DL & DCA -Disability Access Service Card- Post 1 update 12/7/14 DAS tied to ticket

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SueM in MN

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Disneyland & Disney's California Adventure - Disability Access Service (DAS) Cards replace Guest Assistance Cards (GACs)
The DAS program was rolled out at all WDW and California Disney parks on October 9, 2013.
This thread is going to be about Disneyland & Disney's California Adventure questions and information.


Post 1 is what we know about the DAS. It will be updated as more information comes out.

Post 2 is Guidelines for discussion, FAQs about the change and other information

Post 3 and 4 are going to be a collection of suggestions or things people feel have been helpful as they navigate the new system.


Disneyland & Disney's California Adventure - Disability Access Service Cards replace Guest Assistance Cards
The information that follows is not 'official', but is as complete, up to date and accurate as possible. Some is from documents already released by Disney and some from personal conversations with reliable sources. The Moderators are not employed by Disney and make no claims to be speaking for Disney.

items that are rumor will be labeled as rumor. Anything not labeled as rumor has been confirmed to be accurate, at least at the time of the last update.
As of November 2014, Disneyland has tied DAS to tickets.
Basically, the DAS holder's ticket is tied to the DAS and the tickets of other members of the party are linked to the DAS holder. When getting a DAS Return Time, any of those members can also be linked to the DAS Return Time to ride with the DAS holder.
The process is to prevent abuse, which was occurring.


What is the Disability Access Service (DAS)?
This is Disney's new way of providing assistance to guests with disabilities that prevent them from waiting in a traditional line environment because of their disability.
The quick overview:
  • Guests with a disability that prevents them from waiting in a traditional line environment will receive a DAS card with their photo on it.
  • Person the DAS was issued to must actually be going on the attraction in order to use the DAS. It can't be used for the group to shorten their wait on attractions the DAS holder chooses not to or can't ride.
  • Using the DAS card, the guest will be able to get a return time, based on the current wait time. That will allow the guest to wait in a place of their choice.
  • It will work much like a Fastpass. (We are going to call the DAS return times Return Times to help differentiate them from Fastpass (FP) and Fastpass + (FP+)
  • DAS can be used in addition to using Disney's Fastpass Service, so guests will be able to get a DAS Return Time and Fastpasses.
Can I write ahead of time and get a DAS card? Where do I request one?
No, you can't write or call ahead to get one.
If you have specific questions about the DAS program, you can email Disney at disability.services@disneyparks.com
  • issued at Guest Relations at Theme Parks (see below for locations)
    - DAS issued at one park is valid at any other Theme Park; do not need one for each park
    - DAS is only used at Theme Park attractions; not used at Downtown Disney, transportation, restaurants or parking
Where can I find Guest Relations in the Parks?
- Guest Relations in Disneyland is called City Hall and is located just inside the park on the left hand side. The front entrance has steps, and the ramp is located on the far side of the building.
- Guest Relations in DCA is called Chamber of Commerce and is located just inside the park on the left hand side.
- Please note, under the GAC system, it was not possible to get a GAC at any Guest Relations location outside the park entrances. There is no evidence this will change under the new system. As far as we know right now, you must actually enter the parks to get the DAS card.

How do I request a DAS?
  • person the DAS is being requested for needs to be present, even if they can't talk
    - you will be asked about your/the person's needs related to disability, not your diagnosis
    - you may be asked "why are you requesting it?" - this does not mean they are asking what your disability is; they want to know what your needs are. For example, diabetes, autism and fibromylagia are not disabilities - they (like Cerebral Palsy, that is one of the conditions my DD has) are conditions that can cause a disability.
    Not everyone with a condition has a disability. So, your task will be to explain how your conditions affect you in a way that causes a need for accommodation.
    - different people with the same diagnosis can have very different needs
    - no proof or doctor's note is needed, and will not be looked at
  • there will not be any different stamps like GACs had; the person will either be issued a DAS or not
  • DAS will be issued for up to 6 (5 plus the person with a disability)
    - Guest Relations will be able to make exceptions on a case by case basis - for example, 7 for a family of 2 adults and 5 children; 7 for family of 2 parents, 3 children, Grandma and Grandpa. (This was done for GACs)
    - if it is given for more then a total of 4 people, all must be present at the time it is requested.
    NEW AS OF NOVEMER 2014 - ALL MEMBERS OF THE PARTY OR THEIR PARK PASSES MUST BE PRESENT TO REQUEST DAS.
    DAS WILL BE LINKED TO THE TICKET OF THE PERSON DAS WAS ISSUED TO. THE TICKETS OF OTHER MEMBERS OF THE PARTY WILL BE LINKED TO THE DAS HOLDER.
  • Guest (parent or responsible person if guest is not able to sign) must sign terms and conditions for the DAS
    - agree they understand how the program works
    - agree to not abuse the DAS
    - agree they will not use it for commercial gain (like leading tours) or give it to someone else
    - DAS can be revoked if this contract is breached
How long will it be issued for?
  • DAS will be issued for length of stay up to 14 days, depending on the guest's ticket entitlement/length of stay
    - 'proofs' given as an example included a resort key or something else showing dates for a stay; valid multiday park ticket
    - guests with Annual Passes may have their DAS valid for up to 60 days
  • AS OF NOVEMBER 2014, DISNEYLAND IS NO LONGER ISSUING PAPER DAS CARDS.
    A PICTURE WILL STILL BE TAKEN OF THE PERSON DAS WAS ISSUED TO AND THE DAS HOLDER OR RESPONSIBLE PERSON (like parent) WILL STILL NEED TO READ AND SIGN THAT THEY AGREE WITH THE CONDITIONS.
Where will I get a Return Time?
  • DAS is for the use of the person it was issued to and can't be used for attractions they will not be going on/experiencing
  • Guest using a DAS will get a Return Time for the attraction they want to visit.
    - Return times will be for the current wait time minus 10-15 minutes.
    - If current wait is 10 minutes or less (many reports say 20 minutes or less), the guest will be directed to use the regular queue.
    - the CM (Cast Member) will scan the park ticket and issue a Return Time, which will generally be the posted Standby wait time minus 10 minutes.
    AS OF NOVEMBER 2014, DISNEYLAND IS ELECTRONICALLY ISSUING DAS RETURN TIMES.
    THESE CAN STILL BE OBTAINED AT THE KIOSKS, BUT ALSO AT SOME ATTRACTIONS - specifically those with queues that are not wheelchair/ECV accessible. Those attractions issue Return Times without DAS to guests with wheelchairs /ECVs.
    THE DASHOLDER DOES NOT NEED TO BE PRESENT, BUT WHOEVER IS GETTING THE DAS RETURN TIME MUST BE A GUEST LINKED ELECTRONICALLY TO THE DAS.
  • Guests at Disneyland Resort will go to Guest Relations kiosks scattered in each park
  • at Disneyland
    - Main Street was by at Central Plaza
    - Fantasyland is in front of The Mad Hatter
    - New Orleans sq near haunted mansion
    - Tomorrowland near little green men store command
  • at California Adventure
    - Buena Vista street near the carthay circle red car trolley stop
    - Carsland near Radiator Springs Racers
    - 2 in Paradise Pier, one near Little Mermaid ride and one near CA Screamin
  • the DAS holder (person whose name and picture is on the DAS) does not need to be present to get a DAS Return Time
    - would allow another member of the group to get a Return Time while the DAS holder is resting or doing something else.
    - would allow the DAS holder to not approach the attraction until they will actually get in line
How will the DAS work?
  • Only 1 (one) Return Time can be active on the DAS at a time, which puts the DAS holder into a virtual 'standby queue'.
    - Just like a guest actually standing in a standby queue, the DAS holder can't be in multiple standby queues at the same time.
    - Just like a guest actually standing in a standby queue, the DAS holder can also get Fastpasses using the Fastpass System.

  • AS OF NOVEMBER 2014, THE PROCESS AT DISNEYLAND IS ALL ELECTRONIC, NOT PAPER.
    Once the Return Time has arrived, the DAS holder and their group go to the Fastpass or alternate entrance to redeem the Return TIme
    - just like Fastpass, you won't be able to come earlier than the Return TIme
    - CM will check the Return Time, look at picture on of the DAS holder that comes up on the Attraction display and confirm that the DAS holder is going to ride/experience the attraction
    - the Return TIme will remain active until it is used (you won't lose your spot if late
  • When a Return Time has been redeemed, it is no longer active.
    - when a DAS Holder has no active Return Times to redeem, they can get a new Return TIme
    - a DAS holder can choose to cancel a DAS Return TIme by asking a CM
  • If an attraction is broken or not in operation, there is no current standby time and the DAS holder will not be able to get a Return Time.
  • UNCONFIRMED RUMOR, PROBABLY TRUE: If the DAS holder returns to an attraction and it is broken or not operating:
    - a Fastpass to come back later MAY be given, depending on whether or not the attraction is expected to return to operation
    - the DAS Return Time will be cleared, allowing the DAS holder to get another Return TIme
  • DAS holders will not be able to use DAS for Celebrity Autographs or most Character Meet & Greets (this is consistent with the way GACs worked)
  • UNCONFIRMED RUMOR, PROBABLY TRUE: DAS holders will be able to get Return Times for Character Meet & Greets that have Fastpass or Fastpass Plus
I had specific stamps on my GAC. How will they handle those?
  • There will no longer be any stamps; guests with disabilities will either get a DAS or not
  • Attraction based procedures and accommodations will be set up to handle guests who previously used stamps
  • Guests needing assistance for visual or audio concerns will need to communicate their need to the attraction host
  • Attraction CMs have received training on the DAS system and how to accommodate guests at their attraction.
I have a wheelchair, rollator, walker or ECV. Will I need a DAS card?
  • If your only needs are mobility related, no you would not.
  • Majority of mobility device users will not have other needs and would not receive a DAS card
    - Cast Members (CMs) can see the mobility device and will direct you to the correct place.
    - Guidemap for Guests with disabilities available for each park lists the 'Mobility Entrance' for each attraction
    - Disneyland is an older park and has some attractions that are not accessible thru the main (Standby) line.
    - DCA was built with mostly Mainstream (accessible) lines and guests whose only needs are mobility based will use those Mainstream Lines.
  • Depending on attraction, guest may:
    - be waiting in the Mainstream queue
    - receive a return time at the attraction (NOT at a kiosk)
    - go directly to an alternate entrance at Disneyland Park (since the line is not accessible).
My child doesn't have a wheelchair, but needs to stay in the stroller. Is this allowed?
  • Strollers are not usually allowed inside buildings or in most queues, but can be if needed because of disability.
    - may be helpful to create a 'safe haven' for a child with cognitive/sensory disabilities or autism
    - may be needed by children with disabilities that affect muscle tone or stamina
  • Sticker tag will be placed on the stroller to show it is being used as a wheelchair.
    - park rental strollers would need a new sticker each day
    - personal strollers in the past were usually tagged for the length of stay. THIS will probably continue.
  • If the only needs are mobility related, the child will not need a DAS; they will just need the sticker.
    - If only for mobility related needs, the guest would follow the information above for guests using wheelchairs.
    - if the child has additional needs besides using the stroller as a wheelchair, they would need a DAS to get those other needs met.
  • With a 'stroller as a wheelchair', you will be able to:
    - take the stroller in all lines and buildings, even if strollers are not usually allowed
    - use wheelchair entrances.
    - use the stroller until boarding. The child may need to be removed to board a ride, but you can leave the stroller at the boarding area. You won't need to fold it, but should take anything of value.
    - use the stroller in shows and sit in the wheelchair seating areas. The child may need to get out of the stroller and sit on an adult's lap if the stroller seat is too low. Most shows have limited numbers of wheelchair spots, so wheelchair spots are sometimes filled before other seats are filled.
    - use wheelchair areas for parades. Wheelchairs and strollers are usually parked very close together across the front of the viewing area. If your child needs to be away from others, this may not work for you, or you may need to park behind the front row to get more space. Areas sometimes fill quickly, so arrive early.
What about Children on Make-a-Wish, Give Kids the World or other Wish type trips? Will they use DAS too?
No.
Children on Wish Trips will be issued a separate lanyard and card that will provide the accommodations they need. Their lanyard will have some identification and date information.
Nothing will change for them on how they access attractions, only on what they will use.


STILL UNDER CONSTRUCTION.
MORE TO COME.............................
 
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This forum is a place of support and help, a positive environment.
Discussions on different forums, websites, Facebook, boards, blogs all over the internet have had a hard time remaining positive and many have had to close because of the types of comments.
Because this can be a 'hot button' item to discuss, we are setting some guidelines for discussion on this thread.

1) Follow the Disboards rules found here: http://www.wdwinfo.com/guidelines.htm
No sarcasm, no personal attacks, no name-calling. In other words, play nice. As Thumper's mom said, "If you don't have something nice to say, don't say nothing at all."

2) Be respectful of others. Many people are afraid of the unknown and are feeling very vulnerable right now. People have different disabilities and needs; no one can know someone else's needs

3) No debates:
  • about whether Disney is right or wrong
  • about whether a change was needed
  • about asking for a doctor's letter or proof of disability
  • about any particular disability being worse/more disabled/truly disabled/more in need of accommodation.

4) No posting of links to blogs or petitions. If you want to share them, share them by Private Message

The information that follows is not 'official', but is as complete, up to date and accurate as possible. The Moderators are not employed by Disney and make no claims to be speaking for Disney.

The current changes may seem scary, but to me, this is all deja vue.
In 2004, when Disneyland was changing from the Special Assistance Pass to the Guest Assistance Card, the same thing happened.
People wrote articles saying they could not possibly go to Disneyland if the Special Assistance Card went away. There were not as many blogs, but there were discussion boards and petitions begging Disney not to get rid of the Special Assistance Pass and replace it with the Guest Assistance Card.
The reasons for the change then were the same as now - abuse by non-disabled guests and lines for guests with disabilities sometimes longer than regular lines.
2004 article that sounds very familiar to now: http://articles.latimes.com/2004/jul/19/local/me-disabled19

STILL UNDER CONSTRUCTION ..........
MORE TO COME>>>>>>>>>
 
This post is going to be a collection of suggestions or things people felt have been/would be helpful for navigating the new system.
I will add things to this post and post 4 (planning for expansion) from suggestions made on this thread.

1) My Disney Experience - a smart phone app from the Disney company that has maps, information about attractions, wait times
An internet connection is needed to use some features, like the wait times and interactive maps. Disney has recently added wi-fi in all the WDW parks.
Available in the iTunes app store, Google Play app store and Amazon app stores
Link to WDW version on the Disney website: https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/plan/my-disney-experience/mobile-apps/

2) Guide for Guests with Cognitive Disabilities
https://secure.cdn1.wdpromedia.com/...de_For_Guests_With_Cognitive_Disabilities.pdf

There Is a WDW version and a Disneyland version.
These are booklets developed by Disney with information that should be especially helpful for people visiting with cognitive or neurologic disabilities. They will be available as a printed copy at the parks and as an electronic version on the Disney World/Disneyland websites.
Helpful information about attractions will include:
- duration of attraction
- sensory information about attractions (sights, smells, sounds)


MORE TO COME..........
CONSTRUCTION BY YOU AS YOU ADD SUGGESTIONS TO THIS THREAD>>>>>
 
Suggestions and Tips

[*]If you have a smartphone or tablet, download Disney wait times apps. Rumor is that CMs will be using "My Disney Experience" app for WDW. It is unknown exactly which app will be used for Disneyland, though the names "Disney Parks" (like the one for WDW, but for other Disney Parks) and "Disney Mobile Magic." It cannot hurt to have other wait time apps on your phone, especially as they all have different capabilities (menus, etc). Apparently you cannot get the ride times for the "official" Disney apps until you are in the park, so you must have your GPS enabled. Having the other wait times apps will give you an idea of what to expect before you even get to the parks. Having this will keep you from going all the way to a ride only to find out it is down, or that the wait time is too long for you. This should help people plan, and take away a little of the unknown from your day.
 
I am limiting my comments to just how this all relates to my family. My DS is high anxiety kid with selective mutism and has very little coping skills. He has behavior issues that flare when his anxiety goes up. I think this DAS will be okay for us in the end, but I do really feel for those families with children who will struggle with this new system.


Concerned about:
-Our trip is next month, so any kinks will most likely not be worked out by then. I wish they would do a soft opening of this system (like just a few rides to begin) or have some non-disabled guests/families volunteer to try it out to see how the timing, lines, issues work while the GAC is still in use.

-I hope the rumor about there being a CM at each ride is true. I was not looking forward to having to go back and forth to a kiosk for each ride and then wait in a line for a return pass. There's no way that there wouldn't be a line at the kiosks.

-I also hope the rumor about the disabled guest not needing to be there when getting a return pass is true. This would be a deal breaker if I have to have my DS do the kiosk shuffle and/or DAS presentation. He does well in his little bubble and that would be too much movement and interaction to work for us.


-What will happen when a ride has a wait of under 15 minutes? DS has issues with the actual line area and being able to go in the exit or fastpass lane really helps with that. Will they direct us to the regular line? If so, can I still ask for a return pass for 15 minutes because of the issue of the line area?


Happy about:
-I hope that having a photo of the guest on the DAS will eliminate the questioning phase at each ride. DS's anxiety level goes up when strangers try to talk to him. Under the old system, the CM at the ride would ask who was Miles and then try to chat with him a bit. They weren't doing anything besides confirming that the person on the pass was present... and being friendly. But this would stress him out. I hope having the photo on it will avoid this from happening each ride. I was even thinking of writing something on the pass.

-I think having us sign an agreement to get the DAS is a very needed addition. It will officially be wrong to use your pass for commercial reasons! This is getting to the root of the problem - hooray!

-We have done this type of system at a couple amusement parks in the Midwest. It has worked well for us. If the above mentioned rumors turn out being true and we can also get a stroller as wheelchair tag, then I think we'll be good to go and have a magical trip! Fingers crossed that implementation is smooth!
 
I will be travelling with a group of Developmentally Disabled , 8 of them and 2 escorts , In most cases when I do these trips I have never met the individuals before and while I have info on them and have spoken to their families or staff, their are 8 of them and I know already that I have at least 3 different needs , one with a visual problem ( get lost in crowds ) a hearing problem and one with a cane . Not to mention some Dementia and just pain behavioral issues . I am wondering how I will explain to the CM or Guest Services all these different needs and still be able t all use the new system to ride the same ride at the same time !!!??
 
-Our trip is next month, so any kinks will most likely not be worked out by then. I wish they would do a soft opening of this system (like just a few rides to begin) or have some non-disabled guests/families volunteer to try it out to see how the timing, lines, issues work while the GAC is still in use.
They have actually done small scale tests of parts of the system - specifically, giving out return passes at space Mountain and Radiator Springs Racers. So, they do know it worked for those attractions.
-I hope the rumor about there being a CM at each ride is true. I was not looking forward to having to go back and forth to a kiosk for each ride and then wait in a line for a return pass. There's no way that there wouldn't be a line at the kiosks.
I don't know what the final is on that.
The first rumors were at the attraction, then some people said that would not work for their child because they would not understand coming to an attraction, but not riding it.
The next rumors were kiosks away from the attractions to avoid that issue.
But people said that would be too much backtracking.
-I also hope the rumor about the disabled guest not needing to be there when getting a return pass is true. This would be a deal breaker if I have to have my DS do the kiosk shuffle and/or DAS presentation. He does well in his little bubble and that would be too much movement and interaction to work for us.
I think that rumor is probably true and would go along with CMs at individual attractions. If someone could not backtrack or go to the attraction until time to ride, that would meet their concerns.
-What will happen when a ride has a wait of under 15 minutes? DS has issues with the actual line area and being able to go in the exit or fastpass lane really helps with that. Will they direct us to the regular line? If so, can I still ask for a return pass for 15 minutes because of the issue of the line area?
i know that going right in with a wait of 15 minutes or less is what done at many other parks. I don't have confirmation for sure that Disney is doing that, but it is pretty likely.
At that point, with that short of a wait, I think (but don't know) that they would work with you for whatever accessis available..
Your wait would be the same, wherever you are going in.
Happy about:
-I hope that having a photo of the guest on the DAS will eliminate the questioning phase at each ride. DS's anxiety level goes up when strangers try to talk to him. Under the old system, the CM at the ride would ask who was Miles and then try to chat with him a bit. They weren't doing anything besides confirming that the person on the pass was present... and being friendly. But this would stress him out. I hope having the photo on it will avoid this from happening each ride. I was even thinking of writing something on the pass.
I'm not sure how much space there will be to write anything on the photo side, but if you keep it short and to the point, they would probably see it.
I'm glad for the pictures too. My DD is not physically capable of speaking, so can't respond if they ask her.
-I think having us sign an agreement to get the DAS is a very needed addition.
It will officially be wrong to use your pass for commercial reasons! This is getting to the root of the problem - hooray!
Yes.
I think it will prove useful if anyone tried tour guiding again - you can't say you didn't know about it if you signed an agreement
-We have done this type of system at a couple amusement parks in the Midwest. It has worked well for us. If the above mentioned rumors turn out being true and we can also get a stroller as wheelchair tag, then I think we'll be good to go and have a magical trip! Fingers crossed that implementation is smooth!
i didn't have time to write it yet, but California is getting the same 'luggage tag' type stroller tag that WDW has been using.

It will be used all by itself for children who need a stroller in line, but not DAS.
And, with DAS, it can also be used.

There are a few more unknowns with DL than WDW because of less attractions that are Mainstream, but the program will be very similar.
 


Thanks for the work you put into this!

Where can I find Guest Relations at xxxxxxxxxxxx?

I wanted to add this info for anyone going to DL and DCA.

Guest Relations can be found in the DL park at City Hall. When you enter the park, it will be on your left just beside the Firehall.

Guest Relations can be found in DCA on Buena Vista Street. When you enter the park, it will be on your left directly across the street from the Red Car Trolley stop.
 
Thanks for the work you put into this!



I wanted to add this info for anyone going to DL and DCA.

Guest Relations can be found in the DL park at City Hall. When you enter the park, it will be on your left just beside the Firehall.

Guest Relations can be found in DCA on Buena Vista Street. When you enter the park, it will be on your left directly across the street from the Red Car Trolley stop.
Also, should be noted that the primary entrance has stairs, but there is a ramp by the fire station at DL park.
 
Thanks for the work you put into this!



I wanted to add this info for anyone going to DL and DCA.

Guest Relations can be found in the DL park at City Hall. When you enter the park, it will be on your left just beside the Firehall.

Guest Relations can be found in DCA on Buena Vista Street. When you enter the park, it will be on your left directly across the street from the Red Car Trolley stop.

Also, should be noted that the primary entrance has stairs, but there is a ramp by the fire station at DL park.

Thank to both of you.
I copied and pasted from the WDW one, but didn't have time to add the correct info :)
 
I might be one of the few people, but I'm actually a little disappointed to read that they might be getting rid of the kiosks. I think that the kiosks would have worked better for us - no issue with explaining why we are going up to the ride, but not riding and (assuming that the kiosks were well located) less back tracking (especially if one could have gotten a return time for a ride located in a different section of the park).

This is the best resource I've found for this change (I've been searching) - thanks so much!
 
One thing I haven't seen addressed is how will shows with the mob waiting areas be handled? We currently go to shows at Philharmagic and Monster's Inc Laugh Floor at times where we'll get into the next show regardless of where we wait so we're in the same show with or without our GAC. The only way we can go though is if we can wait outside of that mob. For the most part we've been able to wait in the wheelchair area which works for us because it has clearly defined boundaries and people aren't pressing in really closely. At some shows like ITTBAB and Muppets we're able to stay back from the mob and don't have CMs insisting we push in closer so we don't need an alternate waiting area but in others they really insist that everybody push together and if we're forced to do that then we can't stay (we've had to skip VOTLM for several years because of this). A consistent rule of some kind about this would be VERY helpful. I sure hope they've taken it into consideration. I'm watching closely for some kind of news about the accommodations (if any) for these kinds of waiting areas.

I might be one of the few people, but I'm actually a little disappointed to read that they might be getting rid of the kiosks. I think that the kiosks would have worked better for us - no issue with explaining why we are going up to the ride, but not riding and (assuming that the kiosks were well located) less back tracking (especially if one could have gotten a return time for a ride located in a different section of the park).

This is the best resource I've found for this change (I've been searching) - thanks so much!

^
This! I understand that families with more than 1 adult can send somebody to the attraction to get the RT but what about families with only 1 adult? That child may not be able to understand going to the attraction and then leaving to come back later to ride. It's one of the reasons FPs haven't worked for some families. The kiosks would have solved that issue. Hopefully some of the smart folks around here can help come up with options for those who can't go to the attraction to get a RT if that's what ends up happening.
 
One thing I haven't seen addressed is how will shows with the mob waiting areas be handled? We currently go to shows at Philharmagic and Monster's Inc Laugh Floor at times where we'll get into the next show regardless of where we wait so we're in the same show with or without our GAC. The only way we can go though is if we can wait outside of that mob. For the most part we've been able to wait in the wheelchair area which works for us because it has clearly defined boundaries and people aren't pressing in really closely. At some shows like ITTBAB and Muppets we're able to stay back from the mob and don't have CMs insisting we push in closer so we don't need an alternate waiting area but in others they really insist that everybody push together and if we're forced to do that then we can't stay (we've had to skip VOTLM for several years because of this). A consistent rule of some kind about this would be VERY helpful. I sure hope they've taken it into consideration. I'm watching closely for some kind of news about the accommodations (if any) for these kinds of waiting areas.

I *think* this question is about WDW? I've never heard of a few of these shows at DL/DCA.
 
I *think* this question is about WDW? I've never heard of a few of these shows at DL/DCA.

Oops! A bunch of those were WDW ones. ITTBAB and Muppets are shows at DL and not everybody can manage them the same way that we do and currently need to use alternate waiting areas though so it is still relevant to DL but I definitely mentioned WDW shows. I'll be watching for how both parks handle these types of waiting areas.
 
Oops! A bunch of those were WDW ones. ITTBAB and Muppets are shows at DL and not everybody can manage them the same way that we do and currently need to use alternate waiting areas though so it is still relevant to DL but I definitely mentioned WDW shows. I'll be watching for how both parks handle these types of waiting areas.

I can help out a bit with the Muppets question.

We've seen Muppets no fewer than 10 times over the last 4 trips and have never been in the waiting area with more than maybe 25 other guests. It might be that we have not hit a super busy time but we've been at the end of August, middle of March, end of April and middle of September and the show has never been busy.

There has always been plenty of open space in the waiting area for people to wait, at least in our experiences. This is our 8 year old's favourite show so we go back often!

Never been to ITTBAB, so no help there, sorry!
 
DL really does have a lot less of these than WDW, doesn't it? I hadn't even noticed. We had pretty good timing with both Muppets, ITTBAB, and Turtle Talk (lots more than 25 people at Muppets but still plenty of room to stand back) where we had plenty of room so we didn't use our GAC. The only other place I can think of at DL that have this kind of things is Captain EO andI can't imagine this every filling up enough where you can't stand back. Hmmmm.... I guess touring plans really can take care of this at DL.

To quote Emily Litella (Gilda Radner).... never mind.
 
I don't know how this DAS system will work, but I will abide by whatever I have to. I want to see Mickey & friends!

Can you imagine being the person behind the desk on Day 1 of DAS - trying to remember all of the changes? Worse yet - pity the poor individual writing and amending all of the changes!

Good luck to all of us as we use DAS for the first time. My first will be in December - 2 days after Christmas! Let's make a pact with each other that no DIS member will raise their voice in anger to a CM while trying the new system. Put on the happy face, even if upset. We can do it! :thumbsup2
 
I Love Pluto said:
I don't know how this DAS system will work, but I will abide by whatever I have to. I want to see Mickey & friends!

Can you imagine being the person behind the desk on Day 1 of DAS - trying to remember all of the changes? Worse yet - pity the poor individual writing and amending all of the changes!

Good luck to all of us as we use DAS for the first time. My first will be in December - 2 days after Christmas! Let's make a pact with each other that no DIS member will raise their voice in anger to a CM while trying the new system. Put on the happy face, even if upset. We can do it! :thumbsup2
The only way I will be upset is I'd the new system caused me to routinely have to wait longer than everyone else. This is supposed to help prevent that, but I can see how it could happen.
 
We arrive in DW on the day this rolls out. We are making a quick long weekend trip to do MNSSHP.

I am nervous about all the changes but I am thankful that we will get to test this new system before our big family and friends trip in Nov.

Our needs for this trip do not include a problem with waiting in lines or crowded areas. Our needs revolve more around visual problems, poor low light vision, and problems navigating steps. Do we get a DAS for these or do we have to find a CM to talk to before we enter a line and explain everything to them?
 
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