Is Disney World Really Closing Resorts?

[SanFranciscan]

Is the rumor that I heard today true? Is Walt Disney World really planning to close Port Orleans and the Pop Century to save money? I realize that the U.S. economy has seen better days so I thought that it could be true, but Disney World business has survived the 2001 terrorists attacks and resulting fear that went on for months afterwards.

[marsrunner]

Yes, and they shuttered a couple of resorts or parts of resorts after 9/11 as well. Better that they shut down a couple of resorts rather than lay people off and have less people spread out to cover more resorts. If the customers aren't there, it doesn't cost less (or not much less anyway) to run an empty hotel than a full one.

[twooley2]

so what do they do with the reservations they have for the places they close?

[EnnEss]

When are they closing these resorts? I have a trip upcoming and I haven't seen anything on this.

[I Love Pluto]

PLEASE tell me this isn't true. Port Orleans? Riverside and French Quarter? Oh, please, please, please tell me it isn't so.

It's not true, is it???????? :confused3 :scared1: :eek: :headache:

[TagsMissy]

Far as I know nothing is confirmed.

[Tink rules]

After 9/11 they closed down POFQ and used that time to do a refurb of the resort. My brother was transfered to AKL for his honeymoon, but most others were transfered to other resorts in the same category...

It's better to consolidate the cast members than to lay them off and have service suffer because they are spread too thin.

[marsrunner]

This is all just rumor right now. There is nothing to hear because they've not announced (and likely wouldn't announce) anything. We'd more than likely end up hearing it through the grapevine after the fact.
This thread really belongs in the rumor forum, where there are in fact at least two threads discussing this very thing.

[mickeystoontown]

There is another thread about this same subject. The original poster said they had heard it from someone who worked at Disney. As far as I know, the original poster hasn't said anything else about the "rumor".

The people who posted on the other thread said they had visited WDW right after 9/11 and they were given reservations at another Disney resort.

[griz_fan]

Yes, and they shuttered a couple of resorts or parts of resorts after 9/11 as well. Better that they shut down a couple of resorts rather than lay people off and have less people spread out to cover more resorts. If the customers aren't there, it doesn't cost less (or not much less anyway) to run an empty hotel than a full one.

And you know this because? Or, as you mentioned earlier, this is nothing more than just a rumor and pure speculation on your part?

Besides, shutting down a resort just doesn't make sense (yet, at least). If I remember right, the company's last earnings call said the parks were holding up OK, but the networks were hurting from lack of ad revenue. In their November earnings call, Disney execs mentioned that revenue from the parks was holding up quite well, off around only 1% from last year, but they were worried about deteriorating consumer confidence causing some problems, especially the decline Disney saw in advanced bookings. To deal with these concerns, Disney execs announced that they were "also putting in place new marketing initiatives and accompanying pricing incentives, designed to stimulate bookings and attendance during the first half of 2009." There's the 4/3 deal.
So, at least in November, there's no real evidence that Disney management is yet considering closing resorts (or parks for that matter). They just launched a MAJOR promotion to drum up business. With all Disney invested in the 4/3 promo, I believe that they will let this promo play out, unless it was a horrible flop. While I strongly believe the Disney exec team has contingency plans for closing properties should the economy get super-fugly, all signs point to more surgical cost cutting measures coupled with heavy promotions to help keep the parks in the black. Remember, Disney won't touch anything until attendance falls to a point where they start to lose money (and none of know where that point is). Also, there are a lot of costs associated with shuttering a property, and additional costs to revive it when demand picks up. Only a fool would act without clearer visibility into our economic future.

So, in a nutshell, all of these rumors are just a giant load. Pay attention to what the company says on their earning calls, that's were the real juicy news can be had:
http://corporate.disney.go.com/investors/archive.html
http://corporate.disney.go.com/investors/quarterly_earnings/081106_transcript_earnings.pdf

If you're really interested in all of this, mark your calendars for Tuesday, February 3, 2009 at approximately 4:15 p.m. EST. That's when Disney will announce Q1 earnings. By then, they should have a much clearer picture from advanced bookings through the summer and they will know how the 4/3 deal worked for them.

For a lot of companies, February will be sort of a corporate Groundhog's Day. By then, many companies should have a feel for how bad the economy is and will likely be moving forward. Accurate news on holiday retail will be available, for example, and Disney will have much better visibility into park performance for the rest of the year. If you want to dive into rumors and speculation, wait for that date, then sift through Disney's quarterly financials looking for all the clues you want, chances are, they will actually be there. But for now, based on what I've seen on this forum, these rumors are lacking in anything to back them.

And, by the way, if or when something does happen, such as closing a resort, Disney will definitely announce it. They have no choice, as a publicly traded company,they are legally bound to announce such events.

[Mr. & Mrs. Smith]

OP, can I ask where you read this information? We are staying at POP in 3 weeks, so it's definitely still open.

[marsrunner]

And you know this because? Or, as you mentioned earlier, this is nothing more than just a rumor and pure speculation on your part?

Geez, I said it was a rumor and even said it belonged on the rumor boards. Wouldn't that lead you to believe I thought it was just a rumor and speculation? If not, I'll reiterate that I have no special knowledge of Disney resort operations and any post made by me is of no factual worth.
Good enough for you?

[Mr. & Mrs. Smith]

Geez, I said it was a rumor and even said it belonged on the rumor boards. Wouldn't that lead you to believe I thought it was just a rumor and speculation? If not, I'll reiterate that I have no special knowledge of Disney resort operations and any post made by me is of no factual worth.
Good enough for you?

I think the PP was going by your first post where you seemed to indicate with certainty that these resorts were closing. You said:

Yes, and they shuttered a couple of resorts or parts of resorts after 9/11 as well.

I see where you clarified later but I can see why someone might think you new this for a fact instead of as a rumour.

[SanFranciscan]

OP, can I ask where you read this information? We are staying at POP in 3 weeks, so it's definitely still open.

My husband got the news from Passporter's web site. I realize that that web site is apparently crawling with travel agents more likely than the general public to know things. However, travel agents no doubt have their own rumor mills.

[Mike©]

No resorts were closed post 9/11 !!!! I don't know where you folks get your info ???? POFQ was scheduled to have thier pool rehabed and at the same time the restaurant was taken out. The resort itself was never closed !

There is no reason for Disney to close any resorts. Not book certain buildings maybe, but NEVER close.

[Mr. & Mrs. Smith]

My husband got the news from Passporter's web site. I realize that that web site is apparently crawling with travel agents more likely than the general public to know things. However, travel agents no doubt have their own rumor mills.

Perhaps you could quote the information from that site? It might be helpful to see how it is worded.

[EpcotBill]

No resorts were closed post 9/11 !!!! I don't know where you folks get your info ???? POFQ was scheduled to have thier pool rehabed and at the same time the restaurant was taken out. The resort itself was never closed !

There is no reason for Disney to close any resorts. Not book certain buildings maybe, but NEVER close.

French Quarter did close shortly after 9/11 and buildings at Riverside closed one or two at a time to have their roofs replaced. Also construction stopped at Pop Century. I get that information from memory.

Here's a paragraph from a Deb Wills article on AllEarsNet dated 1/22/2002
"Neither Walt Disney World, nor the The Disney Company itself, was immune to the economic downturn. The company told its part-time employees not to report to work until further notice. It cut back park hours, closed certain attractions and restaurants, discontinued the Early Entry theme park program. In addition, WDW closed Port Orleans French Quarter resort completely, while closing substantial sections of Port Orleans Riverside and the Disney Institute. Construction on a new resort, Pop Century, has ceased and its opening postponed indefinitely."

You can read the entire article here http://allears.net/ae/issue122.htm.

This latest rumor about resorts closing is so far just a rumor. When POFQ closed before they moved people to other mods or upgraded them to deluxe for a nominal fee. My cousin was moved from POFQ to Poly for about $12 per night extra. I'm not sure exactly how much it was but $12 sounds about right.

[EnnEss]

Geez, I said it was a rumor and even said it belonged on the rumor boards. Wouldn't that lead you to believe I thought it was just a rumor and speculation? If not, I'll reiterate that I have no special knowledge of Disney resort operations and any post made by me is of no factual worth.
Good enough for you?

Ah OK. Your first post definately answers yes to the question asked, are resorts closing soon, and then you elaborated citing precident from past events. No biggie just a misunderstanding, good to know they won't be asking me to move resorts... yet ;). I wouldn't be crushed if they did. It'd be to another mod (im at pofq in the spring) or a dvc resort like ssr. Either way id still be at disney and im sure they wouldnt move me to a value considering i paid for a mod.

BTW, i would have been thrilled if you had special knowledge of it :).

[notsogoofy]

Im not sure why people ask on a public forum to confirm a rumor?..Go to the source..As for shutdowns, they never did finish the Legendary Years, post 9-11..I thought I saw them painting it when we drove by last week, if thats any indication..

[rlduvall]

French Quarter did close shortly after 9/11 and buildings at Riverside closed one or two at a time to have their roofs replaced. Also construction stopped at Pop Century. I get that information from memory.



You are totally correct. My DH and I were at Port Orleans Riverside 4 days after 9/11 and POFQ was closed. It was so shocking and sad to see no activity over there. :sad1:

[rlduvall]

Im not sure why people ask on a public forum to confirm a rumor?


Because it's a Disney chat board and we all like chatting. :flower3:

[luvdisney24]

Im not sure why people ask on a public forum to confirm a rumor?..Go to the source..As for shutdowns, they never did finish the Legendary Years, post 9-11..I thought I saw them painting it when we drove by last week, if thats any indication..


I was on a Disney Cruise Line bus last Sunday. The driver, as he was pulling into Pop Century pointed out the unfinished section and said he was given an inside tour of the resort just last week and that the new section is slated to be finished within the year. I don't know that I believe what he said but thought I would pass that along.

[ryrysmom14]

No resorts were closed post 9/11 !!!! I don't know where you folks get your info ???? POFQ was scheduled to have thier pool rehabed and at the same time the restaurant was taken out. The resort itself was never closed !

There is no reason for Disney to close any resorts. Not book certain buildings maybe, but NEVER close.

Actually, POFQ was most certainly closed post 9/11. We stayed there very shortly after they re-opened. We were concerned that they would not re-open on time and we would be moved. We spoke to many of their employees who had been shifted to other resorts during POFQ's closure.

[anthony2k7]

Actually, POFQ was most certainly closed post 9/11. We stayed there very shortly after they re-opened. We were concerned that they would not re-open on time and we would be moved. We spoke to many of their employees who had been shifted to other resorts during POFQ's closure.

but was the closure planned before 9/11? maybe they were already planning extensive maintenance and decided instead of causing disruption to guests they may as well just close it?

[DebbieB]

but was the closure planned before 9/11? maybe they were already planning extensive maintenance and decided instead of causing disruption to guests they may as well just close it?

I don't believe it was planned pre-9/11.

CBR also closed for a few months while the food court was redone in late 2002. I had to move my reservation (decided to upgrade to BWI, it was one night before checking into BWV). I think under normal circumstances they may have worked around it rather than a complete shutdown.

[EnnEss]

but was the closure planned before 9/11? maybe they were already planning extensive maintenance and decided instead of causing disruption to guests they may as well just close it?

No. They closed because tourism took such a massive hit. This is well documented.

[ryrysmom14]

but was the closure planned before 9/11? maybe they were already planning extensive maintenance and decided instead of causing disruption to guests they may as well just close it?

From what we were told, it was not pre-planned, but a direct result of the decline from people not traveling post-9/11. I guess it was easier to close a whole resort and all the parts that go with it than close down parts of several resorts. Gosh, those days were so scary- I remember in the days and months that followed, so many people being very scared of going to WDW b/c of it being a possible terrorist target... not to mention, noone wanting to fly.

[rentayenta]

I sure as heck hope they don't close the Pop Century. We are spending the last two nights of our May trip there. :sad1:

[andrewilley]

POFQ was completely closed for "update and renovation" work from 4 May 2003 and was reopened to guests about a year later on 21 March 2004, see the Local News 6 (http://www.local6.com/news/2806705/detail.html) website info for details. The freshly renovated rooms had new furniture, new carpeting, new wall coverings and remodeled bathrooms.

It is unlikely that Disney would have made the decision to shut the entire resort to do this work if it were not for the serious downturn in tourism and general resort attendance over the previous year.

As has been said, subsequent renovation work at the larger Port Orleans Riverside resort was undertaken on a building-by-building basis and did not require the closure of the whole resort.

Andre

[Pooh67_68]

I don't believe POFQ was a preplanned closing, as we were booked there for Dec. 2001 and we were notified that they were moving us over to POR.


We will keep and eye on the resort closing rumors as we are booked at POFQ for Feb.

[marsrunner]

I think the PP was going by your first post where you seemed to indicate with certainty that these resorts were closing. You said:



I see where you clarified later but I can see why someone might think you new this for a fact instead of as a rumour.

Sorry, when I said "Yes" I was answering the OP statement that they survived the post 9/11 drought or whatever you want to call it. Should have used the quote function to specify the statement I was answering. Apologies all around for that!

[NMW]

No resorts were closed post 9/11 !!!! I don't know where you folks get your info ???? POFQ was scheduled to have thier pool rehabed and at the same time the restaurant was taken out. The resort itself was never closed !

There is no reason for Disney to close any resorts. Not book certain buildings maybe, but NEVER close.

This is completely incorrect. POFQ closed shortly after 9/11-the ENTIRE resort closed. POR closed buildings at a time but kept the resort open. I'm sure if you google the topic you can find info on it. But trust me, it was closed for a pretty long time.

[griz_fan]

http://www.intercot.com/news/2001/october.asp - In October 2001, Disney did close POFQ and delayed the opening of Pop Century Resort. Between economic uncertainty and a completely crippled travel industry at the time, who could blame them. Its not as if people were lining up to get on an airplane in the Fall of 2001.

So, what does that tell us about 2008 and 2009? Absolutely nothing. For a travel destination like WDW, 2008 is nothing like post-9/11. The economy is in bad shape and a lot of people are hurting. I'm sure Disney is taking steps to minimize their financial exposure to the recession. And perhaps, at some point, they will close a resort or two. But no one has offered even the smallest shred of credible evidence that this could happen. It is just pure speculation. Will people hear this unfounded rumor often enough that they start cancelling trips or trying to book other resorts? Who knows, but before offering up baseless speculation, let's try to keep things in perspective. I've seen rumors and whisper campaigns cause companies real damage. I don't think any of us would want to see bad things happen to WDW and the people who work there because of what someone heard.

[mouselovenfamily]

Almost scared to jump in...but I was a travel agent for several years and there were times when Disney would thin out hotels when travel was low. They would do a quick refurb if bookings were down and always give clients the option of a very nice upgrade to make it worth their while. I personally had it happen on more than one occasion. They would notify anyone in plenty of time to make sure it didn't cause a problem. Most of my clients were thrilled to pay value and get deluxe. I'm out of the biz now and havn't heard anything like that happening now...but if your going and you got an upgrade...it would be nice:)Closing however...I can't see it.

[Tink rules]

Heard recently that bookings are down about 10% already this year (and that is WITH the special promotions they are doing...) and even over on the cruise board - they have reported that Disney Cruise Line has started to call people who had booked dummy dates to see if they will commit to sailings now that the 2010 rates are out.

[MEK]

POFQ was completely closed for "update and renovation" work from 4 May 2003 and was reopened to guests about a year later on 21 March 2004, see the Local News 6 (http://www.local6.com/news/2806705/detail.html) website info for details. The freshly renovated rooms had new furniture, new carpeting, new wall coverings and remodeled bathrooms.

It is unlikely that Disney would have made the decision to shut the entire resort to do this work if it were not for the serious downturn in tourism and general resort attendance over the previous year.

As has been said, subsequent renovation work at the larger Port Orleans Riverside resort was undertaken on a building-by-building basis and did not require the closure of the whole resort.

Andre

They were definately rehabing rooms in POFQ when I stayed at Riverside in August 2003. I ran over there several mornings and they were hauling out all furnishings and putting new carpets/paint/furniture in place. It was easy to look right into the rooms. Interesting, this was also during a time period when we booked on the "buy 4/get 3 free" deal. What a great deal. turned me into a "lifer".:thumbsup2

[Disney/Universal Fan]

Geez, I said it was a rumor and even said it belonged on the rumor boards. Wouldn't that lead you to believe I thought it was just a rumor and speculation? If not, I'll reiterate that I have no special knowledge of Disney resort operations and any post made by me is of no factual worth.
Good enough for you?


Then why not leave it on the rumor board where it belongs!

[dalt01]

Then why not leave it on the rumor board where it belongs! thats not his call, he is not the OP. if your going to chastise get your facts straight.

[jeanylaser]

So POFQ is open for next month and Next year!

[andrewilley]

So POFQ is open for next month and Next year!

So far nothing has been announced at all, so I would assume the resort will be open unless Disney say otherwise. Don't panic just yet.

Andre

[TroyE]

I sure hope that POFQ is open in Feb as that is when our trip is planned. haha

[5280dad]

This is completely incorrect. POFQ closed shortly after 9/11-the ENTIRE resort closed. POR closed buildings at a time but kept the resort open. I'm sure if you google the topic you can find info on it. But trust me, it was closed for a pretty long time.

You are almost correct about french quarter.

We initially started closing buildings one at a time to consolidate guests into the buildings closer to the check in area, and then ultimately the entire resort was closed. I was a guest show manager at french quarter when 9/11 occured. Believe me, it was not a pleasant time. there were a lot of displaced cast members who had worked at that resort for YEARS, and they found themselves deployed all over the place just to get their 8 hrs a day.

Riverside did indeed absorb most of the displaced reservations.

My wife worked at the Disney Institute and was 're-assigned' (like myself) to another resort when the Institute closed. This was totally a result of the economy at that time.

[tndvc]

I am at Disney now, and everything is packed. The most people I have seen the week before Christmas. Downtown Disney was completely extremely busy this evening, parking lots full, etc. I guess there may be a slow down, but you sure wouldn't know it this week, although Christmas ornaments are 50% off.

[Peter Pirate 2]

I am at Disney now, and everything is packed. The most people I have seen the week before Christmas. Downtown Disney was completely extremely busy this evening, parking lots full, etc. I guess there may be a slow down, but you sure wouldn't know it this week, although Christmas ornaments are 50% off.

No offense but I just got back today(Mon the 22) and compared to years gone by this past weekend (pre christmas) crowds were very, very weak. Even though this week and next aren't the issue, lol, the proof will be in the pudding after the new year when some resorts will be booked at 20%, if they're lucky.

Look for those closures by Feb.
pirate:

[luvdisney24]

No offense but I just got back today(Mon the 22) and compared to years gone by this past weekend (pre christmas) crowds were very, very weak. Even though this week and next aren't the issue, lol, the proof will be in the pudding after the new year when some resorts will be booked at 20%, if they're lucky.

Look for those closures by Feb.
pirate:

I have to agree with you tndvc. I got back on the 18th and the parks were VERY CROWDED while I was there 12/14 to 12/18.

[Peter Pirate 2]

I have to agree with you tndvc. I got back on the 18th and the parks were VERY CROWDED while I was there 12/14 to 12/18.
What does "cowded" mean? That lines were long? Do you take into affect that there are fewer CM's and attractions aren't running at full capacity? i.e this weekend ToT was a WALK ON friday night with only two of the three stations operating. Explain that. RnR and Toy Story had long lines, but TGMR was a WALK ON ... The weekend before Christmas! This has NEVER been the case before.

The Osbourne Spectacle of Lights (only operating two hours per night) was NOT even crowded.

Of course DTD will be crowded, it always is. MK too. But check out the lines at restaurants (we could've walked in to Flying Fish, The Bluezoo and the Brew Pub on Saturday night) busy???:confused3

See what you want but the pixie dust will be ratcheting down big time January.
pirate:

[Mr. & Mrs. Smith]

No offense but I just got back today(Mon the 22) and compared to years gone by this past weekend (pre christmas) crowds were very, very weak. Even though this week and next aren't the issue, lol, the proof will be in the pudding after the new year when some resorts will be booked at 20%, if they're lucky.

Look for those closures by Feb.
pirate:

That's interesting. There have been so many threads from people who have gone recently talking about how the crowds are much worse than in other years around this time. I guess it's just a matter of perspective.

[dalt01]

I am at Disney now, and everything is packed. The most people I have seen the week before Christmas. Downtown Disney was completely extremely busy this evening, parking lots full, etc. I guess there may be a slow down, but you sure wouldn't know it this week, although Christmas ornaments are 50% off.

No offense but I just got back today(Mon the 22) and compared to years gone by this past weekend (pre christmas) crowds were very, very weak. Even though this week and next aren't the issue, lol, the proof will be in the pudding after the new year when some resorts will be booked at 20%, if they're lucky.

Look for those closures by Feb.
pirate:

I have to agree with you tndvc. I got back on the 18th and the parks were VERY CROWDED while I was there 12/14 to 12/18. i have found over the years that one mans "packed" is another mans "empty". it happens in my own family, we will get back to our room and i will be thinking that everything was quite managable all day and one of our party will say "wow that was packed, i hope i never have to go through that again. without actually counting people there is no way to know whether it was packed or not at any given moment in time.

[luvdisney24]

What does "cowded" mean? That lines were long? Do you take into affect that there are fewer CM's and attractions aren't running at full capacity? i.e this weekend ToT was a WALK ON friday night with only two of the three stations operating. Explain that. RnR and Toy Story had long lines, but TGMR was a WALK ON ... The weekend before Christmas! This has NEVER been the case before.

The Osbourne Spectacle of Lights (only operating two hours per night) was NOT even crowded.

Of course DTD will be crowded, it always is. MK too. But check out the lines at restaurants (we could've walked in to Flying Fish, The Bluezoo and the Brew Pub on Saturday night) busy???:confused3

See what you want but the pixie dust will be ratcheting down big time January.
pirate:

I'm not looking for an argument. I have been to Disney many times, both crowded and not crowded and I felt last week was very crowded. The Osbourne Lights was wall to wall people. MVMCP was beyond crowded. Animal Kingdom Park was tightly packed with long wait times. Epcot was even packed. Many rides had long wait times and all the parks. The only good day we had was Tuesday the 16th at the MK. The park was not so bad in the morning but by mid-day it was very crowded.

[luvdisney24]

i have found over the years that one mans "packed" is another mans "empty". it happens in my own family, we will get back to our room and i will be thinking that everything was quite managable all day and one of our party will say "wow that was packed, i hope i never have to go through that again. without actually counting people there is no way to know whether it was packed or not at any given moment in time.


My definition of packed is when it's so crowded that I hold on to my daughter's hand for dear life for fear of losing her in a sea of people.

[CanadianGuy]

Resorts Closing? > All Still Rumor.. Nothing confirmed at this point. If you have a reservation, don't worry. If you are affected, Disney will call you plenty in advance to make alternate plans.

Packed? > You can't go by the crowds you 'see'. Why?

Pirates.. has two loading stations. They can run the ride with just one loading station and cut the line in half. Clearly this will make the line longer ..

Frequent Shows for Hall of Presidents, Philharmagic, Beauty & the Beast or Little Mermaid (for example) can swallow hundreds of people at once. Place those shows farther apart.. and the crowds thicken considerably because they are NOT in those theatres.

The amount of people in the walkways can greatly be increased by simply not running certain attractions to full capacity and with full staffing. It is not indicative of resort occupancy .. not even close.

Keep in mind, not everyone stays on site.. for example, you can still book most Disney resorts for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and right thru New Years. This is simply unheard of ..

Some resorts which are typically 100% occupied this week.. are running at or BELOW 60% occupancy. Don't ask where I got those numbers cuz I won't tell you.. but it's true, I can assure you.

That sloppy, wet, whistling sound you are currently hearing .. is what's left of the economy .... hitting the fan.

:)

Knox

[Mouseaholic!!!]

Resorts Closing? > All Still Rumor.. Nothing confirmed at this point. If you have a reservation, don't worry. If you are affected, Disney will call you plenty in advance to make alternate plans.

Packed? > You can't go by the crowds you 'see'. Why?

Pirates.. has two loading stations. They can run the ride with just one loading station and cut the line in half. Clearly this will make the line longer ..

Frequent Shows for Hall of Presidents, Philharmagic, Beauty & the Beast or Little Mermaid (for example) can swallow hundreds of people at once. Place those shows farther apart.. and the crowds thicken considerably because they are NOT in those theatres.

The amount of people in the walkways can greatly be increased by simply not running certain attractions to full capacity and with full staffing. It is not indicative of resort occupancy .. not even close.

Keep in mind, not everyone stays on site.. for example, you can still book most Disney resorts for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and right thru New Years. This is simply unheard of ..

Some resorts which are typically 100% occupied this week.. are running at or BELOW 60% occupancy. Don't ask where I got those numbers cuz I won't tell you.. but it's true, I can assure you.

That sloppy, wet, whistling sound you are currently hearing .. is what's left of the economy .... hitting the fan.

:)

Knox



Thank you for being honest and talking about reality at WDW.

Anyone who thinks the current economy is not hitting Disney....HARD....is just fooling themselves.

Times will be tough and it's going to show...but it will eventually get better.

Thank you for speaking the truth!

[CanadianGuy]

It's hitting hard.

Some of the features 'cut back' from resorts and parks are the very expensive 'Actors Equity' union performers. From the singer/performer at the Poly to some of our favorite in park performers... if they are part of that union, they are considered "pricey staff" and therefore first on the chopping block.

It's sad... but ultimately Disney has a responsbility to ensure that it manages expenses during this economic downturn.

[Peter Pirate 2]

This is my point as well. I'm not looking to argue either, but saying something is "crowded" needs some sort of perspective. As I and Canadian Guy have said Disney will make the place seem as crowded as possible with a 50% load.

We're Seasonal AP'ers and have been for 10-15 years. We ALWAYS go the last weekend before our Christmas blackout to get our holiday fix and I'm telling you the crowd size that we saw was WAY, WAY down from previous years despite it being VERY, VERY crowded at certain venues and at certain times.

Believe it or not but I guarantee you that January will begin one big slow spell at WDW and WDW's response won't be pretty.
pirate:

[lenshanem]

OK, this is the first I have heard of this rumor. I need to book two additional nights to our DVC trip in late May. I was thinking about POFQ. Should I book CB instead??? Opinions? Thanks!

[Mr. & Mrs. Smith]

OK, this is the first I have heard of this rumor. I need to book two additional nights to our DVC trip in late May. I was thinking about POFQ. Should I book CB instead??? Opinions? Thanks!

There is absolutely no reason to think the POFQ will be closed down in May. This is all just rumour and speculation. Go ahead and book there. Even if something happened, it's not like they'll just cancel your ressie. They will reassign you to another resort. Nothing to worry about.

[lacrosse_lady72]

And you know this because? Or, as you mentioned earlier, this is nothing more than just a rumor and pure speculation on your part?



WOWOWOW, what a snotty reply.

[lacrosse_lady72]

OK, this is the first I have heard of this rumor. I need to book two additional nights to our DVC trip in late May. I was thinking about POFQ. Should I book CB instead??? Opinions? Thanks!

There have been multiple threads about this. There is speculation of both Port Orleans and Caribbean Beach closing but essentially as of now it's still a rumor. If I were you, I'd just book it anyway. If they do close down POFQ or POR they'll probably just transfer you to CB anyway.

[CanadianGuy]

As I stated.. IF for ANY reason you booked resort is not available, Disney will call you and offer you options.

[doconeill]

As I stated.. IF for ANY reason you booked resort is not available, Disney will call you and offer you options.

Maybe I'll hear soon, "We're sorry, POR will be closed during your stay. All we have available is Poly Concierge..." :)

Of course, I'm only booked there for two nights in April...

[marsrunner]

Then why not leave it on the rumor board where it belongs!

Uh, I didn't start the thread, someone else did. I said "Yes" but wasn't saying they were closing resorts but was agreeing that they survived the post 9-11 drought and stated they did so in part by closing resorts. Couldn't remember at the time whether they were closed completely or partially but they were closed to a greater or lesser degree.

I answered the OP (somewhat badly as it turned out) and then stated it should be moved to the rumor board where it belonged.

I love how some people take any chance to jump all over people without stopping to think about what they are saying. Rather than being all snotty and condescending as you and grizfan or whatever his name is were, why not simply ask for clarification or even just politely refute my post? I'm more than happy to admit when I'm wrong.

People like the two of you make posting on these forums quite an unpleasant experience sometimes.

Now back to your regularly scheduled rumor-mongering (which I think is fun...in the right place!) :)

[SanFranciscan]

[QUOTE=marsrunner;29308671
I love how some people take any chance to jump all over people without stopping to think about what they are saying. Rather than being all snotty and condescending as you and grizfan or whatever his name is were, why not simply ask for clarification or even just politely refute my post? I'm more than happy to admit when I'm wrong.

People like the two of you make posting on these forums quite an unpleasant experience sometimes.

Now back to your regularly scheduled rumor-mongering (which I think is fun...in the right place!) :)[/QUOTE]

Marsrunner, I quit reading this thread. I generally avoid or quickly leave threads that have gotten long. I have learned from experience that on any site that is an indication that people are just insulting each other. I know that is rather sad beause I am sure that there are some long threads that are occupied by people who are nothing but charming, but such threads are not statistical norms.

The fact that there is more than one web site discussing this and that we are hearing that there are other threads on this site talking about this same subject is an indication that it is very important to people. People have their hearts set on certain resorts. I think that it is fair to go to sites occupied by Disney personnel and get the truth about rumors affecting vacations that people have saved for so that they can schedule their trips in a manner most likely to get them their dreams.

While Disney does indeed have a certain obligation to its customers, I don't think that a good time is something that can just be bought from a corporation. To have a friend we have to be a friend; right? Same thing with having a good time. To be treated with hospitality, we have to be hospitable ourselves. If we are unpleasant to each other in trip-planning forums and while in the parks, how is Disney going to undo that kind of damage?

[marsrunner]

The fact that there is more than one web site discussing this and that we are hearing that there are other threads on this site talking about this same subject is an indication that it is very important to people. People have their hearts set on certain resorts. I think that it is fair to go to sites occupied by Disney personnel and get the truth about rumors affecting vacations that people have saved for so that they can schedule their trips in a manner most likely to get them their dreams.
I really don't think that going to a fan based website (whether or not they have cast members posting) is a very good way to get information that is that important. I may be completely off the mark here, but I don't think that anybody who posts on this forum or on any other fan forum on the web will have confirmable information, or if they do, they wouldn't post it. When Disney as a company wants us to know certain information, they will post it or announce it or what have you. This forum is a great place to get general and not so well known information, tips, tricks, opinions and planning advice, and to have a good-natured discussion about what is (I assume :)) our favorite place.
This is not the place, again in my opinion, to get advanced information with which to base your vacation on. Information does leak out from time to time, but I certainly wouldn't plan anything around any advance information I got here.

All of this, is just my opinion, of course, as I'm relatively new here (though not to the world of online discussion forums), and if I'm wrong I apologize in advance.

[Peter Pirate 2]

This is not the place, again in my opinion, to get advanced information with which to base your vacation on. Information does leak out from time to time, but I certainly wouldn't plan anything around any advance information I got here.

All of this, is just my opinion, of course, as I'm relatively new here (though not to the world of online discussion forums), and if I'm wrong I apologize in advance.

It's fine to be skeptical and such on the net and you can choose what to believe or not believe on the DIS rumors board but there are a few regular (or semi-regular posters) here on the rumors board who I know, yes I said KNOW, have and sometimes share inside information. Of course you don't have to believe me and I am no direct source myself but again I KNOW there are some people here in the know. Who are they? Well, you'll have to figure that out just like everyone else.;)
pirate:

[CanadianGuy]

Just as a reminder - for the majority of vacationers, there will be no impact on the resorts you've already selected.

And there is always the option that NO resorts are affected.

THAT SAID... **IF** any resorts are affected, Disney will contact you in a timely manner and offer you some options.

Some people simply *MUST* have the resort they booked. I would caution that this is a recipe for "my vacation is ruined".

While historically there are few incidents of resorts closing for any reason, you can be bumped from your booked resort for many different reasons and it DOES happen from time to time -- anyway.

So.. have a second choice in mind and go ahead and try not to worry too much.

Ultimately, regardless of what happens, for most Disney vacationers, there will be no interruption in their scheduled vacation.

If you are affected, keep a smile on your face and a positive attitude and you'll find that goes a long way towards avoiding ".. My vacation is ruined.." syndrome.

Knox

[Mr. & Mrs. Smith]

It's fine to be skeptical and such on the net and you can choose what to believe or not believe on the DIS rumors board but there are a few regular (or semi-regular posters) here on the rumors board who I know, yes I said KNOW, have and sometimes share inside information. Of course you don't have to believe me and I am no direct source myself but again I KNOW there are some people here in the know. Who are they? Well, you'll have to figure that out just like everyone else.;)
pirate:

So, are you saying that there are reliable sources that KNOW that Disney will be closing resorts? If not, I'm not sure what this argument has to do with this thread at all.

[Peter Pirate 2]

So, are you saying that there are reliable sources that KNOW that Disney will be closing resorts? If not, I'm not sure what this argument has to do with this thread at all.
I'm saying that your comments about not using what's reported/discussed here on the DIS is somewhat misguided, IMO. Knowing some of our contributors backgrounds and current situations, not to mention their posting history and track records, means that I will absolutely pay attention to some of what is discussed here when planning Disney.

As of yet I haven't seen conclusive evidence of Resort Closings mentioned here but still the fact that Resort Closings have been done before and the fact that other websites have had significant discussion in this regard gives me pause whilst I await proof. But my opinion as a WDW watcher is that the possibility of this happening, based on economic outlooks, Disney history and less significantly, the rumor mill is well above 50-50.

Of course this is just my opinion and while I used to have direct connections to this type of information sadly I no longer do.
pirate:
pirate:

[Mr. & Mrs. Smith]

I'm saying that your comments about not using what's reported/discussed here on the DIS is somewhat misguided, IMO.

I think you have me confused with someone else. :confused3 I didn't say you should never believe what you read on the DIS. I was talking specifically about this topic and why there is no reason, as of right now, to see it as anything more than a rumour.

[Peter Pirate 2]

My bad...I apologize for the mistaken identity.

Of course this is simply a rumor at this stage but based on history and WDW's outlook for 2009 I'd the rumor will certainly have legs for some time and personally believe it will come to fruition. But for now, yes it's just speculation I agree.
pirate:

[cranbiz]

I was on a Disney Cruise Line bus last Sunday. The driver, as he was pulling into Pop Century pointed out the unfinished section and said he was given an inside tour of the resort just last week and that the new section is slated to be finished within the year. I don't know that I believe what he said but thought I would pass that along.

Sorry,

That's a load of hooey. A DCL bus driver (Mears Employee) is not going to get an inside tour of an unfinished construction zone at WDW. He is also not going to have any inside information about Disney Resorts plans.

Disney has several ideas for the building but a lot depends on the economy and the condition of the structure itself. If the structure is still sound, the most likely use will be POP family suites BUT that is also speculation. The lobby for the legendary years is in use as a warehouse and maintenance base and one of the parking lots is a Disney Transport CDL driver training area.

[dalt01]

I love how some people take any chance to jump all over people without stopping to think about what they are saying. being all snotty and condescending I'm more than happy to admit when I'm wrong.

People like the two of you make posting on these forums quite an unpleasant experience sometimes.

AMEN, BROTHA.....................................assasin ation is always easier from long distance than it is face to face. although the folks you are talking to hardly have that market cornered. it is practically a cottage industry on discussion boards of all kinds. ready.....................aim..................... ..POST.

[mitros]

The economy is having no effect at WDW. I have spoken to CMs on the phone, and they insist there have been no slow down in reservations for the upcoming year. Plenty of people still have plenty of $$ and they are going to WDW. It is expected to be business as usual in 2009.....

[dalt01]

The economy is having no effect at WDW. I have spoken to CMs on the phone, and they insist there have been no slow down in reservations for the upcoming year. Plenty of people still have plenty of $$ and they are going to WDW. It is expected to be business as usual in 2009.....
glad you got that straight from the horses mouth. would'nt want to quote an unreliable source:rotfl: :rotfl2: :laughing:

[mitros]

glad you got that straight from the horses mouth. would'nt want to quote an unreliable source:rotfl: :rotfl2: :laughing:

OK, OK, I get it, cast members info= bull****! ;)
Yea, I realize that. :rolleyes: However,
we were at WDW for a week Dec. 6-12, and I never saw so many bodies on site, and we have been going since 1988. One of the conversations I had with the girl behind the front desk regarding next year actually lead her to turn her computer screen a little to the left so that I could see it. She showed me that all DVC resorts were full well into 2009. She scrolled throught the various resorts and showed how full they were. I'm pretty sure if her boss was nearby, she would have been in deep do-do for showing a guest something like that.
I tried to get a 2 day reservation for mid-January, and she said there was nothing at all available.
I really don't suspect WDW will suffer much from lack of bodies.
Some folks brought up the period right after 9/11, and the parks were amazingly devoid of guests, but that really did not last all that long, and the numbers have been steadily climbing since then. We are close by and make a lot of trips each month, and it is always crowded everywhere. Just my personal observations.....:confused3
And we are also going to continue to see a lot of foreign traffic at WDW. Our dollar is still weak, and that makes for cheap vacations for those from overseas. And don't get me started on dining! With all of these free and discounted dining programs Disney offers, you can't even get a same day dining reservation anymore. And at one time, not all that long ago, we could ALWAYS do that.

[RescueRanger]

The economy is having no effect at WDW. I have spoken to CMs on the phone, and they insist there have been no slow down in reservations for the upcoming year. Plenty of people still have plenty of $$ and they are going to WDW. It is expected to be business as usual in 2009.....


I don't know if you have been paying attention to the news:happytv: but Disney corporate has already announced that advance bookings are way down. Do you honestly think Disney is offering the 4/3 deal just because they like their customers so much? When was the last time you saw them offer discounts in October for all the way through June? Disney knows whats coming and is preparing for the worst. Oh, and as for as foreign travelers coming over here? The dollar is getting stronger and it is now alot more expensive for Europeans to travel here.

[mitros]

I don't know if you have been paying attention to the news:happytv: but Disney corporate has already announced that advance bookings are way down. Do you honestly think Disney is offering the 4/3 deal just because they like their customers so much? When was the last time you saw them offer discounts in October for all the way through June? Disney knows whats coming and is preparing for the worst. Oh, and as for as foreign travelers coming over here? The dollar is getting stronger and it is now alot more expensive for Europeans to travel here.

I watch the news on a daily basis. Disney wants to keep the parks JAMMED PACKED as well as the resorts. They are of course, only concerned about the top management raking in their big bucks, not about the rank and file Disney worker. Disney periodically offers these exact offers at other slower then normal times. Their whole point is to keep the parks and resorts as full as possible, as I said earlier.
One can no longer enjoy the Disney experience when everything is belly-to-back, and the Disney properties are exactly that. Sardine-like everywhere. As I watch TV {a vast wasteland, by the way} I have yet to see the dollar getting stronger. There are still record numbers of foreign tourists going to WDW. There is no change in that yet. I'm am actually waiting for the downturn so that we can once again enjoy what used to be a pleasent vacation at WDW.

[englishrose47]

I have Noinside info what so ever but have a few comments/questions ???? Pop Century is almost out of "PopCentury" merchandise ,could this be aclue or just coincidence ???The 4/3 deal is definately due to low resort bookings !!Unless you believe Disney was just being friendly/nice !!!!I hear they are cutting down on the # of nights for Fantasmic, either due to American Idolor cost or both!!All of these little things tell me Disney profits are downand they are saving money !! So if my Pop ressie in May should have to get changed so be it I'll still be at Disney I would hope for an upgrade maybe even AKL!! Hey ther's no harm wishing !! My point is it's not the end ofthe world I love Pop but as long as I'm at Disney I'm HAPPY!!!!

[Peter Pirate 2]

mitros, I don't think WDW has ever offered anything like the 4/3 offer before (correct me if I'm wrong) and with regard to the dollar and foreign tourists, this is no longer on the up swing either as GB has already declared a recession and much of Europe is worried about the future now (due to our troubles) as well.
pirate:

[mitros]

mitros, I don't think WDW has ever offered anything like the 4/3 offer before (correct me if I'm wrong) and with regard to the dollar and foreign tourists, this is no longer on the up swing either as GB has already declared a recession and much of Europe is worried about the future now (due to our troubles) as well.
pirate:

I'm going to attempt to research it through some of my old Disney newsletters and what have you. I know they have had these offers before. I just need to find some info on it. There were an awful lot of foreign visitors there when we stayed at OKW two weeks ago, and we spoke to one of the front desk clerks and he said there were several more groups {from Brazil, in particular} that were scheduled to come in between then and the middle of January. {not at OKW}

[marsrunner]

I believe they've offered deals "like" this, but not for so long a time. January to June including Spring Break and Easter (I know it may not be available now, but I think it was when the promotion started). I could be wrong though.

[doconeill]

I want to say that a 4/3 deal was offered maybe around 2003...at least I seem to remember something similar.

[CanadianGuy]

There was a 4/3 offer before for a MUCH smaller booking window.

And as I stated earlier, some 'premiere' resorts had less than 60% occupancy this Christmas week .. that's simply unheard of...

And while Disney does want to keep things 'busy'... it ain't been 'belly to back' there for a month or two now.. and in about 10 days.. it's going to be just about the complete opposite of that..

[lisadr]

Having no inside info at all-just an experience I will say this:


I got all excited when the 4/3 offer came out and booked a Jan. vacay-then reality hit (aka Christmas '08:scared: ) and we realized we couldn't swing it so soon after the holidays. So I called to cancel and the CM was somewhat desperate to get me to reschedule for another month and not cancel outright-which I did (I mean hey-it was like juggling 8 balls in front of a coke addict :rolleyes1 -did I mention I LOVE Disney?). But last year when I changed my ressie by canceling and then rebooking with a new CM (long story) they had no issue with it-in fact the CM cheerfully told me they needed the rooms because they were SO booked.

So what does this all mean? Probably nothing but let's just say I noticed a bit of nervousness this time around on Disneys part -who knows? Just my 2 cents:surfweb:

[Tink rules]

I think the deluxes are going to hurt more than the values and the mods are...

I know that I checked online for avail. (I never book that way - rack rates, etc...) and you could literally CHOOSE the type of room - not just garden view, etc... but if you wanted GV, concierge... concierge with king bed... etc. You almost NEVER get into concierge that easily...

[ClareH37]

I think the deluxes are going to hurt more than the values and the mods are...

I know that I checked online for avail. (I never book that way - rack rates, etc...) and you could literally CHOOSE the type of room - not just garden view, etc... but if you wanted GV, concierge... concierge with king bed... etc. You almost NEVER get into concierge that easily...

I'm currently booked into BWI CL on the 4/3 deal, just checked this morning to see availability and there's still a choice of every room type for my dates in early May, in fact every resort I tried has great availability.

I think all resorts are going to be hit and wouldn't be surprised if perhaps at the deluxes they closed off floors/buildings.

[Pooh67_68]

Do you honestly think Disney is offering the 4/3 deal just because they like their customers so much?
Wait, you mean they don't? :scared1:








;)

[Tink rules]

I'm currently booked into BWI CL on the 4/3 deal, just checked this morning to see availability and there's still a choice of every room type for my dates in early May, in fact every resort I tried has great availability.

I think all resorts are going to be hit and wouldn't be surprised if perhaps at the deluxes they closed off floors/buildings.

Just as long as they keep my ressie going... no prob... I'm at the GF.. the only upgrade they can give ME is the castle suite.... ;)

[englishrose47]

Just as long as they keep my ressie going... no prob... I'm at the GF.. the only upgrade they can give ME is the castle suite.... ;)

Would you take it??:rotfl2:
I'm at Pop so unless they send me to AllStars I have nowhere to go but up!!I really like Pop Century but if they forced me to upgrade I'd be gracious and accept !:lmao:

[EvanMaddieMouse]

http://www.intercot.com/news/2001/october.asp - So, what does that tell us about 2008 and 2009? Absolutely nothing. For a travel destination like WDW, 2008 is nothing like post-9/11. The economy is in bad shape and a lot of people are hurting. I'm sure Disney is taking steps to minimize their financial exposure to the recession. And perhaps, at some point, they will close a resort or two. But no one has offered even the smallest shred of credible evidence that this could happen. It is just pure speculation. Will people hear this unfounded rumor often enough that they start cancelling trips or trying to book other resorts? Who knows, but before offering up baseless speculation, let's try to keep things in perspective. I've seen rumors and whisper campaigns cause companies real damage. I don't think any of us would want to see bad things happen to WDW and the people who work there because of what someone heard.

I just checked out of Pop yesterday morning. I did not hear anything about a closing at all (but I didn't ask either). I can tell you that we tried from the first day of our reservation (12/22) to add on a night at the end of our booking and we were completely unsuccessful--the entire resort apparently was fully booked. Granted, this is a horribly busy season, but several CMs told us there was no availability whatsoever. That tells me that Pop is still a very busy, very desired resort!

[Tink rules]

Would you take it??:rotfl2:
I'm at Pop so unless they send me to AllStars I have nowhere to go but up!!I really like Pop Century but if they forced me to upgrade I'd be gracious and accept !:lmao:

I might do it for one night... but I like to get out of my room sometimes and roam and I hear they don't let you do that... but I bet room service is pretty good... ;)

[TSMAMI]

Oh boy I would be so sad if they closed POP Century, its my home away from home.