By: Laura Reece , Travel Agent and Expert
As Florida residents we are continually reminded that Walt Disney World is in our backyard. So how many of us have visited “The Most Magical Place on Earth?” If you’ve not yet been, or haven’t visited in awhile, this year may be the perfect time to go.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios is bustling with several new rides/experiences. If you haven’t been in several years you may have not yet experienced Toy Story Land, Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge, or it’s newest ride, Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railroad.
At Epcot changes abound. A Guardians of the Galaxy roller coaster is under construction, Space 220 restaurant is slated to open soon near Mission Space and the redevelopment of Future World is moving forward. The World Showcase is not left out either! France’s pavilion will contain a ride based on the Ratatouille movie and La Crêperie de Paris will be a new dining experience.
There are some differences when visiting Walt Disney World, such as required park pass reservations in addition to ticket purchase, allowing only one park to be visited each day. Every guest over the age of two must wear a mask, and it cannot be a mask with vents or a gaiter. Guest queues are socially distanced and there is a 25% capacity limit for each park, You can keep up to date on these requirements by checking out WDW’s website or asking your travel agent for the latest news.
Disney characters are slowly coming back to some Table Service meals! On December 16th characters will return to Chef Mickey’s at the Contemporary Resort, Toppolino’s Terrace at Disney’s Riviera Resort will offer a wonderful socially-distanced character breakfast, Chip and Dale’s Harvest Feast at Garden Grill in Epcot will offer the opportunity to see Mickey and Minnie along with Chip and Dale for lunch or dinner.
Sadly, many of Disney’s familiar ‘Enchanting Extras’ are unavailable at the moment including the Bibbidi Boppity Boo Boutique. Those that are open include Savi’s Workshop and the Droid Depot at Hollywood Studios where you can hand-build a lightsaber or your very own Droid. We have every confidence that other special activities will reopen soon. Please reach out to us for up to date information..
Walt Disney World offers a multitude of lodging options for every taste and budget. A few of our favorite on-property resorts include Art of Animation for its family suites; comfortably fitting 6 adult guests and has 2 full bathrooms. AOA also has access to the new Skyliner that is an elevated gondola network connecting AOA to several other resorts and to Hollywood Studios and Epcot.
Coronado Springs Resort might be a little “under the radar” but with its new Gran Destino Tower it should be on everyone’s must-see list. This moderate resort certainly looks more like a Deluxe property. There’s even a club level – the only one in a moderate resort on property!! The view from Dahlia Lounge on the 16th floor gives a 360 view of Walt Disney World. When fireworks resume you will be able to view both Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios displays from this resort.
The Riviera Resort is a new Disney Vacation Club property that opened December 2018. The European theme is sophisticated and yet still classically Disney. Their smallest studios might be the cutest rooms for a single guest or a couple. During the day it’s a cozy living room, and at night a Murphy bed folds down turning the living space into your bedroom. And this resort is on the Skyliner as well!
We also recommend the Four Seasons Orlando has some of the same Disney property perks such as extra Magic Hours (when available) and a dedicated Disney concierge. The recently opened JW Marriott in the Bonnet Creek resort area is just minutes from WDW and Disney Springs. Both hotels offer an elegant respite from the hustle and bustle of the Disney properties.
The Walt Disney Company has worked diligently to update their policies and procedures so their cast members and guests can enjoy all of the attractions and experiences as safely as possible. Should you wish to visit, please reach out – we would be happy to help you plan a magical stay!
Reece Worldwide Travel is a boutique travel agency located in West Palm Beach. A dedicated Disney specialist is available to assist clients with all aspects of their vacations. For more information, and for a free quote email audrey.osuna@reecewt.com
