Remember going places? Going places was fun. You’d gather your family or friends and jump in some mode of transportation together — car, train, plane, whatever — and breathe the same air as other people, until you arrived at some place that wasn’t your home, where you’d do things together and breathe more communal air.
A common argument in favor of visiting Disney World right now is: “The crowds are lighter — it’s the perfect time to go!” Yes and no. While it is true that crowds are being kept smaller than under normal circumstances, it’s only the perfect time to go if you’re comfortable with the fact that you could be exposed to Covid-19.
There’s a lot of new rules in the most magical place on Earth, but they’re in place to keep guests and cast members safe. As someone who could spot high-germ practices long before the coronavirus, some of these new precautions are long overdue common sense measures that make me so happy. In my opinion, many of these simple, sanitary practices protect people under any circumstances and should stay in place! Read on for those ideas:
Has Disney World changed? Ummm, have you seen Cinderella Castle’s new paint job? The new color scheme is as divisive as the opinions on Disney’s reopening. Personally, I’d compare the Castle’s makeover to New Coke . . . and if you’re old enough to understand that reference you know that means I’m just waiting for Disney to realize they made a mistake. Nevertheless, I’d like to see it in person, since many say its makeover must be seen to be appreciated.
What Lara Wrote 
I appreciate this post and I read it before our own trip to Disney and it had me scared but we are back now and I thought I’d write to correct some things because it is inaccurate and you really need to actually go there in order to write about it. First of all, the crowds are definitely lighter and most rides are walk on. So that’s not accurate. I have several pictures of vacant Disney even more less crowded than the preview days.
Also, the cavalcades posed no issues to social distancing. Nor did the rain.
Disney is very safe. I felt safer here than at home in the grocery store etc. you said that it is good for locals but there is no difference in the risk. Disney is very strict about enforcing masks and social distancing. They also frequently disinfect rides and offer hand sanitizer everywhere. Also, there are no refillable cups allowed or cup washing sinks.
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Hi there! Glad to hear your trip went well. It’s important to keep in mind that this piece was part news (updates about the new safety modifications) and part editorial, so some points were opinions of those I followed or myself.
I’ve followed the reopening news coverage extensively, and in actuality many writers did not visit the parks. Unlike those writers, I chose to do a roundup of coverage from people who did visit, as a more fair way to present some first-hand observations. So points about – for example – the cavalcades presenting social distancing challenges, were observations by some of the people I covered. While I do agree with them, it doesn’t mean it will be everyone’s experience (I also shared several examples of things some found well-run while others didn’t…not everyone’s impressions were the same.) Crowds are indeed smaller and wait times shorter now (which I stated in the article) but I noted that these things vary by individual experience, depending on the day and time of a visit.
As I said throughout this piece, I do believe Disney is doing their best, and I agree that Disney is taking great safety precautions, many of which I hope stay in place. My point about traveling to and from Florida is a widely held view, because it is in fact the 2nd highest covid state in the nation, but it’s definitely not a knock to Disney. While a majority of the reopening articles out there honestly have been quite cynical and even critical of Disney, I consider Disney a responsible company and give them credit for the efforts they’re making.
Thanks for reading the article and stay well!!
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Loved this, really nicely written. I totally agree that they need to keep the new cleaner methods (even after everything is over.) We don’t feel ready to visit yet but I enjoyed hearing the perspectives of some other guests. Looking forward to being back in the Disney magic!
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Thank you! It’ll be great if some safer, more sanitary practices come out of this crazy period. And yes, everyone is different so it’s important to go when you feel safest! Thanks so much for reading!
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