Walt Disney World has released a new set of policies to be implemented throughout the resort and its theme parks, ready for the grand reopening. One of the policies includes a theme park reservation system, in which guests will need a park ticket as well as a theme park reservation each day in order to visit. It is also important for guests to be made aware that staying in a hotel within the resort doesn’t constitute guaranteed theme park access. Could this spell the end for park hopping?
Rumours have started circulating online about a new policy for switching between parks during the day, or ‘Park-Hopping.’ An email has been sent out to clients with Virgin Holidays packages, explaining that park attendance will be managed through the new park reservation system.
The email reads, “To enter a park, both a park reservation and valid admission for the same park on the same date is required. Reservations need to be made via My Disney Experience in the coming weeks. You can request one park a day. As customers won’t need to hop between parks, the hopper service is currently suspended.” The email also encourages clients to reserve parks as early as possible, with tickets to parks expected to sell out within the first hour of release.
As it stands, Disney has not released any information on how this will affect annual pass holders, or their ability to park hop. It is yet to be confirmed whether this new policy will be in effect upon reopening, with travel agencies being amongst the first to be informed of any changes.
Many guests have been left feeling concerned for their own bookings, following the rumours of Disney ending park-hopping. Some guests fear the stripped-down experience will be a far cry from what is expected of Disney attractions, and competitors such as Universal Studios and Six Flags.
It is important to note that as of yet this remains a rumour, as Disney hasn’t confirmed whether park hopping will be a feature or not when parks reopen.
