Every time Disney drops a new promotion, my inbox fills up with the same two questions: "Does this apply to me?" and "Why didn't I get what that person got?" Here's what's actually happening behind the scenes.
Do Canadians get their own deal?
Often, yes. Disney regularly releases offers just for Canadian residents, on both Disney Cruise Line sailings and Walt Disney World packages. At least one guest in the stateroom or room has to be a Canadian resident, and you'll need proof of residency.
These offers are easy to miss because they aren't the ones on the big ads. And they are often the better deal. When two promos have come out at once, I've compared them side by side for my Canadian guests, and the Canadian rate has won within the overlapping dates far more often than not.
The Canadian offers also change over time. Some Walt Disney World versions have included extras like Memory Maker, Disney's photo package, at no cost. Some cruise versions cover dozens of sailings across several ships and home ports, including Alaska from Vancouver.
Why isn't a promo a code?
This is the part that causes the most confusion. Disney doesn't give agents a magic code to type into every existing reservation.
Instead, Disney sets aside a certain number of rooms at the promotional rate, on specific ships or resorts, room types and dates. When that inventory is gone, it's gone, even if the promo is still being advertised.
So when I check your booking, I'm really asking Disney: if I booked this exact trip from scratch today, would it price at the promo rate? If yes, I can apply the savings. If that promotional inventory isn't available for your room and dates, I can't just attach the discount.
Why do savings differ so much?
That's why one family saves a lot and another saves a little. They didn't get a better promo. Disney simply had different inventory available for their particular booking.
Flexibility makes a big difference. Sometimes moving your dates, your resort or your room type unlocks a much better rate. Sometimes it means a nicer room for less than you were paying. And sometimes your current booking is already the best option, and I'll tell you that too. I won't move you somewhere you don't want to be just to say I got you the promo.
Is "free" always cheapest?
Offers like free dining sound amazing. But to qualify, you often have to pay full price for the room and tickets. A Canadian resident discount can work out to more savings overall, especially when your kids already qualify for other perks. If a headline promo comes out and I don't switch your booking, it's usually because you already have the better deal.
What happens when a promo drops?
When a new offer comes out, I go through every one of my existing bookings that might qualify. I take care of travelling clients first, then work through the rest. If I find savings, I apply them and let you know. If there's nothing better right now, I keep checking.
Think you might qualify for a Canadian rate? Price your dates here with the Canadian resident answer on, save what you like, and send it to me. I'll compare every offer for you.
