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Mom And Daughter; Animal Kingdom
  • On Apr 2, 2008
    Kimberly from MD Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Hi! My family and 5 yr old daugther will be visiting in 12/08 - I was wondering what is the difference btwn the basic and deluxe dining plans? Do you think it is worth the extra money? We would like to go to many char. dinners. Thank you a bunch -

    Kimberly,

    The basic Disney Dining Plan (DDP) gives you one counter/quick service meal, one table service meal, and one snack per person, per day.  Both meals include non-alcoholic beverage, entree with side, and dessert. 

    The Deluxe DDP gives you three meal credits and two snack credits per person per day, and a refillable mug for use at your resort for the duration of that vacation.  The meal credits can be used however you choose: counter service, table service, or signature dining (signature experiences require 2 meal credits each).  Table service meals on the deluxe plan include an appetizer as well.

    So is the deluxe plan a good value?  Absolutely.  If you use it properly (more on this later), you'll see a tremendous savings over what the meals cost out of pocket.

    Is the deluxe plan worth it?  That depends.  How much do you like to eat?  If you eat to live, then this plan is not worth it for you; there are many other options for dining that would save you money.  But if you're like me and you live to eat, you'll find yourself in heaven with the deluxe plan.  Disney has soooo many yummy restaurants and the deluxe plan will allow you to sample more than the average person normally would.

    So what did I mean when I said used 'properly'?  It's simple really.  To get bang for your buck on the deluxe plan, you must be a planner.  You need to make reservations well in advance for your family's meals.  You also need to eat all or almost all table service meals.  Eating quick/counter service meals will quickly kill the value of the plan.

    Ultimately, if you plan on eating at a lot of character meals, dinner shows, or table service meals, then the deluxe plan is definitely for you.  I say go for it and enjoy - as a foodie I really can't imagine regretting that decision!
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Meet the Panelist: Heather, Kentucky

I'm a member of the original 2008 Moms Panel and am happy to be back again to help you plan! We are DVC members who visit 2-3 times per year with our 3 young daughters, and I am only one visit away from being able to say I've stayed in every Disney resort! Learn More About Heather

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