3. Markers are placed throughout queues to keep guests apart, but there's not much enforcement
And speaking of queues, Disney has taped down special signs in the majority of queues designed to keep parties apart from each other. And though most queues are relatively empty due to the park's low capacity, it seems like, at least for the short term, Disney is relying on the honor system for guests to space themselves apart, as there aren't very many Cast Members in the queues making sure guests are staying apart.
4. Masks are required, and guests are keeping them on
In order to visit Shanghai Disney Resort, all guests must wear a mask during their entire visit to the theme park (except when dining), and from what we've seen so far, all guests are complying with this policy. In addition, all non-costumed Cast Members are also wearing facemasks as well in an effort to keep everyone as safe as possible during their visit to the theme park.
Right now it looks like Shanghai Disney Resort could be something of a test case for theme park reopenings, as this type of restricted entry and social distancing inside the theme park may serve as a model for other Disney theme parks around the world if it ends up being successful. While Shanghai Disney Resort may have fewer parks than Walt Disney World or Disneyland Resort, we may see a similar phased rollout with retail locations like Disney Springs and Downtown Disney reopening first, followed by hotels, and then eventually theme parks, all while implementing the same kinds of social distancing practices.
As always, while this situation is evolving, all theme park fans should check out the CDC's official site here, which has information on the virus and how to prevent its spread.
Theme Park Tourist COVID-19 Complete Coverage: Disney Pushes Back Reservation Dates and Cancels Dining Deal I SeaWorld Offers Free Upgrades as Plans Come Together for Theme Park Reopening I Disney Quietly Pushes Back "Best Case" Reopening Dates for Theme Parks Around the World I Disney Releases Statement Outlining Reopening Plans in the United States I Shanghai Disneyland Officially Reopening May 11
Comments
In terms of the mask - two things:
1. Cultural difference: there; many already wear mask and it is NOT appropriate to compare that stage to the United States where this is NOT a prototype.
2. Temperatures still haven't heated up (an environment not liked by coronaviruses anyway); the average temperature in May in Shanghai is 76 degrees Fahrenheit for this 8-day running period. They haven't met the high 90 degree to 100+ degree temps of a summer at Disney World in Lake Buena Vista where average temps June-August run MINIMUM 90-95 degrees; some 15-20 degrees warmer than what they are dealing with. A hotter temp would be a deterrent and could make masks a big issue...
In 2015, a study was carried out showing facial hand touches went from 3 per hour to 23 per hour with the wearing of a mask with medical students INSIDE; what do you think happens when a sweaty vacation-stretching mask is worn OUTSIDE in the heat of the Florida sun in the summer?
Masks will never work or be the norm in our country. The only people arguing in favor are those who have not only bought into the narrative but need something to make them feel safe. They could care less about cultural differences, temperature differences, studies proving against wearing face masks or just plain common sense.
As far as limiting attendance... the average cost to visit Shanghai Disneyland is around $62 (American) vs the average cost for WDW being around $100+. Shanghai Disneyland averages just under 12 million guests per year... WDW averages more than that across it's parks per month. Much, much easier to limit attendance when demand isn't very high and the price of tickets are 40-45% less.
These sites and others are simply doing nothing but attempting to compare apples to oranges. What may work in Shanghai should never be the norm or even considered in other parts of the world, especially at WDW. Fact of the matter is Disney could very easily open in phases - allowing Florida residents/annual passholders only at the start. This would keep in line with travel restrictions, and would keep attendance low - while at the same time provide a much needed extra "perk" or benefit AP's have been begging for for years. Then you open to domestic reservations... and eventually open up for good to international. You either keep the resorts closed or offer massive discounts to AP's... I know myself and many that would gladly pay for a staycation at a discounted rate.
But at the end of the day no masks, no pointless social distancing, no temperature checks - those are all acts that are proven pointless by scientific studies. You're not wearing a mask to protect others... you're doing it because it makes you feel good. Instead of constantly disagreeing, go do some research on your own as to why they're proven to do nothing. Temperature checks... your temperature can be high for a number of reasons and if you truly have a fever, a couple of OTC pills will mask a low-grade temp. And we haven't even gotten into the children aspect yet. Good luck forcing your children to wear a mask... there is simply no stretch of the imagination that could see that working out well.