Potential Plans for Disney World Phased Reopening
Leaders from Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, SeaWorld, and other Orlando area theme parks met today as part of a subcommittee within the Reopen Florida Task Force to determine how and when to reopen parks and other attractions in the Sunshine State. In this post, we’ll share some ideas discussed, what this could mean for Walt Disney World, and potential impediments to these plans.
The subcommittee that met has been dubbed the “Industry Working Group on Tourism, Construction, Real Estate, Recreation, Retail and Transportation,” and includes executive leadership from a wide range of businesses from theme parks to airlines to retirement communities (yes, really). Of relevance for this blog are two group members: Walt Disney World President Josh D’Amaro and Universal Orlando CEO John Sprouls.
This meeting comes a few days after Florida beaches began to reopen and 24 hours after Florida Governor Ron DeSantis claimed that Walt Disney World is “so far ahead of the curve” on reopening and will be “leading the way” in Florida’s plans to begin opening in the coming weeks under the federal government’s Guidelines for Opening Up America Again, a three-phased approach based on the advice of public health experts…
During the tourism portion of the Reopen Florida Task Force meeting, Walt Disney World President Josh D’Amaro did not speak. However, Universal Orlando CEO John Sprouls did, and he outlined some of plans to reopen Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure.
This is significant because, as with security, the health protocol plans here are certain to be collaborative in nature. While some diehard fans of both Disney and Universal project their own aspersions and view the companies in an oddly adversarial light, that doesn’t reflect reality.
While competitors, it’s also true that Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando both exist in the same community, and to some degree, indirectly benefit from one another. In the past, we’ve seen identical changes and policies rolled out simultaneously at the two resort complexes, including 5 years ago when both (plus SeaWorld) installed enhanced security infrastructure overnight.
There have been some diverging approaches between the two on the security screening measures (most notably, Universal uses baggage scanners–something we’d love to see Walt Disney World adopt), but there are a lot of practices that are consistent between the two. This is not coincidence. It’s a foregone that Universal and Disney will likewise adopt nearly identical health procedures and protocol for reopening.
Sprouls outlined a number of possibilities, including increased sanitation throughout the parks, increased use of virtual queue systems, encouraging guests to wear face masks, added social-distancing measures, disinfecting attractions throughout the day, increased use of mobile ordering and contactless payment transactions, staggered seating for shows, screening employees daily, and more.
Much of what was mentioned mirrors the possibilities outlined in a Universal Orlando survey sent out over the weekend. Notably, that survey also mentioned suspending parades and nighttime shows, limiting attendance to half of park capacity, and removing 3D glasses from attractions. (Anything that accelerates the abandonment of 3D is welcome in our book!)
He additionally stated that multiple teams are working on a number of different scenarios for reopening protocol. Moreover, that the theme parks will be guided by state and local officials, as well as health officials with the overarching goal to be keeping employees and guests safe.
This all mirrors recent comments from Disney Executive Chairman Bob Iger–along with health safety measures that have been floated for Walt Disney World and Disneyland, and what’s currently being rolled out ahead of Shanghai Disneyland’s imminent reopening. (All as previously discussed in our What Operational & Health Safety Changes Will Walt Disney World Make to Reopen? post.)
For both Universal and Disney, there’s the complicating factor of their theme park operations on the West Coast. While Florida is overzealous about reopening its businesses, California Governor Gavin Newsom is striking a much more tentative tone. The two governors are essentially at opposite ends of the spectrum on this, which is noteworthy here.
California’s more cautious approach to resuming normalcy could end up shaping big business behavior nationwide, as has happened with auto emissions and other things. It’ll be interesting to see what California’s economic task force–which counts Disney’s Bob Iger as a member–determines is the best course of action for that state in the coming weeks.
There’s also the potential matter of trepidation on Disney’s part. The state of Florida is offering some degree of cover with this task force and its official recommendations, which could encourage Walt Disney World to resume operations sooner. However, there’s still the reality that “safety” is part of the Disney brand, and reopening prematurely would damage that.
On balance, it’s tough to predict how this will play out and Disney’s position here is unenviable. It’s somewhat difficult to envision Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando reopening while Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood remain closed. Suffice to say, just because DeSantis wants to reopen the state ASAP doesn’t mean that’s the route Disney and Universal will take.
Florida’s eagerness here comes as the local economy has already been decimated by the shutdown. The bulk of Central Florida’s businesses and employees are dependent upon tourism, and the impacts have already been catastrophic. This is not to say that Florida’s plans (whatever they might end up being) are right–just that the state is in a tough spot.
Visit Florida CEO Dana Young stated that hotels in the state have seen a $1.6 billion drop in revenue over the past six weeks, per Spectrum News 13. In order to get tourism numbers back up, people will need to feel that it’s safe to travel. Visit Florida is thus working on a multi-phase campaign, with the first part focused on Florida residents, encouraging them to visit state attractions.
Part of Visit Florida’s push will involve encouraging Floridians to support local businesses by taking an in-state vacation. This should mesh with the Reopen Florida Task Force’s plans for a gradual and careful reopening that will entail first reopening to Florida residents, then national visitors, followed by international guests.
While this phased approach to reopening the Walt Disney World theme parks has not yet been cemented (far from it), it certainly makes sense. Moreover, it would offer more latitude in a slower rollout of rides, shows, and other offerings (even potentially a phased opening of the parks themselves).
Once in a lifetime or other infrequent Walt Disney World guests are less forgiving (we’re trying to put that diplomatically), but the stakes are lower with Floridians. There’s less of a cost for locals in visiting Walt Disney World. Many are Annual Passholders and those who aren’t don’t have to book airfare, stay in a hotel, etc–many will be happy just to get out of the house and have a public space to walk around.
By contrast, tourists are spending thousands of dollars for their vacations, and may be less receptive to parades, fireworks, attractions, etc., not happening. We’ve already heard from a ton of readers who have expressed similar sentiment. We can’t blame them given the cost of a Walt Disney World vacation, but we all also have to accept the reality that things are going to be a bit different (mild understatement) for a while.
Reopening to locals first with all of the modified health safety procedures would allow Walt Disney World something of a “soft opening” period for the resort complex as a whole. During that time, Disney could test and adjust its new protocol, see what works and doesn’t, and slowly ramp up operations.
When and how long such a “soft opening” would last before welcoming out of state tourists to Walt Disney World is anyone’s guess at this point. However, we likely won’t have to speculate for too long, as Florida Governor Ron DeSantis wants a plan submitted to him by the end of this week. We’ll keep you posted as to how the reopening plan shapes up at that point (for a heads up when that happens, subscribe to our free email newsletter).
Planning a Walt Disney World trip? Learn about hotels on our Walt Disney World Hotels Reviews page. For where to eat, read our Walt Disney World Restaurant Reviews. To save money on tickets or determine which type to buy, read our Tips for Saving Money on Walt Disney World Tickets post. Our What to Pack for Disney Trips post takes a unique look at clever items to take. For what to do and when to do it, our Walt Disney World Ride Guides will help. For comprehensive advice, the best place to start is our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Guide for everything you need to know!
YOUR THOUGHTS
What do you think of Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort reopening to Floridians before out of state or international tourists? Which of the health security screenings and protocol do you think will come to fruition when the parks reopen? Are you anticipating modified operations—including the elimination of entertainment and reduced ride capacity? Do you expect a phased opening of the parks & resorts? Will you immediately book a trip, or wait until everything is back up and running, and things have returned to normal? Do you agree or disagree with our commentary? Any questions we can help you answer? Hearing your feedback–even when you disagree with us–is both interesting to us and helpful to other readers, so please share your thoughts below in the comments!
Does anyone have a clue as to how Disney will handle pricing? We have a trip coming up in the Fall and might cancel depending on how things go, how safe they are, etc. If we do decide to keep the trip, one thing I can’t wrap my head around is paying “bust out” retail price for a vacation that will have it’s limitations – no shows, no fireworks, limited Fast Passes (if they limit number of people on rides, less FP+ will come with it), limited dining, etc. I am sure there will be less (if any) character meet and greets…the list goes on and on. A vacationer would surely be getting way less for their money than the norm. I know I have the option of canceling if I don’t feel it’s worth it, but I already looked at postponing a few months later and the price is $2k higher than what we’re spending to go in the Fall. (The price we’re paying for the Fall this year is even $1-2k higher than we spent for the same exact week in 2017 and 2018.)
Munich cancelled their Oktoberfest celebration this September. They estimate that 6 million people attend the 3 week event. If they think it’s unsafe to have hundreds of thousands of people congregating then which epidemiologist would endorse opening up a theme park with around 250k daily visitors?
You know that most people won’t wear a mask, obey social distancing or maintain good social hygiene. Throw in the fact that there won’t be enough tests or contact tracers to really keep cases close to 0. Do you want to pay thousands for a modified Disney experience that occurs in a petri dish of COVID-19?
Oh and how in the heck is Universal going to operate if there is no 3-D? Nearly every single ride they offer has it.
First of all @Marilyn, I’m SO sorry for your loss.
I understand we all want everything to go back to normal, but there will never be ‘normal’ again. It sucks but, we want to be safe too. I’m planning two trips this year to Disney World, and if I can’t go, I can’t go. I’ll live.. We all love Disney and can’t wait to get back, but… we may just have to. Let’s just stay safe and slow down this dang virus…
It won’t kill us to stay home. I’m sure you have family and friends that want you to be healthy, and if you go and get sick… do you plan on suing Disney? I’m guessing some people will..
I have heard that you might have to sign a waiver. And how could anyone prove where they contracted a disease like Covid?
Back to the original question. I am an out of state personal who has gone to WDW many times. We also go to Florida fore vacation a couple of times per year. I like the idea of a soft opening for Florida residents first. I agree that those who have been many times are more forgiving and it is a great way to get Florida some local tourism and prove safety to the rest of the nation and build confidence.
I appreciate your honest truthful articles now more than ever. I am so curious to see how and when Disney will open, I am a Disney vacation planner so my living is depended on it. But I am worried for the state of FL rushing into things. Thank you for your insight! I am hopeful Disney will open safely when it is right to do…. no matter how much we all want them to open sooner rather than later being safe is #1.
Thank you Tom, for sharing this with us. The one little thing that makes me sad out of this, is it probably marks the end of Muppet*Vision 3D at Disney world, and potentially the end of Muppet’s really being represented by the company. The small nod to Sam Eagle at Regal Eagle Smokehouse isn’t quite enough for me!
I am fed up with the polarizing views that are everywhere (even our favorite Disney blogs). It’s probably hard to accept this, but this pandemic is new (emphasis novel virus) and really, really complicated. Unfortunately, none of it can be explained and understood via a 5 minute segment on the news, a single article, or worst of all a post on social media.
Rather than people camping out on one side or the other and attacking each other over who is right, it’d be wonderful for everyone to accept how little is known at this point, and invest in researching different points of view.
I doubt many will take the time to read and process a well done research effort like this one, https://www.minneapolisfed.org/research/staff-reports/health-versus-wealth-on-the-distributional-effects-of-controlling-a-pandemic, because its hard.
What’s interesting is that the hard work results in a conclusion that isn’t extreme. It’s nuanced, and accounts for the public health impact as well as the the economic impact of mitigating the virus. Imagine that!
Understanding complex issues is hard work; they rarely have clear cut solutions. We’d all be well served to abandon sound bites and trite conclusions. They don’t do this manner of problem any justice.
@ Drew. The thing is people want “back to normal” faster than the lockdown measures. It is not going to work that way. And unlike other countries, we have seen some very negative social reactions from Americans who do not want to wait. They are thinking only of themselves and not the collective. The next 2 months will be telling. In the meantime, an Orlando vacation is not even remotely on the family radar. We have been blessed to have been many times. Have great memories and would like more but are content on waiting for that “back to normal”. Our health, the health of our extended families/friends, the health of the workers and the health and state of our health care system are more important than ANYTHING else.
Except economic stability heavily factors into public health. Ignoring that will lead to a heavy human cost as well. Suicides, violent crime, drug abuse, etc. all increase during poor economic times. Not even factoring in increased hunger and lack of access to medical care. We have now forced 26M Americans into a state of joblessness and desperation. Any analysis that does not factor this into public health as well as mitigating the virus is faulty. I say mitigating as the virus is never going away. The purpose of the lock down was to flatten the curve. That has been accomplished.
I agree Adam. Why rush when your life is at stake. We are in a community and all the people are upset about is that the pool is closed. Don’t care about the people that have died. True colors come out. I have been to Disney a lot over the years and would not think about going there now, even on a soft opening. My health and life is more important than a few rides.
Thanks for sharing this, Drew! Judging by the abstract, it sounds like an interesting and nuanced take. On my list of things to read this afternoon.
Good luck, glad you found it interesting.
As a result of being cursed with a small brain, it took me several highly caffeinated sessions to get through :-). I think most others would/will fare better.
@Drew
Here’s the problem. It’s a lot easier to vilify people and their positions rather than research historical norms and verify information, especially information presented as “facts” by “experts.”
Viruses are evanescent things. Most mutate easily and by some studies this one already has, thus a vaccine stands a good chance of not being 100 percent effective.
Several recent studies, not models or projections, the latest by USC, show the mortality rate on a par with normal influenza, albeit this virus is far more contagious. Other studies show instances where the infection and mortality rates between lockdown and no lockdown are not substantial.
In the final analysis, people will believe what is congruent with their prejudices and patterning and there is little that can be done about it. Very few are open minded or analytical enough to change their minds based on facts. “Facts” are mostly their perceptions. In the case of this virus they’ve been sold a Bill of goods that if only they hide long enough there will come a day when the cure will be found and they can venture forth in complete safety. Until such time they wish to force everyone else to act as they do so they can be “safe.” They totally ignore the fact that despite weeks of lockdown people are still contracting the virus and still dying and that there is a high probability that to some degree they always will. Go ahead and ask them what an acceptable contagion risk is. Ask them how many virus deaths per year are acceptable and listen to the replies. They will likely be unreasonable and unrealistic but watch how you are vilified if you point this out.
Is there a solution? Not really. All one can do is be philosophical and go about one’s business remembering the sage words of the late George Carlin: “Never underestimate the power of stupid people in large groups.” There’s also another saying I like. “I often wonder if we are being led by very smart people who constantly lie to us or by imbeciles who really mean it.”
Be safe and be well.
@ Jack.
Those are all really good points.
Part of what you alluded to I *think* hits on another issue that I find equally frustrating. The ability to accept that we (as in the entire country) are staring down a dilemma not a problem.
The key difference being that problems (generally) have solutions where you can optimize the outcome.
A dilemma (generally) means choosing between courses of action where they all lead to undesirable outcomes.
The idea that there are two check boxes where you either check the box for a full shutdown or immediately opening is a false premise/false choice.
@Drew
Your definition of problem vs. dilemma was very interesting. . Sort of points out a basic flaw in the way many people are currently thinking. Look forward to reading the article.
Wow, the comments quickly strayed from the questions…. Thanks to Tom for getting this information from the meeting and publishing. I think a phased approach is a good idea to test whatever new protocols are implemented. I would agree that delaying some of the entertainment will be important. The way people cram together to watch parades and fireworks won’t work until there is a better handle on this. Limiting attendance will be a good way to also test any virtual lines or social distancing protocols. I think this is a great opportunity for the parks to find better ways to handle the queuing process for the rides, which is long overdue. I would also love to see WDW implement security similar to Universal Orlando with bag scanners. I’m sure they can find a way to add temperature checking to the body scanners as well.
Probably not likely, but I’m holding out hope we can still make our planned Memorial Day weekend trip.
Stay safe everyone.
Thank You for the positive comment. I think people need to lay off people that want a certain level of normalcy and respect everyone’s common sense. If you want to go then go if you want to wait for a vaccine then so be it.
Well said. In my opinion….it all boils down to one thing. If you’re comfortable going…..go. (Why does anyone think they have the right to belittle anyone for not thinking the way they do?) If you don’t feel safe…don’t go!
Sadly, I cannot say I’m too surprised given that this has become a polarizing issue. If things don’t get back on the rails soon, I’ll probably just turn off comments rather than deleting ones that are particularly antagonistic.
Tom
It would be sad if you turned off the comments. Although a little rough at times the comments can be and have been valuable. Your commentary has helped me many times especially your comments back to other folks stating their opinions. We have the right to our feelings no matter how diverseive they may be. (Hurrah for the USA!) That being said, you do a great job keeping this blog sticking to the “Disney” facts and keeping politics to a minimum.
I could see the new normal being real time virtual boarding groups like the Stars set up and eliminating future fast pass reservations , it worked before I think it could work temporarily. Also, bag scanners would be a welcome addition as it would eliminate contact between staff and visitor and have a better flow for the security line. Yes I hope folks can chill out with the negativity this is a travel website where folks are leisurely looking for hope. My family and I work in healthcare in South Florida and we can’t wait to go back safely. Thank You Tom you bring us a little hope.
That would be a shame for sure–to turn off the comments. Most people that read your blog are passionate not only about Disney but other topics near and dear to them. Also, sometimes people just need to get things off their chest. A great read as always Tom. Keep up the good work and keeping us informed. Now I think I’ll read your blog about the ducks (; for some lighthearted reading. Great balance!
Commenters here might like to consider how the lifestyle dynamics in Disney World compare to the lifestyle in a place like Manhattan. Unlike most American towns, Disney World pulls mass quantities of people, from all around the world, into shared transportation and public spaces, all day long. Look at Manhattan’s infection rates as a closer indication of the risk versus the overall rates. As a suburban New York resident, I have lost an otherwise healthy 31-year old friend to Covid, nearly lost my mother, who has recently come off of 9-days on a ventilator, and known 9 other people who have been hospitalized with Covid, some of whom are now facing risk permanently reduced lung function. I am as eager to get back to Disney World as any other super fan, but my experience has been worse than the “fear mongering” media has been describing. I would not want my behavior to be any more people at risk.
Thank you for sharing the reality of the situation. Sorry for your loss. People seem to only see recoveries as everything is great. They are not considering the damages to people’s bodies as a result. That those damages make a once healthy person now compromised moving forward. Do stay safe!
Great points, Kelly (and sorry for your loss).
The rest of America does not have the population density of NYC or the mass transit, so it’s no surprise that most smaller towns have not experienced the same firsthand. Walt Disney World is far more like NYC both in terms of density and transit.
You’ve got it Tom, WDW is like NYC and that’s why somewhere amongst the comments I mentioned our trip depends on many things but one very important one is how many will be allowed into the Parks. They can’t function if they’re like our subways. I don’t mind wearing masks but shoulder to shoulder will not work. And thanks as always for your posts. I’ve always enjoyed them but now with this virus I really look forward to them everyday. PS I saw your earlier mention of shutting down comments but I beg you allow them except when they are political. No one should be allowed to push politics here. I enjoy a spirited discussion about the facts and personal stories but please eliminate political opinions.
When they open I’m going. Tired of media, politicians, scientists. Living my life. Let’s go get it open.
Hahaha let freedom ring! Another reason I want to live in Florida. But seriously, Disney has to get this right or they are going to be in a world of hurt. I’m sure they are thinking about engineering in safety and distancing but what a feat for a theme park. No parades, fireworks or character interactions? Its the end of the world as we know it and I don’t feel fine.
Stay well.
I am from Pennsylvania and had to cancel my April Universal trip. We will be rescheduling as soon as all of the parks reopen, including volcano bay. Praying it’s very soon!!
I think Disney will learn a lot from what happens at Shanghai, both in terms of re-opening strategies and how guests react to them. And of course, how well their safety changes work. Of course, there are differences between what the Chinese government is doing to control the virus transmission vs. various US states which will make the comparisons harder.
Completely different thought- I note the responses being posted tend to cluster on the extremes, with at one end people saying the whole pandemic is overblown while others are planning to wait until there’s a vaccine. FWIW, studies of human behavior show that people are fairly good at responding to the odds until the percentage drops below 5% or so, at which point they either significantly over- or under-react to the actual odds.
of all of the things being discussed the single most important priority for Walt Disney world will be safety for both the guests and the cast members everything they do will revolve around that. they will not be pressured by the state of Florida to open before they are confident they can manage and maintain safety for everyone. Florida needs Walt Disney world and Universal Studios and the other theme parks more than they need Florida. there is very likely going to be an abundance of operational changes and protocols put into place and that’s just on stage backstage there will be almost thousands of operational changes that will be made and again it will all revolve around safety. for those who just want to open the parks fully operational that’s a pipe dream I think you can pretty much forget about having a vacation anytime soon if that’s your protocol for returning to any one of the parks that’s not going to happen. every Park will very likely have a slow phased opening that again whatever is open will be open because the parks are confident they can manage the safety of the patrons. if safety cannot be managed then it’s very likely fireworks displays parades theaters 3D attractions and things of the like will remain closed until either this virus is finally vaccinated or somehow there is a way found to manage the crowds to be safe while they ride those attractions or attend those events. I can pretty much promise you there is no theme park that wants to be pasted into all of the headlines of the newspapers all over the United States as being the reason we’ve had a second outbreak of this stupid virus. Shanghai Disney has been closed since January 1st they are just now starting their soft opening phase opening whatever you want to call it the parks are not actually open yet only their downtown Disney is open and that’s limited. Next October 1st is technically Disney’s 50th birthday I can see a phased opening going so slow that they don’t become fully operational until that time. And again that is assuming all safety measures are in place and manageable. this is probably not what a lot of people want to read about or hear or even agree with but the thing that everybody needs to remember is Disney’s brand and the other theme park brands are at stake here and safety is the primary concern.
I don’t envy any politician right now, especially DeSantis. He is getting lambasted. People can say he (and others) are doing an awful job… and he is, from a strictly Covid19 prospective.
We can all say that our health is the ONLY thing anyone should be worried about. Unfortunately, there are other factors that come into play and odds have to be weighed.
I live in Kentucky an have a big family that is expecting on being in Florida in July for our Disney World Vacation an my grandchildren all 7 can’t wait. I hope by then it’s all back to normal an people can come an have a safe an wonderful time. But if not I would prefer to use my tickets next year rather than miss out on any of the attractions or parades. There are 16 of us coming together an I would hope Disney would let us decide since we have bought our tickets way in advance. We are staying hopeful things will work out for the best. We were all there in 2015 for vacation an as Grandparents we promised that if we could afford to go again it would be in 2020 an here we are like everyone else worring about if we’re going to be able to go this year cause we don’t want to miss anything since we paid so much for the tickets & this may be the last time they get to go. Hopefully not but you never know. All we can hope for is everyone to be safe an the parks to work with us as customers to decide on what is happening when it’s our turn to visit Disney World. Everyone be SAFE & HAVE A GREAT VACATION WHEN ITS YOUR TURN TO GO….We as a family are waiting patiently for ours. Enjoy the Magic whenever or wherever you are. GOOD LUCK TO EVERYONE. HAVE A SAFE TRIP TO WHEREVER YOU TRAVEL.!!!
Include DVC as well as well and we’ll be there at rope drop
There are many more valid reasons why the parks need to open… the biggest hurdle is public perception, unfortunately. It’s time the vocal minority and the doomsday of the mainstream media narrative is ignored. The health experts have been wrong from the start, the statistics (infection rates at a fraction of 1% of the population??) don’t back up the constant fear mongering, and there are now studies surfacing showing more people than they thought could possibly have antibodies built up. At the end of the day, businesses cannot stay closed and when it comes to the Theme parks in Central Florida… those parks and the tourism are vital to the survival of the people in Central Fl and the State. As far as who should go, we should all be free to make our own choices – not have overreaching elected government officials (like County Mayors) make those decisions for us. I guarantee you if the parks open, they might not be at capacity but they will be full. And if they open in phases, opening to FL residents only, I also guarantee the locals will go more than they’ve ever gone in their lives. I know my family will. The vast majority would rather enjoy life than live in fear.
Thanks, I’ll tell that to our 5 family and friends that have died just this week. Im sure your stupid opinion will make them feel better. Oh wait…
I lost my grandmother on Good Friday. I’m so sorry for your losses.
Considering we have tested less than 2% of our population that 1% infection sounds pretty bad. 15% of our population is elderly and 3% have comprised immune systems. I am a 20 year DVC member that was there the week the parks shut down and I would rather them go with a safe route than expose the virus to more people as well as their workers. You are absolutely right that we are free to make our own choices and Disney is free to make the choices they believe are safest for all involved.
For the time being and unless the vaccine that is developed is 100% effective, and that is doubtful because there are now reportedly 30 possible mutations, there is not and may never be, a totally safe way to expose oneself to a crowd.
As well, testing is useless at this point. I can test negative today and be positive tomorrow. And taking temperatures is for reasons well stated elsewhere. also generally useless.
The only practical way to respond until either an effective vaccine or herd immunity is masks and as little personal contact as possible. For some this will not be enough and they just won’t go. Perfectly reasonable.
Yes, so please be the first to test it all out for us. Of course you have not even considered the workers. Sad, the country is more concerned about money than the well being of its own citizens.
Minor point. Without money there IS no “Wellbeing.”
Ironic that your handle is Common Sense when you seem to be demonstrating very little of it.
This is a nuanced and unprecedented time and the proper cautions should be taken.
I think it’s telling that almost nobody here has mentioned the safety of the cast members being a concern.
Very few people, other than the elderly, benefit from sitting home and being unemployed. Actually, the exact opposite is true. Most people are far healthier with purpose and activity in their lives. People are eager to get back to a normal life, and even the politicians who now resist re-opening will be forced to accommodate this urge very soon. After people return to work, Disney will have to re-open. Working people need vacations, and if Disney can’t find a way to operate normally people will spend their recreation dollars in other ways. If that happens Disney stock will be doomed. I can’t believe Bob Iger wants that to be his legacy.
It’s really amazing how people are motivated by fear mongers. Many many people have been infected, almost all have little to no serious side effects.
If you are elderly, high risk, or live with someone in those categories then you should act appropriately. If you do not fall into those categories, you should go and enjoy yourself.
That’s like saying there is no need for speed limits or traffic lights. I guess you are fine with drinking and driving as well since it is only a small portion of the population that is affected by that. It is really amazing how clueless many people are.
i have a high risk family member, but even if i didn’t, i would not be willing to sacrifice those people if i was walking around carefree with no precautions and infected someone else who could take it home and infect their loved one. i get very tired of the “only those high risk should stay home”. that’s discrimination. what we are doing now is much more fair for the greater good of all.
Your “greater good” includes people losing their jobs, their life savings, etc. It’s a no-win situation, honestly. Unfortunately, people tend to sit home and look at things only through their own perspective, not taking the time to understand other people’s viewpoints. (For example, feeling bad for cast members—there are probably some who WANT to get back to work!) There is no “one size fits all”! And there are not a lot of facts to back up anyone’s opinions at this point, so arguing is a waste of time. (Okay, some of us have a lot of that right now. At least arguing is entertaining.) The way I look at it, if there is no vaccine, and that’s a real possibility, the only way things get back to “normal” is if we push through our fears (I’ve stopped disinfecting my groceries!) and live our lives the best we can. For some, sadly, that may mean no more Disney trips. I’m probably too old to risk it myself. But hey, low crowds sounds great to me, who knows! Let’s just take things one day at a time and try to do our best for ourselves and our families (instead of telling other people what to do), whatever that “best” may be.
Correct me if I’m wrong, but by your logic because your “high risk” family member can’t go I can’t go either? And you talk about discrimination? So anything your high risk family member can’t do others can’t do either if it MIGHT affect the person?
Have you ever considered taking a course in logical thinking?
As a former WDW Cast Member I adore WDW and I live in the state of #Flmorons. Unfortunately, due to this virus we really have become a small world after all , we are all on a cruise to uncharted territory having no clue as to what’s beyond the next bend. WDW ( and MOST) parks are petri dishes on the best of days…I need my Disney fix, I need my life more
That’s discrimination? Yes, it is. Define discriminate, it’s NOT a dirty word. It’s a logical precaution concerning high risk people. For the millionth time, a virus is not racist or discriminatory. No wonder this country is in such a mess!
Yes!! THANK YOU!! I’ve been saying this for weeks!!
@Diana
Lots of us have.