how long do you think we will ride the magical express?

[Horace Horsecollar]

Probably will be. Remember the stated purpose of ME is guest convenience. No mention of Disney using it to try to keep people from renting cars, although we all suspect that's one of the main reasons. Really no way to make guests go back to the airport. I could see Disney delaying luggage delivery, perhaps say it was moved to special storage when you didn't check in. Maybe even make you wait in your room for delivery but I suspect luggage only transfer is something that makes for good board discussion but that's all. The reality is most guests using ME like FREE and won't be taking a towncar or renting a car for their entire trip.

My guess is that mailing that guests will receive 10 days before their trip (with the luggage tags and instructions) will clearly spell out how the system works. I wouldn't be surprised if there's something along the following lines:

"Disney's Magical Express is a complete service to transport you and your luggage. If, after arriving at Orlando International Airport, you decide not to ride a Disney's Magical Express motor coach, don't worry; your bags won't be sent to your resort until you check in on the motor coach. So you can retrieve your checked bags at the Baggage Desk in the Disney Welcome Center. (You may need to wait up to 60 minutes while we locate your bags and transport them to the Baggage Desk.) Or, if you prefer, call 407-xxx-xxxx to make arrangements to transport your bags directly to your room. Because this requires special handling, your bags may be delayed several hours and there is a charge of $10 for your first bag and $5 for each additional bag."

That's only a guess.

 

[Kimberle]

There is always the possibility that WDW could "void" your return trip on ME if you check in, send your bags, but fail to board your coach. You might be scrambling to grab a cab at the resort to take you to the airport.....

 

[Bill From PA]

Quote:"There is always the possibility that WDW could "void" your return trip on ME if you check in, send your bags, but fail to board your coach. You might be scrambling to grab a cab at the resort to take you to the airport....."

This could well be and might deter those plannning on using the service to get back to MCO. My plan is to use a TownCar both ways, tagging the bags for the new service only to allow us to skip the wait at the baggage carrousel, get to our resort before the bus does, check-in, hit the parks and have our luggage in our room when day is done.

All we're doing here is speculating. I've got until March 2006 to see what's possible and what is not.

Bill From PA