Tag: disney parks

Traveling to Disney World Soon? Orlando International Airport Wants to Know Your Thoughts on Flying!

Post author By disneyfoodblog.com
Post date June 11, 2020

Since Disney World is reopening on July 11th and other theme parks in Florida are also getting back to business, tourist travel may start to increase at places like Orlando International Airport (MCO).

©Orlando International Airport

Between the Re-Open Florida Task Force discussing ways to keep people safe and the possible $25 billion airline rescue package, airports are working towards preparing for more passengers to make their way back into planes.

According to Spectrum News 13, the Orlando International Airport has released a questionnaire to gauge whether people feel comfortable flying, what types of travel they’re interested in, and how often they expect themselves to travel over the next six to 12 months.

Orlando International Airport

The questionnaire asks people whether they will be traveling domestically or internationally; for business, leisure, or to visit friends and relatives; and what means of transportation they plan on using for their trips.

Orlando International Airport

“The leisure market is going to come back first domestically, then what we call ‘VFR’ — visiting friends and relatives — and then the business,” Orlando International Airport’s senior director of marketing and air service development Vicki Jaramillo said. At this time, they’ve noticed that “over 65%” of the 1,000-plus respondents have said they would feel comfortable flying again soon.

Star Wars United Airlines Plane ©United

However, there has been a drop by 90% in airport travel at MCO. It was previously the busiest airport in Florida over the past year, but MCO is considering cutting $226 million from the new Terminal C’s construction budget and reducing the number of new gates from 19 to 15.

Orange County International Airport

The Orlando International Airport has still put measures in place to keep travelers and employees safe, like frequent cleaning of high-touch areas, the use of protective equipment such as eye wear and masks, and new TSA regulations. Other airports like Daytona Beach International Airport have implemented a “Ready to Fly Initiative” with protective barriers, distancing signs, and personal care kits for passengers.

©Orlando International Airport

If you want to take part in the Orlando International Airport’s survey, you can fill it out here! While travel may look different for a while, airports are still moving forward to make sure they bring travelers back. We’ll keep you updated with more information about airport changes here!

When will you feel safe traveling at an airport again? Let us know in the comments below!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Disney News, disney parks, Featured, News, airplanes, airport travel, Airports, Disney, disney news, Disney World, florida airport, mco, orlando international airport, TSA, TSA Screening

Tags airplanes, airport travel, Airports, disney, Disney News, disney parks, Disney World, Featured, florida airport, mco, news, Orlando International Airport, TSA, TSA Screening

Disney Business Disney Parks Disney Rumors & Gossip

How Many Guests Do The Disney Parks Need to Turn a Profit?

Post author By disneyfoodblog.com
Post date June 11, 2020

Disney World and Disneyland will be implementing many costly new procedures to help ensure the safety of guests and Cast Members upon the reopening of their theme parks.

Disney World

All of these potential health measures and capacity cuts mean that Disney could be in a tough position — losing money to be able to make it again. Prior to the reopening announcement, we explored the financial impacts of opening the theme parks versus keeping them closed. With the parks officially reopening, some analysts are noting what Disney will need to do to make money again.

Disney hasn’t and won’t be generating anywhere close to the pre-closure levels of revenue in the Parks, Experience, and Products sector for a while. In an earnings call that took place last month, Disney CEO Bob Chapek noted that the company would not reopen any park unless it would ultimately generate profit.

It’s Chewbacca!

So, with the Disney World parks reopening and Disneyland set to follow soon after, Disney may have determined what levels of capacity the parks need to maintain to keep a profit going. According to the Hollywood Reporter, Bernstein analyst Todd Juengar has estimated that Disney will need to maintain 25 percent of normal [pre-global health crisis] run-rate attendance to turn a profit.

Magic Kingdom Sign

The 25% attendance assertion is interesting. Disney has not made any indication as to how steeply park capacity will be reduced. If Juengar is correct, we may see it cut down to that 25% figure. Disneyland Shanghai saw a similar capacity decrease with a figure somewhere below 30% pre-closure attendance.

When we looked into this topic a month ago, we noted that at current operating cost, Disney would be operating at a loss if they lowered capacity by any more than 28%. Still, we also explored the fact that operating costs will greatly decrease as well with the continued closure of many attractions, resort hotels, dining experiences, and more. Take into account the cuts to operational costs and a less than 30% capacity opening starts to seem likely.

Cinderella Castle

Again, Disney executives have explained that they do not intend to publicly release reopening capacity figures at this time. It seems that we’ll have to determine if Juengar (and our) predictions are right once the parks reopen and we can see how crowded (or not-crowded) they are. Chapek said that guests would have to be “lucky enough” to access the new theme park reservation system, so we can assume that capacity will be significantly limited — maybe even all the way down to 25%.

Do you think Disney will make or lose money when they open their theme parks? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Animal Kingdom, disney california adventure, Disney News, disney parks, disney’s hollywood studios, Disneyland, Epcot, Featured, magic kingdom, News, analyst, crowds, Disney World, how many guests, how many people, limited capacity, losing money, profitability, reduced capacity, ticket sales, turn a profit

Disney News Disney Parks

Walt Disney World Reaches Out to Annual Passholders with a Special Message

Post author By disneyfoodblog.com
Post date June 11, 2020

Recently, Annual Passholders received an e-mail message from Walt Disney World Resort with information regarding some of the changes that will be implemented — such as the new theme park reservation system — when the parks begin a phased reopening on July 11th.

2020 Annual Passholder Magnet

And now, Annual Passholders have started to receive a new e-mail communication. This time, it’s a word of thanks… along with some Disney magic.

The message begins: “Soon it’ll be time to return to the enchantment. To laugh. To wish. To dream…”

Annual Passholder email screenshot

Before that time begins, the email goes on to say that “we wanted to offer our most sincere thanks. For your patience. For your trust. For always keeping the magic in your hearts. And for being some of our most cherished fans.”

Annual Passholder email screenshot

It’s noted, of course, that changes will be in place, recognizing that the experience of visiting the parks “will understandably be different” upon the return. But it also assures that “the magic will still be there.”

As we await further details on the new reservation system for Annual Passholders and ticket holders to enter the theme parks, as well as any new information for guests preparing to re-enter Walt Disney World when its phased reopening begins this summer, we will be sure to keep you posted. In the meantime, you can find all the latest information regarding the reopening of Disney Parks (which, as of yesterday, includes a proposed reopening date for Disneyland Resort) by visiting any of the links below.

Are you a Walt Disney World Annual Passholder? Please let us know with a comment!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Animal Kingdom, disney parks, disney’s hollywood studios, Epcot, Featured, magic kingdom, Walt Disney World, Annual Passholder, Annual Passholder communications, Annual Passholder e-mail, Annual Passholder message, walt disney world annual passholder, walt disney world resort

Tags animal kingdom, Annual Passholder, Annual Passholder communications, Annual Passholder e-mail, Annual Passholder message, disney parks, disney's hollywood studios, epcot, Featured, magic kingdom, Walt Disney World, walt disney world annual passholder, walt disney world resort

Disney Guides Disney Parks

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

Post author By disneyfoodblog.com
Post date June 11, 2020

As the Walt Disney World theme parks prepare to welcome guests again, it’s only natural that there are questions GALORE!

Early Morning at Cinderella Castle

There are a LOT of new guidelines and policies to keep up with. Don’t worry if you’re still super confused, because we’ve got ya covered…literally!

Wearing a face covering is going to be one of the BIGGEST adjustments guests will have to make when visiting the Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom when they reopen on July 11th and Epcot and Hollywood Studios when they reopen on July 15th.

Disney-themed Cloth Face Masks ©Disney

But before you go, you may be wondering: Who has to wear a face covering? When do you have to wear a face covering? What even IS a face covering?!

Who has to wear a face covering?

A recent update confirmed that Cast Members and ALL guests ages TWO and up will be required to wear a face covering while at the Walt Disney World Resort.

American Threads Face Masks at Disney Springs

According to Disney, you need to bring your own face mask.

Where do you have to wear a face mask?

We already know you need to wear a face mask while visiting Disney Springs, and you’ll have to wear them all around the theme parks. Additionally, hotel guests will have to wear face masks while in common areas of the resort, according to a Disney rep.

Disney will require guests to wear face masks unless eating or swimming while at a resort hotel

As previously reported, you will NOT have to wear your face covering when dining and swimming! Guests also will not be required to wear a mask while in their own rooms.

Luna Park Pool

In the proposal Disney offered to the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force, it was mentioned they may be offering “relaxation zones.”

Guests with Face Coverings in Disney Springs

These are spots “in and around and off the property” where folks can remove their face coverings for a while and breathe in that fresh Florida air. Universal Studios introduced similar locations when they reopened, called URest areas.

What counts as a face covering?

That’s two big questions out of the way! But you might still be wondering… what counts as a face covering at Disney World?

Cast Member with required face mask

The CDC has great information regarding face coverings! But since we’re here for Disney World, it’s important to note that the Disney World website currently states the following in regard to face coverings. They must:

Fully cover an individual’s nose and mouth and allow the guest to remain hands-free
Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
Be secured with ties or ear loops
Be made of breathable material, either disposable or reusable

So, what constitutes as a face mask?! Scarves tied snugly around your face, gaiters, buffs, disposable or reusable masks (including bandanas), and handmade or homemade masks are all examples of what is allowed Disney World.

Monsters Inc. Bandanas

When it comes to religious coverings, the most important thing to note is that your face and nose MUST be covered and your covering should fit snugly against the side of your face. If you are unsure whether or not your religious covering will be approved as a face mask, it’s best to bring an alternative with you JUST IN CASE! And it’s important to note that Disney can change its face covering policy at any time!

Face Masks at American Threads

One quick note here to remember is that the rules regarding costumes and masks still apply! Sorry to those who thought they would be able to get away wearing their Darth Vader masks as face coverings! Costume helmets/masks, ski masks, or anything else that covers the entire face (excluding religious coverings) are also BIG no-nos at Walt Disney World.

Disney Springs Planet Hollywood Server

A Cast Member we spoke with said face shields are also an acceptable face covering since they cover the nose and mouth. They haven’t seen many folks wearing face shields, but they’re allowed.

While it’s been reported that Disney Springs has a very limited amount of disposable masks for those who show up without one, it’s SUPER important to note that you shouldn’t rely on them! Definitely bring your own!

What will happen if you refuse to wear a face covering?

Face coverings will be required…but what will happen if you refuse to wear one? With increased security and social distancing squads on the lookout for face coverings, it’s HIGHLY likely that those without proper face coverings or those disobeying the guidelines will be quickly addressed! So be sure to cover up!

Guest Relations Cast Member in Disney Springs

In compliance with Osceola County law, you WILL be required to wear face masks at Disney World once it reopens. Don’t let that get you down, though! Use your mask as just another Disney accessory! If you’re stuck picking a fun mask and need a little inspiration, check out these ADORABLE face coverings!

Are there other questions you have about face masks in Disney World? Let us know!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Disney News, disney parks, disney resorts, Disney Springs, Featured, Walt Disney World, 2020 magic kingdom pin, Animal Kingdom, coronavirus, coronavirus disney parks, coronavirus disney world, Disney Face Masks, disney hotels, disney parks reopen, disney parks reopening, Disney World, Disney World health measures, Epcot, face coverings, face masks, face masks at Disney World, health and safety measures, health and safety procedures, Hollywood Studios, mandatory face masks, relaxation zones, social distancing

Disney News Disney Parks

When Disney World Reopens, Can You Even Go?

Post author By disneyfoodblog.com
Post date June 11, 2020

Disney World is reopening on July 11th, but that doesn’t mean that everyone who wants to go will be able to.

Walt Disney World

Not only is Disney set to significantly reduce capacity in the theme parks, but some travelers may not even have a chance at planning their vacation in the first place. After all, you don’t have to worry about whether or not you can get into the parks if you’re not able to get into Florida! We’re taking a look at some of the current laws and factors that could prohibit a Disney trip for some.

International travelers may have some issues getting to Disney World.

For one, those coming from outside of the country may have a difficult time getting to Orlando. 20% of attendance in Disney World is attributed to international travelers, so we know there are some international folks who are excited to get to the parks. Right now though, there are some things in their way.

Walt Disney World

For one, the U.S. State Travel Department has a Stage 4 Global Travel Advisory in effect. That means “Do Not Travel.” Due to the global health crisis, many government agencies are not deeming it safe to travel for leisure. Of course, an advisory doesn’t mean that you CAN’T travel, but some countries have full-out bans in effect.

According to the CDC, travel to the U.S. is banned for those who spent any of the previous 14 days in China, Iran, the European Schengen Area, the United Kingdom, Ireland, or Brazil. Beyond that, over 140 countries have closed their borders and/or enacted travel bans — many of them prohibiting travel to or from the U.S. and still in effect. If those bans aren’t lifted, Disney lovers in those countries will be out of luck at reopening.

Magic Kingdom

PLUS, the international air travel industry took a major hit during the crisis. Per Forbes, though international flights are starting to come back, they are limited. Finding flights to Orlando may not be easy or even possible for some international travelers IF they are permitted to travel.

For some Disney-lovers in the U.S., it may be impossible to get to the parks.

International travelers aren’t the only ones who may have some issues. Anyone entering Florida from Connecticut, New Jersey, or New York must undergo a 14-day mandatory quarantine upon entering the state. However, this order is set to expire on July 7th, unless the Florida Governor decides to extend the order. Currently, this quarantine applies regardless of method of transportation, and the costs of quarantine, including lodging, fall on the traveler.

Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Most folks will not have the means to spend two weeks in quarantine before they can get on with their Disney trip. You’d have to spend a pretty long time in Disney to make the trip worth two weeks of quarantine!

Even if you are NOT traveling from the New York tri-state area, you still need to check out the current health measures of your state and any state you may be traveling through. You may run into border checkpoints, curfews, stay at home orders, and more.

What can you do about this?

The solution? Stay informed. This is a developing situation and different states and countries are changing their health measures and restrictions all the time. You may have to wait it out until travel becomes a part of the norm again.

Are you worried about getting to the Disney parks? Share your thoughts in the comments!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: disney parks, Featured, Walt Disney World, Disney World, disney world closure, Disney World reopening, Global health crisis, glorida government, international travelers, mandatory quarantine, New York, New York tri state area

Tags disney parks, Disney World, disney world closure, Disney World reopening, Featured, Global health crisis, glorida government, international travelers, mandatory quarantine, New York, New York tri state area, Walt Disney World