Seven Links Disney Fans May Need Right Now
The past week has been absolutely wild for Disney fans, especially those in Florida at the time of Hurricane Ian.
So, I’m doing something a bit unusual today. I’m trying to anticipate some of the aggravations you might have been facing in the wake of this historic disaster.
Image credit: Str/Xinhua/Zuma
Here are seven links you may need right now.
For People with a Disney Problem
Were your vacation plans disrupted by the pandemic? Are you in need of a refund, a theme park ticket adjustment, or the like?
Photo: Disney
Here’s the link that will help you the most. It’s Guest Services at Walt Disney World.
Please keep in mind that speaking to someone over the phone is a better approach, though.
Also, you can try your luck with the My Disney Experience app as well. Technically, live agents monitor the app as well as phone calls.
However, I’m convinced you’ll have better luck and receive more efficient help if the person can hear the pain and frustration in your voice.
Photo: Disney
Disney cast members are wonderful people who want to help, and they’ve seen it all this week.
So, they can probably find the solution that benefits you the most. Please remember to be kind, though.
The week that you’re having is also the week that they’re having, only they’re also possibly lacking power and/or cellphone service at their home.
Also, for future reference, I have two additional pieces of advice here.
When you hire an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner like the experts at MickeyTravels, you’ll already have an ally who can help with matters like these.
Also, travel insurance may sound like a scam, but it’s terrific during hurricane season. Speaking of which…
For People with Travel Insurance
Consider yourselves the lucky ones. You have travel insurance, and most policies cover hurricanes. There can be some wiggle room, though.
Photo: weather.gov
Track down a copy of your policy – you probably still have one in your email folder – and check the fine print. You should be fine.
After all, hurricane season explains one of the reasons why travel insurance is a thing.
You probably must prove that your trip was directly impacted by the hurricane.
Photo from Emily Hill, MickeyTravels agent.
However, canceled Walt Disney World park days and a sheltering-in-place order at the resorts should be more than enough.
For People with Airline Issues
Hoo boy. I don’t envy you if you’re in this situation.
Photo: Twitter/Orlando Internation Airport
Orlando International Airport shut down for 48 hours, which only happens in “act of God” scenarios, which a hurricane may be, depending on your belief system.
Anyway, my experience with airlines was universally positive during the COVID-19 era. Delta was especially great about working with me to keep me a satisfied customer.
Image: OrlandoAirports.net
On the downside, 2022 post-COVID airline travel has taken a turn for the dystopian.
Presuming your flight was canceled, you should receive either a refund or rebooking sans additional fees.
Photo: Fortune
I say “should” because I’ve worked in customer service and know what cheap jerks some businesses can be during dramatic (read: expensive) events.
For People with Car Rental Issues
So, yeah, hurricanes aren’t the ideal time to rent cars. You barely know the vehicle anyway.
Photo: You Mechanic
Let’s say that you hydroplane and hit another car. That’s probably a standard car rental insurance coverage issue.
Now, let’s say that you parked your car at your hotel at the entrance to Universal Studios.
Photo: Universal
Later that night, you pulled up Twitter and noticed a viral video of your car underwater and drifting aimlessly down the street.
That’s a real thing that happened to some people whose cars you’ll see here:
Wow. Everyone be safe out there. So many parts of Central Florida are experiencing flooding because of Hurricane Ian. https://t.co/N0ngXWUJM1
— Ashley Carter (@AshleyLCarter1) September 29, 2022
If you’re one of those people, you have my eternal pity…and a killer story to tell at parties.
Believe it or not, there’s a chance your standard car rental insurance covers this problem, too. It’s not a good chance, though.
Photo:disneytouristblog.com
The link above includes phone numbers for the various rental car agencies. You should probably start practicing your “please have mercy on me” voice now.
You may be the proud new owner of a Toyota Corolla that was recently underwater.
For People with Owned Car Issues
Photo: NOAA
If this applies to you, I certainly don’t mean to pile on. Still, I must acknowledge the obvious. You REALLY picked the wrong time to drive to Florida.
All isn’t lost, though. Car insurance often covers hurricane damage. You probably need either collision or (more likely) comprehensive coverage.
Photo: Weather.gov
Presuming you have that, odds are good that you’re about to go car shopping. Unfortunately, flooded cars are usually a total loss.
The problem you’re about to face is that supply chain issues remain problematic in the car industry. And many Florida residents suddenly need a new car.
Photo: Getty
This process may take some time, and you could possibly end up with a lesser car for the same price. I hate to type that, but it’s a legitimate possibiility.
For People Currently without Power, Gas, Or Bottled Water
Many local news websites are invaluable resources to those currently without power. Here’s the Fort Myers News-Press with a list of available resources.
Photo: Mark Bickel/news-press.com
This site shows open grocery stores, locations with gas, and other essentials during a crisis situation.
Frankly, I was blown away by the quality of this site and beamed with pride when I learned that my wife works with some of the people involved with it.
(AP Photo/Matt Dunham, file)
I realize that the newspaper industry is dying. Still, legacy media has staked out an essential space for information delivery in society.
Check the local news websites in your town for vital lists like this one.
If you’re unsure where to find power, gas, or bottled water, you can also try local Reddit or Facebook forums for your city.
For example, the Orlando subreddit included this post from a saint of a human being.
People want to help. If you need help, please don’t be afraid to ask.
For People Who Live in Florida and Have Home Damage
Technically, this issue won’t apply to Disney tourists. However, I know that many cast members read this site.
First, thank you for everything you’ve done during impossible circumstances. Second, I’m sorry if your residence has suffered hurricane-related damage.
You should know that FEMA assistance is available in the wake of Hurricane Ian. Here’s the official web page with detailed information.
The site requests that you have the following personal information available when you contact FEMA:
- “A current phone number where you can be contacted
- Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying
- Your Social Security number
- A general list of damage and losses
- Banking information if you choose direct deposit
- If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name”
Photo:seoclerk.com
Also, here’s a link for how to file a homeowners insurance claim.
I’ve tried to keep a light tone in writing this, but I’ve done it because I’m legitimately worried about the safety and well-being of our impacted readers.
Please use any of this information as needed to address some of your current problems.
Photo: MickeyBlog
If you require additional assistance, don’t hesitate to ask our staff in the comments. We’re here for you.
