Harry Potter Park - What will WDW do? [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

Mouseaholic!!!

07-18-2008, 01:19 PM

I'm not sure the announcement of an anniversary in 2011 is going to steal much thunder in 2009 and early 2010.

I am sure this troubled economy is not making things easy for Disney's plans for challenging the completition (and I'm sure the economy is not going to help HP's opening either).

What's going to keep the guests from split stays with HP in 2009 and 2010?

Every day at HP is lost $$$ for WDW.....they work too hard with DME and dining options --- keeping us locked at WDW vs. wandering to US.

larry_poppins

07-18-2008, 01:24 PM

Condorman

07-18-2008, 01:33 PM

When Disney was about to open AK, Universal was opening their park as well. Disney had much bigger ambitions for AK including the Beastlie Kingdomme but decided to wait and see how the public reacted to US. When US did not open with the bang everyone expected, Disney saw no reason to expand AK and left it to become the half-day experience that it continues to be.

You will not see or hear any ambitious, concrete plans from Disney on WDW until they are done with the DCA expansion. By then, Harry Potter will have opened. Disney will either wait and see again, or have something in the works. I think it will be the former rather than the latter.

Brian_WDW74

07-18-2008, 03:21 PM

I'm not sure the announcement of an anniversary in 2011 is going to steal much thunder in 2009 and early 2010.

I think it will. People on limited budgets who have been saving up for their trips to Orlando will then be left with a choice...go see HP in what will still basically be a 2-day park, or wait another year and see all the great stuff that Disney will be adding. While some will choose HP, I think the majority will stick with Disney.

What's going to keep the guests from split stays with HP in 2009 and 2010?

You said it. The economy. With Disney's current ticket structure of making additional days cost only $2 or so, not to mention the cost of gas to travel between the two parks, it will make more financial sense for guests on a limited budget to spend all their time at Disney.

I don't mean to imply that HP won't have a short-term impact on WDW. It will. But Disney is looking at the bigger picture. :)

Mouseaholic!!!

07-18-2008, 03:31 PM

I think it will. People on limited budgets who have been saving up for their trips to Orlando will then be left with a choice...go see HP in what will still basically be a 2-day park, or wait another year and see all the great stuff that Disney will be adding. While some will choose HP, I think the majority will stick with Disney.

You said it. The economy. With Disney's current ticket structure of making additional days cost only $2 or so, not to mention the cost of gas to travel between the two parks, it will make more financial sense for guests on a limited budget to spend all their time at Disney.

I don't mean to imply that HP won't have a short-term impact on WDW. It will. But Disney is looking at the bigger picture. :)

Are you kidding ---- and entire new PARK! What is Disney going to offer in comparison.....a promise that the bathrooms will be clean this time?

Harry Potter is current day children's Mickey Mouse.....those families are going to RUN to HP. Look at all the HP books that sold ---- many of those books were read by children who will be begging to see Harry and Hogwarts. The parents will love the rides at US.

For me, I'm not a big fan of HP but my DH is. We will be there.

Now that you mention the economy.....one way to save $$$$ on travel is to cut it short by a day or two. Now with HP you can bundle your tickets with US AND Seaworld (a GREAT park by the way)......stay 5 days instead of 7.....Disney tickets are obscene at 4 or 5 days. US/Seaworld bundled tickets will give people PLENTY to do at fabulous parks.

Personally.......I think Disney will be a fool to ride on it's reputation right now. The tourist $$$ is simply too precious.

Vijoge

07-18-2008, 04:19 PM

People at work were online looking at the new Harry Potter Park at US this morning.
I wonder what Disney has in mind to compete when this opens?

Do you want to visit HP?

Will you split your stay between WDW an US?

Do you think Disney is worried?

I'm not a big US fan, went there once and wasn't impressed, but we do love Harry Potter. Yes, we will go.

Won't split a stay-we'll just go for the day.

No, Disney is definitely not worried.

Brian_WDW74

07-18-2008, 04:31 PM

Are you kidding ---- and entire new PARK! What is Disney going to offer in comparison.....a promise that the bathrooms will be clean this time?

Well, see, it's not an entire new park. It's merely the retheming and slight expansion of the current Lost Continent portion of Islands of Adventure. In Disney terms, it's somewhat like the transformation of Mickey's Birthdayland into Mickey's Toon Town Fair, albeit on a grander scale.

If it was indeed going to be a whole new park, I'd agree with you that Disney might have cause to be worried. But since The Wizarding World of Harry Potter will just be another themed area inside IOA, along with Seuss Landing, Marvel Super Hero Island and the rest, I think Disney has got more than enough planned to handle this one addition to Universal Studios. :)

lsutiggergirl

07-18-2008, 04:32 PM

Disney has nothing to worry about. It's not like it's a whole park dedicated to HP (although it should be), it's just a portion of Islands of Adventure. My DH and I will be planning a trip to see the new HP and we'll probably just book a quick weekend to Universal Studios and definitely stay on site there to skip the lines! I love that!

lsutiggergirl

07-18-2008, 04:33 PM

Looks like great minds think alike Brian...we had just about the same post a minute apart!

DisFlan

07-18-2008, 04:33 PM

I'm not a big US fan, went there once and wasn't impressed, but we do love Harry Potter. Yes, we will go.

Won't split a stay-we'll just go for the day.

No, Disney is definitely not worried.

That's us, too. We aren't big US fans, but we WILL go for a day to see HP - depending on reviews. I hope they don't muck it up/make it too cheezy etc. We're DVC so we probably won't be staying at US.

By the time HP opens, I'd guess Disney would have something new in the works anyway. I don't think they're sweating HP all that much.

DisFlan

Brian_WDW74

07-18-2008, 04:44 PM

Looks like great minds think alike Brian...we had just about the same post a minute apart!

I'm glad you've got my back! :lmao:

Let me just state for the record that I am a HUGE Harry Potter fan and definitely plan on visiting IOA after the new area opens. I hope that it's done right and turns out to be a great success. But I honestly don't think that this one addition to the park will have much of an impact on WDW in the long term. :)

ears4all!

07-18-2008, 04:55 PM

I'm with ya...

since it is not a whole park, it shouldn't worry Disney too much.

Vijoge

07-18-2008, 04:56 PM

It's not like it's a whole park dedicated to HP (although it should be)

Now for that I'd be tempted to split a stay!

Davey-D-99

07-18-2008, 05:04 PM

We have been discussing our second visit to WDW for early 2010...
My kids absolutely want a split stay with Universal this time just to visit the HP themed area. Probably an 8 night stay with 3 or 4 nights at US. Disney will not be able to keep us for the entire stay next time...kids are huge HP fans.

doubletrouble_vb

07-20-2008, 07:40 PM

Disney should be a little worried. Their current offerings have me back to my late 90's touring plan of a little of Disney and a little of Universal. As it stands Universal is a two and a half day park for me. One day at US and one day plus a sit down lunch at IOA/City Walk. I then MIGHT do a third day of favorite rides/missed shows for half a day. If HP is even halfway decent it'll be three full days....plus I haven't been to Sea World in years and I definitely want to go back. As it stands now I could easily do my favorite things at WDW as filler days for cheaper Universal/Sea World/other stuff trips until such time Disney delivers something that means I'll want to stay on site for a few days (and right now the only thing that is looking like that would be a huge sale on rooms).

Topo Bella

07-20-2008, 10:31 PM

I'm a big Harry Potter fan but can't imagine cutting out one of my WDW days to go there. Instead, I think it is more likely is that we'll add a day to our trip.

It is actually wonderful to think that a family can spend an entire week in Orlando and not run out of things to do.

TDC Nala

07-20-2008, 10:43 PM

Most everyone will probably go take a look at Harry Potter. But will it make those who repeat-visit Disney want to go back to Universal year after year after year? Will it convince them to give up free airport transportation and the Disney Dining Plan?

Would have to actually see it before I could tell.

Padrepride

07-21-2008, 01:04 AM

Disney shouldn't be worried. I do think that Disney will strike back with a new land of their own about the time that the Harry Potter land opens. I am going with a Pixar or Indy-Star Wars themed land to go in the DHS. Or, I'm still hopeful for the Beastly Kingdom in AK.:goodvibes

minnie61650

07-21-2008, 01:18 AM

People at work were online looking at the new Harry Potter Park at US this morning. The website said it will open late 2009.

I wonder what Disney has in mind to compete when this opens?

Do you want to visit HP?

Will you split your stay between WDW an US?

Do you think Disney is worried?

I guess you haven't seen the Blue Sky rumors for new rides at WDW Fantasyland......

The Little Mermaid ride rumors for WDW are once again surfacing along with a couple of other ride rumors for WDW Fantsyland.

From the Blue Sky Buzz......

http://blueskydisney.blogspot.com/2008/07/blue-sky-buzz-orlando-its-just-fantasy.html

Here is an excerpt......
Blue Sky Buzz (Orlando): It's Just A Fantasy...

...............
Imagine that Little Mermaid attraction we talked about before... it's basically going to be the ride we have here, although it might be a bit smaller and the exterior should be envisioned differently, but all around Fantasyland you'll notice a great deal of detail and a great deal of difference in a bout four or five years if it all comes to pass.

How would you like to get through with your adventures with Ariel and Sebastian and walk out looking around the Florida sunshine basking in that new roller coaster that's been put in for Disney Fans/Geeks to ride. A roller coaster? What are you talking about? The one themed to the Seven Dwarfs, that one. Lavishly made up with details that are closer to something you'd see in Tokyo that stateside, but it's there...........

----------------------------------------------------

I do not think WDW is worried.
I think they are planning to be ready if they need to compete.

KirstenB

07-21-2008, 09:41 AM

Once the impact of Harry Potter hits, I expect Disney to close the MK early cancel entertainment pieces and raise prices! The fact that Disney is ignoring this does not surprise me. I plan on using my DVC as a dormitory for exploring Universal IOA in 2010!

Larry

This is exactly what we did on our trip 2 mths ago. We'd never been to US, but bought the 7 day/86 dollar passes. We had the best time. I can't even imagine HP added to the mix. The WDW tix are just a huge expense for a family of 4, and they're very hard to justify when WDW isn't adding anything new.

minnie61650

07-21-2008, 10:03 AM

....... .. WDW isn't adding anything new.

I respectfully disagree.

WDW is always adding new attrations to their parks.

In 2007 they added Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor.
In 2008 they added Toy Story Mania.
In January of 2009 they are adding American Idol.

And if the rumors I heard from seveal sources including the 1 I posted from Blue Sky Buzz (the rest I cannot reveal) It is a pretty sure thing that the Little Mermaid Ride will be open in the 2010-2011 timeline.

---------------------------------------------------

As for me I will not be visiting US.

We took the family in 1994 and we went in 2002.
Since I have limited mobilty there are very few rides &/or attractions I can even enjoy at US.

Just my 2 cents.

eeyorethegreat

07-21-2008, 07:48 PM

We are looking forward to the New Harry Potter Area at IOA. We have never been to Universal/IOA, we have very little interest in it. The addition of this area will send us there for 1 to 2 days. We are BIG HP fans. So yes Universal will be getting bussiness from my family that it would not have otherwise gotten BUT we won't be taking days away from our Disney stay we will be adding two days at the beginning off WDW property to go to IOA. I think those die hard WDW fans will do much the same while those who already mix their trips between WDW and Universal will continue to do so. I think any loss from WDW will mostly be those travellers who only plan to make one trip to the area and decide to take time from their WDW stay to go to Universal/IOA. In the short term Disney may seem some loss but I think long term it won't have a major effect.

Mouseaholic!!!

07-22-2008, 08:51 AM

Tinkermommy

07-22-2008, 11:17 AM

I think all of the tourist industry will be feeling the pinch in 2009. Disney has for years been strategizing how to keep people on Disney property (bus service from the airport, dining plans, etc). Even if people split their stay it will hurt in terms of revenue when the entire industry is fighting for the decreased amount of tourist dollars.

And if people are taking vacations most of them will be trying to do something much less expensive and Disney is at the top of the budget in terms of ticket pricing.

We go to WDW a lot (my 1 year old has been 5 times). We are getting a bit tired of it though. We have talked about going to US next time. They have a cheaper meal plan, cheaper tickets, and the IOA is really fun.

In an economy where people are cutting back where they can, every dollar counts and if Disney is losing even a day or two to other parks that will hurt their overall bottom line.

We are also huge HP fans, so I will definitely be going when it opens!!

DisFlan

07-22-2008, 02:14 PM

I don't know if Disney is sweating HP in particular - I think they're worrying more about a general dropoff later this year and into next year. As noted, a WDW vacation for most folks is at the top end expense-wise. People with planned/paid trips will follow through, but fewer people will be planning and paying for those way-ahead-of-time planned trips next year. They're likely to wait and see what happens next year with the economy - or they'll decide on something within a gas tank's distance from home. HP won't be up and running until late 2009 or 2010 - so US as well as WDW will feel the pinch next year. Let's hope things have improved for everyone by the time HP opens.

DisFlan

doubletrouble_vb

07-22-2008, 02:48 PM

I have to agree that it isn't the most loyal customers Disney has to worry about. They've demonstrated time and time again that they aren't too worried about them.

It's people like me whose dollars are in play that are of concern.

Universal/Sea World isn't the only competition Disney has for my money. They are also competing with Gatlinburg and Savannah. Fortunately for them I like Disney's Hilton Head if its that part of the greater Savannah area I'm aimining for. What with people driving in from farther away all of a sudden there will be things to stop and do ON THE WAY to Disney...cutting into Disney's Dollars even more. Or they may choose to go somewhere that it is the same five hours away from home they used to spend on the plane ride.

2. My old touring plan used to be one split trip then the next a Disney only trip. Adding a new ride here and there doesn't encourage me to do a Disney only trip, it just creates a must-do park visit. So going forward I'll be doing split trips that may or may not include Disney until such time as my finances get a bit nicer OR Disney does something that I just have to see over the course of a few days.

MusiqChic99

07-22-2008, 03:17 PM

I agree that tourism is going to be hit either way due to prices. Disney is good about keeping people on their property and those who really want to go see HP will no matter what. Like someone said...add an extra day into their vacation.

I would love to see HP park but if i had to choose between US and WDW..WDW would win out every time.

Jenvenza

07-22-2008, 04:36 PM

I dont think Disney has a thing to worry about. I think the Harry Potter Park will be pretty cool, but it would just be something I went to visit WHILE I was on my Disney vacation. I wouldnt plan a trip just to go there.

berry_disney_girl

07-22-2008, 06:57 PM

I don't think Disney needs to be worried about the new HP area at IOA. I am an avid Disney and US fan. But they have nothing to worry. People aren't going to stop going to Disney because of this. lol

choirchic

07-24-2008, 08:38 AM

The Harry Potter attraction is not a "new park" so to speak. It is a "land" within the existing park, and while I love Harry Potter and will probably check this out, I'm sure Disney is keeping up with all of it.

Just because Disney is quiet, doesn't mean they're not thinking...remember how Disney bought the land to build WDW and how "hush hush" that was? I wouldn't be worried... :thumbsup2

letthewookiewin

07-24-2008, 09:36 AM

When we go to Florida, we go just to go to WDW. I've thought about going to Uni, but nothing has interested me enough to take time away from the Mouse. However my family loves HP. We go to see the movies at the midnight shows, and got the last couple of books at the midnight release of them. If it were a 5 day or less trip, even when the WWoHP opens, I won't take time away from WDW. If we can go for 6 + days, then we will go to US. More than likely what we would do is start out at WDW, and end at WDW so we can take advantage of DME on both arrival and departure. Then we would just take 2 nights in the middle where we stay at a Uni resort so we can advantage of the perks of staying at their resorts. I am trying to convince my DH to do this for our 15th wedding anniversary in July 2010.

bytheblood

07-24-2008, 04:47 PM

I agree with Brian, I don't think that TPTB at Disney Corporation are worried or concerned.

I enjoy the Harry Potter movies and have read the two books that have not yet been released and am looking forward to the final 3 movies - but I would rather go to WDW.

Tinkermommy

07-25-2008, 10:59 AM

If any of you are business people then you will know that Disney is worried. Not just about HP, but about anything that would take away revenue in this tight market. Even one day away from a Disney park out of a week vacation is a cut of 14% in revenue from a customer. Any business would worry about that. And I don't think many people with just "tack on an extra day" when they have a limited vacation budget. They will make the choice that gets them the most of what they want for the amount they have to spend.

Here on the DIS boards we are very loyal to Mickey, but I would cut my time to go to IOA to see the HP area. I might even make a separate trip to do so and stay at one of their hotels. And we have been to WDW 5 times in the last 18 months!

Is Disney wringing their hands over HP? No, are the concerned and putting plans into place to minimize the loss? Yes. I don't think that means building multi-billion dollar new parks, but probably more aggressive pricing, more perks for staying onsite, asv well as some new rides, etc.

bytheblood

07-25-2008, 11:37 AM

Is Disney wringing their hands over HP? No, are the concerned and putting plans into place to minimize the loss? Yes. I don't think that means building multi-billion dollar new parks, but probably more aggressive pricing, more perks for staying onsite, asv well as some new rides, etc.

Disney is already doing this and has agressively been doing this for 15+ years and moreso in the last 10.

If Disney were concerned about another park taking away business, the correct tactic for anybody in business is to not to raise prices, but to instead offer something the competition is not.

I am in strategic planning meetings every week and I can assure you that gaining business is not found in raising pricing. Adding perks is not a perk when essentially you are paying for it. The best way to win the business is to offer something that is not being offered elsewhere. Looks like that is the step that Universal is taking to gain business by adding something as popular as Harry Potter to their offerings. Looks like a smart decision.

PIERCEDRN

07-25-2008, 02:55 PM

Personally, if I was Disney and reading this thread.....I would be worried.

By all accounts, 2009 is not going to be a strong year for the tourist industry -- Orlando is already feeling the pinch with the promise of far fewer flights into the airport and the downturn in advance reservations has already been reported in the Orlando paper.

Now look at these notes left by people......"We will go for only one day"......"I'm not a fan of US but love HP".......we will probably go for 1 or 2 days to check it out and spend the rest of the week at WDW". ......and these comments are from Disney's MOST LOYAL!

Each one of these precious days is lost revenue for WDW. They have worked very hard to make sure they don't share even one day of our visits with other parks. Now people are mumbling about leaving WDW for a day here and there.

What if they finally try US and.....God forbid.....LIKE IT.....realize the accommodations are better.......enjoy the bigger thrill rides over there......love the "front of the line" gift received by simply being a US resort guest?

Let's also remember that we Dis'ers are very loyal to Disney......most people visiting WDW are not.

You think they aren't worried about it? Think again.

Add to the mix that rumors are flying that Magical Express may not be free soon... now loads of people at the parks will have cars and dare I say... FREEDOM!:scared1: Everyone will make a trip to US because they can finally get there in a car vs. being trapped by disney transportation.

The FOTL pass at US is a serious perk most of the year while Disney's EMH is usually a reason to AVOID that park due to crowds.

The USA's economy will likely make people rethink their vacations, and the value of $85 a week for tickets will be sooo tempting for the weak US dollar.

Disney will try to target over the pond in the UK to prop up the market... but do you think any self respecting teen in the UK will allow their family to visit disney without seeing Harry Potter? Not a chance...

It is the perfect storm of split stays... now I am even planning mine!

BOB

minnie61650

07-25-2008, 04:01 PM

Add to the mix that rumors are flying that Magical Express may not be free soon... .....

Those rumors have been around since WDW first started ME.

I do not believe those rumors have an ounce of truth in them.

WDW fought so hard to get a light rail system that would take guests directly from MCO to WDW.

When that idea failed they stated offering their "free" direct to WDW ME
service.

This has worked very well for WDW to keep guests onsite.

If WDW started charging for ME it would completly defeat the orignal statagey that is working so well for them.

Just my 2 cents

Padrepride

07-26-2008, 11:49 PM

Potterland is good for both factions because in every situation, competition is good. We haven't heard a lot about the details of Harry Potter Land, and we haven't heard what Disney is doing in response to this. I've realized Disney and US are playing staring at each other right now. They are hiding their plans until the other reveals them so that they can steal the other's thunder. I can't wait to see what Disney is doing for their parks. :cool1:

Laura's Dad

07-27-2008, 06:19 PM

I am not a frequent visitor to the Rumors board, but I was looking around and happened on this thread, read it with interest (there are some really good ideas/explanations here), and decided to throw my two cents worth in (which are probably what they are worth). We are big WDW fans. We have been 8 times in 10 years and have always stayed on property and have never been to Universal. We did take a day and went to Sea World one day and loved the park. We have always ridden by Universal and IOA on our way down I-4 to WDW and looked. I have kept up with what Universal has through the Unoffical Guide and have been somewhat intrigued, but have always come back to WDW because of the Disney magic, the layout and quality of the resort, and the fact that everything is somewhat isolated from the tourist traps that abound in Orlando.

We are, however, big Harry Potter fans. My 17 year old daughter has grown up readin Harry, has been to all the midnight movie and book releases (We travel 60 miles to se it on IMAX on opening night). My wife has ordered the complete set of books from England as well as the US. My daughter will graduate from high school next June and we have planned an upcoming September trip with free dining as a graduation trip. We will be staying on-site and do not plan to leave WDW property until we drive home. The next Orlando trip that we take will involve IOA because of Harry Potter. Now I know that my dollar is not great in the entire scheme of things (except to my family), but I would imagine that there are several million people out there who will go to IOA just for HP land. If the rest of the park is as good as they say it is and everyone is happy with Universal, theie hotels (Portofino Bay looks like a great place to stay to me) are good, and I can get a better value at Universal, we may just go there and stay there. I imagine that this would worry Disney greatly.

UP Disney

07-27-2008, 06:32 PM

I had no interest in visiting US until the HP park was announced. I love Harry Potter and will have to check this park out when it opens. At this time, I don't know what I'll do about the stay.

Dznefreek

07-27-2008, 08:00 PM

Those rumors have been around since WDW first started ME.

I do not believe those rumors have an ounce of truth in them.

WDW fought so hard to get a light rail system that would take guests directly from MCO to WDW.

When that idea failed they stated offering their "free" direct to WDW ME
service.

This has worked very well for WDW to keep guests onsite.

If WDW started charging for ME it would completly defeat the orignal statagey that is working so well for them.

Just my 2 cents
You know it is not really free right.....The cost is rolled into the hotel rates

minnie61650

07-27-2008, 09:16 PM

You know it is not really free right.....The cost is rolled into the hotel rates

Believe me I do know.
That is why I see no reason for WDW to charge a fee to use ME. Instead it would be in WDW's best interest to just add the increased cost of ME into the room rate and keep ME "free".

lilybrooke14

07-27-2008, 11:13 PM

I'm not loyal. Not one iota. I love Disney, don't get me wrong, but I've always wanted to do Universal, and I love Sea World. We've been talking about trying to work out a trip in 09 and stay 8 days at AKL. Now we're thinking about waiting a few months longer, staying at a Universal Resort, and spending most of the week at US and SW. We may make a day trip into our favorite parks, but I love to see and try new things. It'll be cheaper, and I'm pretty sure we'll still have a blast. :eek:

I'm sure we're not the only ones.

MarriedToAPrince

07-27-2008, 11:16 PM

Both DH and I LOVE HP, so we will be going to US next year when we go to Disney, but it will be a one day thing, maybe two if we need more time to see everything, but other then that, the rest of the time will be at WDW.

Rora

07-28-2008, 04:55 PM

I have never been a US or IOA fan.. but I do plan to visit the Harry Potter area- just for a day though.

I would NEVER split my stay between Disney and US. I'm too big of a Disney freak.

I do not think Disney is that worried- there are more Disney fans than Harry Potter fans.

skajabowled300

07-29-2008, 09:55 AM

I cant wait for this to open up:cool1: :yay:

magicalfoursome

08-02-2008, 09:04 PM

I love WDW but also had a great time in US when we did a split stay in 2006. Of course we spent most of week in WDW. We are Harry Potter fans in our family so we will definitely going to US in '09 or '10. I think Disney knows they will lose some business because people who were not interested in taking a few days for US in the past now really want to go to see HP. Also, we plan on staying in a US hotel for a couple nights because the preferred line is AWESOME!! The lines at HP will be horrible so many people may want to stay on site to avoid them. We loved our stay at the Royal Pacific and found the service and food at the hotel to be great! We had no problems in the parks with service or cleanliness either ( and believe me I am picky and easily grossed out!)Disney will be fine though as there is no place with the magical feeling, characters, or atmosphere of Disney!!:lovestruc

SurfinTX

08-02-2008, 10:52 PM

Since I am a huge HP fan I will split stay this next trip in '09. That part of the park might not be fully opened by Aug '09 but I have never been to US anyway. I need a few more thrill rides than WDW has to offer anyway.

Kelly B Disney

08-02-2008, 11:54 PM

I have been an annual pass holder at WDW for well ...forever!!! I come 5 times per year or more and honeymooned here and wound up with an unexpected present after CBR one year we named Brendan!!! any way..
I have ventured over to Universal and even stayed there at the Royal Pacific whatever hotel . It was awful! The service was awful the staff every which way was like being in my local Woodbridge NJ mall !iThe restaurants, housekeeping, the boat driver everything!!! I wanted to like it but the employees were lower than low and had no customer service skills or class of any kind.
There is nothing like Disney. Now having said that , I like the theme parks at Universal and always have fun there but it is soo different there in terms of service cleanliness and the attitude and the workers. I would never stay there at the hotels again - even for the front of the line thing they offer. I only stay at WDW.
Now I ALSO must say Disney has really slipped as of late . I have been there four times this year most recently a few weeks ago and they have some questionable workers now. The customer service is not the same and I must say their new kinds of hires are not the Disney type of employees of the past. I can'[t believe the rudenss and just plain lack of knowledge and the lack of the Disney way I have grown to expect. One women at the Hollywood studios entrance collecting the parking money I swear was high or drunk from the night before!! She could not visually focus it was unbelievable!! I have NeVER seen anything like that in the past 20 years there!!! The spa at GF , some of the park vendors and some of the waiters we have come in contact with the past 6-8 visits have not been the usual disney way as of the past. We stay at the Pop or Yacht Club or CBR when we come.
I will go for the DAY to see the Harry Potter area without a doubt. My kids ages 18,17 and 12 are actually counting the days until it opens! I will stay at WDW but "visit" Universal for that. I do believe that disney needs to really be concerned and stop short changing with cutbacks at every turn . closings of Body Wars , Hunchback Show, Boats in AK ---with no replacement for your money ...for like ...years!!! Smaller portions of food everywhere , and now poor customer service llike you have never seen in the overall parks.
Universal is not like Disney BUT they need to watch it with this new HP land coming . Disney must turn it up a notch ( or go back to more how they were) AND offer something great and new to keep people there. sorry so long...

SelfEmployedDebtFree

08-03-2008, 01:57 AM

Do you want to visit HP?
NO. No desire at all.:surfweb: Disney is awesome. HP... Better abbreviations for a computer.:wizard:

daannzzz

08-03-2008, 11:09 AM

I have been over to Universal on 2 of my 10 trips. I like their parks over there. One trip I spent 4 nights at the Portofino Bay and I thought is was as good as the Disney Deluxe resorts (better than some). It was a wonderful stay. All the CMs were fine and the restaurants were good.
I am not a Harry Potter fan at all but the level of themeing and what they have chosen to build there looks incredible (hopefully the execution turns out as good as the artwork) so I will head over there again and most likely stay at one of their hotels.

GoofyWaterCoaster

08-03-2008, 12:05 PM

Brian_WDW74

08-04-2008, 04:35 PM

FYI: Universal has removed all references to 2009 in its literature for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It is now officially saying that it will open in 2010.

Disneycrazymom

08-04-2008, 06:13 PM

I think Disney is paying attention! They should be!

We went (I really didn't want to go but DS and DH really were excited). I am completely won over. The parks and hotel were really fun. The front of the line cannot be any better. This was in Aug. so it was hot and crowded.

All Universal needs to do is present itself in a positive way at the opening and many people who formerly would only stay at Disney will be splitting the time between the 2. People will go once to see Potterville. There is no doubt that the kids will want to go. What happens next is all about how the experience is for those first timers. You can bet that Universal knows it and Disney is most likely hoping Universal is not up to the challenge. I think they will be. Especially in these tighter times if you can go where the kids want, spend less, and wait in line less I think most parents will say, "We have a winner here!"

tfc3rid

08-07-2008, 12:03 PM

WDW needs to do something, anything... For people who are loyal customers, DVC'ers etc, there is something more that Disney needs to do... Some things get stakle or the level of what is actually 'new' doesn't really compare...

Sure, there have been some new 'attraction' openings in the past few years but none of a really creative level that were expected from big ticket Disney attractions of the 80's like Splash Mountain or anything from original EPCOT Center...

Something that mioght not tie in with the latest fad, movies or characters for a change... Classic disney attractions like the Haunted Mansion, Big Thunder and Pirates had no basis in any movies or merchandising... They were creative...

For real Disney Imagineering from the good ol' days, look back at the Western River Expedition... Now that is just the kind of creative BANG Disney now needs in Central Florida...

PrincessKara22

08-07-2008, 01:45 PM

I pouted and pouted when we spent our last day at SeaWorld a few years ago. I did NOT want to be there...I wanted our last day to be at Disney! The only thing I liked was the dolphin nursery. I cooed endlessly at them! You can't be grumpy around baby dolphins! But I always insist that I do NOT want to leave Disney property.

I've never had ANY interest in Universal...until Harry Potter. I don't think we'd ever stay off property at a Universal resort. I'm sure we'd just rent a car or take a taxi (does universal provide any transportation? Are there shuttles?) to spend the day at Harry Potter. But I'm sure even if we were staying at Disney for that day we wouldn't have our usual park hopper ticket if we were buying IOA tickets. After Harry, since we wouldn't have our usual disney tickets for the day, I'd obviously spend the rest of the day exploring IOA. Our flights out are always at night so from there I'd either go right to the airport or stay until closing and then head back to my Disney hotel. But I think our Harry Potter day will end up being our last day just like SeaWorld was. If Harry Potter is done right then it will be a place we want to visit more than once and will appeal to even non-Harry fans.

That said, Fantasyland NEEDS to be updated and expanded. Desperately. As does ToonTown Fair. Mickey's house needs to be something more than a walk through where you can't touch ANYTHING. Snow White's scary adventure needs an overhaul. If the one hundred acre woods wasn't just a playground it would have been neat but since you have to be 3 feet tall to enjoy it it's not exactly the best use of space. Expansions need to be more than just one new ride a year.

tfc3rid

08-07-2008, 02:08 PM

That said, Fantasyland NEEDS to be updated and expanded. Desperately. As does ToonTown Fair. Mickey's house needs to be something more than a walk through where you can't touch ANYTHING. Snow White's scary adventure needs an overhaul. If the one hundred acre woods wasn't just a playground it would have been neat but since you have to be 3 feet tall to enjoy it it's not exactly the best use of space. Expansions need to be more than just one new ride a year.

Disney needs to get back to thinking big for all parks on a regular basis but it doesn't seem like that thinking is too popular out in Burbank these days...

One 'ride' a year is fine but make it knock people's socks off... And yes, even a B-ticket can do that!

Mouseaholic!!!

08-07-2008, 02:37 PM

I would probably not visit the HP Park. Isn't it just a "land" in Universal? We all hate Universal- $10 for a Chicken Sandwich that is smaller than a McDonalds Hamburger, excluding fries and a drink???

There is just not anything exciting there anyway

I have not found Disney prices too affordable lately...not to mention the quality changes in many of the restaurants this year.

disneyfreakjackie

08-07-2008, 06:38 PM

Yeah ... never been to US/IoA ... but that Harry Potter park is going to change that ... that's for sure! Me and my oldest DD LOVE Harry Potter books AND all six of us LOVE the HP movies ... this will be a MUST SEE/DO when it's fully opened!!

We won't be forgetting about Mickey!!! NO WAY!! :cloud9: This will be an add on to our WDW vacation (although the WDW portion will probably be shorter.)

Then again ... isn't one of those new DCL ships supposed to be "up and running" by then?!? Maybe a Disney Cruise and the HP park!?! Ummmmm! :banana:

People at work were online looking at the new Harry Potter Park at US this morning. The website said it will open late 2009.

I wonder what Disney has in mind to compete when this opens?

Do you want to visit HP?

Will you split your stay between WDW an US?

Do you think Disney is worried?

larry_poppins

08-08-2008, 08:40 PM

I was thinking the same thing. 3 days at Universal + 7 day Disney cruise.

Larry

Metro West

08-09-2008, 02:02 PM

I would probably not visit the HP Park. Isn't it just a "land" in Universal? We all hate Universal- $10 for a Chicken Sandwich that is smaller than a McDonalds Hamburger, excluding fries and a drink???

There is just not anything exciting there anywayCan you tell me which restaurant you ate at? I don't believe I've ever seen a $10.00 chicken sandwich...just curious. :confused3

I was thinking the same thing. 3 days at Universal + 7 day Disney cruise.

LarryNow that sounds like a great vacation! :thumbsup2

LuvOrlando

08-09-2008, 07:10 PM

Check my siggie, I've been vacation splitting for years .
We do most days at WDW, then move over to Universal for a few, and then back to WDW.
Why? Because WDW forces me to buy tickets for the entire stay of my vacation when using a package, when I take a break and jet over to US I break up the reservation, and my cost. Also, US/IOA gives me front of the line privileges for staying on-site... and their resorts are beautiful. Finally, US/IOA has deals where I can see both parks for up to a week for under $100 pp.

I think WDW just can't be bothered with being competitive.

minnie61650

08-09-2008, 07:39 PM

Check my siggie, I've been vacation splitting for years .
We do most days at WDW, then move over to Universal for a few, and then back to WDW.
Why? Because WDW forces me to buy tickets for the entire stay of my vacation when using a package, when I take a break and jet over to US I break up the reservation, and my cost. .......
I think WDW just can't be bothered with being competitive.

I don't think Disney forces you buy tickets for the entire stay when using a package.

When I booked my package ( and this was even during free dining) I only booked a 1 day base ticket.

I think so far WDW has not had to lower prices like Universal has because WDW is filling the parks with the MYW ticket pricing which gives guests big price breaks afer the first 4 or 5 days. (About $3 a day for days 6,7, & 8 etc.)

LuvOrlando

08-09-2008, 10:23 PM

I have been going to WDW for a very long time. For years and years (back to my honeymoon in 1993) they would require that guests purchase the number of day passes equivalent to the number of nights if I wanted to get the discounts associated with the package. I know they must have told me this because I clearly remember booking 2 separate vacations (3 days with passes & a separate 3 days room only) at the same place just to avoid this problem on more than 1 occaision... I also clearly remember being required to make a 1 nights deposit on each separate reservation. BTW, they always allowed me to bump up the number of park passes but never down. That was only done if you could prove you got in on a late flight with a ticket at the front desk

Now if they've changed this policy I will be thrilled because it would make my life a whole lot easier. I never liked the policy which is why I have rarely ever participated in a package. I only did it when free perks were added into the package (I bumped up to 10 day with No exp option & hopping privileges & water park privileges about 3 years ago and am still using those tickets:thumbsup2 ) I do hope they have changed things because I never cared for the old policy since I don't like to visit any parks on travel days.

No matter what I will definitely be back in 2010 to see both WDW and the new HP attractions... I can't wait:banana:

askomsky

08-09-2008, 10:25 PM

I was surfing looking for something else and HP caught my eye.

I will first say that our first trip to Disney blew me away with the magic and seeing my kids faces enjoying it for the first time. DH and I are savers not spenders, we don't suffer or need anything but we choose to spend wisely. We went for 8 days stayed off site and still had a fabulous time for our famliy of 5. That said I think WDW IS A magical place, BUT there are many other vacation spots that I think my children will enjoy. We do plan on returning to WDW again either in late 09 or early 2010, but we plan on splitting our stay and going to Universal, Sea World, WDW and Kennedy Space Station.

I think Dis is worried but not bc of HP but the economy. They have to be to raise their prices again in this day and age when $4 for a gallon of gas is the norm and airlines are charging per bags. Stores are filing for bankruptcy, mortgage lenders falling through, it's a mess.

I do think WDW is a great family vacation where good times will be had, but there IS a price limit that people like me are willing to say, That's to much we can go elsewhere.

PS I can't WAIT for HP to open and I will time our next trip to FL around the opening of it.

minnie61650

08-10-2008, 11:30 AM

I have been going to WDW for a very long time. For years and years (back to my honeymoon in 1993) they would require that guests purchase the number of day passes equivalent to the number of nights if I wanted to get the discounts associated with the package. I know they must have told me this because I clearly remember booking 2 separate vacations (3 days with passes & a separate 3 days room only) at the same place just to avoid this problem on more than 1 occaision... I also clearly remember being required to make a 1 nights deposit on each separate reservation. BTW, they always allowed me to bump up the number of park passes but never down. That was only done if you could prove you got in on a late flight with a ticket at the front desk
:

From This wesite:

http://allears.net/pl/packages08a.htm

Who Can Purchase the Dining Plan?

The Basic Magic Your Way Dining Plan can only be purchased as follows:

1. If you are a non-Disney Vacation Club member, you must purchase a Magic Your Way vacation package at a Disney resort for your entire party with at least one day's park admission. The number of days for the Dining Plan will equal the number of nights you have reserved your room on the package. It has nothing to do with the number of days of park admission you have.

I hope that helps.
Have fun at WDW! :wizard:

LuvOrlando

08-10-2008, 11:46 AM

Thanks, this is something to keep in mind if I am ever in the market for the dining plan.:goodvibes I have never ever done the dining package, free or otherwise, which is probably why we have not been on the same page. My statements were regarding my experience with packages that were strictly room + passes only, no dining plan included in any way (not even free). Quite frankly, the dining plan seems waaaayyy to complicated for me. At first glance it seems way too easy for me to lose money and any questions on the board regarding ways to get your moneys worth are met with such rough accusations of cheating... it just doesn't seem worth the money or trouble. It may well be that WDW's introduction of the dining plan has had a trickle down effect on all the other non dining plans and has changed things for the better, which is always a good thing. If it wasn't for your post I would never have expected the changes you describe so thanks, my next trip should be much improved if I can get a discount room + passes only package without dining for 8 nights and only need to get 4 days in basic tickets.

Maybe WDW will offer some even more generous packages when the new HP section is unveiled over at US and if so I may just give a package another chance.... dining and all:goodvibes

troynkasey

08-11-2008, 02:40 PM

Is Disney paying attention? Sure because US is a competitor. Are they worried? I don't think so. Disney may initially lose some attendance for visitors to go see the Harry Potter part of US. I am not a fan of HP, nor is anyone in our household. I wonder how many people have this standpoint? We won't be effected and actually may decide to go to Disney at the same time because if anything...attendance will be down at WDW. I highly doubt there will be much of an impact. Like I said...maybe people go to US for a day. Maybe they extend their vacation a day. Who knows.

This is not a whole new park, so I don't think this will have that big of an impact. Plus...Disney is Disney. They have plans in place for this. They roll out something new every year to draw back those who think they've experienced it all. With that in mind...I don't see much of an effect.

If there is going to be anything that effects Disney...it will be the economy, not some upgrade at US.

Orlando313

08-12-2008, 12:29 PM

Thankfully I live right down the road from WDW & US so I don't have to decide between the two (will never take that for granted!) I have annual passes to both theme park sets. I am super stoked about the HP land at IOA because that park is very much lacking in things to do. The signs that they have now posted on the construction walls say 2010. I think we could all agree when I say that there really is no place like Disney, and US & WDW cannot be compared Apples to Apples. I love Disney and go to Disney more. Universal mostly gets "side trips." It's a little trip on the side of a Disney trip. I don't think Disney has much to worry about except for the bad economy.

sassytink03

08-12-2008, 09:09 PM

I don't know if HP will hurt Disney as much as some people think it will, but it will hurt them some. Disney is closing PI, so a lot of people will go to CW for adult entertainment. That hurts them some already. A lot of the conventions have already been cancelled and CW would provide a great alternative for them. With HP opening, especially for the first couple years, a lot of people will go there. While it isn't an entire new park, apparently there will be a whole heck of a lot of stuff to do there. People will take the time to go there if Disney doesn't have anything new planned for the same time.

waldiddy

08-20-2008, 02:30 PM

Most of you are focused on HP taking business away from WDW, but there's also the possible opposite effect: people coming into town for a few days to see HP and saying 'While we're here, let's go check out MK'.

Disney & Universal are competitors, to be sure, but I suspect they also feed one another business as well. They don't do so overtly, via recommendations or outright promoting one another, but I'm sure it happens to some degree.

Ourselves as an example, about half the time, when visiting US, we also spend a day or two at WDW. If we're at WDW, we *might* visit US, but usually not.

c4a

08-20-2008, 03:46 PM

I visit both. I like both. I prefer Disney. Nothing will change that. (even the fact that US has a much better meal plan).
I believe Disney will waite until right before HP opens before they make any announcements. To do otherwise, Disney would just be drawing attention to US and HP. By appearring to ignore the situation until THEY are ready to address it, Disney puts themself in control. The power shifts-people quit talking about what US is doing & instead start talking about what Disney might do.:simba:

firsttimer2007

08-20-2008, 08:22 PM

I love it that US is opening the HP part. This will make the park more interesting for my kids.

This will also make us less likely to go to WDW on our 2010 trip. We will do US and then Sea World and the beach. Something we have never done when going to florida. We have always done WDW &/or a cruise. I think we will be skipping WDW next time.

But we will be at WDW this year. We are staying off site though.

dibonast

08-23-2008, 12:57 PM

yensid_71973

08-23-2008, 03:15 PM

Yes, There is nothing like Disney World !!

daannzzz

08-23-2008, 05:15 PM

In 2003 I spent 4 nights at Portofino Bay Hotel with 3 days at the Universal parks. I could have done 4 (2 days at each park..though not full days). I found Universal to be excellent and the hotel was awesome. I think it would be very easy to do a 7 day trip to orlando and go to Universal, Sea World (something I have yet to do), Gatorland, Kennedy Space Center etc. The more times I go to Orlando the more I take chances trying other things than Disney.

hadj2887

08-24-2008, 04:28 AM

Disney may or may not be worried about Harry Potter, but they certainly do not have to worry about me! I have never read a Harry Potter book nor seen a movie. It just does not interest me in the least bit. If US were to do something to take me away from Disney, Harry Potter would not be the way to do it.

That said, I know that tons of people love Harry Potter and will visit US to see the new attractions. I don't think it will hurt WDW all that much though.

Honey81808

08-27-2008, 06:31 PM

I doubt Disney is 'worried" there is a whole crew of people paid to think of ideas and attractions for WDW. With the Pixar addition I'm sure they will be fine.

We are planning a magical gather for 2010 that is going to be 5 days Disney 2 days US. I will say this US is all about movies and Marvel and while the Disney group does cross into that path US will never be Disney. The added HP park is what US needs though to boost profit and not to mention that you would have to be an idiot not to tap into that market if you own part of it. Also don't forget that US makes a lot of $$$ during the Halloween season probably more than Disney in that month which is why they have the Mickey's not so scary Halloween now.

Mouseaholic!!!

08-28-2008, 01:36 PM

I am still in shock and awe when people spend 7 days only at Universal / Sea World. I like Universal ... but seriously ??? Disney will be fine. They've been fighting off other Orlando attractions for almost 20 years ... and still going strong

It's Easy!

A couple of days at US --- especially if you like coasters---they are SOOO much more exciting than WDW's. Then you go over to Sea World and a great add on is a tour of the Kennedy Space Center - don't forget a day at the ocean!!

Even if you take one day away from WDW on a trip....it will impact WDW.

minnie61650

08-28-2008, 10:34 PM

It's Easy!

A couple of days at US --- especially if you like coasters---they are SOOO much more exciting than WDW's. Then you go over to Sea World and a great add on is a tour of the Kennedy Space Center - don't forget a day at the ocean!!

..........

A couple of days at US and a day at Seaworld is 3 days not a week.
You , yourself added a list of other destinations outside of US and Seaworld to make up a week.

Of couse, many people can find things to do in Florida for a week, but I for 1 ( and I think many others also) could not find enough to stay entertained for 7 days just at US and Seaworld.

A lot of people who stay at WDW can stay 8 to 10 days or more and still find plenty to keep them entained at WDW ( four Theme parks, 2 water parks, DTD, 23 resorts, Multiple restuarants, boat rentals, bike rentals, horseback riding, fireworks cruises, dinner shows etc.) without ever leaving the property.

Just my 2 cents.

Mouseaholic!!!

08-29-2008, 08:38 AM

A couple of days at US and a day at Seaworld is 3 days not a week.
You , yourself added a list of other destinations outside of US and Seaworld to make up a week.

Of couse, many people can find things to do in Florida for a week, but I for 1 ( and I think many others also) could not find enough to stay entertained for 7 days just at US and Seaworld.

A lot of people who stay at WDW can stay 8 to 10 days or more and still find plenty to keep them entained at WDW ( four Theme parks, 2 water parks, DTD, 23 resorts, Multiple restuarants, boat rentals, bike rentals, horseback riding, fireworks cruises, dinner shows etc.) without ever leaving the property.

Just my 2 cents.

If you enjoy reading - there is an article in this week's Time Magazine about all the things to do in Orlando......very few of the choices included WDW.

Sure, Disney is responsible for all of the growth....but all it takes is one or two days outside WDW to see there is SOOOOOOOOOOO much more to do in the Orlando area other than WDW......for a whole lot LESS $$$$$.

Yes, you are right - I said 3 days at US. The point I made was .... it's just the first step to many other wonderful things to do and see other than WDW.

Why do you think they offer FREE dining and FREE DME......so you will not arrive in a rental car or with other choices off property. You can't possibly think Disney did this because they were trying to be NICE, do you?

patsal

08-29-2008, 10:00 AM

When our children were smaller we did five days at US/IOA. We enjoyed the beautiful resort each day for a swim, toured both parks at a leisurely pace and had a great time at Citywalk as well. We were able to repeat things the kids wanted to repeat, and never felt rushed. Today, since they are older I'm sure it would be three days--and I intend to spend the three days away from WDW at US/IOA when the WWOHP is open. I know we will have a great time and I am sure that anything US/IOA has will beat the snot out of a tethered balloon ride IMHO. Overal though I do not expect that "HP world" will have a dramatic effect on WDW.

SandraVB79

08-29-2008, 10:49 AM

c4a

08-29-2008, 12:38 PM

I am still in shock and awe when people spend 7 days only at Universal / Sea World. I like Universal ... but seriously ??? Disney will be fine. They've been fighting off other Orlando attractions for almost 20 years ... and still going strong

That is why they bundled US,IA, SW, BG, WET-N-WILD, & Aquatica, together. Doing all of them-I'ld still have time to go to the beach, KSS, & have time to go to WDW.:lmao: OR I can just skip the "filler & fluff" and just go to WDW.:thumbsup2

PaulaSB12

08-29-2008, 01:07 PM

If you enjoy reading - there is an article in this week's Time Magazine about all the things to do in Orlando......very few of the choices included WDW.

Sure, Disney is responsible for all of the growth....but all it takes is one or two days outside WDW to see there is SOOOOOOOOOOO much more to do in the Orlando area other than WDW......for a whole lot LESS $$$$$.

Yes, you are right - I said 3 days at US. The point I made was .... it's just the first step to many other wonderful things to do and see other than WDW.

Why do you think they offer FREE dining and FREE DME......so you will not arrive in a rental car or with other choices off property. You can't possibly think Disney did this because they were trying to be NICE, do you?

I use the DME only because I like to drink on the flight over (9 hour flight I hate flying) I pick up the hire car next day.

Twilightlover

08-29-2008, 01:55 PM

I find the DME a great idea all around. By having it we were able to get the earliest flight out, which meant we were able to really use our park ticket to the max. I think we got to the parks at 10:45 after dropping off our carry-on's and when we returned, everything was in our room. I will be going to the HP park. I haven't been to US since I was 13 so it will be fun. I'm also a HUGE HP fan so it will be exciting to be able to be in the atmosphere of one of my favorite books. I however don't see this new US add on being a problem for WDW.

rutgers1

08-31-2008, 02:52 AM

I think that people who don't think that HP will register on the Disney corporate radar are fooling themselves. If you are saying that it won't register on YOUR radar, that may be the case (different strokes for different folks), but it will definitely register on their radar. I have never been to Universal in my life, and I am obviously a person that Disney loves (repeat visitor, DVC owner), yet I am definitely going to make my first trip to US to see HP. I am sure that there are many others who will be joining me - enough to register on the Disney radar. I don't have faith that Disney will counteract it adequately, but I would be willing to bet that they will throw a few things up against the wall upon the opening of HP to draw some attention back to them.

I have to admit that I tend to get more excited than my kids about upcoming Disney trips. They tend to ignore me as I bring up new changes at the dinner table. However, when I mentioned HP at US, they were instantly interested and wanted to see the official US site. I am sure that there are many kids who feel the same way. For me, the most impressive thing is the scale of the theming. I would love to see Disney do something as large and immersing.