N033 Disneyland Tickets Go On Sale, Reflections Permits and Update from DVCHelp.com

Quite a few stories this week. Disneyland begins selling tickets again; Reflections looks like it is permanently on hold. Direct sales decreased for Rivieria, and DVCHelp.com has updated their point charts. Pete explains how the COVID-19 pandemic and DVC Member policies are impacting the availability data. Season 10 of the My DVC Points Podcast was brought to you by: DVC Resale Market - Industry Leader in DVC Resales DVC Rental Store - DVC Point Rentals Monera Financial - Exclusively Financing DVC Contracts Patreon supporters in the My DVC Points VIP Producer Club. (00:00) David Lewis Discusses His DVC Journey This chapter welcomes the DeFrancisco family from Philadelphia, who share their Disney Vacation Club (DVC) experiences and the legacy of Disney trips that began with their grandmother. I discuss the family tradition of visiting Disney World, which started when family members turned six, and how this rite of passage has continued into adulthood. We explore how David Lewis and his cousin have maintained their bond through Disney, with their families now enjoying the parks together. David recounts his parents' timeshare experiences with RCI and how it led to their first stay at a DVC resort, Saratoga Springs. Although initially not purchasing DVC points, David expresses regret at not buying them at a lower price. He reflects on the missed opportunity and hints at the journey that eventually led to their DVC membership, underlining the theme of creating lasting family memories at Disney. (12:07) DVC Add-Ons and Money-Saving Strategies This chapter, we tackle the importance of doing the math when considering DVC (Disney Vacation Club) purchases and emphasize making informed decisions that suit your family's needs. I share my experience with the space limitations at Caribbean Beach, leading to our decision to upgrade to DVC for more room and amenities. We also touch on the benefits of doors, bedrooms, and kitchens in one's vacation experience. Additionally, I discuss the value of resale points, especially with the recent Grand Floridian 'fire sale,' and offer tips on snagging good deals, including taking advantage of direct purchase incentives and discounts such as those for being on property or having another vacation booked. Lastly, we highlight the importance of always having a DVC vacation booked to make the most of membership benefits. (22:51) DVC Ownership and Vacation Planning This chapter touches on the ideal duration for a stay at Disney's Aulani Resort and strategies for island hopping afterward. We discuss the benefits of splitting time between relaxation at the hotel and exploring the island, aiming for a stay that leaves us eager to return without feeling like it's too much. The conversation shifts to a planned stay at the Disneyland Hotel and the allure of the three-bedroom suites at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge's Jambo House. We also entertain a hypothetical scenario involving a windfall of Disney Vacation Club (DVC) points from Tinkerbell, exploring options for maximizing their value through rentals or international park visits. Lastly, I share advice for prospective DVC buyers on purchasing strategies, the benefits of splitting contracts, and considerations for future selling, emphasizing the potential financial benefits of disciplined DVC ownership. Disneyland Resort Ticketing and Park Reservations Go Live Story Lead: Vicky On April 12 park reservations went live and on April 15 ticketing went live for Disneyland and Disney California Adventure.  Vicky talks about the “no earlier than” 8am time given, how long the process took and other dramatic details of the day. Reflections Construction Trailers Removed Many news sources have reported that permits have been filed with Orange County, Florida to "[r]emove office trailers from property" at the Reflections - A Disney Lakeside Lodge, which was to be the 16th DVC property.  Three trailer ad