What’s The Latest Travel News – Spring 2020 Edition

What’s the Latest? – May 18th Edition

The big question on everyone’s mind these days is what is actually open and when can we expect more to open up. While I don’t have a crystal ball and all the answers, I’ll try to shed some light on what is currently happening and might happen soon for some popular vacation spots.

Walt Disney World:  As of May 16th, all of the Disney resorts and theme parks are closed until further notice. Resort reservations can be made for dates after July 1st, but Disney has stated that it’s not a guarantee that they will be open for guests.

Some third party retail and dining locations at Disney Springs will be partially opening on Wednesday, May 20th. On May 27th, 3 Disney owned locations, World of Disney, D-Luxe Burger (mobile order only) and the Marketplace Co-op will also be open. A number of safety precautions will be in place for both guests and cast members. To control the number of guests onsite, parking areas and entrances to Disney Springs will be limited. Guests over the age of 3 will be required to wear face coverings, undergo temperature checks and comply with social distancing protocols.

Disneyland:  At the current time, Disneyland’s theme parks, resorts and Downtown Disney entertainment area are closed until further notice. Like Walt Disney World, guests can make reservations for check-ins starting on July 1st, but there is no guarantee that anything will be open at that time.

Disney Cruise Line:  Sailings through July 28th on all 4 ships – Magic, Wonder, Dream and Fantasy – have been canceled. Guests on impacted sailings who are paid in full are being offered either a full refund or 125% future cruise credit to be used on a new sailing within 15 months of the original booking date. Guests who are not paid in full will receive a full refund back to the original form of payment.

Adventures by Disney:  All adventures both domestic and international through July 31st have been canceled.  Adventures embedded with European and Alaskan sailings through July 28th have also been canceled. No decision on August adventures has been made at this time, but guests traveling then can contact Adventures by Disney to see what their current options may be.

Aulani Resort and Spa:  Disney’s resort in Hawaii remains closed indefinitely. There have been no indications as to when it might be welcoming guests again.

Universal Orlando Resort:  While Universal’s theme parks, water park and resorts will remain closed at least through May 31st, select venues at CityWalk are open for guests. Protocols are in place for temperature checks, increased space between guests and guests over age 3 are required to wear face coverings. Mobile ordering where available is encouraged. There is some talk that Universal could open up in early June, but nothing has officially been announced.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Line:  As of May 20th, Royal Caribbean has suspended all sailings through July 31st. Other itineraries and ships may have further operational suspensions. The cruise line is currently offering several options for affected guests and guests who would like to voluntarily change their plans in the coming months. Some ports plan to remain closed well into the summer, which could affect sailings.

As with everything COVID-19 related, things can change in a matter of minutes. Please stay tuned for the latest information as it is released. Stay safe!!