Our tour was led by Imagineer Dave Fisher (pictured above on the right) who was not only a great tour guide, but surprisingly forthcoming with information. We are often given boilerplate responses during interviews with Disney Imagineers as Disney media reps listen to make sure what’s said and not said. So it was refreshing to have a real conversation with Fisher with real answers. Maybe it’s because no photos or recording of any kind was allowed. We were only allowed to use our phones to take notes.
An example of this is one of the first things Fisher told our group. He listed some of the projects he’s currently working on, such as the NBA Experience coming to Disney Springs, and the Reflections Disney Lakeside Lodge coming near Fort Wilderness. In speaking about the rooms they’re designing for Reflections, Fisher told us how amazing they are and how they’re unlike anything we have seen before, that is until they’re “value engineered”. The Imagineers sometimes design things as if money is no object, then those in the company who are in charge of the costs for the project, “value engineer” it down to be not quite as spectacular.
What I Learned:
- Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge will be on the old River Country site and will be unlike anything you’ve ever seen – if the best parts don’t get cut.
. Just what we need a big out place city like looking office building on the beautiful shores of bay lake...such a beautiful area and shoreline. I was even impressed with how they integrated the wilderness lodge cabins...but this is just ick to me...just my opinion though.
