14/02/2020
YES!!!!! A MUST-READ!!! πππ
I don't normally do this, and this might be an unpopular opinion, but here it goes:
While I understand the argument that over the past few years these AP and ticket hikes have been extreme, so have guest expectations for new merch, new rides, new shows and parades, maintenance, experiences, rotating food choices, special events, and "pixie dust"... Never mind just the basics to open every day like labor, certifications, electricity, pest control, IT, security, etc. All day I've seen people commenting, "Walt would be ashamed!" "Walt is rolling in his grave over this." Doubtful, and here's why I disagree.
One specific type of Disneyland Annual Pass is going up $50/year. A guy in an AP holder group said, "I'll just work overtime for a few hours to offset it. It's not going to stop me from going or renewing my pass," and maybe he's got a good point. In society nowadays, people demand others to "respect and know our worth," so why do we sit around and criticize the parks that supposedly bring us so much happiness and joy so harshly when they do the same? Is it truly "corporate greed," or knowing their worth? Is it greedy on our part to make so many demands of them, yet think as park guests we aren't responsible to pay for ALL THAT FREAKING MAGIC they provide us?
I hate when prices go up, so don't get me wrong, but I guess if it's something I want badly enough then I'll have to work harder to make it happen... WHICH IS WHAT WALT DID in the first place to make them exist for us at all. He sacrificed, scrimped and saved to make every detail perfect for us. Yes, Walt wanted to build a park for people to enjoy, but the magic isn't in the park itself, it's about the fact it should be "special" to get to go. He wanted families to come "vacation," and what are we supposed to do for vacations? We plan, save, and BUDGET for them!!! I guess my point is, I'm not blaming DISNEY for the fact that 'I' can't afford what they know their worth is. That's on me. I could easily stop drinking soda or eating fast food and save up an extra $50 in no time. Sitting around and being angry about it still WILL NOT help me get through the gates, but a little extra work or effort on my part WILL. π
Ticket increases have been happening every year, and the parks will still manage to hit max capacity, or have 30 minute lines for Dole Whips or 60 minutes for rides. Special parties tickets will still sell out. The bottom line? Walt Disney's dream parks are a BUSINESS, and despite the protests of these increases, people will still pay and there will always be lines of people willing to pay to get in. The few that are "so outraged and refuse to go" after this increase will not offset those who still WILL.
Your thoughts? π€ (debate here is 100% ok, but please watch your language and remain respectful.)