More and more people are slowly returning to vacations in Central Florida and that includes our agents. We have traveled to Universal and the Magic Kingdom but now, we are seeing people travel and take actual vacations. And that includes one of Kentucky’s finest!
Meet Ashley Oldham! Ashley is at the half-year mark of her Believe Vacations career and took a fun girls’ trip to Walt Disney World. She was kind enough to be interviewed and answer questions we all have had on our minds lately.
The Trip Basics
What parks did you visit and when were the dates? We were in the parks July 20th-July 25th.
What made you decide to risk going back so soon? It was a rescheduled trip. We were originally planning to go in June and then everything got cancelled. My sister in law (and bestie!) and I like to do at least one girls’ trip a year to Disney and with everything going on, it got moved on us. We are teachers and wanted to go in the summer. We felt safe going because we knew Disney would have it together!
The Resort Basics
Did you stay on the Disney grounds? We stayed at Pop Century. We prefer to stay either on the skyliner or on the monorail routes.
What modes of transportation did you use to get around? While we were at Disney for this trip, we used planes, trains and automobiles! Seriously, we flew to Disney, used the Disney buses, monorail, skyliner, and boats. We also used Uber quite a few times. The wait times for the buses were longer than usual and we wanted to get to the parks quickly so Uber was the best bet for us.
The Park Basics
Was there a certain ticket/package you purchased and what was the process of purchasing (different or the same)? We are Annual Passholders and just moved our package dates. Originally, we had the dining plan with our package. When the dining portion was refunded, we just put in on a Disney gift card so it still kinda felt like we had the dining plan. It was my first time traveling without the dining plan in YEARS. I honestly prefer the dining plan. I think it feels fancier and more “vacation-like”. We typically eat at higher end spots, so the deluxe dining is what we prefer. We did take advantage of more quick service this trip and everything we had was delicious! Lots of gluten free options were available as well. We miss character dining!
How was the crowd size? Crowds were SO low. Our max wait was about 10-15 minutes.
Were there any attractions/experiences that were closed due to health precautions? I miss the meet and greets with characters. Pictures with the characters are still possible. Some rides and attractions were open, but People Mover was not. It is one of my favorites, so I was sad about that.
What was the attitude like of the employees and guests? Employees seemed happy to be back and all visitors were compliant to the markings on the floor and the guidelines. I honestly was around less people at Disney than at the grocery store. People seemed excited to be back. I did miss striking up conversations with people in lines for attractions or in line for food or drink.
The New Regulations Basics
How was wearing a mask in Florida in the summer? The key to wear a mask is a comfortable mask. A family friend made me a mask that stayed on my face well and had super comfortable and soft elastic behind the ears. It didn’t bother me at all. We didn’t even use the relaxation stations. We did sit and enjoy snacks (Hello Rice Krispies!) and iced coffees. Definitely position yourself in a place where you can enjoy your food or beverage, but get amazing pictures, like in front of the castle or the purple wall!
The Final Advice Basics
What advice do you have for post-COVID times at theme parks? I would still tell everyone to go. The lines are so short and the crowds are so low. It feels like the Disney of old. ? I think you have to decide about the masks and your party. Is everyone able to comply and keep it on? How do you handle the heat? Everyone knows their family and kiddos best.
Did you ever feel unsafe? Disney is still magical and safe. We ate outside and inside and felt equally safe in all locations. In many ways, it is like everything else is in life.
Any final words before I put my mask back on? Know yourself and your people and attitude is everything. Safe travels and pixie dust!
