113. Valerie Marino on Walt Disney World During a Pandemic

Cinderella Castle at The Magic Kingdom in a very different world of September 2019.

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It’s definitely a new era for many things in our current world, including theme parks. I did not expect a scenario where I wouldn’t feel comfortable visiting Walt Disney World. It’s open with light attendance, which is enticing to a fan used to dealing with crowds. On the other hand, even the best safety protocols don’t feel like enough in a pandemic. For this reason, I really connected with the Conde Nast Traveler article “I’m a Huge Disney Fan, But I’m Not Ready to Return to Disney World” by Valerie Marino. She talks to experts and takes a level-headed approach to the parks.

Valerie Marino writes about theme parks for Conde Nast Traveler. — Valerie Marino

Valerie is my guest on this episode of The Tomorrow Society Podcast. We talk candidly about our feelings on the reopening of Walt Disney World. It has become a difficult situation with no easy answers, especially for fans. We visit the parks for solace from work and other challenges. In the middle of a pandemic, it’s not the same experience. Valerie talks about what inspired her to write the article and how it came together.

I really enjoyed talking with Valerie, who writes frequently about the parks. We also chat about her background and how she started as a journalist covering theme parks. She also gives cool details about what it’s like at a Disney press preview. Finally, we have some fun and dive into what Valerie loves about Walt Disney World. It was great to talk to Valerie and learn more about her story beyond the pandemic.