Tag Archive: riviera resort

  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. Top Reasons to Love Disney’s Riviera Resort

    Disney's Riviera Resort Orlando Florida Resales DVC

    The newest of all the Walt Disney World Deluxe Resorts, and a completely different feeling than all the rest. From European architecture, to relaxing grounds and a view of the water, this resort is amazing. We love the Riviera Resort!

    In a nutshell, this resort is a welcome addition to the Deluxe Resort lineup. It offers luxurious rooms, common areas and grounds, with glimpses into Walt Disney’s rich history of travel and a love for Europe.

    Want to be transported to a European-inspired haven where you are surrounded by luxury, stone facades, and blue umbrella dotted landscapes? Do you like to take things slower, and sip specialty coffee while strolling luxurious grounds? Do you fancy yourself a food connoisseur who will savour a largely French and Italian themed menu of delectable dishes? Want to relax in a slightly more adult-oriented environment but still be connected to the Disney action? Riviera Resort is definitely the place for you!

    Top 4 Reasons I Love the Riviera Resort
    #4. On-Site Character Dining Experience

    Mickey Mouse at Character Breakfast at Riviera’s Topolino’s Rooftop Terrace Disney's Riviera Resort Orlando Florida Resales DVC

    It is always a special thing to have an on-site Character Dining experience. In this case, my family feels that the Character Breakfast at Riviera’s Topolino’s Rooftop Terrace is the BEST Character Dining Experience on property! Yes, I know that those may be fighting words to some Disney fans out there but the food options at this Dining Experience are phenomenal!

    Starter's Plate Character Breakfast at Riviera’s Topolino’s Rooftop Terrace Disney's Riviera Resort Orlando Florida Resales DVC

    My wife loves the Sour Cream Waffles with Chantilly. My Wood-Fired Butcher’s Steak breakfast was the BEST breakfast dish I have had on Disney’s property to date! Cooked and Seasoned to Perfection! The European Art Theme is fun and whimsical with a starter’s plate of baked goods resembling an Artist’s Palette. Then we have the Characters! Look at Mickey’s adorable Painter’s Apron! Minnie Mouse adorns a beautiful and fashionable dress straight out of an upscale, European, leading designer’s shop! Daisy Duck is present, and of course, so is the number one Duck, Donald Duck! The atmosphere in this Rooftop Restaurant is one of spacious comfort encircled by windows and gorgeous views. Also, the quality of meals is a reminder that you are in one of Disney’s Signature Restaurants. It is our favourite Character Breakfast!

    #3. Immediate Skyliner Access

    This resort offers guests immediate access to a dedicated Skyliner Station via a short, covered walk from your room. Disney’s newest means of mass transportation is a Game Changer in my opinion. The Gondola or Skyliner system of transportation is a huge perk to guests at Disney’s Riviera Resort. Not only is it super fun to ride, but it is the most efficient transit service available. We literally walked into the boarding line at the Riviera Skyliner Station and were exiting a Gondola at Epcot 9 minutes later!Skyliner Transportation Disney's Riviera Resort Orlando Florida Resales DVC

    The Skyliner currently connects Riviera Guests to Epcot via a Direct Route. It also connects you to Pop Century as well as Art of Animation. Kids love visiting Art of Animation for some fun Arcade action or just taking in the life-sized Lion King, Cars, Little Mermaid, and Nemo environments. Even the walk to the Skyliner Station is lovely as you stroll through water feature enhanced gardens and through a tunnel adorned with beautiful Mosaics. The Gondola System also quickly connects you to Hollywood Studios and all the park has to offer including Toy Story Land and Galaxy’s Edge.

    Galaxy's Edge, Hollywood Studios Disney's Riviera Resort Orlando Florida Resales DVC

    Galaxy’s Edge, Hollywood Studios

    Upon arrival at the Resort, we decided to zip over to Hollywood Studios for a tour of Galaxy’s Edge. On returning back to the Riviera at Park Closing time, we saw that the lineup waiting for a Gondola was huge! We were discouraged but asked a Cast Member an approximate wait time for a lineup so large. When we were told “maybe 10 minutes”, we had our doubts. However, within 7-minutes, we were sitting in a Gondola and 10-minutes later (after one transfer at Caribbean Beach Resort), we were exiting at Riviera. Amazing!

    So, whether you want to lounge at the resort, zip over to Morocco for a meal at Restaurant Marrakesh, or take in some sites in France, or even Build a Droid, The Riviera has you conveniently covered!

    #2. Relaxed, Elegant European Vibe and Theming

    Gelato Disney's Riviera Resort Pool Orlando Florida Resales DVC

    It is hard to describe the atmosphere and ambiance of the Riviera other than to say it was elegant, luxurious and had a familiar European comfort to it that encouraged lounging, strolling, exploring, and appreciating the small indulgences in life, like food, beverages, and architecture. You are greeted by amazing Cast members and gorgeous grounds. Would you believe there is even a Gelato Cart by the pool?

    If you enjoy the clean lines of rectangular pools, you will love Riviera’s feature pool. I think the Tower Slide is just stunning! Even the kids’ water play area, S’il Vous Play, is architecturally attractive. A whimsical play on Fantasia.

    Pool Tower Disney's Riviera Resort Orlando Florida Resales DVC

    Everything just felt so upscale, from the stonework to the colour palettes. The impressive Resort stands as the backdrop while creating a wonderful skyline. Inside, you can sit and sip a drink in the Voyageur’s Lounge while exploring the books and paraphernalia that marked Walt Disney’s past intrigues. And of course, how European would the place be without Le Petit Café, a coffee bar turned wine bar by evening?

    The Games Lawn offered Blocks, Bocce, Giant Chess, and Lawn Billiards. While still offering Movies Under the Stars and a fire pit for S’mores, the Eventi room also has wine tasting and painting sessions for older crowds. In addition, they offer two very European-inspired activities: The Morning Regatta – racing remote control speedboats in the feature pool; and Monaco Car Racing in the Eventi Room – build cars and then race them!

    And then there was the room. Absolutely gorgeous! Beautiful woodwork, and very space conscious. My wife’s favourite Deluxe Studio on property!

    Deluxe Studio Room Disney's Riviera Resort Orlando Florida Resales DVC

    #1. Dining and Food Quality!

    So, we made it to the Number One Reason for loving Disney’s Riviera Resort. In my family’s opinion, the food here was just awesome! There is no better Resort Counter Service than here at the Riviera Resort, and the on-site Signature Restaurant, Topolino’s Terrace, was extravagant!Disney's Riviera Resort Orlando Florida Resales DVC

    Primo Piatto and Bar Riva offered an elevated quick service dining experience from the menu options to the quality of the food, to the real dishes & silverware. We enjoyed eating lakeside. The Burgers, Fries, pizzas, and Side Soups here were incredible! But even the kids’ meals were higher level! We could not get over how nice the counter service breakfast dishes were! Beautiful Italian Sausages, Polenta, Croque Madame and Blueberry-Lemon Pancakes. Regional, fresh, and satisfying.

    Disney's Riviera Resort Orlando Florida Resales DVC

     

    To top it off, diner on the Rooftop at Topolino’s is a must-do. Top notch service and food with a view that most resorts will just have to envy. Fresh pastas, sea foods, meats… we loved it! My favourite dish was the Braised Chicken Rigatoni, while my wife preferred the Pesto Seafood Dish. The view from this Terrace is so breathtaking in the evening.

    The location of the Riviera Resort also opens up all of the wonderful dining options in nearby Hollywood Studios, Epcot, and it’s an easy walk over to Sebastian’s at Caribbean Beach Resort.

    Verdict:

    This, the newest of all the Disney World DVC Resorts, is a welcome option to the collection. It offers just the right amount of theming, luxury, and adult-oriented indulgences. It then goes over the top with mouth-watering meals, a connected location, and the best mode of transportation on property.
    We love calling Riviera one of our homes away from home!

    [envira-gallery id=”73945″]

    Previous blogs by Jason Swain:

    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

  3. DVC at D23 Expo – Welcome Home!

    “A Vacation I’ll Never Outgrow!”

    It’s been a dream of mine for some time to attend the D23 Expo. It took a 40th birthday coincidentally overlapping this year’s show to give me the excuse to finally pull the trigger. Most folks, when they finally make it inside after baking in the LA sun for a few hour security line, make a bee-line for The Disney Dream Store or Mickey’s of Glendale. Me? I head straight for home. Well, my home a few weeks out of the year at least.

    It’s true that DVC’s presence here on the show floor isn’t as grand as say the Marvel or Star Wars showcases. There are no blue tape lines on the floor or Cast Members holding “End of Queue” signs (incidentally, I feel like I want to buy that sign for the bathroom in my house but I digress). What it lacks in stature is made up for with that Welcome Home feeling we all love about DVC.

    DVC at D23 Expo

    The booth itself is nicely designed in the style of the newly opened Copper Creek Villas in a layout that leaves the booth largely open and comfortable, not that unlike a DVC Villa. Cast Members are plentiful ensuring that as the Expo heats up there would be no need for that blue floor tape. DVC branded swag is out for the taking and if you show your DVC card to a cast member you’ll get a neat “Member Since” button ensuring the signature “Welcome Home” from folks on the show floor.

    VR tour of DVC Copper Creek   VR tour of Copper Creek

    The real attraction of the booth though is the DVC virtual reality experience. Cast Member Chang helped me get setup and walked me through how to operate the experience and CM Darby helped me shoot some photos of my journey through the Copper Creek Grand Villa. If you’ve never done this VR experience before let me just say it’s quite remarkable. The visual experience is clean and seamless without any visual warping. You have full 360 degrees of freedom although don’t expect to see your feet standing on the Grand Villa’s mahogany wood floor. Perhaps the only weirdness with the experience is in moving around the Villa. They don’t want you walking around the Expo essentially blind after-all. You have to hover over circles painted onto places in the visual in order to move. Bigger circles moved you close, smaller circles moved you farther. This is the only part that didn’t feel fully integrated with the experience but after a few moments you get the hang of it. I was able to even catch a glimpse of a hidden Mickey in the wall artwork!

    DVC Riviera Resort

    But the biggest news to come out of the Expo is the announcement of the DVC Riviera Resort at the Parks and Resorts panel. This new resort experience, estimated to open in fall 2019, will be the 15th Disney Vacation Club property with approximately 300 units spread across a variety of accommodation types.

    This new resort will be unique for a few distinct reasons. First, it is located on the grounds of a moderate resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach. Will that mean moderate level point blocks? A long shot; but still possible. Second, it will be a hub for the new Sky Line Gondola system that will connect the new Disney Vacation Club property with Disney’s Hollywood Studios and the International Gateway at Epcot. Third, it is situated for a Bay Lake Tower-esque view of the Epcot fireworks. This is going to be yet another jewel in the DVC crown.

    Disney Sky Line Gondola System

    So while the DVC booth doesn’t necessarily rise to the level of a “must do” at this event, it certainly is a lovely respite from the bustle of the show floor. This stands in Tony Stark contrast – see what I did there? – to the intensity flowing from Hall 23 at this year’s D23 Expo. If this is a benchmark, 2019’s Expo is going to be even bigger.

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