Is there anything in the world more magical than the opportunity to spend Christmas and New Years with our best friends in DW for 2008? So here is where I need some help. We are expecting outrageous hotel prices, but still need to find the best deal....suggestions folks?
We would like to stay in the moderate - deluxe, 2 families...so 2 rooms.
Would anyone be willing to tell us how much they paid during this Christmas season?

Thanks for your help!

These are the rack rates for the current year holiday weeks. I have rarely seen specials offered (but there have been some in off years), no AAA, no AP, few if any promo packages, since they tend to fill the resorts without offering discounts.

Moderate hotels are priced $199 to $225 per night plus 12.5% tax for the holiday season.

Deluxe resorts vary, the lowest being the AKL and WL, ranging from $359 to $675 plus tax depending on room category, with the low rate being "standard" view and location, and the higher rate being suites or concierge level. Beach/Yacht Club from $475 to $710 plus tax, Polynesian from $519 to $815 plus tax.

There are several room categories between the two rates mentioned at each resort. I just listed a few of the deluxe resorts to give you an idea of the prices. Of course next year the room rates may increase again.

In the good ol days (before the new reservations computer was installed) the rate of your first night was the rate for your entire stay, so if you checked in on the last day of "regular" season you kept that rate only if you booked a package, (not just room nights) even if your stay extended into Christmas week. Alas that loophole has been closed, and each night of your stay, even in a package, can price separately.

The best deal is Beach Club Villas - 2 Bedroom Villa has a queen and queen sofa in one bedroom, queen sofa in living room and king in second bedroom. Full kitchen included. If this allows you enough room, check out these prices. Value season next year is Nov. 30 - Dec. 18.

Thanks for the input. We bit the bullet yesterday and reserved rooms at the Polynesian! SOOOO EXCITED!