a vacation
    I like the liesure of not having to budget anything.

SEAN/BEER=LABATTS

    Does anyone have a copy of the MKC vacation packages that they
    could xerox for me.  I have called MKC twice and asked them to
    send me this information so I can book a vacation this summer.
    If anyone has this could they send it to me at PKO3-2/H7.
    Thanks
    Pat
    

    Re: .all
    
    Thanks everyone for the input.  I belive that I will just go down with
    an empty VISA in hand.  After looking at the time constraints and the
    packages I don't think (for this trip) that they'll be worth it for
    much more than breaking even.  So thanks again for the input, and look
    for the trip report April 21, 1990 and also June 29, 1989 (Staying at
    Fort Wilderness).
    
    George
    

    The room tax at WDW is 9% not 8% therefore the figures I posted in .1
    should be: 
              
                                  
    	      	Non-Plan      
                              
    Room       		$234x4		 $937
    Admissions 		~115x2		  230
    Gift Certificate	  10x2		   20
    Birnbaum Guide			   10
    					-----
    					$1197 = $239/day
                                                    
    		World Vacation Plan                 
                                                    
    Includes all above	$917x2		$1834 = $367/day
    plus recreation and                             
    meals.                                          
                                                    
    Difference				 $637 = $127/day
                                                    

    Len,
    
    I did get a card last December before I went to Disney, but they
    didn't give me anything with vacation plan info in it.  I called
    down to Employee Activities again and they only had the card and
    other basic information.  I called the MKC telphone number in conf.
    2.0  again on Friday and they said they would send me out immediately
    the new 1989 vacation club guide.  I am planning to go back again
    in August for a week and want to compare the vacation packages at
    the MKC with the one I got from the Disney Channel club so see how
    close in price they are.  I'm afraid after last nights preview of
    MGM people will take up all the hotel space in the park that was
    available two weeks ago.  
    
    

    George,
    
    You should check with American Express, I went on there package
    deal in March 89, we got 6 days/5 nights at the Polyonesian Resort
    overlooking the beach, and the Floridian. There meals a day, 6 days
    into the park, all for $750. The room we had, we paid $98.00 a night
    usually goes for $198.00. So, you might want to check out there
    package deals.
    
    Good luck,
    Arlene

    	Wow, that sounds like a great deal, is there an 800-number to
    call for info on the Amex packages?
    
    Tom

    
    Tom,
    
    I had received that in my monthly bill, but I know that there is
    an American Express travel agency in Framingham, they have similar
    package deals. I also forgot to mention, that River Country, horse
    back riding, and the rental of the boats were included. The hostess
    that checked us in at the hotel couldn't get over the package deal.
    
    Arlene

    Arlene,

    I justed called American Express in Framingham and they said that they
    have no such package. They could provide airfare, hotel, and admission
    to the parks but no meals. Could you please tell us how and when you
    booked you package. If you could include a phone number or address that
    would be very helpful. I am very interested in this package. In July we
    have 14 people going to WDW on the MKC's World Vacation and the price
    you gave was a lot cheaper.

    Norb
    

    
    
     I booked my trip in December 88. The only thing I could suggest
     is to call American Express. It might of also been just a one
     shot deal. I don't have the 800 number with me, but I'm 
     sure that you could get the number from the operator.
         
    
      Arlene

    .5  hits the mark for the rational behind this choice. The last
    time I went down, I, Mom, and sister stayed in a Treehouse in the
    Village. One day we went to the Deli in the village and had them
    pack a lunch for the three of us. We then shuttled over to the Poly
    where we rented one of the big float boats. We putted around the
    lake and anchored in front of the entrance to MK where we had lunch.
    We will never forget that lunch. And all just by waving the Gold
    Key Card around.   It's  THE   way to go!! - Chris

        The comparison of the World Vacation Plan (or Grand Plan) vs
        an a la carte vacation depends largely on individual taste and
        style.

        For my family (2 adults, 3 children), we decided to pay a la
        carte for a "no holds barred" vacation, and it proved to be
        much cheaper that way.  I am certain that you could come out
        ahead either way, but in my opinion, you would have to try
        hard to spend all the extra money built into one of the plans. 
        A couple with no kids (or older kids) would probably find it
        easier than a family with small kids.

        Several people have talked about how nice it is to "flash the
        gold card".   However, I do not think that the gold card gives
        you any more convenience than a regular resort ID.  On our
        last trip down, we charged everything possible to our room.

        Some people have commented that with the plan, they did not
        feel guilty eating at the best restaurants, or ordering the
        most expensive meals.  We ate wherever we wanted, and ordered
        without worrying about price.  We rented boats and didn't
        watch the clock.  Basically, we knew we wouldn't go broke and
        we had a ball.  We really did not worry about cost and that
        was nice.  See notes 28.131 and 39.92 for more details.

        Furthermore, for us, not being on a plan was actually less
        worry that if it was all prepaid. For example, under the plan
        we would have felt guilty about eating a sandwich in a park
        when we knew that we were paying for the most expensive meals. 
        There are times that you just do not want to travel to one of
        the nicer restaurants.

        After we returned and added up all the bills, we found that
        our 9 day/8 night a la carte vacation was about $1,745 cheaper
        than if we had used the World Vacation Plan.  This was due to
        several factors, but primarily:

           - annual pass vs. regular pass;
           - $99/night passholder's special (Polynesian Lagoon View);
           - $121/night for meals vs. approx $225 built into the plan.

        Now the 5 of us have annual passes for MK, EPCOT, MGM, River
        Country and Discovery Island.  We are planning a 2 week trip
        June and this will help reduce the cost of this vacation.

        /Jim Pappas
    

    Jim,
    
    I agree regarding the World Vacation Plan. By doing some creative
    planning anyone can come up with a more economical vacation without
    sacrificing anything.
    
    Mike_who_used_his_own_plan

    We've done the World Vacation Plan twice.  I never did the math to
    determine what our loss/gain was.  The advantage was knowing how
    much it was going to cost ahead of time.  All we had to bring was
    spending money for snacks and souvenirs.
    
    In our case it was important to know the cost ahead of time.  For
    our first trip we included one of my sisters and my two youger
    brothers.  For our second trip we included my other sister and her
    family.  In both cases I paid for the trip ahead of time and then
    had them reimburse me.  This allowed me to make the reservations
    and helped them determine how much money to save for the trip.
    
    I don't know how to put this delicately...  My family tends to have
    problems dealing with somewhat large sums of money.  Having the trips
    paid for in advance prevented us from running out of money on the
    first day.  And, having a limited amount of spending money helps
    reduce impulse spending.  If you have problems with an open ended
    budget you might want to take advantage of some sort of package.
    
    I will not be using the World Vacation Plan again - we have annual
    passes which make the plan a waste of money.  When I take my two
    brothers back I'll do up my own package for the three of us to fit
    their budget.  For each of them I'd probably include an annual pass,
    1/3 room price at the Caribbean Beach Resort, one day at Typhoon
    Lagoon and some money for meals.

	Hi all,

	It looks as though my wife and I are planning on 'starting the process'
	for a trip to WDW in mid-September of '91, and we're leaning towards 
	going via the World Vacation Plan.  We don't have any chidren (yet :^) 
	so we'd like to have the 'no holds barred' type vacation and do as much
	as we can, while we can.  We're planning on staying at least six nights
	because we want to enjoy WDW as a resort as well as for the rides.  We 
	plan on staying at either the Contemporary Resort or the Polynesian
	Resort.

	Here's my questions:

	1) Is it too early to start booking right now?  What is required for
		a deposit?  How will we know what price they are charging
		since only the '90 rates are presently available?

	2) Could we reserve the Hoop-dee-doo Revue, Polynesian Revue, Top of
		the World Show, and lots of other 'dinner shows' (or 'breakfast
		shows' and have them all covered under the World Vacation Plan?

	3) Could we take in Victoria and Albert's under the Plan?  More than
		once?  How far in advance do these reservations need to be made?

	4) How is September for water activities - is the lake still warm
		enough (pardon my ignorance)?  Can we rent the water-skiing
		boats under this plan?  More than once?

	5) How many of the parades and other activities do we miss out on by
		going in the off-season versus the middle of the summer?  Is it
		worth the price and not having to fight the crowds?

	6) What *other* restrictions are there to this Plan?


	Thanks,
	Dan

    Dan,
    
    I'll let the others who know/use the World Vacation Plan answer some
    questions. Here is some insight that I feel I can give you:
    
    Regarding: Booking Early
    
    It's never too early to book. The earlier you book the more time you
    have to start saving and plan on other parts of the vacation. Usually
    it's one night's deposit however the World Vacation Plan may be
    different.
    
    Regarding: Dinner Shows
    
    Once you have your reservation confirmed you'll receive your
    confirmation number which can be used to reserve dinner shows like
    "Hoop-Dee-Doo".
    
    Regarding: Victoria and Albert
    
    I don't understand this.
    
    Regarding: September water activities
    
    You have to remember we're talking Florida so I wouldn't worry about
    the temps cooling down too much in Florida in September.
    
    Regarding: Off-season parades and such.
    
    This is a matter of choice. Having been down in the "off" and "on"
    seasons I prefer the Summer months because of the long park hours and
    also because when I went in the "off" season many attractions were
    undergoing repair or PM and it seemed that everything was at its peak
    in Summer.
    
    Birnbaum mentions that room reservations are easy to come by in
    September. Smaller crowds is why the parks close at 7 and 8 in
    September and that means no Electrical Parade or Fantasy in the Sky
    Fireworks in TMK. Also, afterdark stuff like Illuminations in EPCOT
    would also be scratched at that time.
    
    You may want to adjust your vacation and go the 3rd or 4th week in
    August just to be there for the long hours and to do all the things you
    want to do. Just a thought.
    
    HOpefully others who have gone in both the Summer and non-Summer months
    can add to my comments and tell you which of the two times they
    preferred and why.
    
    Mike

Mike,

>    Once you have your reservation confirmed you'll receive your
>    confirmation number which can be used to reserve dinner shows like
>    "Hoop-Dee-Doo".
 
I was aware of this (I have Birnbaum's book), but what I was really wondering
was, with the World Vacation Plan including meals, could I book *tons* of
dinner shows and have them all covered under the Plan?
    
>    Regarding: Victoria and Albert
>    
>    I don't understand this.
	
As above, I want to know if there's a limit as to 'how much' or 'how many times'
one could take part in such an activity under the Plan.

I'll wait for someone else to answer about the WV Plan.

Thanks for all of your other suggestions.

It'll be a tossup whether to go in August or September - I'd like to see all the
parades and fireworks, but I don't want to have to deal with lots of people and
I'd like the 35% off accomodations...

Thank again!
Dan

    You may well be in a position to 'have it both ways'!  I believe that
    the last few days in August are considered 'off-season' so rates are
    somewhat lower (maybe NOT the lowest!)  Also, you should call CRO and
    get the latest scoop about parades and such.  Illuminations in EPCOT
    runs year 'round now, weather permitting, because EPCOT stays open
    until 9 PM and they do Illuminations at 9 PM even during the
    off-season.  I believe the parks may stay open later on the week-ends
    so you may get things like the electrical parades on the week-ends?
    
    My off-season trips are usually business related so happen on
    week-days, so I don't have much first hand information about off-season
    week-ends.
    
    As for the World Plan, when I used it 3 years ago, it covered all
    shows.  We did Hoop-de-doo Review, the Luau at the Polynesian, The
    Broadway Dinner Show at the top of the Contemporoary (can't remember
    it's official name!) and the formal dinner on the Empress Lily (can't
    remember it's name either!)  You'll also want to plan for meals in some
    of the countries in EPCOT.  Styles and tastes differ radically here so
    I won't recommend any in particular, but don't assume that you'll want
    to spend EVERY evening at one of the shows.  Don't think anything in 
    'the rules' would prevent you from doing it however.
    
    My only 'negative' about World Plan was that we did end up paying for a
    few snack type meals, because we got hungry at odd-hours and none of
    the 'sit-down' type places near where we were happened to be serving OR
    they were serving but were filled with folks who had reservations.
    
    Hope this helps!
    
    Maryann
    
    

Hi Maryann,
    
>    Hope this helps!

Yes it does.  Thanks!

>    My only 'negative' about World Plan was that we did end up paying for a
>    few snack type meals, because we got hungry at odd-hours and none of
>    the 'sit-down' type places near where we were happened to be serving OR
>    they were serving but were filled with folks who had reservations.

I have the feeling something like this will probably happen, regardless of all
the planning we do.  Even if we have reservations for all of our 'dinners' and
special breakfasts and/or lunches, I'm sure there will be times when we just
won't want to eat a full meal and we'll have to pay for our own snacks.  But,
again, with all of the water activities, and *expensive* dinners we hope to
be taking in, I think we can save big $$$ by going with the world plan.

Thanks again,
Dan

    
    
    I have a question for anyone who has previously taken one of the meal
    plans.  The latest MKC brochure in the WDW resteraunt section doesn't
    list much in the way of lunch availability in any of the parks. Is this
    something new or has it always been this way?
    
    Thanks
    
    Steve

    It was like that last year when we did the Vacation Kingdom Holiday. 
    We took the opportunity to leave the parks for a while and visit some
    of the resort restaurants.  We ate at Narcoosee's in the Grand
    Floridian twice, racking up a "bill" of >$100 each time for two adults
    and two children.

    I would have liked to have had lunch in Epcot or the Studio on the
    plan, but alas they are not included.  They are, however, available for
    dinner.

    I don't know if the World Vacation Plan or Grand Plan differ from the
    Vacation Kingdom Holiday on where you can have lunch.

    BTW, I think the Vacation Kingdom Holiday is a good compromise between
    paying you're own way and going full bore Gold Key plan.  You get to do
    six meals, one activity, and one night at PI.  That way you can still
    max out on dinner shows and fancy lunches without feeling like you have
    to work every day to get your money's worth.  Of course if I had
    unlimited financial resources it would be Grand Plan all the way!

    While we were there this past october we ate lunches in the parks on
    the gold key. We had lunch twice at Crystal Palace in MK, once at
    Living Seas and once at The Land in Epcot.
    
    So as of October '89 lunches were still available on the plan.
    
    John

    
    Anyway, Victoria and Albert's is covered under The Plan, for as many
    times as you want.  Reservations are hard to come by for that, though.
    Our bill was $200 for 2 people.
    
    Another thing to remember is that alchohol is not covered (even at
    meals) on The Plan.  Well, except for The Hoop-Dee-Doo, they beer
    was included in the price.  Tip of 15% is included, too.
    
    SEAN/BEER=LABATTS

I hope some of you can give me an advice with the following:

My fiance an I are going to WDW for our honeymoon in early October. We have
reservations for the CBR for 3 nights (waitlist for the remaining 5 nights)
and for the Disney Inn for 5 nights. We choose the CBR because it sounded nice
and the price reasonable.

We never thought of some package because during my last stays in the States
I fed myself almost the whole time with sandwiches only, which was quite 
cheap. Now, my fiance just recovers from a very bad illness and from now on
he will have to eat at least 3 times a day, slowly and relaxed. Meaning:
no quick hamburgers anymore.

Well, now we start to think about a plan. IMO the World Vacation Plan would
be best as it covers anything, but in all your lists I haven't found the CBR
mentioned for this plan. Is only the Floridian, Poly, Contemporary and Disney
Inn included? What would you recommend if so? And, above all, do you from your
experiences believe that we can still change our reservations??????

Thanks for advice,
Billie  

    Rep to <<< Note 88.29 by VNABRW::TRAXLER_B "Nothing compares ....." >>>

>Well, now we start to think about a plan. IMO the World Vacation Plan would
>be best as it covers anything, but in all your lists I haven't found the CBR
>mentioned for this plan. Is only the Floridian, Poly, Contemporary and Disney
>Inn included? What would you recommend if so? And, above all, do you from your
>experiences believe that we can still change our reservations??????

    Billie,
    
    You might  be able to change your reservations if you act now, but read
    on first.
    
    The World  Plan  is only available at those hotels you mention, the CBR
    is not available since it's considered a moderately priced hotel, where
    the others are expensive $$'s.
    
    The Other hotels will  most  likely  double  your hotel bill portion of
    your  stay,  without even getting  into  the  World  Plan.    The  only
    advantage to the WP (and I've stated  this elsewhere) is that you don't
    need to carry as much $$'s since you must pay for it prior to arrival.
    Also in order is to benifit  from  the  WP  (pay  less than by doing it
    seperately), you MUST 
    
        Eat  3 meals a day, one of  them  BIG  $$'s  (ie  Dinner  Show,  or
        expensive supper at the Gran Floridian etc.)

        Do 2 activities in a given day (that would require $$'s if doing it
        seperately, no World Plan, at least every other day) ie.

                One of the Parks and a choice of

                        Typhoon Laggoon
                        River Country
                        Pleasure Island
                        Fishing Excursion
                        Round of Golf
                        Rent a boat (water sprite)
                        etc.                        
    
    Otherwise if you weren't planning to stay in a more expensive Resort at
    WDW, weren't planning  on  doing 2 $$'s ACTIVITIES IN A DAY every other
    day, then by all  means  stay  at  the CBR and do 3 meals a day at your
    leisure, you can still do  the  Dinner  Shows,  it'll cost you far less
    than doing the World Plan.  You don't need  to  be on the World Plan to
    enjoy  any of it features as long as you are staying on  property  your
    OK.

    Claude

Hi,
	I've heard there's something called a gold-key that is a pay-one-price
type of deal.  Is this the same as the Grand Plan?

Thanks,

Joey Hanlon.

    The Gold Key is a feature of the Grand and World Vacation Plans,
    offered by the Magic Kingdom Club. It looks just like a credit card,
    and can be used to charge meals, recreational activities, and so forth.
    With both of these plans, you pre-pay when you check in, and have
    unlimited use of all recreational activities (including fishing, at
    $110/session, water skiing, at $75/session, etc.), and all meals are
    provided at your choice of any full-service restaurants within WDW,
    including the hotels and shopping village. 
    
    If you want more information on these packages, drop me a line (I'm in
    CXO3). We're going to WDW on our 2nd package deal next month.
    
    Jack

    Well.
    
    Someone here at DEC just came back from Disneyworld on the World Plan.
    He went down with 2 other adults and 2 children, and stayed at the
    Polynesian Report for 10 nights.  Total cost for the plan for all 5
    people:  $3,300.
    
    I am looking at a brochure from a travel agency (with no Disney #
    listed anywhere) and get this:  for only 2 adults, and only 7 nights,
    and in off-season, the total price is $3,510.
    
    That's $210 more for 3 less people and 3 less nights.
    
    Could prices possibly have risen THAT MUCH in a few months?  I called
    Disneyworld to get a brochure straight from them, but I doubt there
    will be a price difference.
    
    Sheesh!  Does that price sound right?
    
    -Peg Werber

    
    
    Peg,
    
    Does the package from the agent include airfare? These days that could
    make a huge difference in costs. The MKC packages don't include air,
    also there is the supersaver season wich is only available through the
    MKC( I Believe ). There are so many variables it can make a big diff.
    I'll bring in my brochure tomorrow. If I can remember.
    
    steve

        RE: 88.31

        Your price sounds about right and the other sound very low. 
        When I looked onto the world plan in 1989, the price would
        have been over $5K for 5 of us including 2 adults and 3 kids. 
        We ended up going a la carte and ended up saving over $1700
        from the plan on a no holds barred vacation.  See note 88.17
        for more info.  This year there are a lot of specials going on
        and are documented all over this file.  I have not heard of
        any discounts on the world plan, but there are a lot of
        specials for stockholders, annual passport holders, Gold MKC
        cardmembers, Disney channel subscribers etc.
    

    Steve,
    
    No it doesn't include air fare at all, but the other person I referred
    to didn't have it either.  I'd really appreciate you letting me know
    what your pamphlet says - I just can't see me and my boyfriend
    spending $3,500 total between food and hotel and recreation for just one
    week.  We want to go in October which is off season and still that price
    is way too high.
    
    I also have a US AIR pamphlet here that has 7 nights at the Caribbean
    Resort, round trip airfare, and a compact rental car for $529.  It
    doesn't include any tickets but I still think that is going to end up
    being a lot cheaper.  I just love the thought of being able to go in
    any Disney park, do anything, rent anything, eat anything, see anything
    -- you know.
    
    Re -1.  I know about some of the specials - but they seem to me that
    you have to be some sort of a member somewhere, and since I am contract I
    can't become a DEC member of the Disneyworld club, etc.
    
    Thanks again,
    
    Peg
                

    
>    I also have a US AIR pamphlet here that has 7 nights at the Caribbean
>    Resort, round trip airfare, and a compact rental car for $529.  It
>    doesn't include any tickets but I still think that is going to end up
>    being a lot cheaper.  I just love the thought of being able to go in
>    any Disney park, do anything, rent anything, eat anything, see anything
>    -- you know.
    
	
        Hi Peg(gy?), I am Minako Arakawa form EIC of DEC-Japan.
	I want to know about this package!!  This sounds great to me because
	I live in Tokyo  and when I go to WDW (maybe next May), I have
	to transfer at some int'l airport to get to Orland.   If they still
	offer this deal I can use USAir for the domestic flight and stay 
	CBR for only $529!!  If you know the validation of this packeage
	and that they stop offering this packeage before May '91, we may
	move up our visit to WDW.

        Questions:	validation date
        		rount trip from where to Orland
			any other limitations 
			(like: you have to be US citizen to use this packeage )
			do they have package with no car, but cheaper
	
	So, please let me know everything you know about this package.
	I can be reached at...

		Minako Arakawa @ TKO  ( may changed to JIT )
		jit081::ARAKAWA
		001-81-3-5992-7891  ( fax # at office )

	Thanks in advance,

	Minako
                

    Minako,
    
    I will fax you the most important parts of the pamphlet if that's ok. 
    (Moderators: FYI I will not use the Digital fax machine here).
    
    I believe that package is an off-peak package (for this year that means
    September-December) and the air fare is based upon Boston departure.  I
    don't know about anything international.  I do know it doesn't include
    any Florida taxes or air fuel surcharges.
    
    -Peggy

    See my note in non-MKC discounts.  There's an offer for American
    Express Card holders that is an excellent deal!
    
    
    Susan

    Disneyphiles,
    
    I'm about to schedule an early December trip to WDW.  We are planning
    to stay in a resort, probably Grand Floridian.  Shall we take the
    package with the meal plan (3 meals a day) included?  What is your
    experience and advice.
    
    Two middle-aged people -- first trip to WDW.
    
    Thanks.  Renee
    

    Hi,
    
    I found that we were never near the restaurant when we were hungary.
    Either that or we were in the middle of something and did not want to
    go back to the hotel. We lost $ on the deal, plus it was not
    convenient.

    
    We found that it was very convenient.  As far as as being near the 
    restaurant, any restaurant on the property is valid, so if you are
    at Epcot, in any restort, at MGM, Pleasure Island/Disney Village,
    or River Country, you're near one (which basically leaves out Magic
    Kingdom and Typhoon Lagoon).
    
    We found it very very nice to never have to budget what we wanted to
    spend to eat ($200 meal for two at Victoria an Alberts), worry about 
    how many times we wanted to rent boats, or decide whether we wanted 
    SuperPasses, Annual Passports, etc.
    
    BUT... it is expensive, no question about it, and it would be nearly
    impossible to justify on a dollar for dollar basis with paying for
    things separately (i.e. you don't recoup the cost of the plan with
    what you do at WDW, no matter how much you eat or do).
    
    Still, when I have the money, and when the occasion is special, the
    "I can do anything at WDW by flahing a card" factor outweighs the cost 
    for me - I feel like I'm *really* on vacation.
    
    If this is your first time at WDW, you might want to skip it.  WDW can
    be very confusing - not till the end of your trip may you have realized all
    the places *you* really wanted to try.  If you like WDW, maybe the next
    trip might be better for the Plan.
    
    - Sean
    
    P.S. The Grand Floridian is incredible!

    Sean's right.
    
    You need to plan on how you'd use The Plan. You may get more out of it
    on a return trip rather than your initial trip.
    
    Mike

I believe that the only way any of the plans work out financially better is if
you fully exploit all of the meals.  Sounds great, but there are times when
I really do prefer a quick sandwich or a light dinner to a full meal with 
appetizers and dessert.

   Gary

    We ( 4adults, 1 child) did our first trip to WDW on the WORLD VACATION.
    Stayed at the POLY.
    
    By using this notes file, the Birnbaum book, and this notes file again
    I believe we got our money's worth. We planned and booked reservations
    for EVRYTHING before we left home. Because of going in the summer when 
    temp is up and the parks are open late , we took a looong lunch break
    everyday and enjoyed meal times and recreational activities and still
    had lots of hours to spend in the parks.
    
    As a matter of fact we currently have room reservations for next JULY.
    We're going to try 4 days of the World Vacation at the Poly followed
    by 4 days of the Vacation Kingdom plan staying the the CBR.
    
    Bottom line...My opinion only.... If you plan ahead, like to keep busy,
    				     are going during the times the parks
    				    open late, want to try some really good
    				   food, and most of all CAN AFFORD IT.....
    
    			.....then the WORLD VACATION IS A GREAT DEAL.
    				        
    		       otherwise you can probably do everything you'd want 
    			and save a little money.
    
    
    pasco
    

    
    
    My family has gone to Disney on the vacation plan several times.  We've
    always broken even with a few dollars after adding up what the expenses
    would have been off the package.  We did always eat 2-3 meals a day and
    rent boats, bikes, golf carts etc...We like it because other than
    souveniers we can pay for our vacation prior to leaving.  I think its
    all personal vacation style.
    
    
    Do you like to eat?
    Can you eat 2-3 full service type meals a day?
    Do you golf (green fees at disney world could drive your costs up)
    Do you like to watch expenses while vacationing?
    
    
    Kathy
    

    re:.46
    
    I think you hit on an important aspect...that of time. Obviously if you
    want to make good use of The Plan you need to schedule and take time
    using it. This could mean allocating anywhere from two to three hours a
    day for meals...maybe more if you figure 75-90 minutes per meal and you
    have three meals a day.
    
    Time is a factor.
    
    Mike

My fiance and I are planning to go to Disneyworld for our honeymoon next
spring.  We would like our iternary to look like this:

         Sunday, May 17th:    Leave from Boston to Florida
         May 17 - 20     :    Stay at my aunt's condo at Boca Raton
                              (no charge)
         May 21 - 25     :    Spend 4 nights, 5 days at the Polynesian Resort
         May 25          :    Leave from Florida to Boston

At this point, we are trying to explore all the possible packages to get the
best deal.  Our travel agent offerred us a Delta Dream Vacation package which
includes direct roundtrip airfare, 4 nights and 5 days at the Poly, unlimited
superpass admissions to the attractions, and a midsized car for the week (17th-
25th).  For the two of us, it came to a total of $2200.  Is this a good deal?

I don't know the type of room at the Polynesian, but it really doesn't matter
to us.  Also, we really only need the car at Boca Raton, and traveling to 
Orlando.  Once we're at Disney we intend to use the monorail.  We will need
transportation to get to the airport from Disney.  Are there shuttles
available from the resorts?  Would it be cheaper to keep the car the entire
week?

Looking at the World Vacation MKC Plan from the 1991 brochure, the cheapest 
room at the Poly in our time frame is $880 per person.  The plan doesn't
include airfare or the car, but it does include 3 meals a day at any of 
Disney's restaurants, which we would really enjoy.  Has the 1992 prices come
out yet for the MKC plans?  

If the increase isn't that much, I think I would be better off reserving the
Poly under the plan, and trying to get cheap airfare and car rental later.

Any suggestions?

Thanks in advance,

Serena

I'm in the process of planning my family's WDW trip for next spring (not during
any school vacation periods, though). What I'd like to get from of all of you
experts on WDW is some thoughts on issues I'm dealing with now. 

First, we'd love to stay at the Polynesian (2 young children ages 4 and 7 make
it very attractive) but it is ~$800 more (excluding meals) than staying at the
Guest quarters Suites (our other possibility). I realize we'd use bus shuttles
(or rental car) to get to/from the parks but is it really worth this difference
to stay at the Polynesian? 

Also, I'm wrestling with how I should make my reservations. Should I make them
through MKC (which doesn't have any pricing for next year yet) or through
Delta Dream Vacations? DDV includes airfare while MKC does not. Right now
the airfare from boston is $338 so DDV is looking more attractive. Has anyone
used one of Delta's packages before? Because of the exhorbitant airfare, going
ala carte seems to be more expensive. Also, going this time of year negates
any advantage of being a disney stockholder, I assume?

Any thoughts anyone might have would be appreciated,

John

    re: 88.50
    
    I think you need to consider a few things first:
    
    What type of meals do you and your family plan on having during your
    stay.  Do you plan on using any of the recreational vehicles during
    your stay.  The World Plan is (IMHO) geared for people that will eat at
    least one expensive meal a day and do one activity (water sprites for
    example) each day.  If not, why don't you check out the Carribbean
    Beach Resort on property?  Price this per night along with the passes
    and what you would allow for food.  This should be much
    cheaper than a World Plan at the Poly.  And from this notesfile the CBR
    is a great place especially with kids!  As for airfare, it really is
    a crap-shoot.  You could call this week and be quoted over $400 and
    next week at $298.00.  You just have to be persistant in checking all
    airlines many times over.  I did put in the airline expense note that
    Crimson Travel has a charter flight for $250 adult and $199 per child.
    I do not know the dates it's available though.  If you'd like more
    detailed information - put in the note the dates you are travelling and
    what you plan on spending - there are some of us here who can come up
    with some good estimates for you!
    
    Kathy_who_has_296_days_to_go!
    

    
      Is it worth an extra $800 to stay at the Poly?  Well in real green
    dollars, I would have to say no.  It depends on your budget but if you
    don't stay at the Poly that 800 could be meals/spending money for your
    family instead of already being spent before you arrive.  I love
    staying on Disney property but in my opinion the benefits of being a 
    resort guest are outweighed by the cost (Unless you can find a
    passholder special, camp at FW, or stay at the CBR).  If you are not 
    going during a peak period then Epcot restaurant reservations will not
    really be an issue, and the other "benefits" of being a resort guest
    will not add up to equal that $800.00. But, if you enjoy the Disney
    atmosphere staying on property becomes part of the experience, I can't 
    give up any other reason to stay on property but to say that when you
    do stay on site, you never leave the magic behind you, and you can't 
    really put a dollar figure on the feeling you get when you can watch
    the fireworks from the beach every evening.  Hope I didn't confuse ya.
        I have never used a delta package but have seen them and they look
    to be good deals for the most part, you would probably do better with
    the package than you could on your own, and it is easier.
    
       Good luck,
     -Rob
    
    

    Rob makes a good point. 
    
    Having children those ages makes the Poly, the CR, FW, and maybe even
    the GF tempting because of their proximity to TMK and in 3 cases the
    monorail.
    
    I am an avid fan of the CBR and I think the Disney folks hit the
    jackpot when they put the CBR on the map. It's prime purpose is to
    offer affordable lodging for families. I'll bet that there was some
    thinking that said, "Let's hook the young families with affordable
    lodging and they'll come back, and come back...."
    
    Anyway, the CBR (or PO) give you the same magic. The CBR may not be as
    close to TMK as the aforementioned resorts but it is close to EC, MGM,
    and TL.
    
    So to answer your "Is it worth an extra $800 to stay at the Poly?" I'd
    say no if you could turn that $800 into extra nights somewhere else and
    possibly use some of it for a dinner show.
     
    Also, why not split up the vacation with some nights in the Poly and
    the others in another resort?
    
    Best advice is to read this conference and then decide.
    
    Speaking from my own experience my choice has always been to get as
    many nights on the property as I can....the CBR/PO/DL trinity is the
    best....with the exception of the specials of course.
    
    Mike

    A few years ago, friends of ours took their family (two kids)
    to WDW on something called the Grand Tour (?) The point was they
    stayed at the best hotel in WDW and everything (I mean everything)
    was paid for upfront. They wore special bracelets that got them
    food, drinks, entertainment (horseback riding, sprites, etc) --
    as much as they wanted, when they wanted it.
    
    It sounded like a dream (admittedly expensive).
    
    Does such a program still exist? Does anyone have any specifics?
    
    Thanks
    Ann

    Rep to <<< Note 88.54 by ICS::HOWE >>>
    
    Ann,
    
>    They wore special bracelets that got them
>    food, drinks, entertainment (horseback riding, sprites, etc) --
>    as much as they wanted, when they wanted it.

    Well I've done the  World  Plan  which is basicly the same as the Grand
    and Admiral minus the VCR  and  a  couple of trinkets.  We were given a
    Plastic Gold Key Card similar to  a  credit  card  to charge all things
    too.  Basicly you pay up fron  and  depending  on  what  you  do you'll
    either make out or loose some money.   I  don't  remember any bracelets
    (is this new), and the Alcoholic Drinks were not  included  as  well as
    some special things like golf/tennis lessons etc.
        
>    It sounded like a dream (admittedly expensive).

    It can be depending on how you use it.
        
>    Does such a program still exist? Does anyone have any specifics?

    Yes they  still  exist, see earlier replies as well as some of the ones
    in topic 28.    Also  see  2.31  on  how  to  obtain  the  MKC card and
    membership guide from Personnel.
    
    Claude

    re: are they worth it? 

    We took golf lessons, rented a pontoon boat, ate at V&As (twice) and
    the empress room as well as room service at midnight in the pool. All
    things that I would never have done if I had to look at the price.
    The service is always good since they know they get 15% without question.
    However, adding up the slips we didn't save much. If you can have fun
    without looking at the price, do it. But you sing like a canary (cheap
    cheap) buy the plan up front and enjoy yourself. 

    Rep to <<< Note 88.56 by TOHOKU::TAYLOR >>>

>    We took golf lessons
    
    When did  they start including Golf lessons in the Inclusive plans?  In
    '84/'87 things on a  personal level like Alchoholic Drinks, Lessons for
    Golf/Tennis, Haircuts, Suit Cleaning etc.    were  not covered.  I know
    that  the  Grand/Admiral  add  things  like   Valet  Parking  Vouchers,
    Babysitting, VCR, but don't see any metion on Golf Lessons.  Golf Fee's
    are included but I know in '87 Lessons  weren't.  
    
    Since  I'm  not doing a World Plan this time (just doing  Port  Orleans
    without a plan) I don't have the latest Vacation Plan handbook with me,
    Any of  you  recent  World/Grand/Admiral  plan  goes  care  to list the
    specifics?

    Claude    

    We went to WDW on the World Vacation Plan in 1990 and 1991. In both
    cases we could have had golf/tennis lessons had we wanted them, as part
    of the plan. In fact, both times I took a fishing trip which actually
    cost more than the golf/tennis lessons would have ($120 for 2 hours). 

    We just recieved our confirmation for the World vacation Plan staying
    at the Treehouses, from March 26 - April 2. This is what the literature
    they sent us says;
    
    NOTE: The unlimiteed feature excludes airport transfers/external
    transportation, alcoholic beverages, arcades, barber/beauty shop,
    babysitting, Mouseketeer club, Sandcastle Club, Victoria and Albert's,
    kennels, private golf or tennis lessons, room service,
    snack/refreshments, special parties, flowers, guided tours, food from
    counter service facilities in the theme park, Resort New Year's Eve
    parties, WALT DISNEY WORLD Dolphin and WALT DISNEY WORLD Swan
    restaurants and facilities, laundry/valet services, merchandise, rental
    car, telephone/telegram, theme park special events, or any items of a
    personal nature.
    
    My note: I'm really disappointed about V&A's. This trip will celebrate
    OUR 20th anniversary and we were hoping to go there. Going to try
    anyway, I think.
    
    Marcie
          

    Rep to <<< Note 88.59 by NODEX::MMCKENNA >>>

    Marcie,
    
    Thanks for  the  info,  I  knew when I recieved some Vacation plan info
    back in '89 they hadn't included the golf lesson back then.
    
    Looking at the  '92  plan  the Grand/Admiral does include the following
    extra's beyond the World Plan
    
        Babysiting 6hrs/day (mouseketter Club, Sandcastle Club or in-room)
        Round trip Airport transportation is needed
        Use of Strollers/Wheelchairs
        Valet parking (two per party)
        Use of VCR
        Wonders of the World learning programs
        misc trinkets

    In case your Wondering  
    
        Grand Plan is only available for guest at the Grand Floridian Beach
        Resort.    
        
        Admiral  Plan  is only available  for  guest  at  Beach/Yatch  Club
        Resort.

        World Vacation Plan is available at Polynesian Resort, Contemporary
        Resort, Yatch/Beach Club  Resorts,  Grand  Floridian  Beach Resort,
        Disney Vacation Club, Disney Inn,  Village Resort (Villas) and Fort
        Wilderness Resort (Trailers)
    
    Claude
            

    RE: .59 and plan exclusions

    Sure; I know.  Disney is a business and is in business to make money. 
    While I concede many of the items on the list, my (cynical/sarcastic)
    question is "so what *do* you get in the plan?".  To wit, the Disney
    folks lead you to believe that you will "own the resort" for X days if
    you give them Y dollars up front.  It appears to me that certain
    individuals have taken them at their word, so now anything "expensive"
    or "exclusive" or (I argue) "worthwhile" outside of the passports, 3
    square meals a day, and hotel rooms is excluded.  What a joke!

    I maintain that *no one* could eat at V&A's *every day* of a week long
    stay at WDW (except, maybe, Orsen Welles...and he is no longer with us)
    and for $2000 per couple for the World Plan you would think WDW could
    let you eat there free a couple of times or something!  Scheezzeess!
    Furthermore, to designate the Dolphin and Swan (Westin run, and
    very up-scale) effectively "off limits" reeks of snobbery.  I have not
    been to WDW since 1985 and thought seriously about taking the World
    Plan the next time I went because, until recently, it looked like a
    great deal on the "bear necessities"   ;-)   plus some other goodies.
    Now, in addition to having second thoughts, it looks like my friendly
    neighborhood travel agent's WDW package is equitable (if not better).

    Hrrruummmph!


    David.

    
    I think excluding V&A's kind of stinks.  Does this go for the
    Grand/Admiral plans as well as the World plans?  I would have never 
    done that without the Grand Plan, and I'd go as far as saying I might 
    not think of getting the Grand Plan without that on it (I'm a 
    picky guy :^)).
    
    I wonder if the chefs and workers there didn't like having all the
    "experimenters" coming in - not dressed right, wrecking the atmosphere,
    being loud - just 'cause they had a free go of it.  I could actually
    understand that (I'm not being snobby, but the food *and* atmosphere
    is important at a place like that, and people who make the decision to
    shell out all those wallet $$$ are probably more apt to make the most of
    the event).
    
    Anyway, make the Grand Plan or don't in my opinion.  This would be a
    BabyGrand Plan to me.
    
    - Sean

    Re: V & A on the World etc. Plans.

    Every written document I have seen on these plans say that Victoria and
    Albert's is excluded.  However, I know several people who have eaten
    there on the plan.  It seems that the people who run the place don't
    read the literature.  Has anyone done V & A on the plan lately?

    Re: Swan and Dolphin exclusion:

    In spite of their names, their unfortunate location, and the actual
    ownership of the land and buildings, the Walt Disney World Swan and
    Walt Disney World Dolphin are *NOT* Disney hotels any more than the
    hotel plaza hotels are.  They are Westin and Sheraton hotels
    respectively.  As a result there are may aspects of WDW Resort life in
    which they do not share.

    Len,
    
    Is it possible that Disney could approach these chains and say, "We're
    sorry to see you leave...we are taking over."
    
    Who is to say that Nunis or someone on that level someday wakes up and
    realizes these two monstrosities need to undergo a change? I really
    think they serve a business purpose as far as attracting companies for
    seminars, shows, business meetings, etc.
    
    Mike

    Fair enough.  I stand (sit?) corrected.


    David.

>    Is it possible that Disney could approach these chains and say, "We're
>   sorry to see you leave...we are taking over."

Sure, someday.  You can bet that the companies have long term leases with
Disney.

BTW, it is fairly common in the hotel industry for one company to own the
property and another to operate it.  I am pretty sure that Disney owns the
buildings in Hotel Plaza.  I know they own the land.

        The Grand/Admiral Plans include dinner at V&A, but the World
        Plan does not.
    
        In any case, my personal recommendation (as stated here a few
        times) is to go a la carte and not worry about the prices. 
        You will probably have a great time and not spend as much as
        you would on one of the plans.
    
        As far as V&A's, my wife and I celebrated our 15th there last
        summer and had a wonderful time.  It is highly recommended.  I
        should post a report.
    
        Last summer we had a great 2 weeks (actually 18 days) at WDW,
        staying for 2 weeks at the Beach Club Resort (Lagoon View),
        eating every dinner and most lunches in sit down restaurants
        (including V&A's), and spending considerably less than we
        would have on a short 5 day Grand/Admiral Plan vacation. Read
        the notes on specials (note 135) and annual passports (150)
        for more details.
    

Well I disregarded what the info package said and called Victoria & Albert's
to make reservations. I asked if they were included on the World Vacation Plan
and they said sure. So I made my reservations for March 31st, 9:00pm. Marcie and
I are so excited I don't know how I'm going to be able to work between now
and the end of the month.

Norb (21 days to go, and I'm going crazy)

    I would double check.  I personally know people who went on the World
    Vacation plan and for them, V&A was not covered.  I also know people
    who went on the Grand Plan, and it definitely was covered.  I would not
    be surprised if you were to find out that they would not cover it,
    requiring you to pay out of pocket.  I hope that I am wrong, but those
    are the rules as I understand them.  Your vacation plan will clearly say
    that V&A is not covered.

Well I'm going to be careful and call and ask them before we go and eat. If
they say no, oh well. But, I hoping we'll get lucky and be able to eat there
on the world vacation plan. 

Norb (how believes asking never hurts)

re: past few

We have been to WDW twice on the World Plan. On both occasions, even though it 
V&A's was specifically *not* included in the plan, we were asked by the Guest
Services person at the hotel (Poly and Yacht Club) whether we wanted to make 
reservations there.

We were also told that whole lobsters would not be included in the plan, but my 
wife must have had at least 4 while we were there (all at Narcoosee's at the 
Grand Floridian).

Still, a phone call just before you go would be well-advised.

    We went on the "World Vacation" in 1990. 
    
    Friends told us V & A was included so we went. NO PROBLEM. We met 
    others on the plan during the week we were there and most seemed to 
    have been told that it was NOT included. We were told that golf was 
    not included but have friends that went down on the plan in 1991 
    and greens fees were included. We were also told in 1990 that 
    The Neverland Club for kids was not included as a dinner even though 
    the kids get fed. When I tried to pay with cash they asked if we Were 
    on the plan and accepted the plan as payment.
    
    Now 1992..... we're going down on the World vacation in july. I'm very
    interested in how this turns out since V & A's is only on my list if
    it's covered..
    
    PASCO
    
    
    

    Well the verdict is in! We had dinner at V & A on Tuesday March 31
    and it WAS covered under the World Vacation Plan. That wonderful little
    gold key card!!!
    
    As a side note, the "ONE MAGIC BREAKFAST" that is included in the 
    plan was really not ALL that magical. I suppose if you have young
    children with you, it would have been good. We took the train
    over to Mickey's Starland and walked to the Tomorrowland terrace
    where a MACDONALD'S type breakfast (fast food) was served. Then we
    had expected that perhaps space mountain would be open, but no.
    The rides that were open were ALL part of Fantasy Land. (Dumbo,
    It's a small world, Mr. Toad's Wild Ride, Snow White's Scarey
    Adventure, the Carousel.) Pretty disappointing for 5 Adults who
    got up pretty early to get there so they could be the first to
    ride Space Mountain :-) So we rode the rides that we probably would
    NEVER have gone on. The one good thing that came out of this is that
    we were able to get into line CLOSER to space Mountain, than "noraml"
    people could. This helped us to ride on Space Mountain with NO wait.
    
    Oh, Disney Videos and Characters were available all during Breakfast.
    
    So, After riding Space Mountain we went and got a REAL breakfast using
    the Gold key Card. 
    
    Marcie

    My husband and I spend our honeymoon at the Floridian with the
    Honeymoon Grand Plan.  I know one restaurant that was not covered was
    definitely the Empress Lily!  

    >>I know one restaurant that was not covered was definitely the 
    >>  Empress Lily!
    
    Wow! I was there from March 27 - April 2 on the World vacation
    plan, and we ATE at the Empress Lily ($465 for 5). I am REALLY
    surprised it wasn't covered under the GRAND plan.
    
    Marcie

    I was very surprised myself.  From the day we booked the trip, I had my
    heart set on eating dinner there.  We asked out travel agent to make
    the reservations for us.  She got back to us saying it was not listed
    as one of the restaurants in our package.  We ended up eating there 
    anyways.  I believe the bill was $130.00 for the two of us.  We had
    such a great time at Disney...can't wait till next March, our next trip
    down!  Although, this time it won't be the Grand Floridian for a week!  

Reprinted without permission from 

               The Disney Store Onstage  Holiday 1992  Volume 3

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