Welcome to Aronda's "Around the World" Blog, a weekly review of the Walt Disney World Adventures of Aronda Parks and her staff.

In this uncertain, unstable economic climate, Disney is unique in its ability to heighten our spirits--as well as to give us something to look forward to as we anticipate better times. In our trips to "The World" over the past few months, it's true that at times guest enthusiasm seems a bit muffled when compared to a couple of years ago. We also see more guests "just browsing" the many shops, yet not so many filled shopping bags out in the parks. (We don't think that everyone is sending their treasures to the front of the park or to their resort hotel rooms!) So it was no surprise when the announcement appeared today (December 3, 2009) that attendance and sales were down at Walt Disney World for 2009.

But we also know that in the past, Disney has utilized these economic "ebbs" as opportunities for planning and expansion. In fact, we know from the D-23 convention that unprecedented growth is in the works for the Magic Kingdom--including another great dining experience, a ride tribute to The Little Mermaid, and more character meet-and-greets. We can only hope that this is only the beginning of another "Disney Decade"--perhaps one that extends from 2010-2020. And in our opinion, it's time to update and grow all four major theme parks here in Central Florida. We think that Epcot, particularly, could stand a re-Imagineering like that of Disney's California Adventure. Though this park has a wonderful character, some of its attractions have grown a bit stale--and as beautiful as World Showcase is, perhaps it is time for a Disney Visionary to concoct a few more international adventures that would highlight countries in dramatic ways. In Future World, some of the features feel a little like "space junk" floating around in a kind of theme park stasis. As beautiful as Animal Kingdom is, there is still something missing--something like Beastly Kingdom! Surely investment in the growth of its current parks in the Company's largest Resort would in the long run pay tremendous dividends.

Additionally, we haven't given up hope for a fifth gate. While we figure it's not going to happen within the next five years--after all, there's plenty of work to be done with the existing four major theme parks--the ever-quickening pace of technological development will almost demand that Disney design and execute a theme park powered by the products that drive such development. It will happen, but for many of us, it's just not happening soon enough.

At any rate, Aronda's "Around the World" Blog wants to be there as Disney moves into the second decade of the 21st Century. And each week, we'll bring you highlights, insights, and commentary inspired by our many trips to Walt Disney World.

We hope that you'll bookmark our blog-space, and visit frequently. And even more, we hope that you're willing to join in the dialog. After all, what better consultants can Disney Parks and Resorts have than those of us who love eachand every visit we make?

See you real soon!

Aronda