Royal Caribbean Relaxes Vaccination Requirements on Most Sailings
It's time for everyone to get back to sea. Starting September 5, Royal Caribbean will welcome aboard all guests, regardless of vaccination status, on almost all cruises sailing from the U.S.
Starting with September 5th departures, guests who are not vaccinated can sail on almost all Royal Caribbean cruises from the U.S. (except itineraries that visit Canada or Bermuda).
Testing protocols will be easier
Starting with September 5th, for U.S. cruises that don’t visit Canada or Bermuda:
Vaccinated guests won’t have to take a pre-cruise test on cruises that are shorter than 10 nights.
Unvaccinated guests age 5 and up will need to test within 3 days before boarding, regardless of cruise length.
Royal Caribbean will begin accepting results from self-administered home tests. See full testing details
Testing Is Now Easier
For U.S. cruises that don’t visit Canada or Bermuda:
Vaccinated guests won’t have to take a pre-cruise test on cruises that are shorter than 10 nights.
Unvaccinated guests age 5 and up will need to test within 3 days before boarding, regardless of cruise length.
Royal Caribbean will begin accepting results from self-administered home tests.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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CDC No Longer Warning Travelers About Cruise Travel
CDC no longer warning travelers about risk of contracting COVID on cruise ships after 2 years
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention dropped its risk assessment of cruise travel yesterday after more than two years of warning travelers against the dangers of contracting COVID-19 on a cruise.
Symphony of the Seas
"CDC is removing the COVID-19 Cruise Ship Travel Health Notice," said spokesperson Dave Daigle.
Travelers can now make their own risk assessment when choosing to travel on a cruise ship, much like they do in all other travel settings.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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Disney Cruise Line to Require All Passengers age 5+ to Be Vaccinated
Disney Cruise Line has updated its COVID-19 Policies. All passengers who are eligible for a vaccine must be fully vaccinated prior to sailing. Plus updates for those who are not vaccine-eligible. Read more…
Disney Cruise Line continues to require all vaccine-eligible Guests (based on U.S. eligibility requirements) to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at the time of sailing, as defined by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Disney Dream at Castaway Cay
Disney Cruise Line will require all Guests ages 5 and older to be fully vaccinated for sailings beginning on and after January 13, 2022.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines fully vaccinated as 14 days after receiving:
a single-dose of an accepted 1-dose vaccine
the second dose of an accepted 2-dose vaccine
the full series of an active (not placebo) COVID-19 vaccine in the U.S.-based AstraZeneca or Novavax COVID-19 vaccine trials
the second dose of any “mix-and-match” combination of accepted COVID-19 vaccines (administered at least 17 days apart)
Disney Dream at Castaway Cay
Pre-Trip COVID-19 Testing:
Guests who are not vaccine-eligible, because of age, must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result (paid for by the Guest) taken between 3 days and 24 hours before their sail date.
Guests ages 5-11 may show a negative COVID-19 test in lieu of being fully vaccinated for sailings that depart before January 13, 2022. The test must be taken prior to sailing taken 3 days and 24 hours before their sail date.
Guests 4 years of age and under must show a negative test prior to sailing taken 3 days and 24 hours before their sail date.
COVID regulations change frequently in the cruise industry. This is why you want to book your cruise with a travel agent who will keep you updated and answer any questions you have.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 12 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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Disney World Updated Social Distancing Policy
Disney World updates social distancing policy
Recently I shared that Florida had approved an update to social distancing from 6ft to 3ft. While Universal Orlando was quick to make the change, Disney World took a more careful approach.
But it now appears that Disney World is going to make the change to 3ft. physical distancing as well.
According the Walt Disney World website, "Temporary adjustments are still in place to promote physical distancing. While we will reduce physical distancing measures for Guests across many areas with a gradual, phased approach, six-feet distancing measures will continue in all dining locations, merchandise stores and in areas where Guests can temporarily remove their masks."
What this really means is that Disney World can increase park capacity. If they cut social distancing in half, Disney can double the amount of people they allow into each theme park.
So it appears that there will be more people in the parks soon but no word on the return of FastPass.
We also know that CEO Bob Chapek is looking to make changes to Disney World’s mask requirements by this summer, in accordance with new CDC guidelines. You can read more about Chapek hinting at a mask update here.
Last week, theme park capacity has increased in all 4 Walt Disney World parks. It is now possible to remove your mask while taking photos outdoors at Walt Disney World as well.
Related:
Disney CEO: Park Capacity Increased - Hints at New Mask Policy for Disney World
"Fireworks View Rooms" Go On Sale at Disney's Wilderness Lodge
How Disney World and Universal are Relaxing Restrictions
Orlando Changes Social Distancing + Updates Mask Policy
For over 12 years Darren Wittko has been helping people save money at Walt Disney World as both, a travel writer and a travel advisor with Magical Vacations Travel. He’s featured in the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren resides in Celebration, FL.
Recent Updates
How Disney World and Universal are Relaxing Restrictions
Disney World and Universal are beginning to make adjustments to COVID-19 restrictions as conditions improve in Central Florida.
If you have been following along with me you might have gotten the sense that some of the COVID restrictions would be changing at Walt Disney World. I also hinted that we might be getting some updates in May and June and so far that has happened at least once. Last night Disney World and Universal Orlando announced that temperature screenings would halt starting May 16, 2021.
Yours truly having my temperature checked at Disney Springs - Walt Disney World. Temperature screenings will end on May 16, 2021.
Orlando officials say that temperature screenings in Central Florida are now a waste of resources when considering the current COVID data.
This is terrific news especially for Disney Springs where the lines for temperature screenings were incredibly long.
I’ve been in the parks every week since July, and I saw only one person get flagged at the temperature check. It was me!
I ran a few miles just prior to going to Epcot and then parked far away on an extremely hot August day. The heat from the parking lot got me. But I was escorted to a cooling tent and I was good to go after a few minutes. So embarrassing!
Universal Orlando Reduces Physical Distancing
Universal Orlando shared that it will reduce physical distancing to 3 feet, essentially going back to the way things were. Most people naturally provide a little space when standing in line anyway. So I’d say physical distancing is pretty much over.
But this is very significant because when the parks cut the distance in half, they can double park capacity.
The state of Florida has already granted permission for both, Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World to open at 100% capacity but neither resort has been able to do so yet. Not with a 6ft distancing mandate.
Some of the lines stretch way out into the parks in a confusing maze of switchbacks. There would be no way to manage lines at 6ft. distancing with increased capacity. The lines would snake around the theme parks.
I think Disney will go to 3ft distancing soon and that both resorts will increase capacity by summer.
Do you really think Disney World is going to kick off it’s 50th anniversary in October at 35% capacity? I highly doubt it.
Masks at Walt Disney World:
Disney has been a little more relaxed in general. Just a few months ago, if you were even just thinking about adjusting your mask, a Cast Member would instantly materialize from the bushes and tell you to wear it correctly. I don’t see that happening as much these days.
The Cast Members who were once tasked with patrolling the parks for mask compliance, while dressed as cheerleaders of course, are a rare sight now.
Masks are still very much required and 99% of the people follow the rules on their own anyway.
Disney World is now allowing guests to remove masks for photos as long as they are outside and standing still. This was a game changer and it really makes people happy.
Fireworks at the Walt Disney World?
While we have no official date on when fireworks will return, Disney World is now selling Fireworks View rooms at Wilderness Lodge beginning in early July.
I wouldn’t be surprised if Disney brings back fireworks for July 4th.
I have a lot of clients who are fireworks or die people and will not come to Disney World until they return. I’m sure Disney is aware of this and wants to get these going again soon. But it likely doesn’t make financial sense when parks are at 35% capacity.
But if Disney goes to 3ft. distancing, which is very likely, and then increases capacity as a result, we might have a pretty good chance of watching fireworks over Cinderella Castle once again.
For over 12 years Darren Wittko has been helping people save money at Walt Disney World as both, a travel writer and a travel advisor with Magical Vacations Travel. He’s featured in the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren resides in Celebration, FL.
Recent Updates
Disney World Provides Update on Face Masks
Disney World Provides Face Covering Update
Today Walt Disney World provided an update regarding the use of masks, and no it’s not the news you think! They simply provided some clarification on masks in general and will be allowing a new kind of mask to be worn around the parks, hotels and Disney Springs.
Disney World is following the CDC recommendation by continuing to practice healthy behaviors while at the theme parks and hotels. Cast Members and Guests ages 2 and up still need to wear face coverings at all times except when actively eating or drinking (while stationary) and maintaining appropriate physical distancing.
Disney World is still continuing with existing health and safety measures like temperature checks, reduced capacity, physical distancing and increased frequency in cleaning.
As of today, Disney World will now allow face coverings that have a clear plastic panel over the mouth. This style mask is commonly used by those who are hearing impaired.
Disney will now allow a fabric face covering featuring a solid plastic panel containing no openings that is attached to the fabric on all sides using tight knit stitching. (image: etsy.com)
The mask must be surrounded by fabric on all sides and have no openings. It must also meet all other face mask requirements set forth by Disney World.
Disney has also shared today it is continuing to work with CDC and its own health professionals regarding the use of face coverings and it will evaluate and adjust the policy in the months to come.
For over 12 years Darren Wittko has been helping people save money at Walt Disney World as both, a travel writer and a travel advisor with Magical Vacations Travel. He’s featured in the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren resides in Celebration, FL.
Recent Updates
Walt Disney World Update: Available Dining Locations
Disney has released the official list of dining locations that will be available during the initial reopening period. If you are traveling in August and beyond, this list will most likely change, as with many policies and procedures.
Be Our Guest Restaurant at Magic Kingdom Park in Walt Disney World will be among those who will reopen to guests on July 11, 2020.
At this time, dining reservations are not available for in-park dining experiences. Reservations will resume at a later date.
When in-park dining initially becomes available, you’ll need valid park admission, a reservation for park entry and a dining reservation to dine at an in-park, table-service restaurant. Dining reservations do not guarantee admission to the park.
Dining Plans cannot be added, but Disney says they will be returning soon.
View available Theme Park dining locations
View available resort dining locations
Walt Disney World asks the Incredibles for Advice
Disney is looking forward to welcoming you back to the magic in just a couple of weeks. Mr. and Mrs. Incredible, their incredible kids and some other familiar faces will show us how to use our powers to help everyone be well. For example:
Walt Disney World Update: The Magic is Returning in Just 4 Weeks
The following is an email from Josh D'Amaro, Chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences & Products:
Walt Disney World will begin reopening on July 11, 2020
With the announcement of the proposed reopening dates for the Disneyland Resort, we are one more exciting step closer to reopening all of our Disney parks and experiences around the world. Throughout the past few weeks, we have reopened Shanghai Disneyland, Disney Springs and several Disney stores, and set dates for both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts, with more announcements coming soon.
We are purposefully taking baby steps during this very intentional phased approach. As one of the first major theme parks to close our operations and the last to reopen, we have been deliberate about keeping the health and safety of our cast, guests and local communities top of mind. And as we look forward to bringing our cast members back to work, and welcoming you back as cherished guests – we know it will take all of us working together responsibly to recapture the magic.
We’re fortunate to be guided by a talented team of professionals who’ve helped us implement a variety of new health and safety measures reflecting the guidance of local health and government authorities. These are designed with both the cast and guests in mind for the unique environments of each of our parks, resorts and stores.
While certain aspects of your visit may change, I assure you the quality of our storytelling, magic of our experiences and the caliber of our cast members has not. We recognize the trust that you have in the Disney brand, and we will continue to earn your trust every day.
My confidence comes in part from all of the hard work our teams have been doing behind the scenes in the past few months… as well as by the early successes we have seen at Shanghai Disneyland, the first of our theme parks to reopen. Guest satisfaction has been extremely high, and we will continue to make sure that as we bring back experiences, our attention to promoting your safety, maintaining your trust and providing unique ways for you to come together with family and friends to create new memories remains high as well.
Walt Disney once said that it takes people to make the dream a reality, and as we prepare ourselves to reopen his original park, I want you to know how eternally grateful I am for all of you who have made Disney parks, stores, hotels, cruise lines, guided tours and vacation properties part of your lives, as well as for the cast members, crew members, Imagineers, and employees who have brought them to life for the past 65 years.
I know this has been a difficult year due to the impacts of COVID-19, but I can’t help but feel a great sense of hope and optimism. And like many of you, I look forward to hearing the laughter and seeing the joy of families making memories together… and I can’t wait to see you when the magic returns to all of our parks and resorts.
Be well,
Josh D'Amaro
Chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences & Products
For current offers, visit SaveAtWDW.com/resorts
Update on the enhancements made with health and safety in mind at Walt Disney World
Throughout its resort hotels, Disney is increasing cleaning in high-traffic areas such as elevators and escalators, handrails, benches, tables, handles, restrooms, and more. Disney has also expanded the number of hand sanitizer locations across the property. Here’s a video that shows more:
At Disney’s restaurants, lobbies, pools, fitness centers, and other public areas, they are looking at adjusting services to enable preventive measures and physical distancing, including reducing capacity where appropriate and implementing enhanced cleaning measures.
Disney is also using technology to aid us in these efforts, with limited-contact services in place at our shopping and dining locations, with Mobile Order, cashless options and Magic Bands.
Enhanced Cleaning at Walt Disney World Resort Hotels
2 Days at Universal Orlando, Here's What it Was Like
I attended two days of previews at Universal Orlando Resort under the new health and safety guidelines and I had a great experience. Walt Disney World Resort will have nearly identical guidelines when it reopens on July 11, 2020 and based on how well Universal Orlando managed things, this just might work out even at Disney!
Here’s a recap of my experience at Universal Orlando with the safety guidelines in place.
All guests must have their temperature taken prior to entering the park. Team Members will also check for masks at this point. If you do not have a mask, you can purchase one at the gift shop near the security checkpoint. Guests who do not have a mask, even those with medical notes, will not be permitted to enter, no exceptions.
Every attraction at both Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios have blue floor markers that help guests visualize where to stand. It’s amazing how many of them there are, I couldn’t help but think how long it must have taken to measure and tape them down. These markers even take into account switchbacks. So, not only are you 6ft. behind the group in front of you, but you’re also spaced appropriately from those alongside of you. This is no joke here, Universal thought of everything.
Guest stand about 6ft apart in attraction lines. It works well, floor makers, pictured above, help show guests where to stand. Having the extra room in line is nice, no annoying people stepping on your heels in line. It’s a first class experience.
Team Members will dispense hand sanitizer for all members of your party right before you board an attraction. I would bring hand lotion as the sanitizer does dry out your skin after a while.
Guests won’t be able to hug the characters for obvious reasons but you can still interact with them. Here Sponge Bob did a number of silly poses for my son and I. He was really playful too, we had no idea what he was doing behind us, but he had my wife, the photographer, laughing hysterically.
We saw other characters getting kids to dance with them, Fortnight dances, the Hand Jive, Chicken Dance all very popular. The kids loved it and parents got some great photos and video. Characters will also pose for photos if you ask, you just have to stand 6ft. in front of them. But in the photos, they appear to be right behind you.
Is it like it used to be? Unless you must give them a hug, it’s still a lot of fun, and in some ways it’s even more fun now because they interact more rather than just pose for photos.
What’s it like having to wear a mask all day in the park? Well, it would be better if we didn’t have to, but it’s not that bad. For me, it beats staying home. You do get used to it. I highly recommend investing in a quality mask, one that fits comfortably and breathes well. I had been using those blue paper masks until I finally got one made of cloth. Wow! What a big difference! I was a lot more comfortable and didn’t mind wearing a mask at all. I didn’t feel too hot or stuffy with the mask on. The only issue I had was that my sunglasses would occasionally fog up when I exhaled into the mask.
If you need a break from the mask, Universal has designated areas where you’re allowed to temporarily remove it. They just ask that you stay 6ft from others while doing so in this area.
So was it worth visiting the parks with these guidelines in place? Absolutely! It really didn’t feel that much different honestly. My family and I were so focused on the experiences, that we didn’t think much about the new guidelines. It just felt great being back in the parks again.
The Simpsons Ride at Univereal Orlando, couldn’t agree more!
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Update on Walt Disney World Reservations
Walt Disney World will begin reopening on July 11, 2020. I know many of you are excited to return to the magic and make new memories. As Disney World takes the next steps forward, it is introducing enhanced health and safety measures reflecting guidance from health authorities and appropriate government agencies.
Here is a summary of what you can expect. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at darren@magicalvacationstravel.com or you can use the Contact link.
Related: No Need For Park Hoppers, FastPass, Dining Plans When Walt Disney World Reopens
Wearing a mask at Walt Disney World: What it's like:
Yesterday I had an opportunity to visit Disney Springs. There are strict guidelines in place to help protect the spread of COVID-19 such as 6 ft. distancing, face coverings, and temperature screenings. There are several other precautions in place as well.
As a travel advisor, I have been getting a lot of questions about wearing masks at Disney so I wanted to share with you some of my experiences so far in an FAQ format.
Disney parks face masks are now available on sites like Etsy and TeePublic. Here’s one from the WDWNT shop featuring Spaceship Earth.
What’s it like to wear a face mask in Florida? Is it hot?
Most of us are used to wearing face-coverings by now so it’s not much of a transition. I didn’t notice that it feels hotter or that is made me uncomfortable. Sure, it would be better without the mask, but having mine on didn’t stop me from having fun.
I do recommend cloth or breathable masks over those light blue paper masks. I find those can get itchy if you wear them for a while. Masks are here to stay, so invest a good one that’s sized right.
ShopDisney has character masks online, available in July. There are few unofficial Disney parks masks on Etsy if you want to show off your Disney spirit. I like these masks from WDWNT.com
What if I need a break from the mask?
It’s no problem if you need a breather. Just find a place to sit down that is isolated. The mask police aren’t out to get you. It’s ok take them off at restaurants to eat, so no one is going to be concerned if you just need a breather. Just be smart, safe, and distance yourself during your break.
Is everyone wearing a mask or just some people?
Everyone must wear a mask to be on property at Disney. There are employees who are actively checking. They will politely remind you if you forget to put yours on but it’s not really a suggestion.
Do kids need to wear masks at Walt Disney World?
Yes, any child over the age of 3 must have a face covering. If you’re concerned about them taking it off or not wanting to wear it, see if you can get them excited about one of the Disney character masks. Allow them to pick one out so they are more committed to wearing it, and offer them a break if they need it.
If you have a question for me that I didn't answer here, feel free to ask!
Disney, Universal Orlando & SeaWorld Submit Plans to Reopen on Thursday
Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld will begin presenting their reopening plans on Thursday, Orange County officials said.
FOX 35 reporter Robert Guaderrama confirmed on Wednesday afternoon with Orange County that the three major Orlando-area theme parks will begin presenting their reopening plans on Thursday.
While all three theme parks will make presentations tomorrow, only Universal Orlando will speak publically. Disney World and SeaWorld will speak at future presentations next week, according to Guaderrama.
Darren Wittko
Vice President To Discuss Reopening Florida on May 20th
Vice President Mike Pence will visit Orlando, FL on May 20, 2020.
According to ClickOrlando, Vice President Mike Pence will travel to Orlando and meet with Gov. Ron DeSantis to discuss Florida’s phased economic reopening.
Pence will join in a roundtable with hospitality and tourism industry leaders to discuss their plans for reopening. Disney Springs will begin a phased reopening on the same day.
Related:
Disney Springs Phased Reopening, What You Need to Know
Employee Union: Disney Owned Shops, Restaurants Will Open May 27 at Disney Springs
On May 8th I shared with you that Disney Springs will begin the phased reopening of Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. but only non-Disney owned retailers and restaurants are expected to open their doors at first.
World of Disney Store to open May 27, 2020 at Disney Springs, Walt Disney World
In an interview with the Hollywood Reporter, Eric Clinton, president of UNITE HERE, Local 362, shared that his members are preparing to return to work on May 27th, when the Disney-owned restaurants and stores will officially reopen.
"Some are anxious to get back because the unemployment system [in Florida] is completely broken," Clinton said. On May 20, only sub-contracted shops will be open in the Disney Springs shopping and dining complex. The next phase will start seven days later when Disney retail shops, such as World of Disney Store, and Disney eateries reopen,” the union president said. For that, an additional 59 custodians will report back to work on May 24.
Related
How Disney Springs Will Reopen Safely on May 20
Walt Disney World Begins Phased Reopening May 20th with Disney Springs
How Disney Springs Will Reopen Safely on May 20
Eric Clinton, president of UNITE HERE, Local 362 on Wednesday told The Hollywood Reporter that park staff have a "mixed bag of emotions" about returning to work: Potential infection is a major concern, but so is not being able to pay rent.
Phased reopening of Disney Springs on May 20, 2020 with limited non-Disney owned retailers and restaurants.
"Some are anxious to get back because the unemployment system [in Florida] is completely broken," Clinton said. On May 20, only sub-contracted shops will be open in the Disney Springs shopping and dining complex at Walt Disney World. The next phase will start seven days later when Disney retail shops, such as World of Disney Store, and Disney eateries reopen, the union president said. For that, an additional 59 custodians will report back to work on May 24.
Disney is treating the safety of both guests and employees with the utmost seriousness, explained Clinton, highlighting some of the precautions that will be put in place. All guests and employees will be required to wear masks. Disney will provide employees three washable masks. Guests will have their temperature checked, and plexiglass dividers have been installed at registers. Guests will swipe their own payments cards, as they will no longer be handled by employees. And custodians will be retrained to pay attention to high-touch areas.
Clinton would not speculate about when the rest of the resort, namely the theme park itself, might reopen, but he did point to the Monday reopening of Shanghai Disneyland Park, noting "what you see there is a lot of what you'll see here." The sprawling China park requires all guests and staff wear masks, has line queues and rides marked for one-meter social distancing and is allowing far fewer guests daily (below 24,000) than the maximum capacity, which is 80,000.
Related
Employee Union: Disney Owned Shops, Restaurants Will Open May 27 at Disney Springs
Walt Disney World Begins Phased Reopening May 20th with Disney Springs
Walt Disney World Begins Phased Reopening May 20th with Disney Springs
Disney Springs will begin a phased reopening on May 20, 2020. Here's what to know before you go. Other areas of Walt Disney World Resort remain closed, including theme parks and Disney Resort hotels.
Upon reopening, theme parks, Disney Resort hotels, restaurants, attractions, experiences, and other offerings may be modified and will be limited in capacity and subject to limited availability or closure, based on direction from health experts and government officials to promote physical distancing.
Disney Springs will reopen on May 20, 2020 at Walt Disney World Resort
Disney Springs will begin to reopen in a way that incorporates enhanced safety measures, including increased cleaning procedures, the use of appropriate face coverings by both Cast Members and Guests, limited-contact Guest Services and additional safety training for Cast Members.
Disney stated it will apply learnings and ideas from leaders in the health and travel industries.
During the initial opening phase, Disney Springs will have limitations on capacity, parking and operating hours. Given this unprecedented situation, Disney is asking for everyone’s patience and understanding as they navigate through this process as responsibly as it can.
Additional protocols and procedures may be announced closer to the opening date. As May 20 gets closer, please check DisneySprings.com for the most current information on operating hours, locations and safety procedures.
Related:
How Disney Springs Will Reopen Safely on May 20
Employee Union: Disney Owned Shops, Restaurants Will Open May 27 at Disney Springs
Orange County Florida Task Force to Discuss Reopening Plan Today
According to WFTV9, The Orange County Task Force is meeting twice Tuesday to figure out when it will be safe to reopen as the clock ticks on Florida’s stay-at-home order.
By Thursday, Gov. DeSantis has to decide what businesses will open and what will say has to stay closed.
Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings outlined three things he’d like to focus on this week: Getting the community ready for businesses to open, getting the county read for public buildings to reopen and more testing.
He is waiting for the governor to decide if the state’s stay at home order will be lifted before he can lift the one of his own.
“That order goes until April 30,” said Demings. “We are waiting direction from the governor whether or not he will extend the order or not (and) hopefully we will get that information in the next day or so and so until that time we are still under that order.”
This could have a profound impact on Disney Springs which is rumored to be the first part of Walt Disney World to reopen.
Florida Task Force Hints at Walt Disney World Reopening Steps
According to Spectrum News 13 here in Orlando, Florida Governor Ron Desantis met with a sub-committee tasked with developing a plan for reopening Central Florida theme parks on Friday, April 24th.
Florida is rapidly approaching Phase One, of the White House’s 3-phase reopening guidelines, slightly ahead of predictions.
The special committee is working to create a timeline for reopening Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando based on current health data and to determine the first potential steps.
Although there is limited information on what the special committee recommended today, reports suggest that the opening of the 2 theme parks will be gradual and will likely first open to local and Florida residents first.
The special committee is expected to have final recommendations sometime next week.
There is no current timeline that suggests when Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando will reopen at this time.
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