Is it possible to upgrade Disney hotels.

Question

I've booked a package through Virgin Holidays and we're currently staying at All Star Movies. I'm wondering whether it's possible to upgrade to another resort directly with Disney or would I need to go via Virgin?

Also when would be the best time to enquire? I'm happy to stay at ASM but obviously if it's possible to stay at a better resort for a cheaper price than booking early, that would be nice.

Answer

Yes, it is possible to upgrade Disney hotels, but the process will depend on how you booked your original package. Since you booked through Virgin Holidays, the most straightforward way to upgrade is through them. However, you may be able to work directly with Disney, but this can depend on the availability of rooms and the policies of Virgin Holidays. Here's a breakdown of what you can do:

Contact Virgin Holidays: Since your booking is through Virgin, they are the ones who can handle your reservation and any potential upgrades. It’s common for travel agencies to manage upgrades for package deals, and they may have special deals or offers that Disney directly does not advertise. This is probably the easiest and most reliable way to inquire about upgrading your resort.
Contact Disney Directly: You can reach out to Disney directly (either by phone or online) and ask if there are any available upgrades for your current reservation. If you’ve already booked, Disney may allow you to change your resort, but since the reservation was made through Virgin Holidays, you may still need to coordinate through them for any changes to your package deal.
Timing of Inquiry: It’s a good idea to start checking for upgrade availability well in advance of your trip. Disney resorts can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel times. If you’re flexible on when you want to upgrade, checking a few weeks before your trip could help you find good deals. However, if you’re looking for a last-minute upgrade, sometimes there are deals available, especially if there are rooms left unsold as the check-in date approaches. Be aware that Disney typically doesn’t offer large discounts on upgrades last minute, but you might find availability if you’re open to different resorts.
Best Time to Book an Upgrade: If you’re looking for an upgrade at a lower price than what you originally booked, the best time to inquire is generally during the off-peak times (not during school holidays, summer, or major events like the holiday season). Disney may have promotions during these quieter periods that allow for more flexible upgrades.

As for the likelihood of upgrading to a higher-tier resort, Disney resorts (especially the moderate and deluxe options) can get pricey, but if you catch a deal, sometimes there are discounts or promotions that make an upgrade more affordable than booking a higher-level resort in advance. Additionally, Disney occasionally offers room upgrades to guests at check-in for a reduced rate (though this is often at the discretion of the hotel and depends on availability).

Overall, your best bet is to contact Virgin Holidays to check for any upgrade offers or availability, but you can also check directly with Disney if you want more flexibility. If you’re flexible with your resort choice, you may be able to upgrade at a reasonable price, but it’s important to act sooner rather than later to secure the best deal.