Commentary Archive

Harmonious Epcot Fireworks Review

Harmonious is the new nighttime spectacular at Epcot for Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary, and the long-term replacement for IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth. This fireworks review shares photos of the show, plus how it compares to its predecessor, other blockbuster nighttime spectaculars, and whether Harmonious is worth its blockbuster budget and daytime visual blight. Before

When Will FastPass Return to Disney World?

Wondering when FastPass+ will come back at Walt Disney World or if it’ll be replaced by a paid ride reservation system? This post covers dates free FastPasses could return, how virtual queues reduce park capacity, and the possibility of Premier Access, MaxPass, and the Genie app as replacements that will cost money. (Updated August 12,

When Will Disneyland Allow Out of State Guests?

“When will Disneyland and California Adventure reopen to out of state guests?” and “when will the parks allow non-California residents?” are common questions now that the parks are both open. This covers Orange County’s improving metrics, the state’s plan for summer, and more. (Updated May 26, 2021.) Let’s start by recapping where things presently stand.

Pent-Up Demand Fueling Florida Travel

With spring break season nearly over and summer fast approaching, it’s time to return to one of our favorite topics: “Revenge Travel” at Walt Disney World in 2021. This isn’t the first…second…or even third time we’ve broached the subject, which has significant implications for crowds, attendance, and pricing for travel to Orlando later this year.

Inconsistent Bus Wait Times at Disney World

We have a love-hate relationship with Walt Disney World transportation. When it’s firing on all cylinders, the system of monorails, boats, gondolas, and even buses is unparalleled–the best exemplar of mass transit of any major “city” in the United States. In the past, we’ve gone entire trips with only great experiences from start to finish,