Are WE to Blame?

[Mickeynutty]

OP, I completely agree! My DH and I agreed long ago, NEVER post any Disney Pixie dust moments, for those very reasons!

 

[mousehockey37]

Oh boy you are right about Cosmic Rays.

Again, however. We pay plenty for the pleasure of a Disney Park. I don't mind picking up extra cups and plates but that should not be my responsibility. The bottom line, Disney prides itself on it's reputation for clean parks? Than drop the excuses, pony up the staff and keep them clean.

We do pay for the pleasure. I'm saying that if everyone picked up after themselves, which is common decency (which doesn't seem to exist anymore), then things would stand a chance of staying cleaner longer.

Well, what are you going to expect them to give as an excuse when they pony up the staff to keep the park clean and that causes them to have to raise the prices of everything, more so than just the annual increase in prices.

I, when on vacation, am a person that tries to keep things orderly. It's not my job to keep the room neat and orderly, but I do it anyway. Why? It's just common courtesy. The sooner mousekeeping can change out things and move on, the quicker they can get all the rooms done. I'm sure everyone on some vacation has seen the cleaning cart parked outside a room for the better part of an hour because the room was in such bad condition from people who thought "it's not my mess to clean.".

And when you pay for the pleasure of a Disney park? You don't. You pay admission to get yourself through the front gate. If Disney wanted to not touch the restrooms and offer everyone twizzlers and yoohoo for concessions, they could. It's good business to keep everything in good working, sanitary order. It's just that some people like to abuse the privilege of being let into the resorts/parks because they paid "a lot of money" to go there, and in turn, forget (or in some cases continue) how to be responsible human beings in public.

 

[HMANSION LOVER]

Disney is ultimately responsible for making sure that the restrooms are clean, but this comes back to having respect for things. There are a lot of people that are ignorant to the point that they believe "I'm on vacation, you can clean up after me" and they'll make a mess and just walk away. The restrooms are just one place this happens. Places like Cosmic Rays and such are like this as well where people will eat and leave ALL of their dirty, empty plates. It doesn't take much effort to take 2 extra seconds to wipe the seat, pick up your paper towel and put it in the can if it falls on the floor, throw away your trash or even notify a CM if something is less than stellar.

There's only so much that Disney can do, and just because you're on vacation doesn't give you the green light to be a slob. This applies to everyone. Take care of the things you support and they'll be good to you in return.

Again, no disrespect, ARE YOU KIDDING ME! When I invite people to my house for a party I do not EXPECT them to clean up after themselves, I invited them and when everyone leaves I, and my wife, clean up. When Disney invites me to enjoy their parks, at considerable cost, I should not be responsible for helping to keep the bathroom clean after I use it ( I'm paying the salary of the people who work for Disney who's job that is) I do agree people could at least take their trays and refuse away from the table at QS resteraunts but, if they don't there should be an army of CM's making it seem like that never even happened. I'm sorry but for the most part , when your paying what your paying to enjoy the "MAGIC" at Disney, their should be people to clean up after the people who don't clean up after themselves so you don't have to!

 

[Disneychick75]

It's not the "things" magic that I miss, I miss the cast member magic. As a previous poster pointed out, that comes from management. At one time, cast members were smiling and happy to help- they were the magic. Now, I feel like a lot of them act more like the guests are nuisances. Some guests are a pain but I think the majority are there to have a good time with their families and don't cause problems. I used to feel at home when visiting Disney but lately I've felt more like an uninvited guest who dropped in at the wrong time.

 

[mousehockey37]

Again, no disrespect, ARE YOU KIDDING ME! When I invite people to my house for a party I do not EXPECT them to clean up after themselves, I invited them and when everyone leaves I, and my wife, clean up. When Disney invites me to enjoy their parks, at considerable cost, I should not be responsible for helping to keep the bathroom clean after I use it ( I'm paying the salary of the people who work for Disney who's job that is) I do agree people could at least take their trays and refuse away from the table at QS resteraunts but, if they don't there should be an army of CM's making it seem like that never even happened. I'm sorry but for the most part , when your paying what your paying to enjoy the "MAGIC" at Disney, their should be people to clean up after the people who don't clean up after themselves so you don't have to!

And this is why we can't have nice things.

How you throw parties is up to you, but when I have gatherings, I expect everyone to do their part and treat my place (where they have been invited to) with respect. Does that mean I don't have to clean up? No. There's always going to be a clean up afterwards, but it's nice when I have people over that are going to help so that I'm not cleaning for days on end.

These are the same basic principles that I follow when travelling. Wherever you go, the property is NOT yours, so treat it with respect. Am I saying to pick up every last plate at a deserted table? No. Am I saying that each individual should have the decency to be able to pick up after ones self? Yes.

WDW is not a place that we own, but our money goes into it (imagine if you own DVC, then you DO own part of it). I would rather have my money going into advancements for making better magic, than having it going to general housekeeping ideals that could easily be controlled by the guests themselves.

It is a privilege that Disney gives us what they do, not a right. If they wanted to take away all transportation service, they could. It's a privilege to get to use it with your stay. As more people abuse the system and abuse the things in the parks, you're going to see your ever increasing admission prices and resort fees go to nothing more than "an army of CMs that make things look like they never happened". Forget about refurbishing the rides, forget about adding new rides or replacing older things, they'll just spend the money on custodial CMs that will come behind everyone and clean as they go.

 

[Bluegrrl]

Couple of short thoughts:

One of the highlights of one trip many years ago was being able to see the (now deceased, RIP) Komodo dragon backstage.

We were picked buy a Animal Kingom zoo guy to see a Komodo training exercise (yes, they CAN be trained!), and it was the high light of my DH's Komodo lovin's life. We got to see how they got them to show their claw for trimming, move from cage to enclosure, stand and go into crate to be examined by the vet. My husband loves reptiles - and nothing we saw indicated that the lizards were being mistreated. In fact, the crate that they used for the vet visit was extremely humane - it was like a magicians crate where they can open different flaps to show the arms and legs of the assistant before she gets sliced up. Very slim so that the dragon does thrash and the vet can draw blood safely. We even got a pin from the CMs for the visit. We all felt very safe while we watched them train the dragon.

Well, next year we went and asked if they were still running the program. The CMs told us that they had stopped the experience because guests were complaining about the lizard being treated badly (was not) and it being dangerous (was not). So in a way, guests killed that amazing experience because of their ignorance (I guess). Which is a real shame, because it imparted a great deal of knowledge to people about a great animal that is very misunderstood.

Now, as a Former CM who worked at Pecos and Cosmics:
I did pick up people's stuff and wipe tables. It was my job. But there is a huge difference between people who leave all of their junk there for me to pick up like I was a maid and then the people who bused themselves and maybe left some ketchup spills and such. Not your maid, no matter what place you are at. Do you bus yourself at Panera? At McDonalds? At Wendy's? At any QS place? Yes. Of course you do. Because it's what you do. Do you wipe down the tables? No, that's really my job (when I was at Disney). Would I pick up after you, no matter what? Of course, that was my job. What type guests did I prefer? Not they ones who left all their junk, I'll tell you that. But did I offer to help out, no matter what and smile? Yes, that was my job.

To this day though, at hotels and everything, I make sure that dirty towels are at waist level so as not to make the CMS bend down to pick them up, the room is relatively tidy and to tip. I remember what I felt like, and make sure that the job is easier for other CMs. Cause that's my job.

One more thing:
I recently had an AMAZING CM experience, and I almost think it's because its at MGM/DHS. DHS is a nice little park, and when I worked there (2nd tour of duty ), I found it to be more relaxed environment. I have a feeling that MK is all about "Give me the MAGIC darnnit!) and that CMs get pretty stressed there. Its also important to recognize the cms for their awesomeness. I cannot tell you the amount of times that I have gone to guest services to report CMs that have been great. It really is a good idea to do that, it gives us a little bright glimmer of hope in a world that seems to have no logic!

 

[Networth]

I just wanted to point out to those that feel the only thing Disney owes you for your money is a clean room and park admission. This is true that is what all they owe you. Yet this is not what built and made Disney the company it is today. It is very easy to be comparable to your competitors and just average. It's a whole nothing thing to be above and beyond, which is what Disney excelled in. Walt himself wanted everything to be "plus it".

Point being when someone visits Disney they don't expect an average theme park and room. They expect and extraordinary theme park and room because that is what Disney is/was known for. Disney did not become #1 by doing the minimum. The suits need to keep that in mind.

 

[luv2sleep]

I just wanted to point out to those that feel the only thing Disney owes you for your money is a clean room and park admission. This is true that is what all they owe you. Yet this is not what built and made Disney the company it is today. It is very easy to be comparable to your competitors and just average. It's a whole nothing thing to be above and beyond, which is what Disney excelled in. Walt himself wanted everything to be "plus it". Point being when someone visits Disney they don't expect an average theme park and room. They expect and extraordinary theme park and room because that is what Disney is/was known for. Disney did not become #1 by doing the minimum. The suits need to keep that in mind.

I don't expect that. I expect a fun theme park experience and, depending on the hotel level I've chosen, a clean room with whatever amenities that level provides. I've been going to DL often since I was young. It provides a unique park unique park experience compared to other parks. There's so much to see and do that's so different from any other park. As an adult gong on a Disney vacation brings back find memories. I had never heard anything about "the magic" or "special touches" until I started using these types of travel boards. Real live DL vets from LA just don't think that way. DL is just a lot of fun. We don't have all of these expectations that others seem to have. Go, but a ticket, enjoy the park, go home. That simple. I think it's hilarious when people talk about, "what happened to make your trip MAGICAL". Really? It's just a theme park and a hotel people! We had a great day! Good grief! The original idea behind DL was that it was the "happiest place on earth." Sometimes when you are there it really feels like that because it's super fun! This whole thing about it being "magical" experience is seriously blown out of proportion. Have fun. Feel like a kid. Feel free. That's what it's about. This definitely seems to be more of an issue with WDW vets vs DL vets I've seem. The DL culture is more relaxed and go with the flow. The WDW culture seems more neurotic and obsessive. I'd never heard the words a "touring plan" or "rope drop" until I started planning a trip to WDW. I'd also never heard anyone talk about high levels of service expectations and "how did a CM make your trip more magical?" Sounds like a lot of whiney entitlement to me. We used to just go and have fun and not have any expectations beyond that. I don't understand the entitled attitude at all. Sure it's more expensive. It's Disney and they've done extremely well as a company making their brand seem highly valuable. However, it's a theme park vacation plain and simple.

I do have to say the cruises though are special. To me it's not about the level of service. I already have the expectation that if I pay for something people are going to be friendly and helpful. What I love about the cruises as that they are the most family friendly I've ever seen. Everything centers around children and their experience. So much so that their child care facilities are excellent so that parents can feel comfortable leaving their children in them and have some great fun in the adult areas. You never have to worry about your child seeing or witnessing something not age appropriate. The most they will play on the big screen is PG-13. It's clean and the staff is very tolerant of children. The facility (the ship) is constantly being IEP clean. Great when you being your child who must touch everything everywhere they go! The excursions are also extremely family oriented. It's an overall fantastic product and well worth the $$.

The ABDs seem like they do a fantastic job catering to families as well. I'd love to go on one.

This is the extent of MY expectations on a Disney vacation. Friendly, helpful staff, clean facilities, and lots of fun. Expecting anything beyond that sounds extremely entitled to me.

 

[surferdave]

No. We are not to blame.

 

[EnchantedTales]

Better unplug the internet.

OP, I completely agree! My DH and I agreed long ago, NEVER post any Disney Pixie dust moments, for those very reasons!

 

[Auntie Sherry]

I think you have a valid point. I was thinking this same way. For several years going back to 1983 I have been going to WDW in early December. I knew crowds were low and it was value season plus you get all the special holiday things. This year was different. There were no discounts for us and it was very crowded. I know they had a record year but I think it has more to do with the internet now. All ofus Disney fans are online telling how great it is no lines and holiday decorations food parties etc. I think word got out. I am not complaining because I love the boards I was just trying to figure out the huge change in early December and that may be an answer. I do think everyone sharing information has an effect wether it's good or bad

 

[JeremyGNJ]

-

 

[JeremyGNJ]

Oh boy you are right about Cosmic Rays.

Again, however. We pay plenty for the pleasure of a Disney Park. I don't mind picking up extra cups and plates but that should not be my responsibility. The bottom line, Disney prides itself on it's reputation for clean parks? Than drop the excuses, pony up the staff and keep them clean.

Imagine how much tickets would cost if they Disney hired enough people to clean away the lunch tables for everyone!

 

[BuzzPoster]

I always cringe when I see people post little bits of magic they received, or some tip that requires extra work and manpower by Disney.

It used to be that some would talk about faxing room requests. I'm sure they got so overwhelmed with faxes they started to discourage it, and I'm not even sure they accept them anymore.

Towel animals. A little special touch turned into an expected thing that you 'paid for', and folks get upset at Disney if they don't get them every day.

It seems every person that does a lot of research believes THEIR precious loin fruit or family is entitled to EVERY little bit of magic they have ever heard about.

Upgrades. I see people booking AKL and actually planning on getting an upgrade to a Savannah view room, and they are upset if they don't get it.

The 'Grey Stuff' at BOG was one a piece of Disney Magic until everyone decided they deserved the magic too, "But, my kids birthday was just a few short months ago and we are celebrating it TODAY"

Magic isn't magic anymore if you feel you expect and deserve it at every turn.

 

[pad406]

Magic isn't magic anymore if you feel you expect and deserve it at every turn.

 

[Donut23]

Imagine how much tickets would cost if they Disney hired enough people to clean away the lunch tables for everyone!

If $100 a day or $700 for an annual pass X fully loaded parks isn't enough to afford staff to buss tables in their restaurants and clean their bathrooms, they need new Parks Management.

I know you were being light hearted. Staffing cuts is a topic close to home. DH is a Castmember and has watched the changes from the inside.

Ok, I'll go back to the shower now and turn on the cold water to calm me down.

 

[Donut23]

We do pay for the pleasure. I'm saying that if everyone picked up after themselves, which is common decency (which doesn't seem to exist anymore), then things would stand a chance of staying cleaner longer.

Well, what are you going to expect them to give as an excuse when they pony up the staff to keep the park clean and that causes them to have to raise the prices of everything, more so than just the annual increase in prices.

I, when on vacation, am a person that tries to keep things orderly. It's not my job to keep the room neat and orderly, but I do it anyway. Why? It's just common courtesy. The sooner mousekeeping can change out things and move on, the quicker they can get all the rooms done. I'm sure everyone on some vacation has seen the cleaning cart parked outside a room for the better part of an hour because the room was in such bad condition from people who thought "it's not my mess to clean.".

And when you pay for the pleasure of a Disney park? You don't. You pay admission to get yourself through the front gate. If Disney wanted to not touch the restrooms and offer everyone twizzlers and yoohoo for concessions, they could. It's good business to keep everything in good working, sanitary order. It's just that some people like to abuse the privilege of being let into the resorts/parks because they paid "a lot of money" to go there, and in turn, forget (or in some cases continue) how to be responsible human beings in public.

So let me get this right.

Because people are more messy than in the past Disney no longer has to maintain their parks to the standards they set for themselves?

I travel a great deal for business and we have a tight budget......a Holiday Inn budget vs. a Hilton budget. It's funny, I guess those messy people who go to Disney World must not stay at the Holiday Inns I visit. They are always spotless.....as an example.

Oh well,

You may be willing to give Disney a pass on this and overlook messy restaurants and smelly, dirty restrooms. I think I'll just continue to hold them to Disney standards. After all, they were the ones who created the standard in the first place.

 

[chrismb22]

To this day though, at hotels and everything, I make sure that dirty towels are at waist level so as not to make the CMS bend down to pick them up, the room is relatively tidy and to tip. I remember what I felt like, and make sure that the job is easier for other CMs. nt.

Sorry to hijack this threats, but now I need to know. I always thought it was common courtesy (and preferred to leave dirty towels in a pile in the bathroom? Have I been doing it wrong all these years.

 

[JeremyGNJ]

Regarding cleaning up, its a vicious money circle. Disney reduced prices and provides "free dining packages", in order to keep attendance up. However this can sometimes attract a more "trashy" clientele that wont clean up after themselves, and so they have to hire more staff to clean up.

 

[chrismb22]

So let me get this right. Because people are more messy than in the past Disney no longer has to maintain their parks to the standards they set for themselves? I travel a great deal for business and we have a tight budget......a Holiday Inn budget vs. a Hilton budget. It's funny, I guess those messy people who go to Disney World must not stay at the Holiday Inns I visit. They are always spotless.....as an example. Oh well, You may be willing to give Disney a pass on this and overlook messy restaurants and smelly, dirty restrooms. I think I'll just continue to hold them to Disney standards. After all, they were the ones who created the standard in the first place.

I am not giving them a pass but if my kid has an accident all over a bathroom stall, is it really fair to make someone else clean that up? Whether I am in Disney or Target, I just want to tAke responsibility for me and my family. As for the cleaning of the tables etc, some people go out of their way to leave a mess. It's that "I am on vacation" mentality. If Jr. wants to make a tower of catchup, mustard and sugar with melting ice cream on top, let him. It's someone else's job to clean it up. I once saw someone (not at Disney) send a banana back because he asked for it peeled and it wasn't. Really??? Are we that entitled these days?