Hi, there!
Welcome to planDisney, Rachel. I'm so glad you stopped by! With just days until your Walt Disney World Resort vacation begins, you must be bursting with excitement. I know I would be!
I always say that having a
Disney Gift Card is like having a little pixie-dust in your wallet, but it sounds like you have a LOT of pixie-dust in your wallet. Wahoo! Using your Disney Gift Cards to pay for your
Disney VIP Tour is a super great idea. Typically, VIP Tours are not charged until 24-hours before your scheduled tour begins. To avoid your credit card being charged the price of the tour, I recommend calling Disney Signature Services as soon as possible. They can be reached at (407) 939-7777 between 9:00 am - 5:00 pm EST. A friendly Cast Member there will be able to let you know if the payment schedule has changed, and they'll also be able to help you use your Disney Gift Cards for the price of the tour.
It's important to note that while gratuities are never expected, tipping your VIP Tour Guide is certainly appreciated! VIP Tour Guides can accept cash and gift cards. I was just chatting with a former VIP Tour Guide, Cast Member Andrew, and he said that he had returning Guests once gift him with authentic New York bagels, knowing he was from The Empire State!
A Disney vacation is always magical, but exceptionally so during the
holiday season. If you plan on visiting EPCOT, be sure to catch a performance of
Candlelight Processional. It's my favorite holiday offering in all of Walt Disney World Resort!
I hope this was helpful, Rachel. I'm wishing you a magical and merry visit to the Walt Disney World Resort!
Ashley