A Family Guide to About the Author: Paul Rotter

Paul Rotter is a blog writer and self-certified Disney Aficionado for Fidelity Resales. He has a passion for vacation/travel writing, and enjoys sharing his personal experiences as informational resources for others. His favorite travel destinations include Key West, Washington D.C., and St. Thomas. TABLE OF CONTENTS:

Making Vacation Magical……………………..4

Disney Vacation Club 101….…………………8

DVC Resorts………………………………………12

Maximizing the Value of DVC Membership……………..………………….…...22

Tips & More Resources………..……….…….31 Part 1: Making Vacation Magical

“We believed in our idea - a family park where parents and children could have fun - together.” -

// Page 4 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

Vacation is more than a momentary escape, it is a shared experience that your family will remember and treasure for a lifetime.

Walt Disney’s vision was not to make a place for people to ‘get away’, but rather to create an opportunity for families to get involved; spend time together, see new things together, and have fun together, as a family.

To that end, Disney Vacation Club (DVC) was founded as a means of bringing families together for those shared experiences that will be frequently recalled but never matched.

// Page 5 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

There are many reasons why Disney World is consistently rated among the best family vacations, but not everyone realizes that Disney World is more than just rides and characters. Disney Vacation Club 92.1 membership offers The winning rating awarded to Disney Vacation Club by Market Metrix Hospitality Index src: access to unrivaled http://mwne.ws/1rS1yaT luxury accommodations, world-class dining, championship golf courses, boating excursions, and hundreds of other recreational opportunities, and they all come with the convenience and service that you’ve come to expect from Disney.

// Page 6 Part 2: Disney Vacation Club 101

Disney Vacation Club (DVC) is a vacation ownership club in which members purchase a real estate interest in a Disney resort. Simply put, Disney Vacation Club members receive an annual allotment of Vacation Points that can be exchanged for stays at Disney resorts.

// Page 7 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

The very first step for any prospective DVC member is to select a home resort. Vacation club members are welcome to stay at any DVC property, but your home resort will determine annual dues and the cost per Vacation point. If there is a particular resort that you love and will probably spend most of your time at, select it as your home resort, but you can still visit any DVC resort whenever you like.

Booking You can book a stay at your home resort up to 11 months in advance of the proposed check-in date. Any other resort can only be booked up to 7 months before check-in.

Annual Dues

Annual dues are an important factor that absolutely should not be overlooked! They vary Disney’s Tower among resorts from about $4- $8, and are paid on a cost-per- point basis.

// Page 8 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

Unit Availability DVC resorts and villas are not all equal in size and popularity. Wilderness Lodge and Beach club have fewer villas than the other resorts, making availability more scarce. Animal Kingdom Lodge is hugely popular. The 11-month booking opportunity for home resorts can really make a difference when trying to plan a stay at these resorts. Certain units are also more popular than others. Studio villas are almost always in high demand, as are grand villas. One bedroom villas are typically the most widely available, but 1 bedroom villas at Old Key West are about 200 sq. ft. larger than the 1 bedroom villas at Boardwalk.

Expiration Dates All Disney Vacation Club contracts include an expiration date. If you’re planning on holding on to your DVC membership for a few decades and/or passing ownership on to loved ones, this could be a factor in your choice of home resort.

Vero Beach, Hilton Head Island, Boardwalk, Wilderness Lodge, Beach Club, and some Old Key West contracts expire on January 31, 2042.

Saratoga Springs contracts expire on January 31, 2054.

Animal Kingdom Lodge and some Old Key West contracts expire on January 31, 2057.

Bay Lake Tower and Grand Californian contracts expire on January 31, 2060.

Aulani contracts expire on January 31, 2062.

Grand Floridian contracts expire on January 31, 2064.

// Page 9 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club Perks of DVC Ownership Of course, Disney Vacation Club membership comes with quite a few benefits, and while these might not be deciding factors in your choice to become a DVC member, they certainly sweeten the deal!

Savings – Get a discount on select dining, spa treatments, recreational rentals, golf courses, merchandise, and theme park passes

Transportation – Complimentary transportation from the Orlando airport to the resort where you’ll find all your luggage waiting for you, plus free transportation from the resort to any of the Disney properties.

Extra Hours in the Park – View from the Grand Floridian Grand Villa Each day one of the Disney theme parks opens an hour early or stays open up to 3 hours after regular park closing for the exclusive pleasure of Disney resort guests.

// Page 10 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

Not sure if DVC is a good fit for your family? Here are some important points to keep in mind:

 DVC ownership is ideal for families that plan on visiting a Disney resort at least every two or three years. The ability to bank, borrow, or rent vacation points will compensate for any in-between years.

 DVC properties are great for families that value personal space or groups of extended family travelling together. Many units include multiple bedrooms and a living room.

 Most DVC units include a full kitchen, which is perfect for families with dietary restrictions or that prefer to prepare their own meals. This can also be useful when trying to maintain a budget.

 DVC members don’t just pay for the Disney brand name, they receive the full Disney experience. That extra touch of makes a world of difference to a lot of vacationers.

// Page 11 Part 3: Disney Vacation Club Resorts

DVC membership gives your family the opportunity to explore Disney’s finest resort properties or spend quality at your favorite resort every year. Each location has unique features that your family will love, and they are all full of Disney magic.

// Page 12 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

Animal Kingdom Villas

One of the most popular resorts at Disney World, Animal Kingdom Lodge immerses guests in the safari experience with accommodations that overlook a wildlife preserve reminiscent of the African savannah. Your family will enjoy identifying more than 30 exotic animal species including zebras, giraffes, gazelles, and kudu, all from the comfort of a world-class luxury resort.

// Page 13 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club Membership

Bay Lake Tower at the Contemporary

Enjoy elegance and luxury within walking distance of at Bay Lake Tower. Spectacular views meet modern design making this an ideal location for viewing fireworks while enjoying award-winning dining.

// Page 14 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

Beach Club Villas

Beach Club is a New England-style resort surrounding the aquatic wonder world, Stormalong Bay. Young kids will have a blast exploring the enormous shipwreck replica, the 230-foot waterslide, and the lazy river.

BoardWalk Villas

Inspired by Coney Island attractions, Boardwalk villas take the form of quaint cottages with private courtyards and gardens. Stroll the boardwalk to tune of ragtime music and indulge in some of Disney’s most exquisite dining options.

// Page 15 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

Grand Floridian Villas

Disney’s flagship resort, Grand Floridian Resort is the height of elegance. Reminiscent of deluxe turn-of-the- century beach resorts, the full-service health club and spa ensure your trip is saturated with luxury.

// Page 16 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

Wilderness Lodge Villas

Featuring towering pine trees and majestic rock faces alongside a babbling creek, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is an escape to the rustic wonders of the Western frontier.

// Page 17 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

Old Key West Villas

Located conveniently alongside Disney’s Lake Golf Course Old Key West Resort allows a cozy balance of comfort and luxury. Though one of the oldest DVC resorts, the units are generally more spacious.

Saratoga Springs Villas

This charming Victorian-style resort, is the accommodation of choice for many Disney vacationers. From waterslides to golf course greens, this resort has recreation opportunities for the entire family. The Senses Spa offers guests an idyllic variety of services and the Treehouse Villas, which are secluded in the woods, provide a true escape.

// Page 18 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

Aulani at Ko Olina, Hawaii

Recently voted the Top Family Hotel in the U.S. by Travel & Leisure World, this award-winning resort was uniquely designed for families. With waterslides, pools, and cabanas galore, guests of all ages are sure to be delighted by the endless recreation possibilities at Aulani.

Hilton Head Island Villas, SC

Experience Hilton Head Island with the magic that only Disney can provide. Kayak tours, fishing trips, and waterslides make this the perfect family retreat.

// Page 19 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

Villas at Disney’s Grand Californian

This is the place to be if you’re visiting in California. The enchanting Redwood Pool and accompanying waterslide is the perfect spot for families to relax after a long day at the park.

Vero Beach Villas Encounter some of Florida’s most unique wildlife along the coastal shores, including loggerhead sea turtles and manatees. Guests can get pampered at the Vero Beach Resort Spa, zip down the Pirate’s Plunge pool slide, or tee off at one of several nearby golf courses.

// Page 20 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

NOTE: Even though new DVC members must select a home resort, there is no requirement for how often you stay at that resort. Vacation club points can be used to book a stay at any of the DVC properties!

Like what you’ve seen so far? Pick VISUAL a home resort and check out the available point packages.

// Page 21 Part 4: Maximizing the Value of DVC Membership

Memorable family vacations are priceless, but getting the best value for the cost of Disney Vacation Club ownership…that’s magical.

// Page 22 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

The cost of DVC membership is determined by 3 factors:

1. Choosing a home resort is one of the biggest and most important decisions required of prospective Disney Vacation Club members. Though you can visit any of the DVC properties using your points, different resorts have different costs per point and annual dues.

2. Families typically purchase somewhere between 150-200 vacation points. A package of that size is usually enough for a 5-6 night stay in a Two Bedroom Villa at most resorts. Remember that the point cost will depend upon the time of year, length of stay, resort, and view. Try experimenting with the DVC point calculator in order to get a feel for how many points you’ll need. Keep in mind that it’s better to have a few extra points on hand than to come up short. You can bank the points for a later date, or rent them out.

// Page 23 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

3. You can purchase Disney Vacation Club Membership at a premium from Disney, but what most people don’t realize is that you can also buy DVC on the resale market at substantially lower cost, much like buying a certified pre-owned car.

Price per Point 200

150

100

50

0 Animal Bay Lake Tower Saratoga Old Key West Kingdom Lodge Springs Directly from Disney Fidelity Resales

Purchasing DVC membership on the resale market means that you won’t be able to use your vacation points on Concierge Collection, the Disney Collection or the Adventurer Collection. These are hotels rather than DVC resorts.

Buying DVC through resale also takes longer. From inquiry to closing, the initial purchase typically takes about 60 days, and then approximately another 3 weeks of Disney processing before you can use your vacation points.

// Page 24 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

Get the Best Deal with DVC Resale Buying Tactics

A lot goes into negotiating a great DVC resale transaction, but you can maximize the value of your desired point package by using these a few proven tactics:

1. Target DVC Listings with Banked Points

2. Navigate First Right of Refusal with Caution

3. Balance Price per Point with Other Costs

4. Shop 8-12 Months in Advance

To learn about how to properly implement these tactics and approach DVC resale with an effective strategy, read this article.

// Page 25 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

Make the most of DVC membership by taking advantage of this looong list of member discounts and perks!

General DVC Member Discounts Park Tickets & Annual Passes - These discounts can vary depending on limited time promotions, but DVC members generally receive special rates on Annual Passes, Premium Annual Passes, and renewals. The same goes for special events at the parks, such as Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party, and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party. Also, make sure you keep an eye out for the occasional special offers on park admission available exclusively to DVC members! Transportation - DVC members get free parking on Disney property and may be eligible for up to a 20% discount on car rentals from Alamo. Tours - Ask about a 15% discount on tours of Disney property Childcare - If you're looking for some adult time with the kids safely supervised (by someone else), take advantage of a 15% discount on children's activity centers at Animal Kingdom Lodge, Polynesian Resort, Wilderness Lodge, Yacht Club Resort, and Beach Club Resort. Spa and Salon Services - Receive a discount on select services at Disney salons and spas, particularly at Grand Floridian and Saratoga Springs. Other Services - Ask about DVC member discounts from Walt Disney Florist, Disney Fine Art Photography, Best Friends Pet Care, and Floral Experience.

// Page 26 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

DVC Member Shopping Discounts

Disney Vacation Club members receive 10% off at all Disney-owned shops in the parks, resorts, and golf shops, but you may also be eligible for discounts at select stores that are not owned by Disney.

Epcot

Receive a complimentary gift when you make a qualifying purchase at

Givenchy Guerlain's in the French sector.

Animal Kingdom

15% off all non-sale merchandise at Rainforest Cafe store and Yak &

Yeti store.

Downtown Disney

Take 10% off at Arribas Brothers, House of Blues, Planet Hollywood

Store, Curl by Sammy Duvall, Hoypoloi Gallery, and Pop Gallery.

Take 15% off at Basin, Rainforest Cafe store, T-Rex Cafe store, and

LittleMissMatched.

// Page 27 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

DVC Member Recreation Discounts

Disney Vacation Club members receive a substantial discount on all Disney golf courses, so make sure that you ask before booking a tee time. If you're looking for advice on improving your game, take golf lessons at 20% off. Or, the whole family can join in the fun with 15% off miniature golf at Fantasia Gardens or Winter Summerland. Splash your way to some savings with 10% off at Disney Marinas and Sammy Duvall's Watersports Centre. Fulfill your need for speed with 20% off Drive and Ride Experiences and enjoy a FREE shop and track tour! Also, save 20% on the Exotic Driving Experience. Other activity discounts include 20% off the Aerophile Balloon, 15% off Segway Adventure at Ft. Wilderness, 15% off Surrey Bikes, 10% off Mobility Scooters, 10% off Tennis Lessons, Archery Experience (Ft. Wilderness), and Trail and Carriage Rides (Ft. Wilderness).

Disney Dining Discounts

Tables in Wonderland - This membership program offers a discount

of its own: 20% off food and beverages (including alcohol!), but DVC

members receive $25 off the annual membership cost.

Contemporary and Bay Lake Tower - 10% off at The Wave

// Page 28 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

More Disney Dining Discounts

Grand Floridian - 10% off at Citrico's and Grand Floridian Cafe

Fort Wilderness - 10% off at Trail's End

Wilderness Lodge - 10% off at Artist Point and Whispering Canyon

Cafe

Animal Kingdom Lodge - 10% off breakfast and dinner at Boma--

Flavors of Africa, and 10% off any meal at Sanaa

Yacht Club - 10% off at Captain's Grille

Boardwalk - 10% off dinner at Flying Fish Cafe, and 10% off all

meals at ESPN Club and Big River Grille

Old Key West - 10% off at Olivia's Cafe

Swan and Dolphin Resorts - 20% off at Picabu, The Fountain,

Fresh Mediterranean Market, Cabana Bar & Beach Club, Splash Grill &

Terrace, Garden Grove Cafe, and Kimonos

Saratoga Springs - 10% off at Turf Club

// Page 29 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

Even More Disney Dining Discounts

Epcot - 20% off Marrakesh and lunch at Nine Dragons. 15% off at Tutto Italia Ristorante, and Via Napoli Restorante. 15% off lunch at Les Chefs de France.10% off at San Angel Inn, La Hacienda de San Angel, Biergarten, lunch at Tokyo Dining and Tappan Edo, and dinner at Nine Dragons. Hollywood Studios - 10% off at Hollywood & Vine Animal Kingdom - 10% off all meals at Rainforest Cafe, and 10% off lunch and dinner at Yak & Yeti. Marketplace - 20% off at Bodie's All-American, Paradiso 37, and lunch at Portobello Yacht Club. 10% off Rainforest Cafe, Earl of Sandwich, T-Rex Cafe, Raglan Road Irish Pub, Cookes of Dublin, dinner at Portobello Yacht Club, and dinner at Fulton's Crab House. Downtown Disney West Side - 20% off at Haagen-Dazs and Wetzel's Pretzels. 20% off lunch at Wolfgang Puck Cafe. 10% off House of Blues, and Planet Hollywood. Hill of Beans – Receive a free funnel cake with the purchase of a Funnel Cake Gift Kit at the Downtown Disney Location. You’ll also get 10% off your entire purchase at the Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, Boardwalk and Epcot Funnel Cake Kiosk locations.

// Page 30 Part 5: Tips and More Resources

Don’t let all the Disney pixie dust make your head spin, there are resources and experts to help answer even the wildest DVC concerns.

// Page 31 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

DVC PRO TIP

You’ll get the most Disney for your points by booking weeknights. The cost difference between weeknights and weekends varies by the season and can range from negligible to very significant.

For more info, visit Disney Tourist Blog

Curious about Disney special events, theme park attractions, or ticket information? Check out AllEars.net and wdwinfo.com!

// Page 32 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

DisneyMembers.com is a fantastic resource for DVC owners and prospective owners alike. You’ll find dining guides, resort information, and helpful trip tips and park guides.

Another great all-around resource is Tips From the Disney Diva. Here you’ll find everything from park guides to Florida driving tips.

// Page 33 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

DVC PRO TIP

Disney’s FastPass+ can save your family valuable time in the park, and it’s FREE! DVC members get to book their FastPass+ earlier than other Disney guests, and this is definitely a perk worth taking advantage of.

Learn how to Optimize Time in the Park with FastPass+ and arrive prepared with FastPass+ Strategies.

Find more Disney guides, trip tips, and useful resources on Fidelity’s Pinterest boards, and follow us on social media

// Page 34 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

DVC PRO TIP

Booking just outside of major holidays provides great value as you can still experience the seasonal activities but without the crowds or costs of peak attendance days.

Learn more with these 5 Rules Every DVC Member Should Follow

// Page 35 Family Guide to Disney Vacation Club

DVC PRO TIP

Finding the ideal point package can be difficult. Why? People LOVE Disney Vacation Club, so sellers are less common than buyers if you’re shopping the resale market. There are, however, certain times of year when inventory is more plentiful and less expensive.

Read about The Best Time to Buy Disney Vacation Club Resale

// Page 36 Get DVC with Fidelity Resales http://bit.ly/ContactFREA

If you’re interested in purchasing DVC membership or you just have a few questions about how it all works, contact our licensed agents who will address any of your concerns.

Click or Call: http://bit.ly/ContactFREA 1-800-410-8326