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Disneyland is every child’s dream come true. After months of being closed due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the theme park in Shanghai, China is all set to reopen on Monday. By Upasana Singh
Disneyland in Shanghai will be the first major theme park to reopen amid the worldwide pandemic. The park that has been closed since January 25 will soon open its doors to people on May 11. As reported by ANI News, Bob Chapek, CEO of Walt Disney said in a statement, “We know how much our guests have been looking forward to returning to Shanghai Disneyland, and our cast is excited to begin welcoming them back.”
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While there are no plans to open Disneyland and Walt Disney World in US, Paris, Hong Kong, and Tokyo until further notice, the Shanghai Disney Resort partially opened on March 9 with a limited number of shopping, dining, and other recreational operations.
A phased approach is being taken to reopen the park in Shanghai. Typically, the park accommodates 80,000 visitors per day, but now, as per governmental rules, Disney will operate at 30 per cent capacity with around 24,000 visitors. Chapek revealed that at first, the park will function well below the 30 per cent cap and eventually ramp up over the course of several weeks.
This approach will also take into consideration enhanced health and safety measures. In Shanghai, as per the Shanghai Health QR code, a contact tracing and early detection system will be set in place. Disney said that it will follow the guidelines provided by the local government officials and medical professionals.
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Under the new procedures, guests will be required to purchase tickets for selected dates prior to their visit. Annual Pass holders will also have to make reservations in advance. Visitor queues, restaurants, and all the rides will ensure people are spaced out, following social distancing rules. Guests will be required to wear masks at all times, except when they are dining. Cast members will be trained on contactless guest interaction and on proper cleaning procedures. Additional protective equipment including masks will be given to them. The park will be cleaned more frequently during the day and sanitation stations will be set up for guests.
Disney Parks’ Chief Medical Officer, Dr Pamela Hymel said in an open letter that the company is developing plans in many areas including its online channels. Virtual queues could be created at Disneyland in California and Walt Disney World in Florida via the Play Disney Park App.
While online options are being explored for the rest of the world, we are thrilled to know that the magical world of Disneyland in Shanghai is reopening soon.
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