The first of Merlin’s Resort theme parks reopened yesterday (Heide Park, Germany). This gives a good idea of some of the operational changes that could well be replicated at other parks such as Alton Towers, with changes to account for different regulations in the different counties of course.
Headline stuff:
- Prebooking tickets is mandatory, no ticket offices will be open. Merlin Pass and Season pass holders must prebook at a cost of €1pp.
- When prebooking you must also select an arrival time to manage the number of guests at the entrance at any one time.
- If you turn up without a ticket you can buy one online via your phone if they haven’t sold out for that day.
- Masks must be worn at all times (except when eating)
- Fastrack and ride photos are not available
- Food is sold on a ‘to-go’ basis only with the likes of Pizza Pasta being closed altogether.
In the hotels:
- Screens have been installed at reception and only one person per group can queue up to check in
- Buffet restaurants are not self serve. Staff members will serve the food for guests.
Loads of info here:
https://www.heide-park.de/en/plan-your-visit/infos/visitor-information-corona/