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Disney Business Disney Parks Other

Disney Is Only A Small Piece Of A MUCH Bigger Problem

We’ve been super focused on all the ways that the global health crisis is affecting The Walt Disney Company. It’s hard not to be!

Walt Disney World

But Disney really is only a piece of a much bigger problem. We’ve talked a little bit about the way that air travel has been affected, but the global tourism industry as a whole is taking a massive hit. We’re taking a look at all the ways international travel is being affected as well as what the industry is doing to fix things. Let’s dive in!

Revenue is crashing down.

Possibly the most obvious consequence of a shutdown to global travel is that revenue has dropped dramatically. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, the global health crisis will result in a projected loss of $2.1 trillion in revenue for major global travel companies. The U.S. industry alone is facing a projected loss of 4.6 million jobs through May.

When’s Epcot Reopening?

These numbers aren’t too surprising when you consider that Disney could see losses of up to $21 billion through the end of 2022. Such a drastic interruption to regular business processes is leaving its mark on not just the Disney Parks, but the tourism industry as a whole.

Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland

The director of the Commerce Department’s National Tourism Office, Isabel Hill, noted, “This is the worst time of the year for this to happen. This is the season—spring and summer—when the travel and tourism [industry] makes a significant amount of [its] revenue.”

Furloughs and job cuts are the reality for now.

Beyond revenue losses, the industry is also seeing a very real effect on its workers. Furloughs and job cuts are the norms right now for a multitude of companies and unfortunately, some of these may end up being permanent if companies can’t rebound.

According to National Geographic, approximately 75 million jobs will be lost with major travel companies internationally if the crisis continues for a few more months.

Get ready to head down Main Street U.S.A.!

Disney itself furloughed the majority of its employees from the theme parks. Now, some of those employees are expected to be able to return to work, but some third-party businesses on Disney property may not be so lucky. We’ve seen some of these businesses lay off employees without the promise of return. These companies have to rebound financially to be ABLE to bring back their employees, which may be impossible.

Tourism industries falter, and so do the economies they drive.

Now, there are unfortunate ramifications to the tourism industry beyond those that just affect the companies and their employees. Tourism is a MAJOR component of the economy for many cities, states, and countries. If tourism suffers, it may be harder for these larger organizations to recover.

Florida Fresh Booth

On a small scale, this is illustrated by the Orlando theme parks, which stand as a major driver of the Orange County and Florida economies. On a larger scale, the U.S. Travel Association represents the industry that generates $2.6 trillion in output and provides 15.8 million jobs for the country.

Companies are seeking government aid to stay afloat.

Now, just like the Walt Disney Company, the global travel industry is not helpless in the face of these complications. Many companies have turned to their governments for help, and some are receiving it. In the U.S., Congress passed a $25 billion airline rescue package to help to stabilize the airlines that are a vital piece of the economy.

Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante ©Patina Restaurant Group

The travel industry typically does not have to prepare for dips in the market as much as other sectors do. According to National Geographic, many international airlines like Delta and United Airlines had less than two months of extra capital. In a crisis climate, that money could have been used up quickly.

Orlando International Airport

Roger Dow, CEO of the US Travel Association explained, “This [aid package] is important and we want [the recovery] to speed up. Most of the travel industry [consists of] small, mom-and-pop businesses. With small business loans we can help keep their doors open.” It isn’t only the travel giants that need help. Hotels and restaurants can benefit from small business loans too.

Travel is suffering everywhere, but there’s hope.

Travel is dealing with some seriously tough times, but there is hope. Even as travel professionals predict that the ramifications of the crisis could be six or seven times worse than they were after 9/11, things are looking up in some parts of the world.

©WaltDisneyImagineering on Instagram — Shanghai Disneyland reopening

As we’ve seen with the reopening of Shanghai Disneyland, China is beginning to recover as the crisis begins its decline in that region of the world. Perhaps a similar pattern will follow in the rest of the world over time. Even in the U.S., one of the most affected countries in the world, travel saw some expansion for the first time in nine weeks at the beginning of May, according to US Travel.

Individual companies and the industry as a whole are looking towards the future.

Just like Disney is cushioning the blow within the company, the industry is attempting to do the same. Ultimately, these companies are looking to the data to determine a return to business, but in the meantime, they’re taking action.

Disney-themed Cloth Face Masks ©Disney

Luckily, that government aid we talked about should help. The companies on the receiving end of federal grants and loans have taken a big step towards stabilizing and weathering the crisis until demand returns. Plus, the industry has a plan for itself as well. They’ve launched the #traveltomorrow campaign to encourage people to come back to travel — when it is safe to do so — per the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).

Cast Members Cleaning in Galaxy’s Edge

The UNWTO has even proposed a 23-step plan to help solve some of the current problems in the industry. The steps are broken up into three solid goals: managing the crisis and mitigating the impact, providing stimulus and accelerating recovery, and preparing for tomorrow. You can see the full report here. 

So, it’s a tricky situation. A crisis of this kind is unprecedented. This global situation will have long-lasting impacts not just on tourism, but the world as a whole. Disney and the tourism industry are doing what they can to weather the storm and will attempt to recover as the world shows signs of improvement.

Here at DFB we’re covering the ins and outs of how Disney Parks and the Walt Disney Company as a whole are responding to this situation. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter to get the latest information in your inbox ASAP.

What do you think about the global tourism industry? Tell us in the comments! 

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Featured, News, #traveltomorrow, Airline Rescue Package, Airports, Disney Parks closures, furloughs, Global health crisis, Tourism Industry, travel, Travel indstry, UNWTO

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Disney Parks Other

#DisneyMagicMoments: Sunrise Views from Cars Land in Disney California Adventure Park

Sunrise Views from Cars Land in Disney California Adventure Park

To offer a moment of peace and Zen, we’re sharing more #DisneyMagicMoments with everyone at home. Today, we are revisiting (and rewinding) a story from our “Disneyland Resort at Dawn” video series on the Disney Parks Blog! This series takes you to the wee hours of the morning when the parks are just waking up.

In the video below, watch the sunrise over Cars Land in Disney California Adventure park. Soak up the towering Cadillac Range mountains, the undisturbed sounds of Route 66 and natural beauty of the Ornament Valley.

Have you ever noticed the 6 mountain peaks look like tail fins of classic Cadillac models from 1957 to 1962? The mountains are inspired by the iconic Cadillac Ranch public art installation along Route 66 near Amarillo, Texas.

Check out more of these types of stories on our special #DisneyMagicMoments page on the Disney Parks Blog!

From our friends at disneyparks.disney.go.com
Filed Under: Disney California Adventure Park, Disneyland Resort, DCA, DLR, Video

Categories
Disney Food Disney Parks Other

Perfect On The Go Combo From Wine Bar George In Disney Springs!

wine bar george disney springs

The perfect combo DOES exist and is at Wine Bar George! 

This dream combination consist of french fries and a wine slush, delicious! And to make it even better, you can choose between 4 different pairings called Frozen & Fries!

They are available at The Basket in Wine Bar George at Disney Springs. 

Buffalo Fries with Freaujolais

wine bar george disney springs

French fries with buffalo sauce, blue cheese and chives and a slush made of Beaujolais, vodka and raspberry. Yummy!

Togarashi Fries with Friezling made with Dole Whip Lime

wine bar george disney springs

French fries made with a Togarashi seasoning blend, thai chili sauce, scallions and lime paired with a slush made of Selbach Riesling, vodka and lime.

Queso Fries with Frosé

wine bar george disney springs

These french fries are covered in a four cheese sauce with some roasted peppers and cilantro paired with a refreshing rosé, vodka and strawberry slush.

California Fries with Frozcato made with Dole Whip Pineapple

Last but no least the California fries feature avocado cream, bacon bits and onion and you can have them with Frozcato made of Moscato, vodka and Dole Whip Pineapple.

Please note these pairings are sold separately so you can mix them up with your choice of fries or wine.

The fries are $8 and the frozen drinks $13. We hope you enjoy it!

Credit: Wine Bar George

From our friends at chipandco.com
Filed Under: Disney Springs, Disney Food, Disney Snacks & Treats, Walt Disney World, disney snack, French Fries, loaded french fries, WDW, Wine Bar George, wine slush

Categories
Disney Food Disney Parks Disney Recipes Other

#DisneyMagicMoments: Cooking Up the Magic — First Time on Disney Parks Blog – Recipe for Totchos from Woody’s Lunch Box at Disney’s Hollywood Studios – YEEHAW!

#DisneyMagicMoments: Cooking Up the Magic — First Time on Disney Parks Blog – Recipe for Totchos from Woody’s Lunch Box at Disney’s Hollywood Studios – YEEHAW!

My partner in all things Disney food, Alex Dunlap, recently shared the delicious Grilled Three-Cheese  Sandwich recipe from Woody’s Lunch Box at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Guess what else Woody packed in his lunch box that’s easy to make at home? Potato barrels coated with
beef and bean chili, gooey queso sauce, and crunchy corn chips finished with sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions – Yep, TOTCHOS!

Super simple and highly recommended to make for watching “Toy Story” on Disney+. If feeling the need for even more cheese, how about making Grilled Three-Cheese Sandwiches AND Totchos for a Toy Story marathon? Sounds perfect to me!

Totchos from Woody’s Lunch Box at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Totchos from Woody’s Lunch Box at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Serves 6

Chili with Beans

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon coarse salt
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Ground cayenne, to taste

Queso Sauce

  • 2 cups jar cheese sauce
  • 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with chilies

Totchos

  • 1 (2 pound) bag frozen potato
    barrels
  • 1 1/2 cups corn chips
  • Chili with Beans
  • Queso Sauce
  • 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 6 tablespoons sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onions

For Chili with Beans:

  1. Brown ground beef in a 5-6
    quart Dutch oven over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain off excess grease.
  2. Add onion and garlic and
    sauté for 5-7 minutes, until onion is translucent.
  3. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato
    sauce, kidney beans, chili powder, and cumin. Simmer for 20 minutes. Add salt.
  4. Add black pepper and
    cayenne, as needed.
  5. Keep warm until ready to
    serve.

For Queso Sauce:

  1. Place cheese sauce and diced
    tomatoes with chilies in small saucepan. Cook over low heat for 10 minutes,
    until warm.
  2. Keep warm until ready to
    serve.

For Totchos:

  1. Cook potato barrels
    according to package instructions.
  2. Divide potato barrels into 6
    bowls. Place 1/4 cup each of corn chips, chili with beans, and queso sauce on
    top of each bowl of potato barrels.
  3. Top each bowl with 2
    tablespoons shredded cheese, 1 tablespoon sour cream, and 1 teaspoon green
    onions.

Note: This recipe has been converted from a
larger quantity in the restaurant kitchens. The flavor profile may vary from
the restaurant’s version. As a reminder while preparing this recipe, please
supervise children who are helping or nearby.

Click here for a print-at-home version of this recipe!

Ava, a 13-year-old junior chef and daughter of Disney
photographer Matt Stroshane, made this recipe in her home kitchen with the help
of her personal sous chefs (mom and dad) and official taste tester (her
11-year-old brother, Adam). Check out Ava’s video below.

Stay connected with Disney
Parks Blog
 for more delicious
Disney recipes and be sure to share the magic with other Disney fans using the
hashtag #DisneyMagicMoments. Happy cooking!

From our friends at disneyparks.disney.go.com
Filed Under: Disney Dining, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Walt Disney World Resort

Categories
Disney Food Disney Parks Other

What’s New at Disney Springs: Dogs Wearing Face Masks, Four Pounds of Loaded Fries, and MORE!

Welcome back, friends! We’re here with another What’s New at Disney Springs!

The Landing

Now that the dining and shopping district has reopened its third party locations, we’re here to share all the new and exciting things happening again. And, we’ve got plenty of food, merchandise, entertainment, and construction updates to share with you so let’s dive right on in!

Disney Springs Entertainment Update

Parking

If you’re driving from I4 West, you currently cannot exit and then go directly into the Orange Garage like you used to be able to.

Disney Springs Parking

Right now, guests have to turn right, go down a ramp, and then U-turn at the designated light to get into the Orange Garage instead.

Disney Springs Parking

So, keep this in mind the next time you’re visiting Disney Springs!

Aerophile

Disney’s resident hot air balloon is open to guests again! At this time, you cannot walk around the hot air balloon during your flight on the Aerophile and availability is dependent on weather conditions.

Disney Springs

Tickets are $20 per person for those ages 10 and older, $15 for kids ages 3-9, and FREE for toddlers ages 2 and under.

Pin Trading

While Pin Trading isn’t currently available, the Cast Members we spoke with said that there may be Pin Trading on specified boards near the Marketplace Co-op and other locations in the future.

Marketplace Co-op

However, there likely won’t be any personal Cast Member pin pads or trading off of lanyards at this time.

Live Entertainment

At the moment, live entertainment isn’t taking place in Disney Springs. Cast Members are unsure of when it will return.

Disney Springs Food Update

STK Orlando

Cheers to a NEW week, friends! You can toast to the reopening of Disney Springs at STK Orlando with their happy hour specials right now.

STK Happy Hour

Plus, the restaurant opened up an outdoor bar with to-go drinks and menu items so you can grab and go.

STK Orlando Outdoor Bar

There is also indoor dining (that gets pretty busy!) where you can get drinks at designated tables in the bars upstairs and downstairs.

STK Orlando

Right now, STK Orlando’s hostess is inside of the restaurant whenever you check-in or walk up.

The Basket at Wine Bar George

While Wine Bar George is THE spot for many eats and drinks, we made our way over to its to-go area at The Basket to grab their NEW fries and frozen combo! Each basket of fries comes with a full POUND of loaded goodness for $8, while the drink options are $13 each. They aren’t sold together so you can mix and match your choices, but The Basket has suggestions for the best pairings.

Wine Bar George Menu

We picked up the Freaujolais while we were there…

Freaujolais

…along with ALL the fries available! That means we snacked on FOUR WHOLE POUNDS of Buffalo

Buffalo Fries

Togarashi, California, and Queso Fries — just for you guys! ?

Wine Bar George Fries

While you’re there, you can also pick up the NEW Teal and Lime Corkcicle that comes with YOUR choice of a frozen drink when you purchase it!

New Corkcicle

Right now, there aren’t any tables for The Basket diners, so you’ll have to find another spot to snack on your treats!

Planet Hollywood

Planet Hollywood has reopened! The restaurant is currently selling bottles of water and beer (Bud and Bud Light only for now) outside for guests to purchase.

Planet Hollywood

West Side Starbucks

Although West Side Starbucks originally reopened with Mobile Order only, the coffee shop has now opened a few of its registers for guests to purchase snacks and drinks.

West Side Starbucks

There is still no seating inside, so guests cannot hang around to sip on their Frappuccinos.

West Side Starbucks

Vivoli il Gelato

While Vivoli il Gelato was supposed to open along with the rest of the Patina Restaurant Group spots, its opening has been delayed. A Cast Member said that it would hopefully reopen within the next week.

Vivoli il Gelato

And, the Cast Member told us there will hopefully be specials coming to Vivoli soon to celebrate the gelato shop’s 5th anniversary on June 10th.

Joffrey’s Coffee

Perhaps one of the most EXCITING pieces of news that we have for you guys happens to be that FACE COFFEE HAS RETURNED (and the crowd goes wild)!

Joffrey’s Bakery Case

When we were at Joffrey’s Coffee earlier in the week, you could only get the pre-loaded designs like Mickey printed onto your latte or cappuccino.

Latte Art Sign

But, now you can use the Ripples app on your phone or Joffrey’s tablet to upload your selfie too!

The Polite Pig

If you’re looking for a spot to pick up a face mask in Disney Springs, The Polite Pig is selling their version with the restaurant’s logo for $12.50 at the register. But Polite Pig told us these are selling out quickly!

The Polite Pig Mask

While we were at The Polite Pig, we noticed that the Spinach Salad had been removed, but the Chili was back as a side! The Baked Beans are now vegetarian, and watermelon rind has also been added to the Tomato and Watermelon Salad. There are also two new bourbon flights that you can get at The Polite Pig’s Bourbon Bar too!

The Polite Pig Menu

The Private Barrel Bourbon Flight comes with Elijah Craig, Wellers 107, and Blantons for $20. And, The Three Little Pigs Flight comes with WhistlePig’s Piggyback six year, Farmstock, and 10 year private barrel for $33. And, now onto the BIGGEST eats and drinks! We tried the classic Grapefruit Margarita

Grapefruit Margarita

…to pair with the NEW Smoked Shrimp and Grits and Creamed Florida Corn! (IT HAS ALL THE CHEESE.)

Our Meal!!

Plus, we wrapped things up with the lovely Orange Blossom Pie that tasted like sweet orange juice!

Orange Blossom Pie

Morimoto Asia Street Food

The menu at Morimoto Asia Street Food has seen a lot of changes for the reopening. The menu has been removed from overhead and you can pick up a copy can by the cash register instead. Since the quick-service spot has reduced its menu currently, the ribs are gone along with the self-serve condiment bar. But, your server will give you any cutlery, chopsticks, napkins, and sauces you need.

Morimoto Asia Street Food

There were no sodas available for purchase when we went because their machine was broken. However, we could still purchase bottled water, draft beer, and other canned or bottled drinks.

We also noticed the BBQ Pork Tenderloin Rice Bowl has been switched over to a BBQ Beef Tenderloin Rice Bowl instead.

Morimoto Asia Street Food

During our visit, we tried the Spicy Pork Ramen and BBQ Pork Bun to get our pork fix for the day!

BBQ Pork Bun

When you’re visiting Morimoto Asia Street Food, be aware that the number of tables has been reduced, hand-sanitizing stations are available in the dining area, and plexiglass has been installed between guests and the cash register.

Morimoto Asia

We couldn’t visit the Morimoto area without dining inside of Morimoto Asia, of course! When you arrive at the restaurant, there is a stand-by line to the right of the main entrance and a line for guests with reservations to the left.

Morimoto Asia

They are currently offering a reduced menu that you can view with the QR code posted. Right now, there is no sushi bar or alcoholic bar service.

Morimoto Asia Sign

While we were there, we tried the Sparkling Belvedere and Forbidden Highball cocktails…

Forbidden Highball and Sparkling Belvedere

…and feasted on the Cauliflower and Cheese Springs Rolls (with beer cheese sauce!!)…

Buffalo Beer Cheese Sauce

Buri Bop

Buri Bop

…and Beef Lo Mein! And, boy, were they all AMAZING!!

Beef Lo Mein Noodles

Pizza Ponte

As a health and safety precaution, there is one-way traffic through the restaurant that exits in the gift shop.

Pizza Ponte Exit

There are no new menu items currently, but Pizza Ponte removed a few of its sandwiches to reduce its menu.

Pizza Ponte Menu

The pizza joint is using contactless payments currently with its menu available to view overhead or on your device using a QR code.

Pizza Ponte

The restaurant also added some barriers at the pizza display so Cast Members slide your food through a little window in the plexiglass to pick up.

Pizza Ponte

Sunshine Churros

Chocolate and minty goodness? Yes, the Thin Mint Churro is planning to return to Sunshine Churros!

Sunshine Churros

Although it wasn’t available during our visit, the Cast Members said that it should be back soon.

City Works

City Works may not be open yet, but we did see a drinks-to-go sign and people working outside.

City Works

We’ll keep you updated when we learn more about City Works reopening.

Disney Springs Merchandise Update

Happy Hound

To start this merchandise section off the RIGHT way, we had to show you the adorable dog bandana display that Happy Hound was showing off! They have face masks, you guys.

Happy Hounds

This would be a great way to bring your best friend a little present from Disney Springs! ?

Happy Hounds Bandanas

Bandanas or “doggie face masks,” you can pick these up at Happy Hounds!

Kiehl’s

Kiehl’s has reopened to guests so they can look at the shampoos, soaps, and more in the store!

Kiehl’s

Plus, you can say hello to this Funky Skeleton!! Bill Nye, is that you?

Kiehl’s

The store isn’t automatically offering samples, but you may be able to request them nicely from a Cast Member.

Kiehl’s

Tommy Bahama

Tommy Bahama has reopened once again to guests! While you’re looking around the store, you can find the Honolulu Company Cookies that Boutiki offers over at Disney’s Polynesian Resort. (YUM!)

Tommy Bahama

At this time, Tommy Bahama isn’t selling face masks, but the store said that could always change.

Tommy Bahama

American Threads

American Threads is… well, WAS selling face masks for $15. However, the store is currently waiting on another shipment and even looking into making different ones with straw holes.

Face Masks at American Threads

There are also no dressing rooms available right now, but you can return clothes with the tags on and receipts within 14 days.

Sunglass Hut

If you’re looking for some new sunnies to wear in the Florida weather or back home, Sunglass Hut has those ADORABLE Disney Ray-Bans!

Disney Ray-Bans

You can try on the glasses still, but you must put them in the designated bins afterward to let Cast Members sanitize them.

Sanitizing Bin

Sosa Cigar

Sosa Cigar has also reopened to guests and you are still able to smoke currently.

Sosa Cigar

Disney Springs Construction Update

M&M Store

If you’re a big chocolate fan like we are, we bet you’re SUPER excited for the new M&M Store coming to Disney Springs! There isn’t too much progress on construction…

M&M Store

…but there’s a QR code available for “exclusive offers.” We scanned it and it led us to a newsletter sign-up (we’ll let you know if we find free M&Ms). ?

M&M Store

Even with only select stores and restaurants open so far in Disney Springs, there are still PLENTY of opportunities for delicious food and great shopping if you decide you decide you’re ready to visit. Certain Disney-owned locations are scheduled to reopen this week, so we’ll keep you updated with more food, merchandise, entertainment, and construction updates!

Where are you heading to first the next time you’re in Disney Springs? Let us know in the comments below!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Counter-Service, disney dining tips, Disney Entertainment, disney merchandise, Disney News, disney parks, Disney Springs, Featured, Snacks, Table-Service, Walt Disney World, aerophile, American Threads, City Works Eatery and Pour House, Disney, disney construction, disney dessert, disney dining, disney drinks, disney food, Disney merch, Disney merchandise, disney news, disney parking, disney restaurants, disney snacks, disney springs, disney springs hot air balloon, disney springs reopening, disney treats, Disney World, happy hound, joffrey’s coffee, kiehl’s, m&m store, Morimoto Asia, Morimoto Asia Street Food, pin trading, Pizza Ponte, Planet Hollywood, sosa cigar, STK Orlando, sunglass hut, Sunshine Churros, The Basket at Wine Bar George, The Polite Pig, tommy bahama, Vivoli il Gelato, west side starbucks