Frustrated and Need a Hug

[princessebird]

I need someone to tell me that it's gonna be okay.

I'm the family planner, and no one else in the family seems to get the insanity that is planning a WDW trip.

I have played by Disney's silly rules. I booked the hotels 11 months in advance based on the best info I had at the time. I booked ADRs 180+ days in advance. I've purchased a few upcharges. I was gearing up to book FP+ in a few weeks.

And then yesterday I learned that my split stay, which I had painstakingly researched, will no longer have a single FP+ booking window that opens at the start of the initial stay. Instead of being able to book at 60+8, I'm now the proud owner of two separate booking windows, each for 60+4. Bye, bye SDD and FOP.

When I made my split stay booking, I verified the single FP+ booking window through disboards, a Disney Moms' Panel blog, and a call to a CM. But apparently, according to the CM I talked to yesterday, they have fixed that "glitch."

I am kicking myself for thinking that a split stay was a good idea. I'm kicking myself for getting a 4+4 split stay instead of a 2+6 split stay.

But mostly I'm frustrated that Disney has pulled the rug out from under me. I have spent a ridiculous amount of time getting my plan in order for my FP booking window, and, now, I basically have to redo my entire touring plan because the most valuable days of the trip are no longer the last few days, but the last day and the day we change resorts. Had I know that I wouldn't get the single booking window, I never would have booked two resorts, as now the purpose of a long stay (albeit at 2 resorts) has been defeated.

I know some people go to Disney every year. We don't. We go every 3-5 years. But this experience hasn't been fun. It's been stressful and exhausting and has left me feeling somehow cheated (I know, I know, the fine print says that they can change whatever they want whenever they want). The next time I get the Disney itch, I'll be looking to Asia.

Thanks for tolerating the venting. If anyone has advice for dealing with short-ish FP+ booking windows, I'm all ears.

 

[Dreamingofdisneyvacay]

I just booked my fp a few weeks back. I was able to get fop on day 3 in the am. I’m pretty sure I could get it afternoon on day 2 as well.

I did not try for slinky dog because we are doing dah in hs, but that was available on days 3&4. There is a British site which has fp info that I think is somehow related to this site, if I’m right I’ll come back and give the name, but you might be able to just google it. Anyway I watched that and was able to strategically select fp.

I’m on a two year cycle, so I feel your pain. We had AP at this point. Apparently, it’s now 30 day for the second set of onsite fp with split stays.

 

[jerseygal]

I am sorry for your frustration. I understand how much planning trips take and sometimes it feels like our family just has no idea how long it takes to make the trip special. Strange, I was speaking to Member Services about another matter and at the end of the conversation, confirmed my FP date. I have two separate DVC reservations, first is for two nights, second is for six nights. I said to her as I have been accustomed in the past, that since there is a split stay that I would be able to make FP for the entire eight night reservation and she said yes. Was the MS CM not aware of recent changes? We do split stays very often as we enjoy staying at different resorts.

 

[disneygirlsng]

I am sorry for your frustration. I understand how much planning trips take and sometimes it feels like our family just has no idea how long it takes to make the trip special. Strange, I was speaking to Member Services about another matter and at the end of the conversation, confirmed my FP date. I have two separate DVC reservations, first is for two nights, second is for six nights. I said to her as I have been accustomed in the past, that since there is a split stay that I would be able to make FP for the entire eight night reservation and she said yes. Was the MS CM not aware of recent changes? We do split stays very often as we enjoy staying at different resorts.

The new FP booking rules do not apply to DVC/DVC split stays.

 

[denecarter]

We were planning a couple of split stay trips that are cash/DVC. Bummed, but at least I know before I’ve planned.

 

[PrincessWithABlaster]

When is your trip? Depending on when you're going you may be able to get FOP and SDD on 60+4. If you have to cancel an ADR you really want to do that, I recommend getting a free account on touring plans and use their reservation finder. I was able to get Storybook dining at a great time just yesterday and I'm just about 60 days from my trip. A lot of ADRs become available in the last few weeks when people cancel.

You could also look into making your split stay a one resort stay.

I would also highly recommend sending someone at Disney an email explaining this to them. I would recommend guest services however, I sent them a question a week ago and they never responded. That's the second time I've emailed GS and I am 0 for 2 in getting anything other than the automated email saying they will get back to me. Others here have emailed executives in the company when major policy changes have happened and gotten phone calls from people. Maybe someone could provide those emails in this thread (you may be able to Google them - they are public).

Sorry you got caught up in this.

 

[FigmentSpark]

Can you change your booking? Would that help?

Don't forget, with the rules change, there may actually be FOP and SDD available at 60+2, or 1 or even at 60. It sounds like tour operators were sucking a lot of them up.

 

[Klayfish]

Sorry you're frustrated, and I understand the vent. I also think there's no reason to get upset. The "insanity that is planning a WDW trip" is only insanity if you make it that way. It doesn't have to be. Nobody pulled the rug out from under you. If you redo your entire touring plan, then that's up to you. It sounds like you're an uber planner. That's fine, but understand that's your decision to do that, not a WDW requirement. Not at all trying to be harsh, but take a step back and realize that extensive planning is a choice, not a requirement.

From what you're said, I don't think it's impossible at all for you to get on FoP or SDD...by any stretch. When your window opens, be ready and then see what's there.

Our FP+ booking windows are anywhere between 6-30 days, max. Only once have we had a 60 day window. It's never been an issue for us. However, our style may be different. We're not uber planners, in fact we're pretty much the opposite when it comes to a WDW trip. We like to do things much more freestyle, but we still get to do all the attractions. With almost zero plans when we get to WDW, we still have a fabulous time every trip. SDD was the only one we've ever done a 60 day window for, and that was because it was literally opening day of TSL.

 

[mom2rtk]

Welcome to FP roulette. I'm sorry you're so frustrated with the changing goal posts.

 

[mrsap]

I need someone to tell me that it's gonna be okay.

I'm the family planner, and no one else in the family seems to get the insanity that is planning a WDW trip.

I have played by Disney's silly rules. I booked the hotels 11 months in advance based on the best info I had at the time. I booked ADRs 180+ days in advance. I've purchased a few upcharges. I was gearing up to book FP+ in a few weeks.

And then yesterday I learned that my split stay, which I had painstakingly researched, will no longer have a single FP+ booking window that opens at the start of the initial stay. Instead of being able to book at 60+8, I'm now the proud owner of two separate booking windows, each for 60+4. Bye, bye SDD and FOP.

When I made my split stay booking, I verified the single FP+ booking window through disboards, a Disney Moms' Panel blog, and a call to a CM. But apparently, according to the CM I talked to yesterday, they have fixed that "glitch."

I am kicking myself for thinking that a split stay was a good idea. I'm kicking myself for getting a 4+4 split stay instead of a 2+6 split stay.

But mostly I'm frustrated that Disney has pulled the rug out from under me. I have spent a ridiculous amount of time getting my plan in order for my FP booking window, and, now, I basically have to redo my entire touring plan because the most valuable days of the trip are no longer the last few days, but the last day and the day we change resorts. Had I know that I wouldn't get the single booking window, I never would have booked two resorts, as now the purpose of a long stay (albeit at 2 resorts) has been defeated.

I know some people go to Disney every year. We don't. We go every 3-5 years. But this experience hasn't been fun. It's been stressful and exhausting and has left me feeling somehow cheated (I know, I know, the fine print says that they can change whatever they want whenever they want). The next time I get the Disney itch, I'll be looking to Asia.

Thanks for tolerating the venting. If anyone has advice for dealing with short-ish FP+ booking windows, I'm all ears.

When you said you booked at 11 months - does that mean you are a DVC member? And yes, everything will be ok. In the end, its still a Disney vacation

 

[DisArmyWife215]

Sorry to hear about your frustrations. Hang in there! All hope isn't lost. I was able to book 7DMT on 60+2, FOP 60+3 and SDD 60+5(and it was available for 60+4). Things open up and people change their plans so you can always snag something later too if you can't at your initial FP window.

Just remember the point of all your planning is to have an enjoyable vacation with those you love. As an ultra organizer myself, I fell ya and I know that disappointment when things don't go to plan. But allow yourself some time to breath, take a step back look at things fresh and enjoy that Disney magic and I think you will have a great trip!

 

[FigmentSpark]

Availability, as shown on the Dibb for 60 days out looks good. Note where the 60 day marker is from today and there is availability. So if the Dibb is right, and this is the new trend, you should be fine.

 

[mamaofsix]

Have you called to try to have your split stay changed to one of your resorts only? This seems like it might be the easiest solution for you, without disrupting any of your park plans.

 

[MainMom]

I’m planning for a 12 person trip. My odds of getting a FOP or SDD FP for all of us when I need them is very low. Knowing that I have alternate plans-Rope Drop and a couple of evenings in those parks. Is it ideal? No. But it is what it is.

 

[mamamelody2]

*virtual hug*

I would be super frustrated, too! It's going to be okay, though. You can easily do FoP and SDD last thing at night. Just get in line a few minutes before close. I hope you have a great trip!

 

[Justplainchy]

I understand your frustration, but know that we booked for Spring break week (looking like crowds at an 8-10 all week) and were able to get afternoon SDD at 60+1 and FOP in the morning at 60+3 and 60+6, so definitely not all hope is lost! Hang in there, Disney Planner! And remember: a crazy, less-than-perfect Disney trip is still better than sitting at home!

 

[scrappingbuckeye]

I don't think you'll have any issues getting FP's at 60 days. I was able to get SDD for spring break at 60 +1 without any issues.

 

[Marionnette]

If it’s any consolation, I was able to grab SDFP for FOP for my brother and sister when they were there the week prior to President’s Day. Granted, it was just for two people but the refresh, refresh, refresh method can work.

Also, it looks like you’re DVC.(I peeked at your previous posts). FWIW, I have a post on the DVC boards regarding a split stay at the end of April and the FP window for both. You may not have the problem that you anticipate. At least one DVC member received confirmation from Member Services that DVC split stays would be considered to be continuous under the FP rules. And I can vouch that (so far) this appears to be true for the reservations I’m holding.

 

[bumbershoot]

The "insanity that is planning a WDW trip" is only insanity if you make it that way.

Agreed.

And I hope that the OP *wanted* to experience two different resorts. If so, then that reason still stands. Enjoy the two resorts.

If it was not something you wanted, then change the reservation.

And I know it’s Captain Obvious to say, but you can always wait in standby for rides.

 

[randumb0]

All of that planning sounds more stressful than it should. You have to remember that's it's vacation and that it's ok to relax. Try to remain flexible because you can plan everything down to the second but your plans won't mean anything if a ride is down or if it rains the entire time.