15 Ways Disney World Has Gotten Even Harder

[@JamesonThomas24]

Me: not planning a trip and not worrying about necessary hoops to jump through while planning a Disney trip. Also me: watching this video is extremely necessary

[@mohammednasseif9210]

Lol! Same!

[@ronenkohn2762]

I’ll sit in this corner with you. I’m not going anytime soon yet here I am

[@kiez120]

Jameson back @ it again

[@katelynnb777]

I was just there at the beginning of the month ,and both my husband and I decided we will not be going back until they bring back fast pass or extra magic hours for moderate /family resorts . It’s pointless. We waited in line for hours for test track twice ,just to be turned away twice because of ride breakdown then the weather. What’s worse is the male cast member who was working wouldn’t give us a return pass because he said they only do that if you reach the very front .

[@JessyJess04]

I was there over the weekend and honestly barely planned for anything. I will say that I went solo so it was easier but yeah I rode almost every ride and didn't wait very long, was able to dine at some of the nicer restaurants with same day reservations and I was even able to build a Droid as a walk-up. I imagine though that the more people you travel with the more you have to plan ahead.

[@staciewalker5341]

Went in July and have been to Disney almost every year. This time the lines were insane! Makes you really miss the old fast pass system. Standing in the heat was brutal. Weren't even able to get a boarding group for Rise of the Resistance. Will definitely wait a year or two to go back and will go at off season time.

[@docgravenshmit6692]

totally agree. went in July too. We were definitely spoiled by the Fast Pass system. Hadn't waited in a line in 20 years. Not planning on going back anytime soon.

[@sewgatormomm]

We live two hours away and would never go in summer. It’s too crowded and too hot.

[@botabrat1]

Agree! Just came back after sweltering in the heat of August. Really missed those fast passes , and we had to skip rides due to the long lines and some being down.

[@largol33t1]

Did you have a chance to use the very first version of Fast Pass? I clearly remember it. My parents dropped me off and warned me to not lose my ticket stub. Why? I had to go to a Fast Pass kiosk in certain points of each park. Go to the machine and slide it in the scanner. Then a touch screen brings up qualifying rides and you tap the name of the ride you want. It spits out a small paper ticket with a time stamp. There was a nice loophole in that: you didn't HAVE to accept the ticket. You could swap it with other kids standing by the machine! I was a bit letdown that one ride was "sold out". Then a tap on the shoulder. The CM pointed at the ground. There were at least a dozen on the pavement and one had the ride I wanted! I remember having fun "fighting" other kids for the Fast Passes and of course I even bribed one or two and swapped rides with them. Then all the fun went away and the Mouse issued a fuehrer directive banning the machines. Now we're stuck with the ridiculous online reservation system. That was the last straw for me. Around late 2019, I thought about maybe going back to WDW, having been away for almost 12 years. I wrote down and researched everything from park tickets and dining to hotels and plane tickets. The prices had skyrocketed so high that It was absolutely unaffordable. I gave up and will never go back again. Determined to get something out of my vacation, I checked their archrival Universal. Whoah!! The prices were nowhere as bad. Heck, I could even afford to stay on Harry Potter's doorstep and get extra magic (or wizarding?) hours. When I got back, I searched several message boards. More bad news. Disney is angering so many long time customers that they're defecting to Universal in HUGE waves. Universal passholders are grumbling that the "slow" season is gone! I was shocked. I may have gotten naive, failing to notice two BUSES packed with South American tourists pulling up to my hotel on my last day. Oh well, at least I got a chance to have one last slow trip before the rest of the world found out about it...

[@buddahstar8]

I dont see the point of going back anymore. Park hooper not a hooper, no mickey buses, longer lines, have where a mask all day and carry my cellphone with extra battery packs. Reservations for rides, rides and restaurant closures, late hours now only available to the elite, The Magic that made disney so great has just disappeared completely.

[@rebeccasoto9592]

I’ve never been to Disney and I don’t think I ever will. There’s no magic when you feel like they’re squeezing every penny out of you. The crowds, price, and lack of spontaneity is really not appealing. It seems like they are losing many annual guests as well as potential new guests like myself. It’s just scary to think about spending dozens of hours of lines, not being able to find a cool place indoors to eat, and spending crazy prices for anything I want. It’s not worth it.

[@johnphazzleton]

So much easier and quieter in the late 90s and early 00s

[@jrbeckman2194]

And it was even quieter in the '70s and '80s! I first visited in 1974 and stayed at the Contemporary. It was new! Stayed at the Polynesian the following year, when it still had the waterfall in the main lodge. Back then they had ticket books with A, B, C and D tickets that you ripped off. No all-day passes, but of course there was only the Magic Kingdom.

[@jayhla]

Great info 👍🏻☺️ thanks!!

[@lesliefoss7809]

Anyway to get more updates on Disneyland not just Disneyworld?

[@MichelleAlexandria-EM]

wha a nightmare. At least they are giving hotel guests a few perks. I just fail to see how all these hoops and having to plan every second of your stay 8 months in advance is “fun.”Not only that bit hey are charging full price for less and less service.

[@eastcumbriancollector983]

Do on site guest get priority ?

[@richardmercer2337]

I have a phone but HATE HATE HATE being forced to use it for little things like reservations(?!) for counter service.

[@Thommadura]

I never had a Smart Phone although I once had a Blackberry. I even have my original AT&T ROTARY DIAL phone for my "land line" (I am 84) I actually have a house in the area because my Family was from Orlando pre-disney on Anderson Street. (Now gone for I4). But I have asked about Phones and no one ever answers - How much DATA do you need to go to Disney? Although I have a huge Family - i had 8 children, 18 foster kids, and now have 79 Granchildren and 35 Great Grandchildren- and loved to take them to Disney (Hard to believe mu oldest turn 65 this year though)- I have a hard time spending $1000 or more per year for phone service I will never otherwise use other than in the Parks. It is not that I cannot afford it but I would rather spend the money on my Horde. I assume you need the ability to PAY through your phone so NCF is probably Needed and Motorola Phones that do not have it are out. But do I really need to pay for an Unlimited Data Plan service? Remember - that i have to pay for year round whether I am at disney or not. My last Flip Phone average was about 15 calls per YEAR = I do not spend a lot of time on the phone.

[@thetaekwondoe3887]

Places shouldn't assume everyone has cell phones. I just went to Knott's and the only maps they had were on phones. I basically had to do my best to memorize the one posted physical map they had at the front of the park and then spent the day randomly wandering and bugging employees for directions on how to get places I couldn't figure out how to get to. I kind of had to laugh - they "encourage" people to order food with their phones, but when I stopped for lunch, the guy ahead of me was there at the window fighting his phone for like 5 minutes before he said, "you can let her go". I guess the app wasn't working and he couldn't get the food he had already ordered and paid for. Meanwhile I was walking away food in hand while he was still waiting for the thing to work. I called Disneyland to get info about tickets (because all I could find was info on tickets through phones.) Waited on hold for a very long time three different days. Finally called an off-number (after 3 or 4 calls to other numbers) and got some random employee to get some info on whether one could actually have some sort of physical ticket or not. They do have them, so I guess the possibility is still there. Still haven't gone though. My work schedule is varied and I often get called in on my days off, so having to make a reservation is a big inconvenience, not to mention I know there are just too many people right now. Sounds like it's all just going to cr**.

[@louiseward1773]

We’ve cancelled our trip - as you said, it’s not as magical and that’s why we go, to leave the real world behind and have 2 weeks of pure fun

[@gordon4695]

Smart move

[@tamaradavis3693]

@@LuckyGoHappy very smart move

[@michaelsmagicalmoments]

It's just not the same. I'm not usually one to say that, as I don't mind change in general, but this is one time I can say it and mean it. Part of it is due to pandemic, but a lot of it is due to the increased costs for decreased benefits.

[@gordon4695]

Very sad how Disney is just ruined.

[@TrainerCTZ]

My family has been completely priced out of even a once-in-a-lifetime Disney trip as of late.

[@leonardhughes4521]

I'll just use what I've bought from them in the past.

[@eastcumbriancollector983]

If I go peak summer it is £1000 each more,well when Brits could get into The US.

[@dave3657]

My cousin and family go every year. They also have maxed out credit cards. There are many more fun places to go for a lot less.

[@largol33t1]

It's despicable how they force you to get expensive hotel rooms just to get more time in the parks. And looking at some of their top tier hotels for a room is ludicrous. Example: Boardwalk in. Suppose you bring a spouse and a 10-yr-old. A mock booking for Dec 6 to 11 this year (with checkout on 12th) shows no water, standard or garden view rooms available. There is only one type available and it's $1,108 per night. Just greedy. Okay, let's try "off-season". The prices drop a bit if we try Feb 21 with checkout time on 27th at $694 for standard view and $723 for garden view. Still, very little choice available. The only thing not bad is the rates dropped but still doesn't sound like it's worth it. What if, for example, you paid for all those extra hours and off-season FINALLY really has lower crowds. Is it too late to go back and change your hotel plans? Again, it doesn't sound like it's worth the money and pathetic lack of choices. And Disney hotels never impressed me with their room service. They're no better than the local $99 a night hotels down the street or Universal. One thing they won't admit: their own fans are two-timing them. I stayed at Cabana Bay and the lobby was flooded with teens waiting to get a bus to Disney World. The issue is Cabana Bay is on UNIVERSAL property. They would go to Disney the first day then, Universal the second day. I bet it has something to do with the rooms being bigger, cheaper and getting what I call Extra Wizarding Hours (i.e.: Harry, Ron and Hermione will let guests in an HOUR early).

[@gusramage]

Stay off campus at an AirBNB and get Florida Resident 4-day tickets.

[@knik7029]

You should create a “bloopers” episode with all of the outtakes you mentioned.

[@naphtoe622]

Yes, I was just about to post exactly this.

[@th595906]

Agreed!

[@Danielt1999]

I was thinking the same. It’ll also show what most people never see.

[@katiemuhleisen8730]

YES I also would love to see a behind the scenes special !

[@stevengalloway8052]

😠 NO! That would make AJ more..."human"... 😆

[@Bee-very]

It's such a shame Disney is hiking up prices like this. It was always expensive but these recent changes just highlight how much less you get for higher prices.

[@kazoo6186]

Most cause in China due to the recent outbreak there, Disneyland Shanghai is EMPTY. In videos you can ride all rides in 8 hours. So there raising the prices in American parks to pay for the loss there

[@Bee-very]

@@kazoo6186 thanks for the insight. But consider if Disney would return previous perks and sweeten the deals for trips when park profits world wide are high again. We all know deep down that won't likely happen.

[@alexismackenn4449]

I just went to WDW and they let me upgrade my 3-day to a 4-day hopper for $2.56 😨 And it’s totally because they make more money on merchandise and such

[@UmmYeahOk]

@@kazoo6186 I’ve got a feeling that they would have risen prices anyway. The every year off peak season was more and more crowded. I was there preclosure, and it was nuts! I remember standing there in front of the castle amongst the hoard of people, remembering what it was like 15 years ago and then getting flushed suddenly realizing that it was time. Something was going to happen. I assumed it would be another terrorist attack. I had no clue that it was going to be a pandemic that we were all still thinking wasn’t a big deal.

[@UmmYeahOk]

What’s sad is looking at prices of everything 10-20 years ago, and then adjusting for inflation. Absolutely everything is by far more expensive than it used to be.

[@blackfox1320]

Cheapo Chapek is raising the prices to a point where you feel like you're getting massively ripped for even thinking about going to Disney. And this is coming from a lifelong Disney fan that had an annual pass, and plan 3 large trips a year. I will never be going back until this damage is undone.

[@Canrugger]

Its cute you think its only Chapek’s decision ….also no one cares if you dont go

[@kittyfrog0]

@@Canrugger then why did you respond to their comment? Lol

[@selinametalslasha]

I'm just saying, if Disney doesn't get its stuff together, they're going to see a lot of their annual or biannual visitors stop coming. No perks and major price hikes all at once doesn't make a lick of sense for us as guests to continue coming. Not sure if the magic will work on me when I'm footing a bill that large.

[@SamSitar]

disney should also reunify so people can resort hop.

[@Danileptic]

Well atm it's super crowded. Oo

[@justinb998]

With the yearly visitation rate, Disney seems to have their stuff together just fine. Every time people say they won’t go anymore, they either end up still going, or they are easily replaced with people willing to pay. It’s just the reality of things.

[@queenmakesamess473]

Na - People just keep on coming. Some of the lost perks are just things Universal has always done. - paid ‘fast pass’, paid hotel parking, no magical express, no early access. Disney is just leveling the plying field.

[@Canrugger]

No they wont lol

[@12vguy47]

Vacation shouldn’t be stressful and complicated. We’re going to Universal

[@elizabethpadron9016]

That’s where my family is going now. Much cheaper for better customer service.

[@lorenzobartalini464]

universal is a thousand times better than disney in my opinion! you wont regret it, my family loves universal!

[@sewgatormomm]

The only part of Universal I like is Harry Potter, otherwise the rest of it is so much more disorganized and not nearly as clean as Disney World.

[@fredh8065]

I went during Spring Break. LOVE IT! I think even Universal is doing a better job at immersive world like HP. I went to Disneyland during summer time later on. The magic kinda felt empty for some reason....

[@keiracarson1629]

@@fredh8065 completely agree, super immersive worlds especially islands of adventure

[@dbrew2u]

The amount of money that people are willing to shell out for all of these Disney Hoops to jump through always amazes me .

[@austinallen8658]

Disney is the only place that brings story’s into real life so I think it’s worth the money 😂

[@leonarddionne1365]

Absolutely worth it! Love it.

[@Dive-Bar-Casanova]

Not anymore for this family. We're out.

[@maureenhansen3308]

So true. And I know I’m a complete sucker but less and less often. I’m planning a trip for the future to stay at Polynesian which is $728 including tax per night. The first and last time I will ever do this. Disney nickel and dimes people now and that’s the other big reason I won’t be their sucker. They take hours away from the ticket you buy to have their special parties and now the new fast pass gouge is despicable.

[@chuckoneill2023]

Not any more for me. I wonder if the other folks on this thread are changing their minds, concerning the new Genie Plus announcement.

[@Ultimatecruegirl]

Don’t get me wrong I have loved Disney since I first went back in the early 70’s and I still love the magical feelings the memories bring. I will always cry at the fireworks and seein Main Street. But my mom has an old saying “a fool and their money are soon parted.” I think the powers that be at Disney are doing their best to prove it. Sorry Walt your dream is dead, greed killed it.

[@loriwilliams7083]

I know I won’t go to Disney anytime soon, but love these videos.

[@Atheenah]

Was just in WDW. Magic is very much diminished by basically everything described in this video. Not going back any time soon.

[@Sarahla91]

This makes me so sad. Before the pandemic, I did 3-4 Disney trips a year. I haven’t been back since February 2020 because I’m scared the magic will be gone and it won’t feel the same as it did.

[@krab1791]

A few years ago my husband said, “why cant things be like they used to be? I like when things were spontaneous.” My repose was that our trips were never spontaneous.They just seemed to be because I did all the planning and occasionally gave my husband a few choices. If you dont plan, you aste a lot of time.

[@eliseihle4574]

😂 so agree with this! My parents still think they are 'spontaneous'... or at least they did until they got back from a trip without me and DH. Surprise surprise they didnt like the food and didnt ride many rides 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@shereadsmysteries]

I was just talking to my sister about this. Disney has never been and can never really be spontaneous. It used to be easier to walk up to a restaurant and get a spot, but intense planning was always part of the trip. I don’t understand why that keeps being the reasoning for Genie and why that keeps being brought up especially during this tough time. I never heard the lack of spontaneity as a complaint about Disney. I think most people know that isn’t part of the Disney experience. But maybe all that is just me.

[@SpartanWolf222]

Some places can be great for spontaneous things like DC. We had some planned stuff but ample time to check out the rest of the capital on our own pace.

[@Spokenfan]

I have been a Walt Disney fan since the early 60’s. But I’m am so very disheartened and disappointed that Disney is all about the almighty Dollar. I mean you are paying so much more every year for everything and sometimes twice a year on price increases. My Husband says the park started going down hill with fast passes, that’s how old we are lol. We remember the A tickets when the park first opened. Any who, we love your videos and eagerly await the next. Thank you for sharing 👍🏻👍🏻 Stay safe healthy and happy 😃✝️🇺🇸❤️

[@zannido3125]

This should be titled why to cancel your trip video (sigh)

[@stj53]

As a Mickey Mouse Club member since the 50's....I'm just OVER IT

[@samueljones5700]

I started saving prior to Covid to bring my grand children to WDW as I did with my kids numerous times in the 80’s, 90’s and 00’s. With all the changes, enormous price increases and constantly changing rules, I’m beginning to think I’ve spent my last dollar in Disney. Sad but I could possibly take them to Europe and give them a better experience for the same cost. The only way to convey to Disney the error of their ways is to just not go. At some point you just have to say NO!!

[@lg6758]

THIS!

[@largol33t1]

So true. I "divorced" Disney two years ago and don't miss it as much as I thought. From all the videos I've been watching, it just gets worse. And it keeps going downhill. It'll never end until the ENTIRE board of directors is fired or resigns.

[@melissarandazzo603]

Just went and it was horrible. No free passes, everything is mobile ordering, and there are no running trams

[@IronicLamoWithAwsome]

This is why we went to universal. It was easy to book, and cheap

[@stephanieg8545]

And the hotels across the street that offer free busing into and out of the park are way better! And even if just get a cab it’s so cheap because it’s just down the road.

[@largol33t1]

I like how Mickey is acting like he has no competition: Mickey: "Oh boy! I can rip off all the guests and still get more to come..." Hermione Granger: "Avada kedavra!"

[@largol33t1]

Cheap? No, it was VERRY cheap compared to Disney! I went a year ago in off-season and it was worth sitting around waiting an extra three months to go. The problem is there is no Harry Potter World in the UK or Australia. The buses were PACKED with Brits, Scots and Australians. Once they all leave, the Brazilians come and Universal is becoming more popular with them as well. A huge tour group arrived on my last day there. They filled TWO buses! Yikes. Even I underestimated Universal's growing popularity. Getting into Diagon Alley at 2 pm in OFF season is a terrible mistake. The crowds just get bigger and bigger. I have nooo idea if I can plan a trip next year but I hope so...

[@haroldkloran4323]

FIRE CHAPEK !!!!

[@mindyschocolate]

Yeah, he’s a train wreck. My jaw dropped seeing the price increase for that lame Halloween “after hours” event. I got way more out of MNSSHP in 2019 and I paid $89 for 4-12am.

[@MissProfessorPlum]

I will never understand why people are okay waiting hours for a 3-minute ride. Or why The Powers that Be don't give a bleep that the magic Walt ensured filled WDW is now extinguished. Oh, but let's build more hotels.

[@tonyreed9624]

I believe Walt would lose it if he knew how greedy his dream has become. His idea was to give access to everyone. I've spent too much money the last few times we went with more and more of the experience not being available. Some covid related but much of it is non covid related changes. It just feels like it's being run into the ground.. I hope not

[@Showtunediva]

I feel the same way.

[@jimeagle1155]

I never met those guys but I doubt that neither Walt nor Roy would be cool with treating guests, especially children, to a less magical experience based on their income level

[@Canrugger]

There are still Disney family members on the board so….

[@jimeagle1155]

@@Canrugger I have family members that are dousche bags too

[@largol33t1]

Might as well rename it Iger's greedy world. That's exactly what he's doing, letting his greed dictate everything.

[@nataliemcchlery3840]

A.J your voice is so soothing and calming. Even without needing to plan for a trip this year I love listening to your videos for the advice but also for how awesome they are. Keep up the awesome work! Love the newsletter too! Get on that list people! Awesome content!👍🏽🥰

[@furryskeptic5456]

I feel like we need an outtake video now. At least once, please DFB, show us those melted snacks lol.

[@the_ali_a]

hahahhahahahahaha. labour shortages. they fired everyone. what labour shortage. disney is less magical, most places closed, no character meet and greet but instead of disney adding more perks. No, they remove all the perks and you have too pay more to get some perks back. even when the fast pass comes back they might even charge you for that too. they removed the free bus tranfers too the disney hotels. whats the point of staying at the disney hotels. They are literally gentrifying disneyworld. Poor can't go anymore

[@djm5687]

I wonder if people planning a Walt Disney World vacation are now thinking: *"Is it worth it?"*

[@crystalfarley7359]

I'm planning a trip in October. Yep. Still worth it.

[@Erica-su8tr]

​@@crystalfarley7359 Please be careful with all that is going on. i had to cancel my 3yr old of course doesn't have vaccine. it sucks but i dont have to worry as much and i feel like i would rushing on the happiest place on earth. have fun girlie!

[@ashtonlange4616]

Going December for a 4 day trip. Totally worth it.

[@Canrugger]

Always is

[@djm5687]

@@ashtonlange4616 There are *many* other vacation options (even international) that are probably a better value.

[@Rocket_Got_Robbed]

We've gone to WDW numerous times. Uncountable really. We have been blessed to be able to do that. After 2 trips this year, both of which were much less magical and more expensive than prior trips, it is looking like we will explore other options. We have taken couple's trips, family trips and extended family trips. This year, a couple's trip was as expensive as a family trip was previously. With the increase in cost and lack of perks, it is becoming a standard theme park experience and much less magical.

[@simtanic8]

Same, I used to be a passholder for YEARS and gave it up because it wasn't that magical anymore. Started going to Universal instead and was much more impressed. Id recommend going there if you want a better experience.

[@Canrugger]

So whiny

[@lavetaloca7790]

Try Universal

[@Sarahla91]

This is so sad to me. I’m a DVC member from Canada and I’m scared I won’t want to visit Disney as much any more with all of these new changes and less-than-magical experiences I keep hearing about. ☹️ Disney was my favourite vacation spot. We would sometimes go 3-4 times a year.

[@Orlak3lly]

I watch these videos even though there’s absolutely no chance that I’ll ever go to Disney World

[@amandathompson9697]

I'm going this fall with my kids (staying in park) and i am soooo overwhelmed, especially now that they've added the genie mobile thing.

[@suechun8871]

Disney is not treating people like guest...more like piggy banks...I will go else where.

[@williamrich7638]

I am spending oodles of money there, and they are going to tell ME what I can, and can not do? I have to get permission, schedule around them, and it's costing me a fortune at the same time? NO. I don't think I will be going to Walt Disney World any time soon.

[@larrybird9340]

Its funny how Universal Studios is still easy to plan Disney needs to stop over complicitating every little thing.

[@selinametalslasha]

Literally! I did some research for universal and I'd save a small fortune going there over Disney. To the tune of like 2k savings.

[@92bagder]

and there's discounts and perks for pass holders

[@0dylan]

@@selinametalslasha once epic universe opens I have a feeling universal will be alot more appealing than Disney if Disney doesn't turn things around

[@larrybird9340]

@@0dylan its already happening and Volcano Bay blows both Disney parks out of the water , no pun intended.

[@Danileptic]

I need to repeat flight of passage and want to see galaxies edge. 😅. But apart of that I'm totally universal fan. Explorer ticket is the best ticket ever.

[@ajserviced.1760]

Hi, just want to say I watch every vid you put on, and enjoy and am thankful for all the info you give. These help so much. I am booked for our trip next year, I can't wait to bring my Mom to the Magic for her first time since 1990s. Even if mask are not mandate by then we still plan to wear mask indoor public places, even our hotel lobby and stuff. However, we pray this pandemic will be controlled by next year. Anyway, thanks so much AJ, we really appreciate it, and make so many notes to help our trip next year. Be Safe Take Care ❤️

[@elainehill5931]

We will be there on Friday for Boo Bash. Staying onsite and also going to Universal and Seaworld. It might be our last time staying onsite and I’m okay with that.

[@DisneyUpBoilerUp]

Sure ,drive your own car to the park so we can charge you another $25 for parking. And then you can turn around and pay another $25 to park at our hotel.🤦‍♀️

[@jerryhunter1114]

We're looking forward to our trip in October. Granted, we're pretty nervous, even with the mental preparation about crowd grid-lock. Still, like the video says, w the right attitude, tempered expectations, and reasonable planning, I'm certain it will still be a blast. Of course, lots of ice cream will help too.

[@sandrabiscarner9217]

I have hard enough time when we had FP and didn’t have to make every meal a reservation (mobile order). I’m handicapped, so I can’t rush from A to B and with so many lines even though I’m on scooter is going to cause me to be very fatigued.

[@jerryhunter1114]

@@sandrabiscarner9217 those are all valid points. I am a bit saddened that one can't be as easy-going and spontaneous as they should be because indeed, the only thing you don't need to reserve yet is a restroom break.

[@sewgatormomm]

We went in May for a week and had a blast. All these complaint comments are way off base. We live close enough to just go for the day, but we never go during the summer months and certainly not now with Florida Covid numbers being through the roof.

[@jbr2991]

@@jerryhunter1114 Please don’t mention that. Disney may see it and we’ll have to reserve that too!

[@Rocket_Got_Robbed]

I will tell you what is not magical. We just returned, Had 4 senior citizens with us. My mom wanted a drink from Cosmic Ray's. My dad tried to walk in and get one and was stopped. He was told he had to order it on the app. He said, I don't have the app. They wouldn't let him in to get a drink. The mobile order is a cool feature. REQUIRING it, is ridiculous.

[@crystalfarley7359]

Not at all. What's ridiculous is implementing a system to help keep people safe, making sure everybody KNEW about that system, then have people still thinking the rules don't apply to them. Now THAT'S ridiculous.

[@kimhahn6220]

Well Crystal some people especially senior citizens don’t have smart phones so…how about being kind and give them a cup of ice water/ soda/tea by walking up. After all if you order it on the app you have to enter the place and interact with a cast member anyway!?!?

[@kathymcel]

they should have told you the closest place you could go to buy a drink without a phone although one of you most likely did have a phone and could have ordered

[@mavrrick]

I wonder if the park reservation system is the new norm. Even before Covid I was always curious how they managed people flooding to one park or the other on a particular day through chance. Disney likes to manage things.

[@Sarahla91]

I really hope not, but I think it might be. Totally ruins the parks for me as I used to love to park hop frequently and choose which parks I wanted to visit every morning on a whim.

[@nataliepenna8618]

Wow timing, appearing as soon as I finish work like you knew I needed this respite, lol. I'd love to know what snacks with 'freebies' or like 'low budget ways to get souvenirs from your trip' you'd recommend in a video. (Pay a little extra for a special cup, get a glow cube, etc.)

[@carol2girls]

Never heard of freebies at Wdw

[@nataliepenna8618]

@@carol2girls that's why I had it in quotes, lol. You might pay more for like a drink with a glow cube in it or something served in a cup you can keep, but you were going to buy the basic version anyway so is it worth spending a couple of bucks more and getting that 'free' Cup with your drink, etc. That sort of souvenir.

[@lunacrescentnightshado]

And it can be any amount too

[@froschkoenig666]

I know they have those buttons as a free souvenir

[@RoninX33]

Wanted to go to Disney one more time but seems like it is just no longer worth it. Money maybe better spent elsewhere.

[@erikatripp3072]

I’ve been planning my families Disney trip for 6 months and we’re finally leaving Friday!! These videos have been my saving grace during the planning process.

[@discoveringmars756]

Same!!!

[@ashtonlange4616]

Have fun dude. I’m heading out Dec. 20-24th

[@jennrocchi6385]

have a blast!!! we were there a couple weeks ago, hot but lots of fun was had!!

[@LaurenceQuint]

According to the released "sample itinerary" for the Starcruiser, the guests will be doing "rise of the resistance" at 8:30am, before the park officially opens. Here's hoping they stick with that, it's really the only way to make it work without making ROTR even more difficult and engendering a massive backlash from regular WDW visitors who aren't staying at the Starcruiser.

[@georgestokes5116]

i like that you shell out all of your money and they can tell you whaat you can do and what you cant do.

[@joeymcmahon6657]

my friends and i are from minnesota and we just took a trip to disney world about a week ago. honestly, it was an extremely disappointing experience. many of the workers were rude and a lot of the food we tried was subpar. we expected crowds and things to be expensive but it was nothing like we had prepared for. it was all of our first time at disney and i’m sad to say we will most likely not be returning.

[@ojll3917]

someone described it best to me a couple weeks ago right now disney is like six flags over disney

[@3s_muycar0]

Six flags ain’t bad, at least the one that’s close to me in the DFW, ain’t none to expect at six flags you just go on rides and have you some chicken tenders or a funnel cake 😂

[@katstiehm3932]

Thank you for mentioning taking time off from the crowds for your children’s safety! We don’t need or want every single up to the minute update if it puts you or your team in hotspots! I have to go buy your guide now that I know what brand of magic I’m supporting! Stay safe so we can pass this on to everyone’s most precious resources: our children.

[@mrsmaggiekoch]

We were planning a big trip for the end of October/beginning of November and were very excited. And then my husband and I found out that we were expecting our first baby on October 27. So I will be 9 months pregnant and about to go into labor or will have a newborn. I still miss Disney- but I won't lie, with how stressful things have gotten in terms of scheduling I'm not very sad we are missing the trip. I'm more excited to look towards taking our baby girl for the first time a few years in the future.

[@lavetaloca7790]

take littles to Disneyland first. smaller, cuter, closer to your room AND still has Toon Town for romping

[@eliza8222]

I’m really excited 🤗 about Fast Pass coming back, but at the same time I’m really nervous 😬 that it won’t be free anymore like it used to be. Disney has changed everything since it reopened but I hope 🤞🏾 it doesn’t change Fast Pass.

[@jtstacey83]

It looks like paid fast pass is coming. Disney is currently testing it in Paris Disneyland, but it looks like it will be paying per ride instead of a flat fee like Universal Studios, which I think is a horrible idea, and it doesn't include their newest rides.

[@blackfox1320]

It's the Genie system and it's a payscale system. Rumor is top tier rides will be 10$ a pass. So 40 dollars for a family of four on top of your tickets, parking, food, resorts, etc.

[@Danileptic]

@@blackfox1320 only 10??? I'm so in 🔥🔥🔥

[@jtstacey83]

@@Danileptic the issue is when you look at Disneyland Paris the rides offering the service aren't the newest rides. So rides like Rise or M&M railway wouldn't offer it.

[@Danileptic]

@@jtstacey83 yes that's ok for me. I want flight of passage fast passes soooo bad. I pay.

[@johnds6621]

It's not worth it now. I've been spoiled in the past and if I were to go now I wouldn't be happy so I'll wait and go in the distant future.

[@TheGatorDude]

As someone who's been often, this sounds like the park has become a complete nightmare. I might just make the Tokyo and Disney Sea my home parks now.

[@Canrugger]

Its still amazing…dont know how you are seeing it as a nightmare

[@TheGatorDude]

@@Canrugger It's just too busy, and I don't really like taking my phone with me. I preferred when everything was spontaneous but now even your meals and fast passes have to be pre-planned. Still love Disney though, I just think (as a Canadian), I'll go back to the Japanese one instead. Especially since their overpopulated attractions are a lotto system, which is much fairer IMO.

[@samcha9448]

That is, whenever Tokyo opens up…

[@TheGatorDude]

@@samcha9448 True, but I can't travel to the USA either right now really

[@justaguy2182]

Disney parks, even before the pandemic, was just getting less and less worth it. Eventually they’re going to have to introduce major price drops across the board if they want people to keep coming back.

[@kimt8162]

THis reminds me of Spring Break; for some reason it was hard to get a reservation at a restaurant that was actually open. and with no Magical Express coming up. and no fastpasses. NOt enough for us to plan another trip at this time.

[@jrobinson5357]

I followed all of DFBs advice and had a fabulous time at Disney when we went last June in spite of all the hoops we had to jump through. DFB prepared us for everything! Thank you DFB! TOTALLY WORTH IT! Planning another trip for 2022 🎉

[@chrissyscorner3663]

AJ!!! I'm soo glad you posted this type of video...I know u were concerned of it being a "downer" but this video was so comforting to me!! Confessison: I am one of those weird over the top planners that has been planning my trips like this for years (of course now with other considerations) BUT For the most part I have been. Always book months in advance, have hard copy confirmation numbers and one park per day to include ADRs....is it shameful that I was glad to hear you confirm some of these planning tips?! Haha again this gives me hope for thr way I am planning our next trip.

[@timkunk3498]

Things making it harder to go to Disney Bob Iger, Bob Chepek, and the board of Disney!

[@DJSultiva]

Think I might cancel my may trip and go vegas for a couple of days lol

[@helloimarabbit4083]

You would probably lose less money

[@largol33t1]

@@helloimarabbit4083 Hahaha! True. Just remember to set a mental limit and LEAVE before you reach it! For me, it's $200 (and that includes every coin fed to the slot machines). After I lose it all, I walk out.

[@JH-tm9yp]

Disney lost a lot of magic even before the pandemic, it is expensive and you had to schedule everything in advance, so last minute trips had become very difficult.

[@emilyuncry8933]

I'm getting a much better experience with my 200 Dollar + 135 Meal Plan + 32 Dollar Unlimited Soda 2021/2022 Season Pass for Cedar Point, Kings Island, MI Adventure, and Canadas Wonderland, this just looks too crowded to have fun, expensive, and don't want to be using my Phone all the time on Vacation.

[@GrannysCoop]

We went in October 2006, best trip ever! We went in October 2020, worst trip ever. The magic was definitely gone. When we left in 2006, we all started saving for the next trip (even my kids🤣). We went celebrating my 50th birthday and my husband and I’s 30th wedding anniversary. We had our perfect trip planned and bam, everything was canceled (his upon hours of work). Since we already had 2020 shirts ordered and we wanted to support Disney during this hard time, we decided to go. Most of the cast were rude, we stayed at a deluxe resort (no extras), Pattie our bus driver was magical (very sweet), but we probably will never get a chance to go back. The first time goers in our group, were not impressed. They couldn’t understand how wonderful it was for us the first time. 😢

[@yreyes2417]

HI AJ I love your videos because they have so much useful information, tips and you set us up for realistic expectations at the parks. Your videos are honest and genuine. This was not bomber video its REAL stuff.. not the perfect photo people show on SM. We let our annual passes go after 10 years can't deal with the crowds and all the hoops to get in and get on rides. GRACIAS [thank you]

[@joanlembo7845]

Oh AJ.....it just seems like it's getting harder & harder to go there. It's so sad.

[@robbywellsmusic]

You are amazing! Love your vids! They help SOO much!

[@johnpaulgray6812]

I feel like when magic bands came out, Disney flipped the switch to mine mode not magic mode

[@irishgirl4977]

AJ saying "Don't worry. It will be ok" may be in my head next month.

[@ellieh3017]

Nope! I have been to DW many times but nothing would make me go there now. Way to expensive and complicated. It’s supposed to be a magical vacation not a stressful, overpriced nightmare. Pay more and more, get less and less. What a useless, backward thinking business plan.

[@pinkorchid]

Thank you, AJ, for always keeping it real and so informative with us. Your channel is top-notch and my only go-to for all things Disney. We live in Ft Lauderdale and have yet to return to the parks since the whole pandemic started. 😬😪. We just don't want to be disappointed and would rather wait. 🙌🤗💕

[@aaronanglea]

i've NEVER seen a company make it so hard to give them money

[@hadas8731]

I just left disney world and I must say Im disappointed of the service. It wasnt as kind and caring as it was before covid as i remembered. In disney springs it was the w o r s t. We set in this italian resterunt there and the weiters were literlly ignoring us for 20 minutes. Looking at us raising our hands and turn their head away pretending they didnt see us. It was desgusting and I ended up being so angry the whole dinner was ruined.🥺

[@ethansucksatcuphead]

if planning a trip for 4 is hard i cant imagine what my poor band director is going through, he's planning a trip for the whole marching band for spring 2023!

[@Ash.Crow.Goddess]

"Labor shortages." There's no labor shortages. If Disney paid decent wages, they could easily hire more people.

[@airybrook]

Or if the government stopped paying people to not work....

[@kimhahn6220]

If people actually went back to work instead of living off the government subsidizes their wouldn’t be labor shortages….

[@mindyschocolate]

@@kimhahn6220 what’s that say about these companies that unemployment pays better?????

[@lorenzobartalini464]

disney definitely should pay more to their employees, but it doesnt help that the government is paying people to sit on their couches at home

[@kimhahn6220]

It’s because the government would rather have people under their control so they can tell them what to do because they hold the purse strings. If people were motivated there are high paying jobs out there. Again IF they want to work.

[@Kalamity125]

We were planning on potentially visiting this December (we’re Florida residents), but with how crowded it’s been and how covid keeps ramping up (thanks DeSantis), it’s just not worth it to spend all that money to wait in line all day and risk covid. Even being vaccinated with masks doesn’t feel like enough with that many people shoved into one place.

[@Lobodog6505]

Oh wow. This sucks.

[@Sarahla91]

I can’t believe how many free things they are removing and now going to charge for. Magical express and fast passes being the two biggest ones. We already pay so much for park tickets, event tickets, food, merchandise and hotel stay. It’s getting ridiculous.

[@phillycheesecakesss3012]

I think the best time to go to MK is the first week of March, lines moved fast, crowd wasn’t crazy, no rain, pleasant weather & its before the spring break crowd. I can’t wait to take my daughter again next year for the 50th celebration

[@Danileptic]

May i ask. When are the spring break crowds. I'm European and have no idea 😅

[@TheHennarincess]

@@Danileptic Spring Break varies by school, however the general time frame is the end of March through about the middle of April.

[@DrewLonmyPillow]

7:56 it will be hard to justify it being worth it for some time. I had the perfect (for us) trip planned, reserved, and FP'd out just for it to be cancelled. All that time and effort gone and I will likely never be able to recreate that itinerary. So it will be a long time before going back is worth it. I'm hopeful (which is why I'm still subbed here) but videos like this make me lose what little hope is left.

[@laurawilson5666]

What about the people at the lower money class who want to go to Disney? Are they even thinking or caring about us at all? How can lower money class even make enough money to go? @WaltDisneyWorld Stop Raising Your Prices Lower Money Class Still Wants To Be Able To Afford Disney Vacations Too!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :,(

[@PotterFreak22]

5:57 No, that is most certainly NOT okay that Disney is giving the people who spend more access to more stuff while stiffing the ones who can't afford anything like that. Universal is looking better and better the way Disney is headed out the window with their greedy selves. Yep, glad I'm having to wait til next year when things come back that actually made making the trip worth thinking about - MNSSHP, character photos, cool stuff like that.

[@richardpascarelli4134]

We’ve been going to WDW 2 or 3 times a year since the 90s and are current annual pass holders. Getting way too expensive for the joy of standing in lines and eating mediocre food at premium prices. It’s lost it’s magic for us, maybe it’s time for a new wave of fans. The lines are long so there is obviously enough people to feed the beast. We’re done

[@gordon4695]

Been going to Disney world since 1973. Went in October and it was terrible. Masks, huge wait times, lots of things closed, super crowded, etc. Never again. I will spend my 6,000 dollars some where else.

[@sloppydog4772]

Huge crowds - High prices. - too many rules that change daily for get it Disney is not worth all the trouble … If it does any thing is cause you more Stress that enjoyment …

[@averagejoe9249]

I just can't afford to come anymore 😭. Still paying for that last trip. It's a fun place, when it was affordable.

[@babyyvie]

🤦‍♀️I’m at Disney right now🙄 Masks in 90 degrees, no fast passes, everything is being half assed & everything closes earlier. 🙄Many menu items gone, like Lobster not available at Narcoosee’s, some dishes gone at Mama melrose, etc. No Princesses or wands at Cinderella’s castle. Cranky “cast members”. Multiple rides keep breaking down for hours.🙄

[@fredh8065]

Used to be top 10. But now its 15. This means Disney is working hard to make more things harder for everyone. Thanks Disney for the memories, but Im parting ways to Universal Studios.

[@MichelleAlexandria-EM]

how can I experience the vacation when I have to be staring at my phone all day?

[@sammariano414]

No kidding, I booked our most expensive Disney trip to date this summer and it was not worth it. The lines were so long, we went back to the hotel room without dinner the first night because we weren’t able to get a mobile order, the parks were uncomfortably packed, they even canceled the fireworks on our Magic Kingdom day and half the reason we booked the trip was to see Happily Ever After one more time. We were supposed to go back in November for the 50th anniversary and to experience the Christmas event this year, but to be honest, I’m not sure we will. We just saw today they removed the mask mandate in outdoor attractions and I’m not sure we will feel safe. It’s scary enough even going to Florida right now with the delta variant and all that exploding down there, but to actually RELAX the protection policies? No thanks. I’m vaccinated, but my daughter can’t be, she’s too young, and the whole reason we go to Disney is for her, so if we can’t do that and also feel confident we’re keeping her safe, then we won’t go at all.

[@ScarletJeskaRose]

so basically, if you want to go to Disney now, you have to be Scar and BE PREPARED! lol!

[@taylorchrist3524]

Disney World has priced out the middle class. I'd never pay this much more to go to the worst version of Disney World I've seen in my 27 years. They've lost a Disney diehard. :(

[@MightyBiffer]

We take a yearly (most years) trip to Orlando. Each year there are between 12 and 20 of us and we take a European style vacation (3-4 weeks). Earlier this year when we heard of the death of rope drop we canceled this years trip to WDW. We will spend a week in SW and US/IA then a cruise. It turns out to be more $$$. Are group will most likely not return to WDW and will not go back without the return of rope drop. We are OK with losing it due to COVID restrictions, but the corporate gutting of the practice makes going to the parks even more challenging. We also were planning a spring trip to Anaheim in 2022, but the rope drop issue has made everyone in our group not want to drop $$ on Disney. The Anaheim trip also is being modified to exclude DL & CA if not outright canceled. Many of use have also dropped our Disney+ subscriptions.

[@sallyahmadi5434]

I think it’s awful that Disney is catering to the wealthy. Guests of the deluxe hotels have a perk by just staying there. In my opinion it’s not fair to those that can’t afford to put out those big bucks. We all love Disney the same! Boo Disney

[@obnoxioustaco4252]

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[@samantabuelna2857]

They lost me! All the new and chanting rules and prices are too much! 😡😡😡