How far in advance do you guys think you need to book this place? Planning on a May 2008 trip. Hotels always say "oh, book as soon as you can" but then again, they do get a deposit (and hence may not be the most reliable source). I know this place is getting popular, but should 6 months be enough time in advance? They ask for 1/2 up front (ouch).

I am curious about this too, as we are also considering BdC in May '08. But we probably won't be able to make a decision right away - the place looks amazing, but it's not exactly budget-priced!

When are you planning to be there, alw?

Well, honestly, I would do it as soon as possible - especially if you have specific dates in mind or a specific cabin that you'd like. I wanted the Congo cabin because it's known for that great view, and it was already booked 7 months before we arrived. BdC is getting really popular, so for me, it's better safe than sorry.

I had my heart set on staying there, so we just booked as soon as we made the decision to go. BdC has a strong preference for check over credit card; they had us mail them a check for 1/2 the amount when we made the reservation. Also, when we checked out, I had my credit card in hand, and they told me they would prefer a check - just something to keep in mind, so you know to have money in that account.

In a way, it was good for us to pay 1/2 up front because it made it less painful to pay the balance when we left since it was split into 2 payments. You will love BdC - it's an amazing place.

alw -- I would go ahead and book it now, because most likely it will be full at some point and who knows when. Also, as volcanogirl says, if you want a specific cabin, the sooner the better. I have already booked for end of March 2008

You have to put up a 50% deposit, but not until 3 months before your dates, so you still have a while with no penalties for any changes.

We were there in May and it was beeeeeautiful You will love it!

Oh, so the 50% deposit is not due until 3 months before arrival? They didn't make that clear. I know you have to secure your reservation with a cc.

Quarters -

Looking at May 6-10

alw -- Yep. When you get your reservation form, in the details near the bottom it will tell you when your 50% deposit is due, which is 90 days prior to your 1st day there. They take your credit card information for guarantee only at that point.

Awesome. 90 days isn't bad... now 9 months ahead, that's a bit tough. A lot can change between now and then.

I guess the DH and I will have to make up our minds before too long...we're looking at 3 or 4 nights the next week (May 12-16).

I would definitely book now, BdC is booking up more & more ahead these days. As mentioned, you don't have to pay until much, much closer. What I usually do is pay the amount in full instead of 50%, just less money I have to worry about.

You secure the room with a credit card, but they don't actually charge your card. I was confused about that when we did it. They asked me to mail them a check even though they had my credit card number. They also said to allow 3 weeks before the deadline to get the check to them - guess their mail service isn't the greatest.

Just heard from BdC a little while ago. They are putting us in Mariposa. I've heard they are all nice - anything special about this one?

Lucky duck - Mariposa is one of the favorite cabins - it's on the end so has an added element of privacy, and it also has a bathtub. I think you'll love it. It seems to be popular with honeymooners. It's near Congo and Lapa on the left side when you face the ocean.

I stayed in Mariposa 2 years ago, it's very nice with a tub as well as a shower. The tree line is right up against you, so you often get peeping toms in the trees watching you - I had a huge troop come by one night and they watched me the whole time, kinda weird! Bring a good flashlight, even though it's a very short walk to the restaurant/bar, at night it seems so much longer and dark!