I think some of these comparisons being made are unreasonable. So dining in Venice is cheaper, but at what cost did it take to get there? Are you paying for Disney characters to be there? While a meal may be cheaper, what does trip to trip overall comparison look like? I can’t just drive to Venice for a two day visit but many can for Disney. And while some children may love. Entice, I doubt it would hold the wonder and awe that many small children get from Disney, which is why many families pay the high price.
Everyone vacations differently. If I can’t afford to go to Disney and stay on property and eat what I won’t, I just won’t go. I prefer the whole experience. I can’t imagine staying off property, shuttling back and forth to eat meals, cooking or packing food for the parks, etc. That is not a vacation for me, though it may still be for someone else.
Having said that, I can’t imagine paying the prices to stay at the GF or the Poly. Others do, and Disney gives them that choice.
Bottom line, I don’t think you can compare a Disney vacation to any other vacation. As many have pointed out, Disney doesn’t care who gets priced out because there are plenty in line waiting to fill the spot.
