We purchased DVC with the thought that that WDW would be a great place to vacation, even if there were no Theme parks. We like having leisurely days and being surrounded by beautiful places and things.
If we are staying at BCV but we are visiting the MK area, Pool Hopping would be a great option for a late afternoon break. We could visit the restaurants and swim and then head back to MK for the evening fireworks. With older children you can do this.
When my Ds's went on the Pirate Cruise (before we joined DVC), we asked about swimming while we waited for their return and was told Pool hopping was not allowed. As DVC members, this is a perk and something we would be interested in doing when they go again.
Pool Hopping is not just swimming but using the Pool area to lounge, relax, etc.
The World is not small, and PH gives the flexibility of not returning to your home base when you want a quick dip or break.
Many do get the DVC PH perk confused with Pool Crashing. One has nothing to do with the other.
Stopping PH for DVC members, will not stop others from Pool Crashing. DVC members have a choice of Pools (with the current perk) so why would we choose to visit an overcrowded Pool. Pool Crashing is an issue that needs to be addressed separately.
There are not many perks of being a DVC member that all would agree on. Equal Access to accomodations are not perks they are what we paid for. Why lambaste the member that books prime periods to sell on Ebay when the primary attitude of others is "it doesnt affect me"
Most use AP's so UHP discount should be discontinued. Some members are on diets so Dining discount should be discontinued. Some don't swim or think it's easier to visit a waterpark (not) so pool hopping should be discontinued. But what about those that do? We are members and neighbors and everyone should be concerned what happens in their neighborhood.
I am not going to take a short sighted approach to a long term committment. I am committed to DVC until 2054. Perks may come and go over that time as I am sure they will, but I'm not volunteering to give up anything. Maybe if members were more vocal about perks, DVD would provide better representation and try harder to secure and keep them.