Meet me at Aulani, A Disney Resort and Spa for the reopening

Aulani recently reopened on November 1st and we had a chance to check it out. Here are my thoughts/ tips.

Aulani recently came out with a new app in the apple app store or google play. Download it before you go. You're able to link your reservation and check in online.

The app also tells you the daily activities for the day. Make sure you check back often as things are sometimes added. They recently added socially distanced character meet and greets.

We got to socially distance meet Aulani Mickey and Minnie. I have heard since you can meet other friends like Donald, Daisy, Stitch and more.

For this meet and greet. Anyone over 2 (guest who should be wearing masks) have to keep their mask on for the photos. Mickey and Minnie were on the Luau stage and you stand on the grass right below them. We were told you could only have a max of 5 people but you could switch the 5 people. There was a photopass photographer. I believe the CMs are not allowed to touch your phone. You can selfie or have someone from your group snap your photo.

You can also see what time the stores are open in the App.

One of my favorite stores is Kalepa's Store. The store has a limit capacity so there is a Cast Member that will let you in. There are socially distanced markers right outside the store as well as directional markers on the floor in the store.

They have a good amount of Aulani merchandise. They also have a lot of Duffy and Friends merchandise. Olu Mel was Duffy's friend that was created for Aulani.

I went to the store several times. One time I walked right in, another time I had to wait about 2 minutes and one time I waited about 8-10 minutes. My tip is that if you're staying on property come back. There is nothing in the store that won't be there in an hour or two. If you are there to eat and shop then wait and the line moves pretty quickly. I also think they could use an extra CM or two. One of the last trips to the store, I had to wait about 15 minutes to check out. I think if they had an extra person ringing guests up, they can get guests out of the store quicker.

The app also tells you what dining options are available. Right now during the phased reopening there aren't many options opened. 'Ulu Cafe is a quick service restaurant so you grab and go. Since there aren't many options for food, it tends to get crowded. I suggest going at an off time.

How cute are these Mickey Chocolate Chip Cookie and Minnie White Chocolate Mac Nut Cookie. They were $3 from 'Ulu Cafe.

I love how the have clear markings and signs. I also saw a sign with a QR code for a menu.

Exciting news: Makakiki will be reopening November 23rd. It has changed from a character dining to a preset meal option. You also have to have to be a guest to make a reservation. Hopefully that will change.

The App also tells you what time the pools open.

The pools and water areas have different hours so be sure to check the App. You also need to be a guest to use the pools. You will get your wrist band like before. The first day we checked in we were able to get that days band as well as the next day. I would do that so you don't have to the next day.

The pools are amazing. My biggest tip is to go early. Because of the social distancing, they removed pool chairs. A lot of the chairs were taken early.

Christmas has arrived early. The garland is already up. It makes it feel very festive.

The views at night are also gorgeous. I did notice because it was darker and there weren't a lot of CMs around, the guests were relaxed with their masks. Either not wearing them or chin guards. Aulani has a mandatory mask policy for guests 2 years and older. Please wear them correctly so Aulani can remain open.

My tips:

Download the Aulani App.

Check in online.

Use the app to find out when things are open.

If there is a long line try to come back.

Eat at an off time.

Bring your own snacks and water (they took away the water refilling stations.)

Go to the pool early and reserve your pool chair.

Get your pool wrist band for the next day if you can.

Wear a mask and wear it correctly.

Be able to change. The website will tell you that in the phased re-opening not all offerings are available. That is what makes the pools more crowded and food places more crowded.

Wish you were here!

XOXO,

The meet me traveler.

IG: @happiestohana