Great news for Disney fans, as Disney says it wants to begin a phased reopening of Walt Disney World Resort theme parks on July 11. Meanwhile, Chicago unveils a new tourism and hospitality program as it moves into the post-coronavirus stage. ANd the U.S. Virgin Islands and Hawai’i are both looking at re-opening for tourism in the next month or so. Meanwhile, a survey finds Canadians are intrigued by the idea of using an RV and Silversea is offering great cruise deals. All in my Future of Travel blog for today.
WALT DISNEY WORLD LOOKING AT JULY 11 FOR RE-OPENING
The Magic Kingdom. Photo Courtesy Walt Disney World.
The Disney Parks blog today has words that will make many folks giddy with excitement. “Today, we submitted a proposal to the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force in Florida describing our approach for a phased reopening of Walt Disney World Resort theme parks planned to begin on July 11.”
The report goes on to say that, pending Orange County and state approval, our Walt Disney World Resort proposal plans for Magic Kingdom Park and Disney’s Animal Kingdom to begin a phased reopening to the general public on July 11, followed by EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios on July 15. In preparing to reopen during this unusual time, we have to manage our theme parks in a very different way from what we’ve known before. As we begin to reach out to our cast members and call them back to work, they will be focused on operating our parks in a responsible way that continues to give our guests opportunities to create magical Disney memories.
This phased reopening will demonstrate a deliberate approach, with limits on attendance and controlled guest density that aligns with guidance on physical distancing. That means certain experiences we know draw large group gatherings – such as parades and nighttime spectaculars – will return at a later date. In addition, “high-touch” experiences such as makeover opportunities, playgrounds and character meet and greets will remain temporarily unavailable, but characters will still be in our parks to entertain and delight our guests.
Because theme park capacity will be significantly limited as we welcome guests back to the magic, we will manage attendance through a new theme park reservation system that will require all guests to obtain a reservation for park entry in advance. At this time, we are temporarily pausing new ticket sales and Disney Resort hotel reservations so we can focus on guests with existing tickets and reservations (Disney Vacation Club members can still make new reservations). Existing ticket holders and Annual Passholders will be able to make reservation requests in phases before new tickets are sold; we’ll be reaching out to these guests soon to provide additional details. We will resume new ticket sales and hotel reservations after that period of time. Theme park reservations will be limited due to attendance limitations and will be subject to availability. More details about this new reservation system will be available soon.
CHICAGO MOVES FORWARD WITH TOURISM READINESS
Downtown Chicago. JIM BYERS PHOTO
“This current crisis has been simply devastating to so many, including the tourism and hospitality industry, and we recognize that these unprecedented challenges require unprecedented and swift actions,” said Glenn Eden, Chair of the Choose Chicago Board of Directors. “Our first priority is to promote socially responsible tourism. We will demonstrate to our guests that through the operational changes and precautions taken, it is safe to enjoy Chicago again.”
As the city transitions through a phased reopening, this alliance of industry partners will work together to establish best practices and safety measures for the health and safety of residents and visitors alike when cultural institutions, hotels, attractions and restaurants return to regular business and welcome guests.
SILVERSEA CRUISE DEALS
I got a note from SIlversea the other day about their Double Bonus promotion. Reserve a Silversea cruise from now until 30 June, 2020, and pay just $1,250 CAD for the deposit. The second bonus? They’ll give you $1,000 USD in shipboard credit to enjoy during your voyage. Another option that’s available is their Early Booking Bonus. If you book a voyage from 1 September, 2020 and beyond — and pay in full by 30 June, 2020, you’ll receive an additional 10% savings.
I had a tremendous cruise with them in the Mediterranean several years ago.
TWO “AMERICAN PARADISES” GET READY FOR VISITORS
Waikiki Beach, Oahu, Hawai’i
The U.S. Virgin Islands sent me a note to say they’ll be re-opening for tourists next Monday, June 1. I couldn’t help but notice they were calling themselves “America’s Paradise” in the release.
A long-time Hawai’i lover like me might argue that this mythical crown should have joint ownership, but I also won’t deny I fell in love with the USVI when I visited about 10 years ago.
I liked the buzz around St. Thomas, and we had great food. Magens Bay Beach is outstanding. But I preferred the quiet, laid-back vibe on St. John and St. Croix. St. John is mostly a nature reserve and national park but also includes Trunk Bay, easily one of the most beautiful stretches of sand on the planet. St. Croix is home to the marvellous Buck Island and also, last I checked, a pen full of pigs who drink non-alcoholic beer right out of the can.
Officials say they have new protocols in place that were developed with government, health authorities, the tourism board and other professionals.
The situation in Hawaii is a little more murky. The lieutenant governor is loosely talking about a July 1 re-opening date, but there’s also talk the islands will open up only for visitors from safe destinations; perhaps Japan, New Zealand and Australia. Not sure about Americans or Canadians but I’ll keep an eye out.
CANADIANS EXPLORING RV USE
Canadians are exploring RV’s for great travel experiences this year.
Canadian-owned and operated RVezy.com, the country’s first peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace, has seen a surge in reservations with an increase of over 800% in summer travel. As restrictions are slowly easing across Canada, households are looking for safe and practical travel options this summer.
“RVs are perfectly suited for vacation travel this summer” says RVezy Co-Founder, Michael McNaught. “In an RV you are in full control of your environment while in a self-contained RV. You have full access to cooking facilitates, washrooms, shower, air conditioning and best of all many come fully stocked with beddings, board games & camping supplies. Booking a campsite with an RV is ideal for maintaining social distancing while experiencing the great outdoors.”
I recently wrote a story for AARP magazine on how to rent an RV.
Based on an Abacus data survey of Canadians this May, Canadians are considering RV travel this summer more than ever before, seeing it as the least risky vacation option available. Some key findings of the survey include.
Almost half of Canadians are planning to take or are thinking about taking a summer vacation this year.
- Canadians under 44 years of age are more likely to be planning or thinking about a summer vacation (49%) than older Canadians (40%).
More Canadians than ever are considering going RVing this summer. 1 in 3 Canadians said they “never before thought RVing was right for them, but are open to it now. Another 1 in 5 Canadians say they had considered RVing before and are even more open to it now.
Canadians believe RVing is safe, family friendly, and allows them to explore different parts of Canada.
- 85% believe RVing is family-friendly.
- 82% believe RVing allows them to get away and explore different parts of the country.
- 80% believe RVing allows them to get away and find peace and quiet
- 77% believe RVing is convenient
- 61% believe RVing is affordable
Most importantly, given the need to distance themselves from others, 78% believe RVing “allows me to distance from other people safely.”
I’ve never tried an RV trip but I’m keen to give it a go.
EXPEDIA VACATION DEPRIVATION STUDY AND RE-LIVING TRAVEL MEMORIES
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Expedia’s annual survey on vacation habits revealed that vacation deprivation levels in Canada are on the rise with the largest negative impacts being felt by millennial parents (76%). And with parents taking on more than ever in recent months, the need for an escape has never been higher. Luckily, the study shows there are still opportunities to achieve that sense of ‘vacation state of mind’ right from the comfort of home.
According to the Vacation Deprivation study, Canadians agree that the benefits of taking a vacation include a sense of rejuvenation (92%), an opportunity to hit the reset button (91%), as well as a greater sense of positivity and patience for themselves and their colleagues (78%). Together these positive effects foster a psychological condition that could be described as a ‘Vacation State of Mind’.
Given the health and economic circumstances surrounding COVID-19, most people can only plan and dream about future trips until it’s safe to travel. Travellers voted on the top ways they can curb that “I need a vacation” feeling with techniques to extend the vacation halo effect. Here is what are considered to be the most powerful “vacation top-ups” while Canadians wait for their next getaway:
- Talking to friends and family about a vacation/vacation memory (87%)
- Looking at photos and videos from your trip (84%)
- Sharing memories with those you’ve travelled with (84%)
- Wearing clothes (71%) you bought on vacation
- Using souvenirs, you bought on vacation (72%)
- Listening to music that reminds you of the vacation (65%)
- Starting to plan your next vacation (56%)
- Cooking the local cuisine (49%)
- Practicing meditation (40%)
Expedia wants to help people “travel from home”
More than ever before virtual experiences have become part of our day-to-day lives. Whether it’s a national park, museum or live performance, Expedia’s Things To Do From Home is a great option to keep Canadians feeling inspired about travel. Another way to escape is to listen to one of Expedia’s Travel Playlists, which have all been generated based on local talent and characteristics from cities all across the globe.
GOVERNMENTS SUBSIDIZING LOCAL TRAVEL – ANOTHER NEW TREND
A cable car in San Francisco. Suzanne-Emily-O’Connor-Unsplash Photo
Yesterday I wrote about “air bridges” and “travel bubbles.” Now there’s a new trend to talk about; governments paying its citizens to stimulate the economy by encouraging domestic travel. According to AFAR magazine, Italy already has agreed to dole out something like $200 to individuals, $400 to couples and $700 or so for families with at least three members as a “holiday bonus.” Poland apparently is considering something similar.
Now, it could be the United States’ turn. The powerful U.S. Travel Association and the American Hotel and Lodging Association have called for tax credits for every family to encourage domestic travel, AFAR reported.
I haven’t heard a thing about this being under consideration in Canada. Given how most of us seem to already want to travel locally given the low Canadian dollar and the fellow in the White House, I don’t think Ottawa needs to PAY US to stay home this summer. But it’s an interesting idea.
FAIRMONT GOLF RE-OPENS OUT WEST
Fairmont Banff Springs golf course
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts’ says their golf clubs at Fairmont Banff Springs, Fairmont Chateau Whistler, and Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge have announced an official reopening date and will welcome golfers on Friday, May 29. In addition to the golf course, this includes limited access to the practice facility, take-away food and drink, and retail shops.
At the three Fairmont mountain golf resorts, protocols have been developed following the guidance of the WHO, CDC, and PHAC, and local health and government authorities. A summary of golfer guidelines at Fairmont Chateau Whistler Golf Club can be found HERE while details for Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course can be found HERE and Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Golf Club HERE.
Said Steve Young, Director of Golf at Fairmont Banff Springs: “We have a robust plan in place to welcome guests back. We appreciate not every regulation will be popular but rest assured, the guidelines are a result of an extensive review and planning process that has taken into consideration the health and safety of members, guests and staff.”
I’ve played all three and they’re spectacular layouts.
SMALL LUXURY HOTELS OF WORLD HAS FREE ROOMS FOR HEROES
Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) has announced the launch of #SLHFORHEROES, a global campaign offering 1,000 room nights to those on the frontline who have supported their communities through the devastating COVID-19 pandemic. Submissions to nominate a Hero are now open until June 30th and can be found at www.slh.com.
#SLHFORHEROES is a campaign that recognises those who have gone above and beyond to help others during the Coronavirus. Once nominations are submitted, 500 Heroes will be rewarded with two-night stays for use at one of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World properties. With over 520 hotels in more than 90 countries, SLH offers the opportunity to experience countryside retreats, beach resorts, cities and historic locations, once travel restrictions are lifted.
“We have an enormous sense of gratitude for those around the world who have worked tirelessly in the face of the pandemic,” notes Jean-François Ferret, CEO of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. “From frontline health workers through to delivery drivers and the army of charity workers and volunteers supporting the elderly, homeless and disadvantaged, these outstanding individuals put their lives on the line every day. This is our way of giving back and providing them with something special to anticipate. We are proud of this campaign and of our independently owned hotels exemplifying the SLH philosophy of community and integrity.”
HAPPY 30TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRITY CRUISES
Celebrity Cruises today marks its 30th birthday by reflecting on its journey to push the limits of traditional cruising and create a unique modern luxury experience at sea. Established in 1990 by the Greece-based Chandris Group, the line became part of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. in 1997. Celebrity Cruises now boasts 14 ships and thousands of team members from more than 60 countries.
Over the years, Celebrity Cruises has delivered a number of industry firsts and innovations including: introducing specialty dining (2000); the creation of the modern luxury cruise category with the introduction of the Solstice Series (2008); the first solar panels at sea (2008); the first American female captain of a cruise ship (2015); the Magic Carpet, the first cantilevered dining venue on a cruise ship (2018); the first ship to replace plastic water bottles (2018); and the first all-female bridge and leadership team to command a cruise ship (2020); among many others.
