The Walt Disney World Resort Guest experience has changed significantly since reopening due to the new health and safety protocols in place. Disney execs and Cast Members have spoken highly of the new measures. We at Inside the Magic have shared our thoughts on the matter. But what about the everyday Guest?
Well, according to Disney, 80% of their Guests say the new safety protocols are “just right.”
While speaking at a health and safety presentation on Tuesday, September 22, Disney officials shared the results of a survey that showed that eight out of ten resort Guests approve of the new protocols which include mandatory face coverings, maintaining physical distancing, and getting a temperature check at each park entrance.
“For the most part, they understand that we’re taking steps to help protect them, our Cast, everyone at the resort,” said Djuan Rivers, Vice President of Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
“[Guests] also shared that they are grateful for the health and safety measures we’ve put in place across our resort,” said Paula Verkuylen, with Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.
Disney officials also mentioned that Guests appreciate the low-capacity crowds, saying that they are now able to enjoy more of the available attractions.
Related: Disney World Releases Updates on Operating During a Pandemic
The few downsides to the new experience have been the absence of the parades and fireworks spectaculars like Happily Ever After. As a precaution to prevent crowds of people from gathering, Walt Disney World has modified such experiences, presenting character cavalcades at what seems like random times of the day and proving minimalist versions of its annual celebrations like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party open to regular Guests.
“We’re creating all new traditions for our guests to enjoy. Our holiday offerings will, of course, look a bit different this year and we’re excited to celebrate the seasons in an all-new way,” Valiquette said.
However, it appears that those suspended experiences and even increased capacity may be on the way back if Disney can prove that it can retain its new level of health and safety. And, so far, Shanghai Disneyland has been the Disney Park to test such things.
Related: Report: Theme Parks are Open and Pandemic Cases are Dropping
“We’ve been able to increase capacity and introduce a number of new fan-favorite experiences, such as our parade and nighttime spectacular [at Shanghai Disneyland],” Verkuylen said.
There is no official word yet on when would-be Guests can expect such changes to take effect, but as we go further and further into 2020, and more Disney World Resort Hotels continue to reopen, we at Inside the Magic will be standing by ready to update our readers on the latest changes.
