Disney World has been gradually reintroducing popular perks, or similar versions of those perks, that were discontinued during the reopening period following the COVID closures.
Part of the goal of expanding these services is to keep guests inside the “Disney World bubble” for guests staying at the Disney World resort hotels. This new airport pickup option is similar to the beloved Disney's Magical Express, but with a catch.
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Minnie Van Airport Service Expanding to Deluxe Resorts
Starting tomorrow, August 13, the Minnie Van airport service is expanding to Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts. Previously, the service was only available to Club Level guests.
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For guests who are interested in booking this service, you need to call (407) 828-3500 as the service isn't available in the Lyft app. This Minnie Van pickup service will cost $199.99 each way to and from the airport. If the service does well, I imagine we will see it expand to other Disney World resort hotel categories.
What Makes Minnie Vans So Special?
This is a high price, especially when many of us are still nostalgic for the loss of the (free) Disney's Magical Express. Before COVID, this service would take you to and from the airport to your Disney Resort hotel for no additional cost.
The fact that Disney's Magical Express was free was a big appeal, but it was also the way it felt like your Disney vacation started the instant you arrived at the airport. The Disney Magical Express featured themed Disney images on the buses and TVs inside that would play Disney cartoons as you traveled. There was something magical about stepping off the plane and being immersed in the Disney magic right away.
The Disney Minnie Van service aims to replicate that same feeling. The Minnie Vans are covered in polka dots and feature the Minnie Mouse symbol. Inside the van, the driver will play Disney music, including music you hear in the Disney Parks. For guests who want that level of immersion right as they land, the price might be worth it for these Minnie Vans. Plus, you have the convenience of being driven straight to your hotel without sitting on a crowded bus making multiple stops.
The Appeal of the “Disney World Bubble”
Keeping guests inside the “Disney World bubble” is important for Disney to ensure their guests are spending money directly at Disney each day of their stay. But it's not just about the profit. Guests also love the feeling of the “Disney World bubble,” as it helps create that level of escape that makes these types of vacations so appealing.
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I love the feeling of being immersed in the world of Disney on our trips, especially enjoying Disney World's extensive transportation options. Disney knows guests love that convenience, which is why we've been seeing the expansion of more options like these for those traveling from the airport.
Recently, a free luggage transfer service was also added as an option for guests flying with Southwest. This is just another example of how Disney is recognizing how valuable guests find these services. Let's hope we see more options like this continue to return.
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