Understanding Disney's Latest Room Offer
Every Disney World has a little catch. This one is no different.
Yesterday Disney removed the 2-free ticket days offer and issued a room discount with nearly identical dates - running from July 11 - September 29, 2021. The discounts range from 10% to 25% on select Disney World hotel rooms. You can read more about this offer here.
Walt Disney World offers always have a little catch and this one is no different.
Yesterday Price-Watch was running to see if this offer could be applied to my clients’ existing reservations and to see if it works out better than the ticket offer.
I noticed that this particular room discount appears to be targeting upgraded room categories such as Preferred Rooms, Pool View, Courtyard View, Theme Park View and so on. There are more opportunities to save on these upgraded categories than on Standard View rooms.
The room discount favors upgraded room categories.
For example, if you already booked a Standard View room, you can upgrade to a Courtyard View room and apply the discount, but your package price will cost more.
This room discount favors upgraded room categories
In the above example, my client is already booked in a Standard VIew room at rack rate. To take advantage of the room discount, they would need to upgrade to a Courtyard View room. Even with the discount, the total package price would be more. It’s a good deal if you want to stay in a room with a nicer view, otherwise its best to keep the reservation as-is.
When I see rooms offers work this way, it usually means Disney needs to unload the more expensive rooms. Standard Views rooms are likely selling well but there isn’t enough interest in the higher priced rooms.
I’m also noticing that there are numerous blockout dates which tells me that Disney knows exactly where it needs more heads in beds.
Disney will release the broad offer dates but not the individual dates that the offer is blocked out.
So, finding a range of dates when the offer is valid, is really hit or miss.
If there’s at least 1 night that’s blocked out in your travel dates, the entire range of dates will show as unavailable. So you might have to be flexible and search different combinations of dates and resorts to take advantage of this offer. Or you can ask me to do it for you!
My clients trust me to find them the best available rate and to help make sense out of these offers when they are released.
See more about benefits of booking your Walt Disney World vacation with me here.
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
First Look: Disney's Newest Hotel - The Swan Reserve
Another update on the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve Hotel.
More details have become available for the Disney World’s newest hotel. The official name will be “The Walt Disney World Swan Reserve.” Is it just me or does Disney choose very long names for hotels? I’m looking at you “Villas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Kadiani Village.”
Marriott , who will operrate The Walt Disney World Swan Reserve sent me detailed images of the hotel’s interior so I thought it would be fun to share them with you.
No word yet on rates or discounts and reservations are not yet available.
As with most Disney World hotels, room rates will be based on view with an almost overwhelming number of options. Disney World management has been very good at optimizing rates based on ever single hotel room’s view. If the room has even the slightest view of something other than a tree, they will charge more for it.
Room Categories at The Walt Disney World Swan Reserve:
Traditional View
Traditional Epcot View
Traditional Hollywood Studios View
Pool View
Signature View
Signature Epcot View
Signature Hollywood Studios View
Signature Pool View
The Walt Disney World Swan Reserve will have 200 standard guest rooms and 150 suites. Suites can accommodate families of 6-10 people.
Guests staying at this hotel can walk to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Epcot, and of course Fantasia Gardens Mini Golf.
I feel like Fantasia Gardens will soon become a pool or a parking lot. It’s sits on prime real estate and I can’t imagine Disney still thinks this is best use of the property.
Above: The Swan Reserve as of late April 2021. Expected opening date is “July 2021.” It stands at 15 stories tall, similar to Disney’s Contemporary Resort but not nearly as big.
This will be the view from the Walt DIsney World Swan and Dolphin hotels which are across the street.
This is the view from World Drive, one of the main routes through Walt Disney World. If you’re on on world drive, you definitely can’t miss it.
Swan Reserve will feature a modern entrance and lobby with a gold, teal and grey color pallet. You’ll notice this color scheme throughout the resort, even in the guest rooms.
Standard rooms will have two queen beds or 1 king bed. King bed rooms will also have a daybed. Walt Disney World Dolphin rooms have 2 double beds and the Walt Disney World Swan rooms have two queen beds.
Standard room with two queen beds. The Swan Reserve will have 15 floors, 200 rooms and 150 suites.
King bed room with traditional view, king bed. The king bed / daybed combo is also utilized at the Four Seasons - Walt Disney World. It works well! With one bed tucked away, you’ll have a lot more space.
Swan Reserve family suite entrance, dining space and living room.
Family suites, depending on size, will sleep between 6 and 10 guests.
Swan Reserve suite living room. Rooms have a teal and gold theme. The teal greens tie in with the exterior colors used on the Swan and Dolphin hotels plus these colors will be used in the public spaces.
Suite - master bedroom
Suites will feature a spit bath so multiple people can get ready at the same time. I love the clean look of the tile floors, bright lighting the raised sink.
Guests will be able to enjoy a lounge and coffee bar, yet to be named.
Table service dining will be at the Mediterranean Restaurant.
Mediterranean Restaurant will be Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The pool at Swan Reserve will include a poolside outdoor covered restaurant and bar.
Stay tuned for more updates, I expect to have rates and availability within the next few weeks. As soon as I can get inside the actual hotel, I’ll post the photos here on the SAVEatWDW.com Blog.
If you have any questions or comments, use the space below!
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
Orlando Changes Social Distancing + Updates Mask Policy
Orlando
Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings provided updates to Orlando’s mask and social distancing mandates and outlined a 3-phase plan as to when masks may no longer be needed.
The first phase, which starts today, calls for a change in social distancing from 6 feet to 3 feet in all settings.
Phase 2 will go into effect when 50% of Orlando’s population, age 16 and older, has received the first dose of the vaccine. Face covering mandates for outdoors will be lifted for everyone at that time.
Orlando is on track to reach Phase 2 in about 3 weeks.
Phase 3 begins when 70% of the population age 16 and older has received their first dose of the vaccine or Orlando’s 14-day rolling positivity rate is 5% or below.
In Phase 3, all mandates will be lifted. Mask buring party at my house!
Currently the positivity rate in Orlando is trending downward and is at 8%, according to Orange County officials.
I know, we’re all wondering about Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando. I wouldn’t expect any big changes right away at the theme parks.
Keep in mind that Florida has given Disney World and Universal Orlando the green light to open at at 100% capacity but neither resort has done so. Disney says its parks will be at about 35% capacity through at least September. I think it will be much sooner.
It’s more likely that the parks will go to 3ft. physical distancing before dropping any mask requirements.
With 3ft physical distancing, the lines in the parks won't stretch out as far and that means they can safely increase capacity.
Of course we will have to see what happens, especially over the next few weeks. My guess is that we will have an update from at least one of the theme parks.
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
Port Canaveral Cruises Likely to Restart in Mid-July
CDC says cruises may be able to resume starting in Mid-July. Disney Cruise Line posts offers for early August 2021
USA Today has reported that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention sent a letter to the cruise line industry, including Disney Cruise Line, about possibly letting cruises set sail in Mid-July.
Disney Cruise Line posts offers for Early August 2021 Bahamian Cruises
“We acknowledge that cruising will never be a zero-risk activity and that the goal of the CSO’s phased approach is to resume passenger operations in a way that mitigates the risk of COVID-19 transmission onboard cruise ships and across port communities,” said Aimee Treffiletti, head of the Maritime Unit for the CDC.
The letter also said no test cruises would be necessary if 98% of crew members and at least 95% of passengers are vaccinated.
CDC spokesperson Caitlin Shockey gave a more specific timeline. Cruises could begin passenger voyages from the United States in mid-July, depending on cruise lines' pace and compliance with the CDC's Framework for Conditional Sailing Order.
Disney Cruise Line is planning to restart Bahamian cruises from Port Canaveral starting in early August, 2021. I already have special offers posted on the Disney Cruise Line page where travelers can save 25% on fares.
If you have any questions about a Disney cruise from Florida, contact me here or use the comments below.
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 Updated Park Pass Reservations. Here's a Helpful Tip!
Here’s a tip for finding Disney World park reservations
You may notice that May and June Park Pass reservations for Walt Disney World just opened up slightly. This is due to a new policy Disney has implemented to help make theme park availability accessible to more people.
Walt Disney World Park Reservations
Has Disney increased park capacity? Not yet, though I think that’s coming soon.
Disney is now sweeping the system of cancelled package reservations.
If you had made a Walt Disney World vacation package and then later cancelled it, your theme park reservations remained in the system unless you manually went in and removed them.
Disney’s reservation system wasn’t yet smart enough to automatically cancel the park reservations along with the package cancellation.
Defunct park reservations were clogging up the system and making the parks appear to be sold out when they actually had availability.
Starting today, Disney will sweep the Park Pass system of all theme park reservations that are attached to cancelled package reservations.
Of course, if you hold tickets without a hotel reservation or have an annual pass, your park reservation will not be cancelled. The sweep only looks for park reservations that are attached to cancelled packages.
If you modify your package dates, Disney will give you 48 hours to change your Park Pass reservations to your new dates. After 24 hours, your park passes will automatically go back into inventory starting at midnight.
Disney World Park Reservation Tip
So we know that midnight is when Disney performs the sweep. If you need a park reservation and can’t get one, check early in the morning to see if any availability has been placed back into inventory. This would be your best chance of finding what you need.
There’s a lot to know about traveling to Walt Disney World these days. This is a great time to book with someone who can help you navigate all the changes and updates.
To get started, click the button below!
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
Two Disney World Benefits Expiring Soon
Disney World updated ticket offer and the regular cancellation policy will resume
Earlier this week I posted an an article about why I thought the Disney World Summer Offers Might Not Be Available Much Longer. As expected, Disney World just modified the 2 free ticket days offer.
Also, the flexible cancelation policy is about to expire and it doesn’t look like Disney World will be extending it this time.
Ticket Offer Will Expire Sooner Than Expected
The new travel dates for this offer have been updated, it’s now July 4 through September 25, 2021. It was previously valid most nights from January 8, 2021 though September 25, 2021. This means the offer is now unavailable for the remainder of April and all of May and June.
Offer Expiration Date: I also learned that Disney will be pulling this offer on May 2, 2021. Want to see how much you can save? Click here and I’ll send you a quote before it expires.
When looking at the Disney World park reservation calendar, you’ll see that the theme parks are nearly at capacity through July. I’m sure this has a lot to do with the revised offer dates and the new expiration date.
The good news is that you can book travel through late September and still get the the offer. Just book by May 2, 2021.
In this article, I explore the difference between ticket offer and the spring room discount. See which offer is better.
Flexible Cancelation Policy to End
As part of the reopening process Disney World guests can modify or cancel their reservations up to the day of arrival without penalty through April 30, 2021.
This was a great idea. We didn’t want a sick person traveling to Walt Disney World just because they couldn’t get a refund on their vacation.
Staring May 1, the regular cancelation policy will take effect. If you book a package reservation, you’ll have until 30-days prior to arrival to cancel. Inside of 30-days you’ll forfeit the $200 package deposit. If you make a modification inside of 30-days to arrival that results in the package price going down, Disney may impose a $50 change fee.
On room-only reservations and Magical Vacations Travel Exclusive Offers, you have until 5-Days prior to arrival to cancel for a full refund. The cancellation policy for Walt Disney World will be outlined in your quote from me.
When you book your Disney vacation with me, you’ll have an advisor who stays current with important news that may affect your travel plans. See all the perks you’ll enjoy here.
Magic Kingdom Being Prepped for the 50th Anniversary at Walt Disney World
Main Street Confectionary to get Magical Enhancements
Disney World shared that many areas of Magic Kingdom Park are getting prepped for the 50th Anniversary. The infamous Main Street Confectionary on Main Street USA will get a refresh along with The Chapeau (the place where you can find your favorite Mickey Ears).
The Main Street Confectionary and The Chapeau will close on March 29, 2021 for refurbishment to prepare for the 50th Anniversary Celebration at Walt Disney World starting October 1st, 2021.
These two retailers will find a temporary home on Main Street USA starting on March 29th. Disney has not shared a completion date just yet.
I also learned that several Fantasyland attractions will soon get some fresh paint and other magical enhancements to celebrate the 50th.
I do not expect any Fantasyland closures based on what Disney has shared with me.
So far, Cinderella Castle received a new paint scheme along with gold leaf and bunting. The carousel in Fantasyland is being given fresh paint as we speak.
The entrance signs to Walt Disney World and the parking booths have also been repainted with new gold and royal blue paint schemes.
The Walt Disney World Railroad - Main Street USA station is currently under renovation, I can’t wait to see how it looks when it’s finished!
We also learned that Ratatouille will open on October 1st!
Keep and eye out for more updates as Disney World ramps up for the 50th starting on October 1, 2021!
And speaking of the 50th Anniversary Celebration, I have several offers available for fall 2021 if you’d like to be there to experience it for yourself.
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
Time is Running Out on the Disney World Spring Room Offer - Book by March 15, 2021
Disney World spring room offers expire on March 15, 2021
Time is running out on the spring room offers for Walt Disney World. You must book your reservation by March 15, 2021. Summer and possibly even fall offers are likely to come out next, but there is no official news on this. Here’s a look a the spring offer:
Oh, and I also have several Agency Exclusive Offers available for spring, summer, and fall travel dates ready to go right now!
Walt Disney World spring room offers expire on March 15, 2021
NOW - APRIL 17, 2021
Walt Disney World Offer Posted by Darren Wittko
Save up to 35% on rooms at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels
Save 35% at Disney Deluxe Villa and Disney Deluxe Resorts
Save 25% at Disney Moderate Resorts
Save 20% at Disney Value Resorts
Book through March 15, 2021
Disney Visa Vacation Package Financing Offer
▸ 0% APR for 6 Months on Select Disney World Packages + Save 10% on select shopping and dining.
Book with confidence: room deposit is fully refundable up to 5-days prior to arrival.
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
Before & After Pics: The New Look of Disney's Polynesian Village Resort
First Look: The New Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
A major refurbishment is currently underway at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort at the Walt Disney World in Florida.
This Disney World Deluxe Resort is getting an updated monorail station, a dramatic new entrance and guest rooms are getting a brighter color palate and modern furniture.
Prior to this update, I used to think the Polynesian felt very 1970’s, like Magnum PI could walk by at any time. While the Poly has gotten a number of refurbs over the years, designers still went with the same dark colors.
They tried to brighten the rooms with a green accent wall, but it just didn’t do it. And compared to other luxury hotels in this price category, The Polynesian was definitely showing its age.
But I think they got it right this time, though! Let’s take a look…
Guest Room Before
DIsney’s Polynesian VIllage Resort (Before)
Guest Room After
DIsney’s Polynesian VIllage Resort (After)
Rooms at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort get a brighter, fresher color palette. The heavy, dark brown furniture was replaced with sleek, light wood pieces, accented with orange and aqua colors in the room. The brown carpeting was replaced with wood flooring laid out in a herringbone pattern that not only adds style, but reflects light.
DIsney’s Polynesian VIllage Resort
Rooms received new patterns and textures inspired by the Walt Disney Animation Studios film “Moana.”
DIsney’s Polynesian VIllage Resort
There are a few hidden (and no-so-hidden) references to some of the characters in Moana. Can you spot any?
Reimagined guest rooms will have a fold down sofa, additional storage, and a Keurig coffee brewer.
Bathroom Before
DIsney’s Polynesian VIllage Resort (before)
Bathroom After
DIsney’s Polynesian VIllage Resort (After)
Disney Imagineers used ocean sand as the color pallet inside the bathrooms: floor tile, vanities and wall color were all inspired by different sands found on the beaches in Hawaii.
You’ll notice that the shower curtains were replaced with glass doors, making the bathrooms feel even bigger now.
So what you do you think of the new look? You can check it out for yourself this summer when the resort reopens.
There are a number of offers available starting as early as July 11. Fall offers are also available. See how much you can save now!
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
Leave A Legacy Returning to Epcot
How to find your tile at the new Leave A Legacy wall at Epcot
Leave A Legacy is returning to EPCOT! With the transformation of the EPCOT main entrance area, the original Legacy sculpture has been removed, but Leave A Legacy lives on in a beautiful new setting just outside the park – in a bright new color, too!
My wife and I have a tile commemorating our 1-year wedding anniversary, so I’m very excited to see this return.
To search for a tile at the new location, you can use your smart device to scan the QR code at the Leave a Legacy display. This opens up the tile finder search feature, which can provide the coordinates for a tile’s location. You can also visit the EPCOT guest Relations team for assistance.
Do you have a Leave A Legacy tile? What does it commemorate? I’ve love to know!
COVID Testing Near Walt Disney World
COVID-19 Testing at Walt Disney World
Some travelers may need a to show a negative COVID-19 test upon returning home after a visit to Walt Disney World to shorten their quarantine period. Fortunately, there are two testing sites right near Disney World: one that does free COVID tests, and one that does paid COVID testing. Florida has been the model state in providing testing since the pandemic began, so it’s a good idea to get your test done here.
Each state has a different policy on how to quarantine when returning from Florida, or any other state. These policies can range from guidelines to executive orders and they change all the time. I recommend that you go to your state’s official COVID-19 website for the most current information on travel advisories.
Free COVID Test at Walt Disney World
Disney Maingate Complex, 3010 Maingate Lane, Kissimmee
If you’re staying at Walt Disney World or in the Kissimmee area, you can get a free COVID test right on Disney property. The Florida Department of Emergency Management operates a testing site in a Disney-owned office complex, just outside Disney’s Animal Kingdom, off Route 192 (Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy).
Disney transportation is not provided. Use Uber or Lyft if you do not have a car.
Testing is free
Appointments are not accepted
You do not need to have symptoms for a test
Results take 15 minutes
Helpful Tips: You’ll stand in line in, a parking lot with limited to no shade. The line can be anywhere from 15 minutes to 2 hours. Get there 20-30 minutes prior to opening so that your wait is shorter. Bring a fully charged phone. There are two lines, one for individuals and one for groups / families. The line for individuals moves faster. If you don’t have children with you, consider using the individuals line.
Paid COVID Testing Site Near Walt Disney World
2940 Mallory Circle, Suite 204-A, Celebration, FL 34747 (407) 698-3330
Website: https://www.urgentcare247orlando.com/covid-19-coronavirus
Urgent Care 24/7 Orlando, just outside Disney World offers rapid COVID-19 testing, results come back with in 15 minutes. You do not need to have symptoms for a test however, if you do have symptoms or if you test positive, Urgent Care 24/7 has medical providers available for consultation and treatment.
Appointments can be made for testing and are recommended
Insurance is not accepted
There is a screening process before you enter. Test may be given in your car or outdoor area if you have symptoms.
Related COVID-19 Information:
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.
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Recent Updates
3 Postponed Disney Movies You Probably Forgot About
3 New Disney Movies You Forgot About
Remember going to the movies? The last movie I saw in theaters was Frozen 2 way back in November of 2019. Today I bring hope to Disney movie fans, however, here are 3 postponed Disney movies that you might have forgotten about. They are set to hit theaters and Disney+ in 2021.
Raya and the Last Dragon
Release March 5, 2021 / Original date Nov 25, 2020
Raya and the Last Dragon created a lot of excitement when audiences first saw the trailer. The story comes from a Southeast Asian-based myth of a female warrior seeking to restore balance to her kingdom by finding the last dragon. The movie is full of action and classic Disney storytelling. Raya and the Last Dragon’s release date is set for March 5, 2021. It will also drop on Disney+ for $29.99.
Black Widow (Marvel Studios)
Release date May 7, 2021 / Original date May 1, 2020
Black Widow was supposed to be the spring 2020 blockbuster, but it was delayed several times as Disney and Marvel tried to find the right time to bring it theaters. Right now we’re being told May 7, 2021. Marvel’s Black Widow, whenever it opens, will be the first big Marvel Studios production since Spider-Man: Far From Home. This is supposed to be the send-off story for the character, so If you’re Black Widow fan, bring the Kleenex.
Free Guy (20th Century Studios)
Release date: May 21, 2021 / Previous release date: July 3, 2020
Free Guy brings video game energy to real life as Ryan Reynolds plays a random NPC (Non-Playable Character) who discovers he’s living in a video game and decides to start breaking the rules. Think Truman Show but on steroids. Ads for Free Guy can be found all over Walt Disney World including Disney’s Hollywood Studios, bus posters, and even at Magic Kingdom.
Disney’s Jungle Cruise
Release date: July 30, 2021 / Previous release date: July 24, 2020
With a reboot of Pirates of the Caribbean still uncertain Jungle Cruise is Disney’s attempt to create another blockbuster franchise based on a classic theme park attraction (let’s pretend The Haunted Mansion and Tower of Terror films never happened).
I think Disney is on to something with Jungle Cruise, there was a lot of excitement from Disney theme park fans when the trailer first appeared on Instagram. Dwane Johnson’s character might not be as unique as Jack Sparrow, but the odd-couple storyline seems like it’s going to work. It arrives in theaters on July 30. A Disney+ release date has not yet been announced.
Which Disney movie are you most excited about? I’d love to know! Use the comments section below to get the conversation going.
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
Festival of the Lion King Show Returning to Animal Kingdom
Festival of the Lion King Returning to WDW
There has been a steady increase of travelers to Walt Disney World since reopening last summer. I’m in the parks every week and I can honestly say that Disney is able to manage safety protocols well. To date, there have been no outbreaks traced back to Disney World, according to the Orange County Dept. of Health.
Over the next few months, more hotels will be reopening, a new version of Extra Magic Hours is coming, Blizzard Beach is reopening, and I’m hearing that a few more things will be coming back as well. I can’t share them just yet, but stay tuned.
Festival of the Lion King will return this summer with modifications appropriate for the current environment.
And this week I learned that the Harambe Theatre at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park will once again host Festival of the Lion King this summer.
When it returns, Festival of the Lion King will be presented in a modified format to be mindful of the current environment. There will be adjustments to the show on stage and backstage, including updates to choreography to allow for appropriate physical distancing.
Disney says it will also adjust how the audience is seated, in line with other theater-based experiences at Walt Disney World Resort.
A socially distanced audience at Frozen Sing-Along Celebration at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Frozen Sing-Along at Hollywood Studios is a perfect example of how well Disney can manage theater performances. Just be sure to arrive at early, with reduced capacity theaters fill up fast.
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
New Florida Resident Offers for Universal Orlando Resort
2021 Florida Residents Offers Now Available
Today I updated the Universal Orlando Florida Residents page. There you’ll find several new offers that have become available for travel dates now through September 2021, including spring and summer.
There are two notable offers for travel dates between January 3 and February 11, 2021. One requires a 4-night stay at a Universal Orlando hotel and the other has no length of stay requirement. Rates are lower on 4-night or more stays.
There are also several Agency Exclusive Offers available for Universal Orlando from Magical Vacations Travel, especially in the month of May.
When you live in Florida, you know to always be on the look-out for deals. As a Florida resident, knowing the best times of year to visit Universal Orlando means you can treat yourself to extra savings, be the first to get excellent benefits, and to make the most of beautiful weather.
With so many offers to choose from, it can be difficult to know which offer works best for you. I’d be happy to explore your options and find you the best available rate.
Get started on your Universal Orlando vacation right now!
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 Magic Band Update for 2021
Magic Bands Won’t be Free in 2021. So, Now What?
Going to Walt Disney World in 2021? Don’t expect a complimentary Magic Band in the mail. Disney World announced earlier this year that it will no longer include Magic Bands with room reservations. So now what? According to Disney World, new features will be added to the My Disney Experience mobile app that will make the Magic Band practically unnecessary.
UPDATE December 19, 2020: Disney World provided an update regarding Magic Bands: Beginning on January 1, 2021, Guests who do not purchase a Magic Band can use a Key to the World card for hotel room entry, Theme Park entry and charging purchases to their hotel room. Key To The World cards will be provided at the Front Desk at no additional cost.
I have received a number of emails from clients who love Magic Bands and still want to use them on their upcoming trip. Good news! You still have options!
Purchase a Magic Band
Disney World isn’t discontinuing Magic Bands, yet, but they won’t be included for free with your reservation. You can purchase Magic Bands from several places like ShopDisney.com, Walt Disney World Resort retailers, and there’s even an option to purchase them in your My Disney Experience account when you link your hotel reservation. They range in price from about $12 to $35, depending on the design.
Reuse a Magic Band From a Previous Trip
Magic Bands aren’t reservation specific, they simply point to the data you have in your My Disney Experience account. So if you have a new reservation linked to your MDE account, your old Magic Band will now work on that new reservation. Magic Bands have an internal battery that generally lasts for about 15-20 months. Just be sure your Magic Band is still listed as “active” in your MDE account. Unless you manually deactivated it, chances are it’s still ready to go. You can call Disney Internet Help to verify: 407-WDW-HELP
Magic Bands can still be purchased, but they are no longer included in 2021 Resort Packages.
Use a Complimentary Admission Card
If you don’t have an old Magic Band and prefer not to buy one, you can ask for a complimentary key card. Cards work in a similar fashion, but physically resemble a plastic credit card or driver’s license.
Will Magic Band be Necessary in 2021?
According to Disney, starting in 2021 the new mobile app will feature innovative new offerings. We still don’t know what those are but Disney World already has so many helpful features going through the app. For example, you can place a mobile order for food, make dining reservations, view park maps, unlock your hotel room door, and scan and pay for items in a store while you shop, just to name a few. There’s even talk of Disney adding its own version of Uber Eats where you would be able to have food delivered from select Disney World restaurants.
While you might still like the idea of a Magic Band, I think Disney World is headed in a very different direction. It could be that the Magic Band becomes obsolete, and in many ways, it already is.
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
Military Discounts for Walt Disney World 2021 - Important Update!
2021 Military Discounts for Walt Disney World
Military discounts are now available on Walt Disney World Resort hotels and tickets. The discount is just slightly better than the Early 2021 offer available to the general public.
2021 Military Promotional Resort Room Only reservations are available at select resorts. Some exclusions are Art of Animation Little Mermaid rooms, all 3-Bedroom Villas, and campsites. You can book now for travel starting January 1, 2021 through December 17, 2021.
Spouses of military service members members also qualify if they are able to present valid and active U.S. military IDs in the absence of active or retired military personnel.
Military rates are not always the best way to go. There could be better value in other offers, especially if you need theme park tickets. Contact me and I will help you determine the best deal available for your family and travel style.
Walt Disney World Military Discount on Tickets:
Members of the U.S. Military can choose between a 4-day, 5-day or 6-day Disney Military Promotional Ticket. Tickets must be purchased by February 14, 2021 and can be used through September 26, 2021.
Walt Disney World Military Ticket Prices:
6-Day Military Promotional Tickets
Purchase now through December 18, 2020 (extended through February 14, 2021*)
With the Park Hopper Option: $301 plus tax
5-Day Military Promotional Tickets
Purchase now through December 18, 2020 (extended through February 14, 2021*)
With the Park Hopper Option: $283 plus tax
4-Day Military Promotional Tickets
Purchase now through December 18, 2020 (extended through February 14, 2021*)
With the Park Hopper Option: $265 plus tax
Park Pass Reservations and Military Tickets
Tickets can be purchased at a military base or at the Shades of Green Resort at Walt Disney World. You want to make Park Pass reservations as soon as possible so picking up your tickets at Shades of Green is risky.
Also, there’s a good chance you won’t be able to make Park Pass reservations on the same day you pick up your tickets because My Disney Experience can take up to 24 hours to update. I do not recommend waiting until you arrive at Walt Disney World to make your Park Pass reservations, you should make them as far in advance as possible.
Therefore, you may wish to purchase regular-priced tickets in 2021 and just forgo the discount. Please keep in mind that having a hotel reservation at Walt Disney World and/or theme park tickets does not guarantee admission to the parks, Park Pass reservations are still required.
▸ See all offers for Walt Disney World
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 Park Hopping Will Work in 2021
How to Park Hop in 2021
Disney recently shared that Park Hopping will return to Walt Disney World. Here’s how Park Hopping will work in early 2021.
Park Hopping returns to Walt Disney World in January 2021
Park Hopping will be available starting on January 1, 2021
Guests can Park Hop starting at 2 pm daily. Disney may adjust this to an earlier time once the test phase is over.
Once you’re inside the first park, you will be able to make a second park choice using the My Disney Experience app.
Park-to-park transportation will be operating. No word on the Epcot monorail, specifically, but buses will be running for sure.
You will not be able to experience Star Wars Rise of the Resistance if Disney’s Hollywood Studios is your second park for the day.
The ability to park hop returns to Walt Disney World in early 2021.
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
First Look: Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew Coming Soon to Disney Springs
Everglazed Donuts coming to Disney Springs
Get ready for yes another sweet spot at Disney Springs in Walt Disney World. Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew will bring over-the-top donuts that will offer specialty food and beverages at Disney Springs West Side.
Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew will be located adjacent to Splitsville, near the Orange Parking Garage.
The overall design of this sweet spot will have a unique spin on a classic donut shop featuring graphic pops of color, iconic signage, and a beautiful outdoor seating area in the “donut garden.
Guests will be able to view donuts being made through the windows of the open kitchen where hot and fresh donuts will be made daily.
Everglazed Donuts Menu: The menu will feature cold brew or nitro-infused chilled coffee, lattes, and coffee cocktails.
Let’s not forget the donuts! Evergalzed will offer hand-crafted yeast and cake donuts where the focus will be on simple concoctions with the ability to showcase chef-inspired flavors and toppings.
An opening date has not been announced yet.
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.
More Updates
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Epcot This Holiday Season!
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Epcot This Holiday Season
Walt Disney World announced that the Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays will take place Nov. 27-Dec. 30, 2020. Here are the Top 5 reasons to come to Epcot this holiday season. There’s even a chance to see some Disney characters in their holiday finest.
2020 Epcot World Showcase Cookie Stroll
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At this year’s festival, enjoy a global celebration of seasonal cuisine at the Holiday Kitchens, located throughout World Showcase at Epcot, including three kitchens inside World ShowPlace Events Pavilion, located near the Canada pavilion. Indulge in festival favorites like the slow-roasted turkey from the American Holiday Table, pork schnitzel at the Bavaria Holiday Kitchen or the beef bourguignon from the Yukon Holiday Kitchen.
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As you sip, savor and sample your way through the Holiday Kitchens, you may spot some of your favorite characters – dressed in their holiday best – traveling through World Showcase to spread holiday cheer. Keep an eye out for Queen Anna and Elsa in the “Frozen Holiday Promenade,” and Mickey Mouse and his pals making merry on the “Mickey and Friends Holiday World Tour.” And we can’t forget about Santa Claus! When Santa visits EPCOT during this festive time of year, he’ll take a grand horse-drawn tour around World Showcase, calling out happy holiday wishes to all.
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Be sure to visit America Gardens Theatre across from The American Adventure pavilion to enjoy the sounds of the season from Voices of Liberty, who will share favorite carols through their incredible harmonies. Mariachi Cobre will bring to life Las Posadas, a celebration of Mexican holiday customs through music and dance.
Over at the Canada pavilion, JAMMitors will grace the Mill Stage with their playful percussion. And, enjoy the shopping, sights AND sounds inside World ShowPlace as fan-favorite JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season will bring you on an uplifting journey through R&B, gospel, contemporary and traditional Christmas and holiday music.
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To share holiday traditions from around the world, everyone’s favorite snowman from Frozen invites kids of all ages on the new “Olaf’s Holiday Tradition Expedition,” a festive adventure around Epcot’s World Showcase to round up holiday traditions Olaf misplaces. You can purchase the expedition map at Mouse Gear, Disney Traders or World Traveler at International Gateway, then look for hidden Olafs throughout the World Showcase pavilions. Once you find them all, you’ll receive a gift worth melting for (while supplies last).
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The Holiday Cookie Stroll returns this year, with a complimentary cookie as a reward for completing the confectionery collection. Epcot’s cookie creations will include treats from 5 different locations throughout the park. You can also pick up a cookie jar to collect all of your cookies in, available for purchase at the Holiday Markets throughout World Showcase, while supplies last.
The holiday season across the rest of Walt Disney World Resort begins Nov. 6, 2020, with seasonal celebrations at Magic Kingdom Park, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, Disney Springs, and Disney Resort hotels.
Several room offers are available for November and December, check them out on the Walt Disney World Offers Page
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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.
The Polynesian is an island paradise and a transportation goldmine—if you know how to map your room. From the Moana-themed room updates to the legendary King Kamehameha Club fireworks views, here is the ultimate guide to mastering the loop.