Everyone around the world has been impacted by the Coronavirus in some way, whether it is just an increased consumption of the nightly news or more frequent hand washing. Disney Parks has been monitoring the progression of the COVID-19 outbreak carefully, including statements by the Chief Medical Officer and heightened sanitation and safety measures across all parks.
For those that have a little bit more future exposure with trips planned, we have some news to alleviate some stress. For those that have made reservations with Walt Disney Travel for upcoming trips to Walt Disney World and Disneyland, you will now not be subject to the $50 change fee when moving your reservation. It is mentioned in the announcement that this date rescheduling is for a “future date in 2020,” so this does not seem to apply to cancellations or rescheduling for a much later date.
“Walt Disney Travel Company is making a temporary adjustment to its policy on change fees for Walt Disney World® and Disneyland® Resort vacations. The following applies only to leisure package bookings made through Walt Disney Travel Company. Until further notice, Disney will waive the Disney-imposed $50 change fee for Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort packages.
Guests may move their reservation to a future date in 2020.Changes are subject to availability, and the guest is responsible for paying any increase in price resulting from the change. In addition, any change fees assessed by third-party hotels or other suppliers must be paid, and some products or services may be non-refundable. If air transportation has been ticketed, the guest will be responsible for any increase in airfare as well as any change fee assessed by the airline.
For clients who purchased travel insurance, there is an updated policy in effect until further notice: Up to 24 hours prior to arrival, Guests may modify their arrival dates and maintain coverage under the protection policy as long as there is not a claim on the original travel dates.
Some events and dining experiences may not be offered on the new dates and may be non-refundable.
This temporary policy does not apply to changes made for groups, meetings, and other room block bookings.
If a vacation is cancelled, all applicable cancellation fees continue to apply.
To change (or cancel) reservations, please call the Walt Disney World or Disneyland Resort call center.”
We’ll be keeping our eyes on developments here in Florida and in California, as well as in Paris, and Tokyo, Shanghai, and Hong Kong regarding the COVID-19 outbreak’s effect on Disney Parks operations and beyond.