Tag: reopening

Disney Springs announces new Cast Members to promote physical distancing guidelines

Post author By chipandco.com
Post date May 18, 2020

When Disney Springs reopens on May 20th there will be some new Cast Members on hand to promote physical distancing guidelines.

Guidelines such as all guests and cast members wearing facemasks, social distancing, and even temperature screenings.

Here are the guidelines outlined on the Disney Springs website.

As we begin to reopen Disney Springs with a number of shopping and dining locations beginning May 20, we are looking ahead to May 27 when we will begin to reopen more of our Disney owned shops and restaurants, including World of Disney, D-Luxe Burger (mobile order) and the Marketplace Co-Op. With that as our next milestone, we are eager to welcome back our Guests, some Cast Members and third-party Operating Participants with the safety and well-being of all at the forefront of all our planning efforts.

As we navigate through this unprecedented time as responsibly as we can, we have implemented a number of new safety measures based on guidance from health authorities, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and appropriate government agencies. We, along with third-party Operating Participants, are all committed to a responsible reopening of Disney Springs.

For Cast Members, Operating Participant employees and Guests, there are 6 key things to know before arriving at Disney Springs, and they include:

Limited parking and reduced entrances
Temperature screenings prior to entry
Face coverings required for Guests ages 3 and up
Physical distancing practices including physically-distanced queues and physical barriers
Temporary operation modifications, including reduced hours at select locations and no scheduled entertainment offerings or high-touch interactive areas
An increased focus on disinfecting and sanitation, including the addition of hand-washing stations and hand sanitizers in key areas

Since many of these measures will be new and may evolve, we want to be sure Guests, Cast Members and Operating Participant employees are aware of all these changes.

COVID-19 Warning

We have taken enhanced health and safety measures—for you, our other Guests, and Cast Members. You must follow all posted instructions while visiting Disney Springs.

An inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present. COVID-19 is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, senior citizens and guests with underlying medical conditions are especially vulnerable.

By visiting Disney Springs you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19.

Let’s keep each other healthy and safe.

Guest Parking and Entrances

During this initial phase, Guests will be directed to self-park in the Orange and Lime garages; all surface parking lots will be closed. At opening, we have also reduced Guest entryways to 4 locations: Orange and Lime garages, along with the Hotel Plaza Boulevard Pedestrian Bridge and the rideshare location. Guest access to Disney Springs from the Grapefruit garage will be restricted.

Temperature Screening

All Guests are required to undergo temperature screenings upon arrival at Disney Springs.

Guest Screening: During this initial period, Guests will undergo temperature screening in these locations: the second-floor exits of Orange and Lime parking garages and the Marketplace Entrance (to serve Guests from the Hotel Plaza Boulevard Pedestrian Bridge and the rideshare drop-off lot). Based on guidance from health authorities, anyone displaying a temperature of 100.4 F or above will be directed to an additional location for rescreening and assistance. Those with temperatures above 100.4 will not be allowed entry; those in their party will not be allowed entry either.
Employee Screening: Cast Members and Operating Participant employees will be required to complete a health screening and temperature check at home, prior to coming to work.

Limited Contact

Following guidance from the government and the medical community regarding enhanced screening procedures and prevention measures, we have made some temporary adjustments that include limited-contact Guest Services to ensure a responsible and enjoyable environment for everyone.

Face Coverings: All Guests ages 3 and up, Cast Members and Operating Participant employees are required to wear an appropriate face covering. Guests must bring their own face coverings and wear them at all times, except when dining.
Physical Barriers: Physical barriers have been added in select places where it is difficult to maintain strict physical distancing guidelines. These may be visible in areas around cash registers or at Guest Relations, for example, to help ensure proper distances between people.
Cashless Transactions: At this time, it is recommended all Guests use cashless or contactless payment options, such as credit cards, debit cards, Disney Gift Cards, Disney Rewards® Redemption Cards and mobile wallets—including Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay. Guests may purchase a Disney Gift Card at select Merchandise locations and Welcome Center (Guest Relations) to pay without cash.

Physical Distancing and Capacity Measures

Managing the number of Guests visiting Disney Springs has been a major consideration as we implement physical distancing guidelines based on recommendations from health authorities and government officials. One of the ways to do that is to limit the number of Guests and Cast Members at any given time for each location. Additional measures include:

Signage: Directional signage has been installed to assist Guests to responsibly move throughout the property. Additionally, ground markings will help promote proper physical distancing when queuing is needed at a location.
Training: We are also training Cast Members to engage with Guests and promote physical distancing guidelines in common areas and queues.

Cleanliness and Sanitization

We’ve increased cleaning and disinfection in high-traffic areas such as public elevators and escalators, handrails, benches, tables, handles, restrooms and more. Additionally, Disney Springs will open with hand sanitizer and hand-washing locations, and Guests are highly encouraged to use these while visiting.

Cast Training

We’re further emphasizing our strong culture of health and safety among Cast Members and Operating Participant employees, and will continue to provide new training and reinforcement as we navigate through the reopening phases.

About These Measures

As part of these efforts, Guests may see other changes to our retail and dining offerings, as well as other experiences. Though it may be different from the last time you visited, these new measures are designed to offer a magical Disney experience in a responsible way.

We understand that these times are challenging, and we appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding as we navigate as responsibly as we can. Together, we can find new ways to have fun while being diligent to maintain proper physical distancing.

Frequently Asked Questions

View frequently asked questions about the phased reopening of Disney Springs—as well as related updates.

More Information

In addition to the information shared here, please see the Walt Disney World Resort Property Rules for more details.

There are no other details about the new Cast Members at this time.

To see a full list of Restaurants and Retail locations opening at Disney Springs click the links below.

From our friends at chipandco.com

Tags disney reopening, Disney Springs, face masks, reopening, safety, social distancing

Disney Parks Other

We Asked Our Readers: “Should Disney World Give out Free Masks for Guests?” Here’s What They Said.

Post author By disneyfoodblog.com
Post date May 18, 2020

Disney World is taking its first step towards resuming operations, with the phased reopening of Disney Springs starting on May 20th. The Disney Springs reopening plan includes several health and safety measures, one of which is required face coverings for both guests and Cast Members.

Cinderella Castle

And since masks are mandatory, we wanted to know if our readers think Disney should provide them for guests.

Based on statements from Disney executive chairman (and former CEO) Bob Iger, it’s been evident for some time that when Disney World reopened, there would be multiple additional health and safety measures implemented.

And now that Disney Springs is planning a phased reopening beginning on May 20th, we have a first glimpse into the protocols the shopping and dining area will follow.

Disney Springs

Safety measures will include increased cleaning procedures, reduced capacity and operating hours, limited-contact guest services, additional safety training for cast members, and required face coverings for both guests and Cast Members. You can see details on Disney Springs’ health protocol here.

Disney Springs

Since it’s confirmed that guests will be required to wear face masks during the initial stages of reopening, we wanted to get our readers’ thoughts on whether or not Disney should provide them. So, we asked our followers on Instagram, “Do you think Disney World should provide free masks, or should guests be required to bring their own?”

And people were quick to chime in! We received 423 responses in the first few minutes and of those, 210 said YES Disney should provide masks, 165 said NO it’s not Disney’s responsibility, and 48 said IN SOME CASES Disney should provide free masks. Here’s a visual breakdown of the results!

Pie Chart of Our Readers’ Responses When Asked If They Think Disney Should Provide Free Masks for Guests

Let’s take a look at some of the reasons people gave behind their responses!

“Yes, Disney World Should Provide Guests with Free Masks!”

Coming in as the most popular response, 50% said yes, they do think Disney World should provide free masks for all guests. Several people said that if Disney is making masks an ongoing requirement, they should have them available. “If masks are required then they should have them on hand to provide to guests in need.”

Others also pointed out that this would help Disney with enforcing the policy. “Yes! That way they can ensure everyone is being as safe as possible.”

©Harvey’s

Many readers also pointed out that Disney could provide plain masks for free, but allow guests the opportunity to upgrade to a design or pattern for an additional fee. “Provide basic ones, then charge more for nicer ones like they do with MagicBands.”

“No, It’s Not Disney’s Responsibility to Provide Masks”

On the other hand, 39% said no, they don’t think Disney is responsible for providing guests with free masks. They said guests should come prepared, and instead of handing out masks for free, Disney could sell them at a reasonable price for those who lost or dropped theirs. “No, but they should make them available for sale outside [the entrance] for a small fee.”

Others also pointed out that making masks available for purchase, instead of giving them out for free, would allow Disney to create more fashionable designs that make them more appealing to wear. “They could be the new Minnie Ears. Another way to add a pop of Disney.”

World of Disney in Disney Springs

Overall, this group felt that the responsibility should lie with the guests. “Nope. If you aren’t responsible enough to bring one, you aren’t taking it seriously enough.”

“Disney Should Provide Free Masks in Some Cases”

And some people saw the situation as a little less black-and-white — 11% said Disney should provide free masks in some cases. Many agreed that they do think guests should bring their own face covering, but since things can get hectic on vacation, Disney should have backups available in case a guest’s mask is lost, forgotten, or dropped. “People should be responsible for their own but Disney should have some at the ready to give if needed.”

Disney Springs

Others pointed out that since guests have been known to disregard the rules or not pay attention to the required changes, Disney should have masks on hand for any guests who missed the memo. “Guests should bring their own. But people don’t listen, so they should have backups just in case.”

So, it seems our readers are relatively evenly split on this one! Half of the respondents think that Disney should provide free masks for guests, and they pointed out that this also provides Disney with the chance to upsell for different designs. On the other hand, many readers think that guests should take responsibility and come prepared.

There were definitely some solid points all around — and keep in mind, you can always buy a Disney face mask now so you’re prepared regardless of the face-covering policy when the time comes for your next Disney World vacation!

Do you think Disney World should provide free masks, or should guests be required to bring their own? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com

Tags disney reopening, Disney Springs, face masks, reopening

Disney Parks Other

VP & Florida Governor discuss theme park opening this Wednesday

Post author By chipandco.com
Post date May 18, 2020

Florida Governor

Two months after the closure of Orlando theme parks, the state of Florida is currently making its way through the first phase of reopening businesses. The COVID-19 pandemic changed our daily lives and we’re slowly returning to normal activity while complying with CDC safety guidelines. Vice President Mike Pence is meeting with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to discuss the next stages of Florida’s economic reopening.

On Friday, Florida Governor DeSantis announced that theme parks could start submitting their reopening plans. So far Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld Orlando have not revealed any tentative plans yet. But we are getting one step closer to seeing them return! These theme park organizations are able to submit their plans this week, so government officials will be working closely on reviewing their plans. The Vice President and Florida Governor are joining a roundtable with tourism and hospitality leaders to plan the state’s future. In regards to the phases, caution is highly advised for decision-making to ensure proper safety protocols are in place.

The fact that these roundtable discussions are taking place is a good sign. It indicates that theme parks will open again soon, so we’ll be keeping our readers informed of any confirmed news updates.

Source: Click Orlando

From our friends at chipandco.com

Tags disney reopening, Governor Ron DeSantis, news, reopening, Vice President Mike Pence

Other

News! Tennessee Theme Parks Are Cleared to Re-Open This Week

Post author By disneyfoodblog.com
Post date May 17, 2020

While Florida has started to re-open places like Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk, Texas is in talks about opening its own theme parks to guests again.

Universal CityWalk

And, now another state is making plans to re-open its larger tourist locations.

According to News 4 Nashville, Tennessee’s Economic Recovery Group announced 89 of the state’s 95 counties will move into the next phase of re-opening on May 22nd.

This transition allows restaurants, shops, and larger attractions — like theme parks — to re-open with safety measures in place.

Monorail Red

Some of the large attractions included in the phased re-opening are:

Race tracks
Amusement parks
Water parks
Theaters
Dinner theaters
Auditoriums
Large museums

These attractions must “practice social distancing with strong measures to protect employees and customers.”

Universal CityWalk

Governor Bill Lee stated, “We’re able to allow restaurants and retail businesses to operate at greater capacity and large attractions to open in a safe and thoughtful way.”

He said the “state continues to see downward trends in case growth and meets the White House criteria for a phased reopening.” Although, he urged citizens to continue to wear makes and wash their hands.

Hand Sanitizing Station

In closing, he stated “By taking the Tennessee Pledge, our businesses can reopen in a way that protects the health of their customers and employees, and protects the livelihoods of hard-working Tennesseans.”

Disney Springs

Anakeesta is scheduled to open May 21st and others such as Dollywood and Lake Winnepesaukah are still planning their re-openings. We will keep you updated as we learn more!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com

Tags Anakeesta, citywalk, disney reopening, Dollywood, Lake Winnepesaukah, news, reopening, Tennessee

Disney News Disney Parks Disney+ Other

All the Disney News You Missed While You Were Zoom Calling Your Mom on Mother’s Day!

Post author By disneyfoodblog.com
Post date May 17, 2020

There are LOTS of interesting and exciting developments across the Walt Disney Company! We are starting to see the gradual reopening process begin around the globe, and the news just doesn’t stop these days!

©WaltDisneyImagineering on Instagram — Shanghai Disneyland reopening

So, let’s get caught up on all things Disney Parks and entertainment!

Shanghai Disneyland Officially Reopens!

Shanghai Disneyland was officially the first park to reopen since the parks worldwide closed their gates earlier this year. Various health and safety procedures were implemented to encourage physical distancing between guests while they are in the park.

Shanghai Disneyland

Currently, tickets for Shanghai Disneyland must be booked in advance. Full-day tickets for its first day of operations, May 11, sold out ahead of time.

Check out these pics of Shanghai Disneyland’s reopening day here!

Disney Springs Prepares to Reopen May 20

Since we learned that Disney Springs will partially reopen for guests beginning on May 20, a number of restaurants have been confirmed. As of this writing, The Boathouse, Wine Bar George, STK Orlando, Erin McKenna’s Bakery, Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill, Planet Hollywood, and more are set to reopen on the 20th.

Welcome to Wine Bar George!

See our most up-to-date list on which restaurants will be open on May 20

We have also learned that World of Disney will reopen on May 27. Other Disney owned and operated locations will also open May 27, including Market Place Co-Op.

World of Disney in Disney Springs

See which Disney Springs retail shops will be open on May 20

The exact guidelines that Disney Springs will be following were announced, including mandatory face masks, temperature checks, and physical distancing protocols.

©Disney

We will be reporting live from Disney Springs on May 20 to let you know how locations are operating with their new health and safety procedures.

Universal Orlando CityWalk Reopens

CityWalk, the shopping and dining district at Universal Orlando Resort, reopened with limited operations on Thursday, May 14. We reported live with a first look at the protocols put into place by Universal. Many of these measurements are similar to what Disney Springs will implement on May 20.

©Universal

In this initial reopening phase, guests and employees will be required to wear face masks as well as undergo temperature screenings before entering the premises. Those with temperatures of 100.4 degrees and above will not be allowed to enter.

Universal CityWalk on its reopening day

We did notice many of the new health and safety protocols when we visited CityWalk. From the frequent sanitization to the reduced capacity at the various dining locations, Universal took a very active role in ensuring the opening of CityWalk was smooth and most importantly safe!

Essential Construction Resumes at Disneyland

Skeleton crews have returned to Disneyland to work on Avengers Campus and Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway. The essential work being done by these crews includes weather-wrapping Avenger’s Campus and receiving steel deliveries for Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway.

Disneyland Main Entrance

Currently, Avenger’s Campus will open “soon.” Disney originally announced the land would open on July 18, 2020, but the wording on their website has changed to “Coming Soon,” indicating a possible delay. Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway is slated to debut in Toontown in 2022.

CEO Bob Chapek Speaks Publicly on the Future of Disney Parks

Following last week’s quarterly earnings call, Walt Disney Company CEO Bob Chapek spoke on CNBC regarding the future of the Company, and specifically the parks. He spoke on the reopening of Shanghai Disneyland and the present demand from consumers to return to the theme parks.

When asked about reopening more parks, Chapek stated that “We certainly want to open up as soon as we can across the world but we’re going to do so in a responsible way.”

Disneyland and Disney World No Longer Accepting Reservations Until July 1

Until recently, both resorts were accepting future bookings after June 1. It was announced recently that this was being pushed back, and now Disneyland and Disney World are no longer accepting reservations in the month of June, they now begin July 1st.

Disney’s Riviera Resort

Thomas Mazloum, Disney World senior vice president, stated at a recent Reopening Business workgroup meeting, “Just because there are reservations open in July, does not mean that we will open in July.” He also emphasized that reopening Shanghai is a “baby step” in the gradual reopening of the parks worldwide.

Tokyo Disney Resort Announces Another Closure Extension

Previously, Tokyo Disney Resort had planned on giving an update on the park’s closure status mid-May, which would have included a better idea on when they were planning to reopen.

Since then, however, Japan’s state of emergency has been extended through the end of May. Disney is now saying that the Tokyo Disney Resort is closed until further notice.

New Content Coming to Disney+

There’s a slew of new and exciting content coming to Disney+! Just in these past few days, we have heard of some MAJOR titles coming to the streaming service. Most notably, the live performance recording of the hit Broadway musical Hamilton will launch exclusively on Disney+ on July 3. This is 15 months ahead of its previously planned debut in movie theaters.

Surprise! The original Broadway production of Hamilton, filmed LIVE onstage at the Richard Rodgers Theatre, is now coming exclusively to #DisneyPlus this July 3rd. Shout it to the rooftops! #Hamilfilm pic.twitter.com/4FK4lZhcO6

— Disney+ (@disneyplus) May 12, 2020

We also learned that the live recording of Taylor Swift’s recent one-night concert in Paris will arrive to Disney+ on May 18. This will follow its premiere on ABC on May 17. Streaming of the concert will also be available on Hulu.

Excited to announce the City of Lover Concert! We filmed my show in Paris in September and thought it’d be fun to share it with you May 17 at 10p ET on @abcnetwork and available the next day on @hulu and @disneyplus! #TaylorSwiftCityOfLover pic.twitter.com/7B3ky0rO5B

— Taylor Swift (@taylorswift13) May 8, 2020

The Muppets are coming to Disney+! This summer, a short film series called Muppets Now will arrive on the streaming platform.

©Disney

A press release from Disney states, “Fans of The Muppets can also see more of Kermit, Miss Piggy, and friends in the upcoming Disney+ series, Muppets Now, premiering this summer.”

‘Wonderful World of Disney’ Returning to ABC

Finally, if you’re looking for new ways to fill your evenings, ABC has announced the return of the “Wonderful World of Disney.” This is in an attempt for ABC to fill out their primetime schedule, and we are super excited to see this programming return!

©Disney

This will be the first time ABC is having a full lineup of ‘movie nights’ since their 2007-2008 season. The series will air on Wednesdays beginning on May 20 and will continue for four weeks. The series will include Moana, Thor: The Dark World, Up, and Big Hero 6.