Tag Archive: SaratogaSprings

  1. How Much Does DVC Cost? Prices for 2023

    Looking to join the Disney Vacation Club but wondering how much it cost? Look no further! If you’re looking at buying points with DVC its good to know what the options are and how much per point you’ll be spending if you choose to purchase direct from Disney, the developer. Purchase prices vary by resort, starting at $150 per point up to $310 per point.  There are also different minimum point requirements based on resort and if you’re an existing member or new member.

    VIEW UPDATED PRICE LIST FOR 2024 HERE.

    DISNEY DIRECT PRICES FOR 2023

    It is important to note that these rates and terms below apply only to points purchased direct from Disney Vacation Club, not to points purchased on the resale market. Minimum purchases are subject to change and can be confirmed with a DVC sales rep. As of 2021, 150 direct purchase points are required in order to be eligible for Membership Magic perks and benefits.

    Resort  New Members Current Member Add-On
    Aulani, Disney Vacation Club Villas $217 per point;
    150-point minimum
    $217 per point;
    25-point minimum
    Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort $275 per point;
    150-point minimum
    $275 per point;
    25-point minimum
    Boulder Ridge Villas (VWL) $215 per point;
    150-point minimum
    $215 per point;
    25-point minimum
    Copper Creek Villas & Cabins $250 per point;
    150-point minimum
    $250 per point;
    50-point minimum
    Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas $210 per point;
    150-point minimum
    $210 per point;
    25-point minimum
    Disney’s Beach Club Villas $275 per point;
    150-point minimum
    $275 per point;
    25-point minimum
    Disney’s BoardWalk Villas $240 per point;
    150-point minimum
    $240 per point;
    25-point minimum
    Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort $165 per point;
    150-point minimum
    $205 per point;
    25-point minimum
    Disney’s Old Key West Resort $205 per point;
    150-point minimum
    $205 per point;
    25-point minimum
    Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows $250 per point;
    150-point minimum
    $250 per point;
    25-point minimum
    Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa $205 per point;
    150-point minimum
    $205 per point;
    25-point minimum
    Disney’s Riviera Resort $217 per point;
    150-point minimum
    $217 per point;
    50-point minimum
    Disney’s Vero Beach Resort $150 per point;
    150-point minimum
    $150 per point;
    25-point minimum
    Villas at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel $310 per point;
    150-point minimum
    $310 per point;
    25-point minimum
    Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa $217 per point;
    150-point minimum
    $217 per point;
    25-point minimum

    Information is deemed accurate but not guaranteed. Source: DVCNews.com – updated 12/5/22

    DIRECT PRICE V. RESALE PRICE

    If Disney’s direct prices are out of your budget, then you’ve come to the right place. We can help you become a DVC member for a fraction of the cost. Savings range from 21% up to 50%! 

    Disney sets the rate for direct sales, whereas prices on the resale market can be negotiated with the seller and are usually substantially lower. You can purchase any of the DVC resorts by resale at a much lower rate. Take a look at the chart below to see just how much you can save.

    Resort  Direct Price  Avg. Resale Price
    Resale Savings
    Aulani, Disney Vacation Club Villas $217 per point $109 per point 50%
    Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort $275 per point $160 per point 42%
    Boulder Ridge Villas $215 per point $116 per point 46%
    Copper Creek Villas & Cabins $250 per point $154 per point 38%
    Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas $210 per point $127 per point 40%
    Disney’s Beach Club Villas $275 per point $158 per point 43%
    Disney’s BoardWalk Villas $240 per point $142 per point 41%
    Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort $165 per point $85 per point 48%
    Disney’s Old Key West Resort $205 per point $113 per point 45%
    Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows $250 per point $158 per point 37%
    Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa $205 per point $118 per point 42%
    Disney’s Riviera Resort $217 per point $139 per point 36%
    Disney’s Vero Beach Resort $150 per point $76 per point 49%
    Villas at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel $310 per point $244 per point 21%
    Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa $217 per point $161 per point 26%

    Click here for previous price comparisons

    WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

    While there are some restrictions when buying resale, the drastic savings usually outweigh these. Another factor to consider are the minimum point requirements for new members. As seen in the first chart above, Disney usually requires new owners who purchase direct to make a purchase of at least 100 points, however, to gain the “blue card” member benefits you must purchase a minimum of 150 points.  If you are a first time buyer wanting less than 100 points, the best option, and sometimes the only option, is to buy resale.

    Eleven of the 15 DVC resorts are “sold out,” meaning all the allocated points for that resort have been sold and you cannot readily purchase points for those resorts direct from Disney. Aulani, Copper Creek, Riviera and Grand Floridian are the only resorts that are not completely sold out and are readily available to purchase direct from Disney.  Disney can acquire inventory for sold out resorts through owner foreclosures and Right of First Refusals but they are sold first-come first-serve according to buyers on a waitlist. You may be waiting a while to get exactly what you want.   So if you have your heart set on another resort, you may wish to purchase resale where there are more options steadily available and at a lower upfront cost.

    We’d love to walk you through the process and help you find the perfect contract to fit your needs.

    Contact Us

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  2. A Look at the Updated Saratoga Springs Deluxe Studio Preferred Room

    These photos were taken during my stay at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa on September 30th to October 1st, 2021. My room was in The Springs section which is conveniently located near the High Rock Spring Pool, The Artist’s Palette restaurant and gift shop, and the bus stop. Also in this area is the Win, Place, or Show Arcade, the Community Hall, On The Rocks Pool Bar, the fitness center and Senses the spa.

    Here’s a look at the newly updated Saratoga Springs Deluxe Studio Preferred room. The “Preferred” rooms are located in The Springs and Congress Park. Remember, “preferred” refers to location, not necessarily view. They sleep four with a queen-size bed and a double-size Murphy (pull-down) Bed.  Check out the sweet artwork and hidden Mickey! The new Murphy Bed, although firm, is more comfortable than the traditional pull-out sofa with a bar across your back.

    One bonus feature for this room is the amount of outlets and USB ports available. The nightstand had several “plug-in” spots along with the TV stand.

    The room is your typical Deluxe Studio. The floor plan on Disney’s website for this room shows a table and chairs, however this was not the case, at least not for this room. Fortunately the coffee table opens up into a space that allows in room dining. I would find this somewhat inconvenient if traveling with more than one other person.  Also, keep in mind that the person sleeping on the Murphy Bed must be awake to use the loveseat.

    The bathroom is neutral colors with a shower/tub combo, sliding glass doors, and a fancy shower head. The shower head also includes a handheld attachment which I was glad to see. This feature will come in handy when trying to wash hair on the little ones. Don’t forget about the pull out clothes line for hanging those wet bathing suits the coveted Disney H2O+ toiletry items.

    The sink area is a nice clean white. There is a magnified makeup mirror on the wall and a hair dryer in the drawer. The closet gives ample space and contains an ironing board, iron, hangers, extra pillows (the blanket is already on the pull-out bed), a room safe, and even a vacuum cleaner. The kitchenette consists of a mini fridge, drip coffeemaker, toaster, and microwave. Paper plates and plasticware are supplied for eating. Grab extra creamer, there were only 4 in the room.

    The room has a small balcony with chairs. My room overlooked the road. Remember location not view!

    Let’s get one more look at that adorable artwork. Welcome home!

  3. Top Reasons to Love Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

    Saratoga Springs was part of my family’s first ever Disney Vacation Club split-stay at Disney World.  We will always have a special love for this property.  My wife and I recently discussed perhaps adding another property to our current DVC portfolio, and after much research and number crunching, Saratoga Springs came up as the best value winner for us!

    There are many reasons why Saratoga Springs is a wonderful Resort choice. In a nutshell, this resort offers a few key real estate factors, namely, Location and Waterfront!  While it may not have more ‘location-appeal’ than Beach Club, for example, it does put you closest to Disney Springs.

    Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa DVC

    Want to relax on acres of Victorian-styled grounds while waiting for the bugle to make the famous Saratoga Springs ‘Call to Post’?  Want a short walk or water taxi ride over to Disney Springs?  Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa is the place for you!  

    Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa Orlando Florida Resales DVC

    Top 5 Reasons I Love Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa 
    #5. Victorian-Styled Grounds with Horse Racing Theme

    At Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort, be prepared to be overwhelmed by the vast amount of rolling grounds, spectacular water features, pastel colours, and wonderful walking trails throughout acres of park-like gardens. And at set times throughout the day you may be lucky enough to hear the sounds of nature interrupted by a familiar bugle ringing out a ‘call to post’ across the resort!  Horse racing fans will anticipate that anthem!

    Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa Orlando Florida Resales DVC

    #4. Turf Club and Artist’s PaletteTurf Club Bar and Grill, Saratoga Springs Resort Orlando FloridaSaratoga Springs Resort Orlando Florida

    Saratoga Springs Resort continues the Horse Racing theme through to its main restaurant & social area, The Turf ClubJockey attire or ‘racing silks’ hang on the walls, and the deep hardwoods of the furnishings give you that VIP, upscale Turf Club feel for only the exclusive race enthusiasts. Enjoy a drink from the bar while playing billiards or socializing before dinner. My wife has had Salmon at many Disney restaurants, but she has only ever praised the Grilled Verlasso Salmon at two restaurants: The Turf Club and Flying Fish.

    Be prepared for some upscale dining; like this elevated Grilled Romaine Salad and Creamy, Wild Mushroom Soup….

    Grilled Romaine Salad The Turf Club Bar and Grill Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa Orlando Florida Resales DVCCreamy, Wild Mushroom Soup, The Turf Club Bar and Grill Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa Orlando Florida Resales DVC

     

     

     

     

     

     

    We also love the counter service at Saratoga Springs Resort, Artist’s Palette. It is a bright, clean area that offers guests wonderful food choices. A few of our favourite options are Lobster Sandwich and the Cheeseburger Flatbread! And, of course, who can resist these tasty treats?  Not me!

    Artist’s Palette Tasty Treats Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa Orlando Florida Resales DVC

     

    #3. Great Activities Poolside Activities Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa Disney Resales DVC Orlando Florida

    While all resorts offer activities and some have arcades and/or community hall facilities, Saratoga Springs offers a very comprehensive program. While staying near the lobby area, it just felt that there was always fun stuff happening! The pool games were always very well attended at Saratoga Springs, and my son absolutely loved the various competitions and prizes. From Duck Tosses to Critter Round-Up tournaments, he always loved getting a candy treat or balloon prize for participating.

    Arcade at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa

    Ceramics Community Hall Activities Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa Orlando Florida Resales DVC

    Ceramic Painting

     Saratoga Springs offers the standard poolside billiard tables and air hockey tables, in addition to fire pits for making S’mores, and a Movie Under the Stars lawn. Saratoga Springs also offers a relatively large, well-equipped Arcade where families can spend hours playing games.

    The Community Hall at Saratoga Springs is also a must-visit spot with a variety of crafts, colouring projects, boardgames, movies, and much more! My son just loved making Character Magnets.

    #2. Pools, Pools, Pools!

    Paddock Pool Kid's Area Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa Disney Resales DVC Orlando Florida

    Saratoga Springs does not have just one Feature Pool, but it offers TWO FEATURE POOLS High Rock Spring, and the Paddock Pool. At the High Rock Spring Pool, there is also a wonderful Donald Duck Bubbler Pad and a Waterfall. The High Rock Spring Pool has a kiddie slide and a big slide, while the Paddock Pool has a twirl-around slide encircling an old water tower. There is also a fun water play area at the Paddock Pool. From Preferred Rooms – High Rock Springs area, you are only a hop-skip-and-a-jump from the High Rock Springs Pool, and a short, pleasant walk over to the Paddock Pool and play area.

    High Rock Spring Pool Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa, Orlando, Florida, DVC

    Think that’s enough Pool Fun?  Well, there is more!  Saratoga Springs has 3 more leisure pools on property!  

    Backstretch Water Play Area Saratoga Springs Resort Orlando Florida

    Our favourite of the three is also just a short walk from the High Rock Springs area, and it is called the Backstretch Pool. This is a gorgeous leisure pool with stark reds accenting whites and marked by the azure-blue water of the pool.  Water sprays from race-track posts into the main pool while kids use horse shaped water blasters and run through the starting gates at the Backstretch Water Play Area. You could literally spend all day visiting, swimming, relaxing, and frolicking in the different pool and aqua play areas.  And, of course, such activities are well supported by poolside snack, food and drink facilities at each!

    Backstretch Pool Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa Orlando Florida Resales DVC

    #1. Proximity to Disney Springs

    So, we made it to the Number One Reason for loving Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa. Being so close to the day and night activities, sites, shops, and culinary delights waiting for you at Disney Springs separates this resort from all others. Disney Springs is a major Disney World attraction that appeals to kids and adults alike.  From delectable treats to award-worthy dining options, your taste buds will thank you for visiting Disney Springs.  

    Ghirardelli Disney Springs Orlando Florida Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa Orlando Florida Resales DVC Maria and Enzos pasta and meatballs Disney Springs Orlando Florida Resales DVC

    One of our favourite spots for dinner is Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante. The Pasta with Meatballs dish is AMAZING!

    And who can resist a dessert from Ghirardelli’s?

    Disney Springs is a fun spot for live entertainment, socializing or just doing some shopping. Adults can enjoy upscale or casual lounge environments, while kids can enjoy fun stores like Lego,  Rainforest Café, T-Rex, and our beloved Goofy’s Candy Company!

    Goofy's Candy Company Disney Springs Orlando Florida Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa Orlando Florida Resales DVC Goofy's Candy Company Disney Springs Orlando Florida Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa Orlando Florida Resales DVCGoofy's Candy Company Disney Springs Orlando Florida Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa Orlando Florida Resales DVC

    Verdict:

    Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa is an elegant resort with recent room renovations, great pool options, as well as lots of walking trails amidst water features, foliage, and fragrant gardens.  The Resort offers tons of activities and it puts you only steps away from the food, fun, and shopping at Disney Springs.  

     

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    Previous blogs by Jason Swain:

    TOP REASONS TO LOVE DISNEY’S RIVIERA RESORT

    TOP REASONS TO LOVE DISNEY’S BEACH CLUB RESORT

    TOP REASON’S TO LOVE DISNEY’S ANIMAL KINGDOM LODGE

    TOP REASONS TO LOVE DISNEY’S BAY LAKE TOWER