I agree, my RO deal was cheaper even when I add the dining plan. My prices only increased after I added the parkhopper. So for me I would only be getting a deal on the park hopper if I did the free dining deal vs the RO deal. confusing?!I would recommend pricing your vacations out both ways. I currently have a reservation in Aug book on the summer offer at a value (All Star Sports) and once completed pricing it out using the same Dining plan and ticket package my existing offer was about 200 less than the "Free" dining offer. Free is not always free.
YMMV i suppose, but seems there is a point where the rack rate drives up the cost.
it didn't work out for us math wise last year but this year, we would save tons. we are huge foodies. honestly, i think i only go to eat
3 adults and 1 child with 2 days park hoppers at POP for 4 nights is $1474.
the park hoppers alone would've been $1,090.58. we are getting a hell of a deal!
Airfare has no bearing on whether or not free dining is a good deal for you, since that has nothing to do with Disney. The only comparison you can make is if you were going the same dates, staying at AKL, and getting the dining plan, and now you're getting it for free, or if it came out cheaper for you to add the free dining than it was for paying for just your room and tickets without a dining package.I think it worked for us. We are staying at Animal Kingdom Lodge with DP for a family of 4 all on the adult menu. With airfare we paid almost $1000 less than the last time we went when we stayed at POP Century and also had the DP free for a family of 4 with 2 children at the time.
POFQ is so rarely ever included in these free dining deals and that's the only resort my DH is open to staying in... he fell in love with it and doesn't want to be disappointed anywhere else...
As well as, we are pretty locked into visiting in January which is NOT a typical Free Dining season. *sigh*
I have to keep my eyes out for different promotions as this one really does not suit our Family of Three who love a Moderate Resort...