The Walt Disney Company’s global expansion strategy continues to reshape how its theme parks and travel offerings operate worldwide. Rather than focusing solely on new attractions in the United States, the company is working to establish deeper regional ties in key international markets – including Colombia.
A lot is changing for Disney right now. While the company tries its best to hunt down a Bob Iger successor poised for greater success than Bob Chapek, Disney is carrying out a $60 billion investment plan that spans theme parks, resorts, and Disney Cruise Line.
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This plan extends over the next decade and includes some pretty major changes – some positive, some not-so-positive. (Muppet*Vision 3D, we will avenge you.)
Many of the most noticeable changes are happening at Walt Disney World Resort. At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the Tropical Americas area is now underway, replacing DinoLand U.S.A. with new environments inspired by Latin American landscapes. Encanto and Indiana Jones will play central roles in the area.
On the West Coast, Disneyland Resort is moving forward with several expansions. A Coco-themed attraction is in development, while Avengers Campus will grow to include two new attractions: Avengers Infinity Defense and Stark Flight Lab. Robert Downey Jr. is expected to reprise Tony Stark for Stark Flight Lab, adding star continuity.
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Disney’s Major Changes Continue Overseas
The U.S. doesn’t see all the benefits of Disney’s wallet.
Walt Disney Studios Park at Disneyland Paris is also undergoing a long-term overhaul to support higher guest capacity. The park’s current redevelopment centers around a new lake and promenade, positioned to anchor multiple themed districts. A Frozen-inspired Arendelle land will serve as the anchor attraction zone for the project.
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Disney Cruise Line operates in parallel to these developments.
The fleet is expanding with new ships entering service. The Disney Destiny launches this year. The Disney Adventure is scheduled to take its maiden voyage from Singapore in 2026, following a delay to its schedule earlier this year. These ships are intended to help balance rising demand across both North America and international departure markets.
Disney Cruise Line’s growth strategy has increasingly emphasized reaching emerging travel regions rather than only expanding within existing cruise hubs. The company has identified South America as one of the regions with the strongest potential for long-term expansion in the family travel sector.
Disney’s New Move Into Colombia
Disney Cruise Line will establish its first physical offices in Colombia. The new locations, opening in Bogotá and Medellín, will operate in partnership with Deluxe Travel. Regional sales teams confirm that development began several years ago, but accelerated as outbound tourism from Colombia increased.
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The offices will provide in-person, Spanish-language guidance for Colombian travelers. Staff will assist with itinerary selection, cabin options, family arrangements, seasonal availability, and onboard entertainment choices. These services were previously handled through international booking channels that did not always match local needs or travel customs.
Cartagena has seen steady growth in cruise activity tied to Caribbean and Panama Canal itineraries. Disney currently visits the port on select Panama Canal cruises departing from San Diego and Galveston. The new offices aim to simplify the path between interest and booking for travelers considering cruises for the first time.
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Industry analysts note that assuming travelers will adapt to cruise planning without localized support is no longer an effective strategy.
The new offices directly integrate Colombian travel agents and tour operators into Disney’s broader booking network, which may reduce both uncertainty and cost barriers.
Do you plan on taking a Disney Cruise in 2026?
Chloë is a theme park addict and self-proclaimed novelty hunter. She’s obsessed with all things Star Wars, loves roller coasters (but hates Pixar Pal-A-Round), and lives for Disney’s next Muppets project.
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