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Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

As the Walt Disney World theme parks prepare to welcome guests again, it’s only natural that there are questions GALORE!

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

Early Morning at Cinderella Castle

There are a LOT of new guidelines and policies to keep up with. Don’t worry if you’re still super confused, because we’ve got ya covered…literally!

Wearing a face covering is going to be one of the BIGGEST adjustments guests will have to make when visiting the Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom when they reopen on July 11th and Epcot and Hollywood Studios when they reopen on July 15th.

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

Disney-themed Cloth Face Masks ©Disney

But before you go, you may be wondering: Who has to wear a face covering? When do you have to wear a face covering? What even IS a face covering?!

Who has to wear a face covering?

A recent update confirmed that Cast Members and ALL guests ages TWO and up will be required to wear a face covering while at the Walt Disney World Resort.

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

American Threads Face Masks at Disney Springs

According to Disney, you need to bring your own face mask.

Where do you have to wear a face mask?

We already know you need to wear a face mask while visiting Disney Springs, and you’ll have to wear them all around the theme parks. Additionally, hotel guests will have to wear face masks while in common areas of the resort, according to a Disney rep.

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

Disney will require guests to wear face masks unless eating or swimming while at a resort hotel

As previously reported, you will NOT have to wear your face covering when dining and swimming! Guests also will not be required to wear a mask while in their own rooms.

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

Luna Park Pool

In the proposal Disney offered to the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force, it was mentioned they may be offering “relaxation zones.”

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

Guests with Face Coverings in Disney Springs

These are spots “in and around and off the property” where folks can remove their face coverings for a while and breathe in that fresh Florida air. Universal Studios introduced similar locations when they reopened, called URest areas. 

What counts as a face covering?

That’s two big questions out of the way! But you might still be wondering… what counts as a face covering at Disney World?

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

Cast Member with required face mask

The CDC has great information regarding face coverings! But since we’re here for Disney World, it’s important to note that the Disney World website currently states the following in regard to face coverings. They must:

  1. Fully cover an individual’s nose and mouth and allow the guest to remain hands-free
  2. Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
  3. Be secured with ties or ear loops
  4. Be made of breathable material, either disposable or reusable

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

© Amazon

So, what constitutes as a face mask?!  Scarves tied snugly around your face, gaiters, buffs, disposable or reusable masks (including bandanas), and handmade or homemade masks are all examples of what is allowed Disney World.

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

Monsters Inc. Bandanas

When it comes to religious coverings, the most important thing to note is that your face and nose MUST be covered and your covering should fit snugly against the side of your face. If you are unsure whether or not your religious covering will be approved as a face mask, it’s best to bring an alternative with you JUST IN CASE! And it’s important to note that Disney can change its face covering policy at any time!

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

Face Masks at American Threads

One quick note here to remember is that the rules regarding costumes and masks still apply! Sorry to those who thought they would be able to get away wearing their Darth Vader masks as face coverings! Costume helmets/masks, ski masks, or anything else that covers the entire face (excluding religious coverings) are also BIG no-nos at Walt Disney World.

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

Disney Springs Planet Hollywood Server

A Cast Member we spoke with said face shields are also an acceptable face covering since they cover the nose and mouth. They haven’t seen many folks wearing face shields, but they’re allowed.

While it’s been reported that Disney Springs has a very limited amount of disposable masks for those who show up without one, it’s SUPER important to note that you shouldn’t rely on them! Definitely bring your own!

What will happen if you refuse to wear a face covering?

Face coverings will be required…but what will happen if you refuse to wear one? With increased security and social distancing squads on the lookout for face coverings, it’s HIGHLY likely that those without proper face coverings or those disobeying the guidelines will be quickly addressed! So be sure to cover up!

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

Guest Relations Cast Member in Disney Springs

In compliance with Osceola County law, you WILL be required to wear face masks at Disney World once it reopens. Don’t let that get you down, though! Use your mask as just another Disney accessory! If you’re stuck picking a fun mask and need a little inspiration, check out these ADORABLE face coverings!

Are there other questions you have about face masks in Disney World? Let us know!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Disney News, disney parks, disney resorts, Disney Springs, Featured, Walt Disney World, 2020 magic kingdom pin, Animal Kingdom, coronavirus, coronavirus disney parks, coronavirus disney world, Disney Face Masks, disney hotels, disney parks reopen, disney parks reopening, Disney World, Disney World health measures, Epcot, face coverings, face masks, face masks at Disney World, health and safety measures, health and safety procedures, Hollywood Studios, mandatory face masks, relaxation zones, social distancing

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Disney News Disney Parks

BREAKING NEWS! Disneyland Resort JUST Announced Their Proposed Reopening Dates

Disneyland and Downtown Disney have been closed indefinitely due to the current health situation.

BREAKING NEWS! Disneyland Resort JUST Announced Their Proposed Reopening Dates

Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle

And while Disney World will begin reopening their parks beginning July 11th, Disneyland hadn’t announced their reopening date…until now.

Disneyland Proposed Reopening Dates

Today, it was announced that Disneyland Resort has proposed to begin a phased reopening. If approved, Downtown Disney will open July 9. Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure will open July 17 (which happens to be the 65th anniversary of Disneyland Resort). Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel &  Spa and Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel will reopen July 23.

BREAKING NEWS! Disneyland Resort JUST Announced Their Proposed Reopening Dates

©Disney

Along with reopening dates, Disneyland has also proposed a few of their reopening procedures, many of which are very similar to what Disney World will implement when its parks reopen in July.

At this time, Disney World has paused ticket sales and hotel reservations. And once the parks reopen the Disney Dining Plan, FastPass+, fireworks, character meet and greets, extra magic hours, and more when the parks reopen. Disney World will also implement a new reservation system.

BREAKING NEWS! Disneyland Resort JUST Announced Their Proposed Reopening Dates

Disneyland Entrance

Disneyland Theme Park Reopening Details

Disneyland has JUST shared that they too will implement a brand new reservation system to assist with park capacity limitations. According to Disney, this new reservation system will require ALL guests including Annual Passholders, to obtain an advance reservation for park entry. These are of course, subject to availability. There will be limitations on parking and operating hours as well. 

Disneyland Resort has also shared that ALL new ticket sales and Annual Passport sales and renewals are paused for the time being.

BREAKING NEWS! Disneyland Resort JUST Announced Their Proposed Reopening Dates

Disneyland Annual Passholder Magnet

And, as we mentioned above with Disney World, Disneyland will also pause parades, nighttime spectaculars, and character meets and greets for the time being. Characters will still be in the parks, they will just entertain guests in new ways!

Certain attractions, experiences, services, and amenities will be modified, have limited availability, or remain closed when the parks reopen as well.

Disneyland Hotel Reopening Details

Disneyland Hotel will open at a later date according to the Disneyland website. When it comes to the hotels that are reopening, Disney has shared that they plan to “support physical distancing as well as increased cleaning measures, along with a number of other health and safety protocols, will be implemented as part of the phased reopening of the hotels and the Vacation Club.”

BREAKING NEWS! Disneyland Resort JUST Announced Their Proposed Reopening Dates

The Disneyland Hotel

Do keep in mind that these dates and procedures need to be approved by the state and local government before being finalized.

When will you be going back to Disneyland? Let us know in the comments below!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: disney california adventure, Disney News, disney parks, disney resorts, Disneyland, Disneyland Resort, Downtown Disney Anaheim, Featured, coronavirus, coronavirus closures, coronavirus disneyland, coronavirus reopening, Disney, Disney California Adventure, disney news, Disneyland reopening, Downtown Disney

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Disney News Disney Parks Other

Disney Details on Enhanced Cleaning Procedures

As a follow-up to the recent announcement about how Disney Resort hotels will have enhanced cleaning procedures upon reopening, we’re finally getting details on what that will entail.

Specifically, Disney will focus on 11 target areas:

  1. Door handles, pulls and knobs
  2. Light switches and controls
  3. Closet amenities (such as the in-room safe)
  4. Beverage area
  5. Bathroom fixtures and surfaces
  6. Bathroom amenities
  7. Thermostat and electric controls
  8. Bedding
  9. Electronic devices (including the germ magnet TV remote)
  10. Hard surfaces and flooring
  11. Cleaned and wrapped amenities

This enhanced cleaning will occur before you check in to your room. During your stay, you will get a light cleaning service (removal of trash/replenishment of towels).

Here’s an infographic from Disney showing their target area focus.

Disney Details on Enhanced Cleaning Procedures

What are your thoughts on these new procedures? Let us know in the comments.

The post Disney Details on Enhanced Cleaning Procedures appeared first on TouringPlans.com Blog.

From our friends at touringplans.com
Filed Under: Walt Disney World (FL), coronavirus

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Disney Guides Disney Parks Disney Vacations

Disney World Trip Packing in the Time of Coronavirus

Universal Orlando is now open to the public, and Walt Disney World will be reopening in a few weeks. This means that some of you will soon start PACKING for vacation!

TouringPlans has run approximately eleventy-billion posts about WDW trip packing over the years. A greatest hits list of them might include:

Now that we’re living in the COVID-19 era, there may be a few tweaks you want to make to your usual packing routine.

MASKS

Disney will require that all guests wear face coverings in the parks. That’s a non-negotiable given. It’s also a given that it’s summer and Florida, so the weather will inevitably be hot, hot, hot. Keep that in mind as you decide what type of mask to bring with you on vacation.

I’ve purchased half a dozen styles, from disposables sold at my local supermarket, to heavy multi-layered multi-filtered washables bought from Etsy. As much as possible, you should try to experiment with a variety of masks BEFORE you show up on vacation. They’re not all stifling and uncomfortable. Think about:

  • Will this provide protection to me and those around me?
  • Is the fit secure? Will I constantly be worried about this falling off while I’m walking around or on a ride? Is there something I can do to adjust the fit? (It could be particularly fun to use a monkey to adjust your mask in Toy Story Land.)
  • How does the paper/fabric feel next to my skin?
  • Can a take a deep breath while wearing this mask? How does it feel when I’m slightly exerted, like walking around my neighborhood?
  • With disposable masks, what is my environment impact? Is it worth it to avoid washing masks during my vacation?
  • With reusable masks, how will I care for it or clean it during my vacation?
  • Do I have enough masks with me if one becomes soiled due to food spills or sweat?
  • Will my mask withstand the inevitable Florida summer downpours? Do I have replacements for a wet mask?
  • Do I care about the aesthetics of my mask? Do I want it to match my attire?
  • Have I evaluated the mask situation for my kids? Have we practiced at home and do they understand that mask wearing in the parks is non-negotiable?
  • If I’m planning to buy Disney-branded masks on site, do I have a back-up plan if I find them uncomfortable or otherwise bothersome?

SUNSCREEN

Sunscreen is almost always a must at Walt Disney World. When you’re wearing a mask, you’ll want to be extra attentive to sunscreen application on your face lest you end up with some really wacky tan lines. Be sure you bring one that works for you with frequent application.

HAND SANTIZER

Yes, you should absolutely wash your hands thoroughly many times throughout the day. Yes, cast members will increase their sanitation of attractions and high-touch surfaces. Yes, there will be hand sanitizer stations located throughout the parks and resorts. Nevertheless, you probably want to keep at least a small amount of hand sanitizer with you at all times, just in case.

Bear in mind that TSA has now changed the rules about quantities of sanitizer that are allowed to be carried onto airplanes.

As you decide what form of sanitizer to have with you (liquid, spray, wipes), consider whether you’re a no-bags-in the park person or be-prepared-for-anything person and whether your choice of sanitizer will be impacted by that.

WATER BOTTLES

Proper hydration is essential and many folks bring reusable water bottles for environment reasons. Normally this is fantastic, but if you’re in a higher-risk group you may want to consider how you’re going to refill your bottle. Will you feel comfortable having your bottle close to taps that may have been touched by many people?

SMALL DIVERSIONS

Given the reduced park hours, you may be spending more time at your hotel than you would during a typical Disney vacation. Will you need to bring any items to help fill your down time? A deck of cards, a small board game, an extra novel, etc.?

HOW MUCH CLOTHING TO BRING

Some guests pack minimally, planning to do laundry while at Walt Disney World. The COVID factor may change your laundry strategy. If you think you’ll have more time on hand to do chores like washing clothes (because of less time in the parks), then you may decide to pack less overall. On the other hand, if you’d rather avoid enclosed spaces like public laundry rooms, then you may want to bring more clothes and skip doing laundry on this trip.

PAYMENT METHODS

Prior to your trip, you may want to check whether your credit cards have a no-contact payment feature. If one does, that may be the one you choose to use for this trip (to help you avoid touching card readers). Apple Pay is another good option for this.

Do you have any thoughts on packing for a post-COVID Disney vacation? Is there anything new you’re planning to bring? Is there anything you used to bring that you won’t take this time? Let us know!

The post Disney World Trip Packing in the Time of Coronavirus appeared first on TouringPlans.com Blog.

From our friends at touringplans.com
Filed Under: Trip Planning, Walt Disney World (FL), coronavirus, packing

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Disney News Disney Parks Other

To-Do: Contact Disney by June 12 to Re-Confirm Trips Between June 22 and July 11

Disney is asking guests with reservations between June 22 and July 11, 2020, to contact Disney to re-confirm those reservations.  Here’s the initial part of the message that’s going out to travel agents:

Your Clients may be receiving email communication from us if they have a Resort hotel booking between June 22, 2020, and July 4, 2020, if we have their contact information. We are asking them to contact their Travel Professional, but since we cannot reach all of your Guests, we request that you contact your Guests regarding their reservation adjustments and all of the information in the example Guest email below. We need them to confirm, modify or cancel their Disney Resort hotel reservations or Walt Disney Travel Company packages by June 12 for the travel period above.

Here’s additional text from Disney to travel agents on how to confirm those reservations.  Note that if you’ve booked through a travel agent, Disney expects the TA to do the work of confirming:

If you want to confirm your reservation:

    • Contact the Disney Reservation Center to notify our team of your Guest’s confirmation.
    • As needed, our team will move Guests from closed to open resorts during this time. This move will be at no additional cost to your Guests. Note that they won’t have an option to modify to another resort of their choosing for this reservation.
    • As previously communicated, for Guests who had a dining plan, we will be modifying their package to remove the dining plan.
    • If guests staying in our resorts before park opening on July 11, 2020, want to keep their reservation, they will be downgraded out of the ticket package and the package price will be reduced. Alternately, they can move their reservation to new dates, or cancel.

Note the part about moving guests from closed to open resorts, and that modifications to another resort won’t be possible.  I wouldn’t be too concerned about this, because the list of hotels that are opening appear to be DVC and Deluxe resorts. It’s possible that many guests will get significant upgrades.

Also, because tickets will be cancelled as part of any package between those two dates, it could be that any park soft-openings will be limited to annual passholders.  Now, I’ve got no information to suggest that the parks will soft-open before July 11. My thought is that if I was Disney, I wouldn’t want to wait until July 11 to open the gates to two of the world’s most popular theme parks, and only then see how a bunch of new procedures work with the general public. If it was me, I think I’d rather see a set of small, controlled tests. I could be completely wrong.

Here are Disney’s instructions for guests who want to modify or cancel their reservations.  Note again that if you’ve booked using a travel agent, Disney expects the TA to do the work:

For Guests wishing to modify their reservations to a future date in 2020:

    • Contact the Disney Reservation Center to modify their booking to a later date in 2020.
    • If your Client would like to modify to a date on or after July 11, 2020, they may only modify to one of the announced opened resorts, based on availability. Guests will be responsible for any higher rates.
    • Travel protection may be moved to a new reservation in 2020. The Guest will be responsible for any difference in price.

For Guests wishing to cancel their reservations:

    • Contact the Disney Reservation Center to notify our team of your Guest’s cancellation.

I didn’t see anything in these communications about how Disney will handle those guests who re-booked from earlier in the year, and received either a free-dining offer, or other discounts, if they moved to dates that fall between June 22 and July 11.  My guess is that those reservations are being handled separately.

Finally, Disney released other information on Saturday, June 6, about changes to resort operations.  Here’s a summary of which amenities will and will not be available during the re-opening phase.  And here’s a summary of how dining will run during that phase.

Let us know of any questions in the comments – we’ll try to answer them either in the comments or by updating this post.

The post To-Do: Contact Disney by June 12 to Re-Confirm Trips Between June 22 and July 11 appeared first on TouringPlans.com Blog.

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Filed Under: Walt Disney World (FL), coronavirus