Orlando resident and major Disney theme park fanatic, Jack visits the “World” multiple times each week. His blogs will present you with current happenings and other bits of information that he finds of interest and hopes you do too.
As reported last week in a blog under Disney and Central Florida News, a model of the new Fantasyland expansion is now on Display at Disney's Hollywood Studios in the One Man’s Dream exhibit. Since I promised you that I’d keep you posted on any new happenings for this much anticipated development, I stopped by and snapped a few pictures. Most of these are close-ups in an effort to give you a better idea of what this new area will look like when completed.
This first picture is of the entire model. The second is the gateway that will greet guest as they leave the older section of Fantasyland for the new and expanded area.
This next picture is of Belle’s cottage and will house the “Enchanted Tales with Belle” story area.
Although somewhat difficult to make out, you can see the pathway leading up to doors that will enter Beast’s Castle and the “Be Our Guest Restaurant.”
In this next picture we see Belle’s village. On the left side will be “Gaston’s Tavern” and on the right “Bonjour! Village Gifts.”
To the east of “Bonjour! Village Gifts” is Prince Eric’s Castle and the entrance to “Under the Sea: Journey of the Little Mermaid.”
These next several pictures are of “Seven Dwarfs Mine Train.”
Here we have the entrance to Storybook Circus.
In these next to pictures we see “Dumbo the Flying Elephant” and “The Barnstormer.”
“Casey Jr. Splash ‘n’ Soak Station” can be seen in the following photo. This is located just beyond the roundhouse (restrooms).
The blue tent will house “Big Top Souvenirs” and the orange tent will be the home of “Pete’s Silly Sideshow.”
In a separate display, a detailed model of “Under the Sea: Journey of the Little Mermaid” is presented.
After seeing these models, I’m all the more excited about the New Fantasyland. Disney has said that the rest of Storybook Circus will be opening sometime in June. The moment I hear the plywood walls have come down, I’ll try to be there and snap more pictures for you all.
If you're visiting Disney World this coming summer, be sure to stop by "One Man's Dream" to check out this wonderful model.
Walt knew he was creating something unique when he was designing Disneyland. Everything about his new park would be groundbreaking – including the nomenclature used within the five realms he was crafting. Disneyland would not be called an amusement park, but rather a theme park. Disneyland would not have rides, it would have attractions.
Walt thought of Disneyland as a giant celebration that he was personally hosting. The people attending this celebration would be considered guests. And the individuals who worked at Disneyland would be the hosts and hostesses that would welcome and entertain these guests.
Since Disneyland was designed as a movie set, he would not be hiring employees, but casting actors into roles. Thus they became cast members as well as hosts and hostesses.
Although this subtlety would be lost on much of his audience, Walt knew it was the details that would make his park stand out among the rest.
This “movie set” nomenclature was continued with the words onstage and backstage. Onstage would be the areas of Disneyland where guests would interact with cast members and be entertained by the show. Backstage would be the areas restricted to cast members only. However, backstage areas needed to be clearly marked so guests wouldn’t accidently wander where they didn’t belong. Since Disneyland did not have employees, an “Employees Only” sign would never do. Instead, the “Cast Members Only” and the “Host and Hostess Only” signs were created.
As Disneyland, and now the other Disney parks, became more elaborate and detail oriented, the Imagineers decided to start designating backstage areas with signs better themed to the area. For example, you might see a “Critters Only” sign somewhere on Splash Mountain. Yet, the Imagineers knew they had to come up with terms that the guests could not apply to themselves. For example, you cannot have a sign in Fantasyland that says “Prince and Princess Only.” Today, there are too many guest/princesses wandering around the park.
In the past, when I’ve selected a topic related to theming, like my bench, lamppost, and pavement blogs, I’ve discussed the merits of each photo. However, I really don’t have a lot to say about the unique “Cast Member Only” signs I’ll be presenting today. For the most part, they speak for themselves and anything I would add would be superfluous. So instead, I’ve decided to turn this blog into a quiz and make you guess where each sign is located.
All of the signs were found in one of the four Walt Disney World parks. As always with my quizzes, no winners will be announced and no prizes awarded. This is just for your own amusement. So cut yourself some slack when grading yourself tomorrow. If you were able to narrow the sign down to a “land” or “section of the park,” that’s good enough.
Thanks for checking back for Part Two of my review of the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. Let’s get started.
The Grand Floridian has two swimming pools. The Courtyard Pool is the larger of the two (at 300,000 gallons) and is the more relaxed and dignified of the two. It is flanked by the Main Building and three of the lodge buildings. The Courtyard Pool is open 24 hours, however, it is NOT manned by lifeguards at any time.
Courtyard Pool Bar sits adjacent to the pool. Besides the usual selection of Coke products and alcoholic beverages, this spot also serves turkey, ham & cheese, and PB&J sandwiches. Nearby tables offer a wonderful environment to sit and enjoy an alfresco lunch.
Near the pool is a lovely fountain. This water feature offers great photo opportunities.
The newer, Beach Pool can be found south of the resort on the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon and is the better place for energetic kids. An in-ground fountain, waterfall, and water slide add a lot of excitement that the Courtyard Pool lacks. In addition, the Beach Pool also offers zero access entry for toddlers and those in wheelchairs. Unlike the Courtyard Pool, the Beach Pool is manned by lifeguards during most of the day. However, this pool is not open 24 hours. Check with the concierge desk for current times.
Drinks and sandwiches are available at the nearby Beach Pool Bar. Private cabanas can be rented through the hotel’s concierge desk. Besides having upgraded lounge chairs, the cabanas offer televisions, refrigerators, and a host of other amenities. This is truly the way to pamper yourself.
The white sandy beach that surrounds the Grand Floridian is the perfect place to relax in the sun and watch the Magic Kingdom ferry boats sail by in the distance. Covered lounge chairs dot the beach and add a touch of class found nowhere else on property. Please be aware, there is no swimming in any of the Disney lakes and canals. This is also the spot to watch the Electric Water Pageant presented each night at 9:15.
It’s interesting to note, the sugary sand of the Grand Floridian beach was found beneath the muck that was once a swamp before Disney cleared this area to create Seven Seas Lagoon.
As you may or may not know, Disney is currently building a new Disney Vacation Club (DVC) just south of the Grand Floridian that will feature the same style and architecture as its nearby neighbor. The resort is schedule to open in late 2013.
Because of this construction, the Grand Floridian Spa is temporarily closed and will not reopen until sometime later next year. However, the Grand Floridian Health Club remains open and offers state-of-the-art cardiovascular and weight-training machines 24 hours a day.
Toward the north end of the Grand Floridian, located next to the Conch Key and Sugar Loaf Key lodge buildings, is the Captain’s Shipyard. This is the spot to rent a pontoon boat for a leisurely afternoon on the water or a mini-speed boat for zippy trip over the waves. Fishing excursions can also be arranged and leave from this spot
For a truly distinctive Walt Disney World experience, consider chartering the Grand 1 yacht birthed at the Captain’s Shipyard. This craft is 52 feet in length and can accommodate 18 people (17 if a butler is in service). This is a wonderful way to enjoy an elegant night out on the water and watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks. Of course, when cruising aboard the Grand 1, you would want more than just a boat ride, so Disney has created a number of packages that include all sorts of wonderful hors d'oeuvres and beverages to tempt your appetite. For more information as to what is available, click here.
There are a number of restaurants at the Grand Floridian, each worthy of a full review. However, due to a lack of time and space, I’m just going to briefly mention them here.
I’m often asked, “What’s your favorite Disney World Restaurant?” My answer always begins as follows, “If you don’t count Victoria & Albert’s, it’s…”
But if you do count Victoria & Albert’s, then this is hands down the finest restaurant at Walt Disney World – and probably all of Central Florida.
Victoria & Albert’s, or Vicky & Al’s as we regulars like to call it (just kidding), has won the prestigious AAA Five Diamond Award for the last eleven years. At this Grand Floridian restaurant, guests enjoy a two to three hour culinary experience within an elegant dining room. As your butlers tend to your every need, a harpist serenades in the background. Imported crystal, fine china, personalized menus, long-stem roses for the ladies, and a host of other elegant touches make an evening here an experience to remember for years to come.
Located on the second floor of the Grand Floridian, Victoria & Albert’s offers a prix fixe menu that includes six courses of sumptuous food served at a luxuriously slow pace. Nothing is left to chance and the service is flawless. Chef Scott Hunnel selects seasonal foods from around the world and the menu changes from day to day. After your meal, you can select a brandy or cognac from the well-stocked cordial cart.
Beginning on June 1, 2012, the price will be $135.00 per guest with wine pairings adding another $65.00 per guest. (Pricing does not include tax and gratuity.)
Dinner jackets are required for gentlemen (tie optional) and dresses or pants ensembles are recommended for ladies. Valet Parking is available at no additional cost. Children under the age of 10 will not be served.
Victoria & Albert’s is a fantastic restaurant. If you have a special birthday or anniversary coming up, think seriously about splurging and giving this restaurant a try. You will not be disappointed. Reservations are an absolute must.
I’m often asked, “What’s your favorite Disney World Restaurant?” My answer always begins as follows, “If you don’t count Victoria & Albert’s, it’s…”
Well, if you don’t count Victoria & Albert’s, I have two favorite restaurants at WDW, and one of them is at the Grand Floridian. In fact, it’s located right next door to Victoria & Albert’s – Citricos.
The Citricos dining room is elegant, yet playful. There is something fun about this spot, yet it reeks of old-world sophistication. The tables and chairs are traditionally styled, yet the surroundings are whimsical. It all combines wonderfully and I feel very comfortable here.
When Citricos first opened, the menu was to be Mediterranean inspired with all dishes containing some sort of citrus flavoring – thus the name Citricos. But today, this citrus “gimmick” has been down played and now the restaurant focuses on American dishes inspired by the cuisines of Provençe, Tuscany and the Spanish Riviera. Oak-grilled steaks, pastas, seafood, and their signature braised veal shank are just a few of the delights to tempt you – all prepared in an open show kitchen. To see the current menu, click here.
Citricos is considered a “Signature” restaurant on the Disney Dining Plan and requires two credits. This restaurant is open for dinner only. The dress code is Resort Casual. Not allowed in the restaurant are tank tops, swimwear, hats for gentleman, cut offs, or torn clothing. Reservations are highly recommended. In addition, Citricos has a one-day cancellation policy. When booking, guests must provide a credit card to hold the reservation. If the guest cancels within one day of the reservation or if the dining party is a no show, a fee of $10 per person will be charged to the credit card used at the time of booking.
Narcoossee’s is the other “Signature” restaurant at the Grand Floridian and all of the above Citricos caveats apply here as well.
Narcoossee’s is the only Grand Floridian restaurant not located in the Main Building of the resort. It can be found on the water’s edge of Seven Seas Lagoon near the boat dock.
Narcoossee’s has a subtle nautical/New England theme. Dark wood flooring, white paneled walls, shutters, and seating that resemble cruise ship deck chairs combine to create a casual environment.
Narcoossee’s is a seafood restaurant and offers such specialties as seared-grilled scallops, crab-crusted halibut, grilled wild king salmon, and steamed whole Maine lobster. However, beef, chicken, and vegetable dishes are also available so everyone should be able to find something to their liking. To see the current menu, click here.
Window tables at Narcoossee’s offer wonderful views of Seven Seas Lagoon, Cinderella Castle, and the nightly Magic Kingdom fireworks. But be warned, guests not seated at a window table will venture out onto the verandah shortly before the fireworks begin and obstruct the view of those sitting next to a window.
You might be interested to learn, Narcoossee’s has a small stage located above the bar. When the restaurant first opened, combo groups would entertain guests from this perched area. However, there are no “soft” surfaces at Narcoossee’s and the music was overpowering. Eventually, the live entertainment was discontinued.
I have eaten at Narcoossee’s a number of times. I have always been pleased with my food and service. However, I still find this eatery a little too noisy for my taste. When I’m paying Narcoossee’s prices, I prefer a quieter atmosphere.
The Grand Floridian Café is located on the first floor of the Main Building and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This charming spot offers a more casual atmosphere than Citricos or Narcoossee’s, yet it still radiates elegance and charm. Fresh roses adorn each table and massive, lace curtained windows look out onto the manicured gardens. Flowered wallpaper, marble table tops, and delicate cushioned chairs complete the mood.
The Grand Floridian Café offers American favorites at all three meals. I especially like the Grand Sandwich (open-faced hot turkey, ham, bacon and tomato, with a rich Boursin cheese sauce and Fried onion straws) served at lunch. It’s loaded with calories and loaded with taste.
Reservations are suggested, but often not necessary. To see all of the Grand Floridian Café menus, click here.
Character dining is also available at the Grand Floridian. 1900 Park Fare serves a Supercalifragilistic Buffet Breakfast from 8am to 11am where Mary Poppins, Alice in Wonderland, the Mad Hatter, and other Wonderland friends stop by your table to say hello and pose for pictures. From 4:30pm to 8:30pm Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner offers a fairy tale-inspired evening meal. Cinderella, Prince Charming, and their storybook friends stroll through the restaurant and chat with guest. All meals are served buffet style.
Dominating the upper portion of the restaurant is Big Bertha. This organ was built over a hundred years ago in Paris by Gavoli & Co. and used from 1909 to 1955 in Ramona Park, an amusement park in Grand Rapids, MI. The instruments include pipes, drums, bells, cymbals, castanets, and a xylophone played by a piano-roll score. Periodically during your meal, a short concert is played to the delight of children and adults.
The 1900 Park Fare Character Meals are intended for children or for those adults who love characters and never miss an opportunity to interact with them. The atmosphere here is festive (or maybe chaotic would be a more appropriate word. LOL). The energy level is high and so is the noise level. A great time can be had here, but you need to be aware that this restaurant does not offer an intimate experience. It offers “fun” in abundance! This being a Character Meal, reservations are absolutely mandatory! A one-day cancellation policy is in effect here.
Gasparilla Grill & Games is a 24 hour, counter service restaurant that offers freshly made sandwiches, burgers, wraps, salads, and pizzas. Also available are a large selection of beverages, sweets, fruits, and other snacks. Gasparilla is located near the Captain’s Shipyard. Indoor and outdoor seating is available. Also, a number of arcade games are at hand for the young ones.
Mizner's Lounge is located on the second floor of the lobby, just behind the bandstand. This spot is open from 4:30pm to midnight and offers light snacks, a full bar, and vintage ports and brandies. In the evening, this lounge is dark and cozy and allows for intimate conversations. The Grand Floridian Society Orchestra adds to the mood with their ragtime and big band melodies.
The Garden View Lounge plays host to two tea services. From 10:30am to noon, “My Disney Girl's Perfectly Princess Tea Party” is held for the enjoyment of young ladies ages 3 to 11. At this event, a character named Rose Petal plays host and entertains with stories and songs. The girls are made to feel like princesses and are presented with an 18-inch My Disney Girl doll dressed in a matching Princess Aurora gown with accessories, her own ribbon tiara, princess link bracelet, fresh rose, special princess scrapbook page, and a "Best Friend" certificate. The price is $250 for one child and one adult. Additional children run $165 each. Reservations are mandatory.
From 2pm to 5pm, guests can engage in an age-old tradition and partake in a traditional English-style tea. As you might expect, a large selection of tea is available and served “very properly.” A number of other menu options are on hand to accompany your tea like finger sandwiches, scones, jam tarts, strawberries and cream, pastries, and an array of English cheeses. I know that many of you might be put off by the “formality” of this event, but I can assure you, Disney always does everything possible to make their guests comfortable in every situation and this dining experience is no exception.
Believe me when I say, I’ve only scratched the surface when talking about the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. I can think of a dozen other items of interest that I didn’t mention, but there simply isn’t room in my blog to do this resort justice.
The Grand Floridian is the most expensive resort at Walt Disney World. Is it worth it? Maybe. That depends on your taste and especially your budget. I’m certainly glad I’ve experienced this resort several times. It was nice to spend a few days in the lap of luxury. But I can’t say I’d want the Grand Floridian as a steady diet. Often when I’ve been on an extended cruise, eating rich food every night, I can’t wait to get off of the ship and have a meal at Burger King. That’s not to say I didn’t enjoy everything about the cruise, but I like variety as well. Disney World has a lot of great and unique places to stay. For me, I enjoy the All Stars, the Grand Floridian, and everything in-between.
For more information about the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, check out the AllEars Fact Sheet by clicking here.
As always, I have created a video of the Grand Floridian Resort. Enjoy.
Have you ever wondered why the body of water in front of the Magic Kingdom is called the Seven Seas Lagoon?
When Walt Disney World opened in 1971 the Imagineers had a five-year plan that called for additional hotels to be built along the shores of the lake and lagoon. These included the Persian, Venetian, and Thai/Asian resorts. When added to the existing Polynesian Resort, these hotels would give the area an international flavor; thus, the name Seven Seas Lagoon was born. But for a number of reasons, these other resorts never materialized. For many years you could see a square piece of land jutting out into the water that was earmarked for the Thai/Asian Resort.
A third Disney hotel, the Golf Resort (now the Shades of Green) opened in 1973. But other than that, Disney failed to build any new resorts during the first decade of operation.
In the early 80’s, Disney fought off several hostile takeovers. To the company’s rescue came the Bass Brothers of Texas and Roy E. Disney (son of founder Roy O. Disney), and in 1984 they hired Michael Eisner and Frank Wells to turn the corporation around. One of the many directives the new executives were given was to develop the vast, unused acreage of Disney World.
Any casual observer could see that other companies were cashing in on Disney World’s success by building their own hotels and motels at the Mouse’s doorstep. During this same time, Disney’s three existing hotels were running at near capacity year-round. It didn’t take a rocket scientist to see that one of the first things that should be done was to build more Disney owned and operated resorts on their property.
Since the original five-year plan called for three more resorts to be built on the Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake, this was the logical place to start construction. However, Epcot had opened in 1982 and featured an International playground called World Showcase. This pretty much ruined the idea of building “international” hotels anywhere else on property. Disney didn’t want their guests to experience the same sights and sounds in two separate areas, so a different concept needed to be developed. To help this new direction take shape, the architectural firm of Wimberly, Allison, Tong, & Goo (WATG) of Newport Beach, CA was hired and told to come up with a “deluxe” hotel that could be considered the “flagship” resort of Walt Disney World. For inspiration, the design team visited the Bellevue Biltmore in Clearwater, FL, the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, MI, and the Hotel Del Coronado in San Diego, CA. In the end, a luxurious Victorian era hotel grew on the west shore of the Seven Seas Lagoon and has been wowing guests since its opening on July 1, 1988. Here are some construction photos I snapped in1986.
This aerial shot shows how the original square plot of land was modified slightly for the Grand Floridian.
This next picture is of the Hotel Del Coronado in San Diego. The similarities are striking.
Guests arrive at the Grand Floridian via Floridian Way. Beneath the porte-cochère guests are greeted by bell services personnel who will help them with their luggage and direct them to the lobby. Also in this area are a lovely carriage and a 1929 Cadillac that can be rented for weddings and other special occasions. Behind the Cadillac in a secluded courtyard is a topiary of Mary Poppins. This is an uncrowded spot that allows for great photos.
The check-in desk is located just inside the main doors and to the right. The concierge desk is located to the left.
When entering the hotel’s five-story lobby for the first time, most guests look up in awe. The delicate balustrades, the stained glass ceiling insets, the massive chandeliers, the ornate furniture, and the abundant artwork combine beautifully and make you long for a bygone era when women wore bustles and men donned top hats. But then you come to your senses and realize that you can still enjoy this lush atmosphere in your shorts and sandals as the Grand Floridian may be elegant, but it allows for 21st century theme park casualness.
The recently added marble floors greet guests with the resorts “GF” logo and a few Disney characters.
After the initial astonishment wears off, you start to notice the many details that make this hotel special. Located on the ground floor of the lobby is a large Chinese-styled aviary that was crafted in Spain. For many years, this birdcage housed a pair of lovebirds, but alas, today it sits empty. On the other side of the room is an equally elegant “cage” elevator that transports guests between the first and second floors. And beyond the elevator is a sweeping staircase worthy of Tara from “Gone with the Wind.” Often, bridal parties can be seen on these steps, posing for elegant photos. Be sure to notice Cinderella’s coach woven into the carpet.
The majority of the lobby’s ground floor is comprised of numerous seating areas where you can relax and soak in the atmosphere. In the center of it all is a concert grand piano where a musician plays melodies suitable to the surroundings. Requests are also honored. As evening approaches, a ragtime/jazz band called the Grand Floridian Society Orchestra joins in and plays alternate sets with the piano player.
The Grand Floridian uses more flowers than any other resort at Walt Disney World. Lush bouquets are everywhere.
The Grand Floridian is the only Disney resort to have dedicated men’s and women’s clothing stores. Summer Lace, located on the first floor, features designer fashions for the ladies, along with perfumes, jewelry, swimwear, and Grand Floridian logo items. Commander Porter’s, located directly above on the second floor, offers men’s designer clothing such as Tommy Bahama and Ralph Lauren Polo. Men’s fragrances, golf apparel, and gift items are also available here. Both shops are open daily from 9am to 10pm.
Sandy Cove Gift and Sundry Shop offers a large array of Grand Floridian logo merchandise. And if you enjoyed the music heard in the lobby, CD’s of the pianist and ragtime band can be purchased at this location. Also sold here are drinks, snack items, postcards, stamps, wedding items, and a limited selection of reading materials. This shop is open daily from 8am to 10pm.
On the second floor of the lobby you will find M. Mouse Mercantile. Disney souvenir items including children’s apparel, toys, books, pins, and watches can be purchased here. This shop is open from 8am to 10pm.
Also on the second floor is Basin White. Decorated to look like a giant, old-time bathroom, at this shop you can stock up on a wide variety of bath salts, soaps, and shampoos. Although operated by the same folks who run the Basin shop at Downtown Disney, it is my understanding that the merchandise sold here is slightly different and of a higher caliber than its more pedestrian cousin. The hours of operation are from 10am to 10pm.
Next door to Basin White is Ivy Trellis Salon. Men, women, and children are welcome here. Services range from a simple haircut to a complete styling. Manicures and pedicures are also available. Appointments are recommended and the shop is open from 9am to 6pm.
All of the rooms in the Main Building of the Grand Floridian are Club Level accommodations as are those in the Sugar Loaf Key lodge building. Guests staying in one of these rooms are given a gold room card-key that grants them access to the upper floors of the Main Building and entrance into the Sugar Loaf Key lodge building. All guest use Club Level elevators in the Main Building for access to the first and second floors, but only guests with Club Level privileges may access the third through fifth floors.
The Main Building contains both suites and standard rooms. I’ve never stayed in one of the suites at the Grand Floridian, so I can’t tell you much about them. But I have stayed in a standard Club Level room twice. Actually, the Club Level rooms are roughly the same size and configuration as the rooms located in the lodge buildings. I’ll discuss this in more detail later. But it’s not the rooms that make the Club Level special. It’s the extra amenities and services guests receive on these floors.
One of the first perks of Club Level is a dedicated concierge staff. Only seasoned cast members with extensive knowledge of Disney World man these posts. And they’re here to help make your vacation whatever you want it to be. From restaurant reservations, personal tours, and suggestions you have never even imagined, these well-informed hosts and hostesses are there to make you happy.
Need private tennis lessons? They can arrange it. Want to rent a cabana at the beach pool? They can arrange it. Want an elegant picnic lunch to take out on a pontoon boat? A lavish cocktail party for 40? An intimate dinner for two on your balcony? They can arrange it. If you’ve got the bucks, they can arrange it.
For those of you who must work while on vacation, these trained cast members can also help you fax documents and conduct other business functions. And because these individuals are serving a much smaller number of guests than the staff assigned to the rest of the resort, they often have more time to spend with you. In the Main Building, the Club Level concierge staff is located on the third floor. In Sugar Loaf Key they can be found on the first floor.
The other great perk of Club Level is the “free” food and drink offered throughout most of the day. Coffee and juice service begins each morning at 6:30. From 7am to 10:30am, a wonderful continental breakfast, called Grand Beginnings, is available. Served is fresh fruit, a large selection of breads and pastries, hot and cold cereals, and cheese & cold cuts.
From 11:30am to 3:30pm, cookies and cold beverages are available. Afternoon Tea is served from 2:30pm to 4pm.
Twilight Refreshments are served from 5pm to 7pm. This selection of appetizers is amazing and offers enough variety and quantity that you can make a meal out of what is served. An assortment of cheeses & crackers, raw vegetables & dipping sauce, canapés, and hot hors d'oeuvres are displayed beautifully and make resistance impossible.
From 8pm to 10pm, Cordials and Desserts are served. The sweets include everything from cupcakes to chocolate covered strawberries with miniature tarts and cream puffs thrown in for good measure. And the cordials are first rate with Drambuie, Courvoisier, and Grand Marnier just to name a few. Beer and wine are also available.
In the Main Building, the Club Level lounge is known as Royal Palms Club and can be found on the fourth floor. Many tables are situated next to windows and offer great views of the monorail or the manicured grounds. This is a wonderful area to sit and relax and converse with friends. There is a sense of wellbeing here. The cares of the outside world seem to melt away when you’re sipping Kahlua & Cream, while being attended to by an ever so attentive staff.
At Sugar Loaf Key the Club Level lounge is called Sugar Loaf Concierge. Here, about ten tables have been tightly arranged in the lobby area of this building. The serving counter is located nearby. Although Sugar Loaf Concierge offers the same selection of food and drink as Royal Palms Club, it lacks greatly in charm and sophistication. The tables are spaced too close together and the area is dark. This room feels like an afterthought with no real design or direction. Disney needs to rethink Sugar Loaf Concierge and come up with a larger, brighter, and more convivial facility.
To see a video of the Club Level amenities, click on the picture below.
Another advantage of staying on a Club Level floor of the Main Building is the convenience offered. It’s only an elevator ride away to the monorail, bus stop, shops, and all but one of the resort’s restaurants. On rainy, hot, or cold days, this is a big plus.
The monorail station is located on the second floor above the porte-cochère (near M. Mouse Mercantile). This is your mode of transportation to the Magic Kingdom, the Contemporary, Epcot (transferring at the Transportation and Ticket Center), and the Polynesian. Hours of operation are posted nearby. The bus station is located on the first floor, just to the right of the porte-cochère as you exit the building. Buses take you to Downtown Disney, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Disney's Animal Kingdom, and the water parks.
The Grand Floridian has one other transportation option, a boat that sails between the Grand Floridian, the Polynesian, and the Magic Kingdom. The dock is located at the north-east end of the resort, just past Narcoossee's Restaurant. These cute little vessels are not meant for speed and efficiency, but rather as a wonderful way to enjoy a leisurely excursion across Seven Seas Lagoon. A trip from the Grand Floridian will make a stop at the Polynesian before continuing on to the Magic Kingdom. If you’re in a hurry to get to the Magic Kingdom, these boats are not your best option. Opt for the monorail instead. But if you’re in the mood to slow down and smell the roses, or in this case, the lake air, then by all means, board one of these charming boats, sit back and relax.
People often ask me if they need a car when visiting Walt Disney World. I always say “No, you don’t need a car. Walt Disney World transportation is reasonably efficient.” However, a car can make things easier, as you won’t be dependent on the buses and boats that usually only arrive at a given station or dock every 10-20 minutes.
Before I continue, I want to say that the Disney buses are very clean, maintained extremely well, and are driven by exceptionally courteous and knowledgeable cast members. These drivers have to be ready to answer an array of unbelievable questions – time and time again – all day long. But keep in mind, the buses at WDW are “mass” transit, not “rapid” transit. If you want to get someplace fast, the bus isn’t necessarily your best bet. This is especially true if you plan on eating dinner at another resort -- there are no direct buses from one hotel to another. You must catch a bus to one of the parks (or the monorail to the Magic Kingdom) and then transfer to a different bus. In these cases, driving your own car is probably the better option.
However…
The Grand Floridian was designed for guests to valet park. This costs $12 per day plus gratuity each time you leave and return. This can add up. Free, self-parking is available at the Grand Floridian, but it’s inconveniently located across the street from the resort in a less than attractive lot.
I suppose if you can afford to stay at the Grand Floridian, you can afford to valet park every day. But for those families who have saved their pennies for years and staying at the Grand Floridian as a once-in-a-lifetime event, then parking costs must be considered.
The majority of the rooms and several suites can be found in the five lodge buildings. Each is named after an island in the Florida Keys and includes Sago Cay, Sugar Loaf Key, Conch Key, Boca Chica, and Big Pine Key. Guests enter these buildings through nicely appointed lobbies where you’ll find more fresh flowers.
Standard rooms are approximately 448 square feet and sleep five. Dormer rooms (those located on the top floors) are slightly smaller and sleep four as they do not have a daybed. In addition, the balconies on the dormer rooms are significantly smaller than those on the standard rooms. However, I feel that the vaulted ceilings in the dormer rooms add a lot of charm and are worthy of consideration if you can do without the daybed.
Guests enter the rooms via a small hallway. On one side is a spacious closet. Club Level rooms have mirrored doors. Inside the closet you’ll find a large safe that locks and unlocks with a four digit code. Also in the closet are two Grand Floridian robes. If you find you’re taken with these, plusher copies can be purchased for $100 at the Sandy Cove Gift and Sundry shop. An iron and board, luggage racks, and the hairdryer can also be found in the closet.
Opposite the closet is the spacious bathroom. A large marble counter affords plenty of space for your toiletries and two sinks allow a family to get ready for their day all the quicker. H2O+ products are provided and two large bars of soap are a welcome relief from the slivers so often used in other establishments. These products can also be purchased at the Sandy Cove Gift and Sundry shop. The towels at the Grand Floridian are the thickest and fluffiest found at Walt Disney World. And I especially like the hamper where you can toss the used towels rather than leaving them on the floor or over a hook.
In the standard rooms, the toilet and tub/shower are located in a separate room. In the Club Level rooms, the tub/shower is slightly bigger and along with the toilet is located in the same room as the sinks. The shower head has three settings, soft spray, hard spray, and pulsate. Also, the shower curtain rod bends outward at the top so you have more room when standing in the tub. In addition, all bathrooms come with a telephone for those calls you simply must take at inconvenient times.
Another perk of the Club Level room is the Keurig coffee maker. This is perfect for those of you who aren’t fans of Nescafe which is served almost everywhere else on property.
The wallpaper in the bathroom is especially fun. The Super Six make a visit in topiary form.
The sleeping area is bright and airy and has a Victorian elegance. Yet the design is not so heavy-handed and frilly as to make you feel like you’re visiting an aging dowager who would smack your hand if you dared touch any of her bric-a-brac. The wallpaper has a delicate pattern, but it’s subtle. The carpet uses colors of gold and green and displays a leaf pattern. The furniture is stained in mid-tones that are neither light nor dark. Disney did a wonderful job of combining the charm of a bygone era with the 21st century.
Most rooms have two queen-sized beds; however, rooms with one king are also available. A “king” room needs to be requested when making your reservations. As I mentioned earlier, a daybed is also part of the furnishings unless you’re staying in a dormer room. Once again, if you need a daybed, request a non-dormer room when making your reservation.
The beds are VERY comfortable – and they’re also for sale. If you’d like to purchase one, check out this website for more information.
www.disneyresortcollection.com
A trend I see spreading among deluxe resorts is the use of a third sheet. This sheet is used to cover the top of the blankets. Once the bedspread has been turned down (a nightly service provided at the GF – complete with chocolates) this third sheet covers the bedding. You never need touch blankets that have been used by a hundred other people before you. I like this A LOT!
Opposite the beds are a chest of drawers and a desk. The desk is especially nice as it “nests” and allows for easy laptop use. Free WiFi is now available throughout the Grand Floridian. Above the desk is a wonderful picture that requires close examination to find all of the Disney references. Sitting on the desk is the most elegant Mickey Mouse lamp you’ll ever see. Donning a top hat, Mickey’s head sits atop a faux marble column. A white shade tops it off. If you want one of these marvels for your own home (I know I did), they can be purchased by visiting the webpage I mentioned earlier.
Once flat screen TVs hit the market, they took over like wildfire. And just like the rest of the resorts at Walt Disney World, the Grand Floridian now offers these modern wonders. Below the TV are four drawers and a small refrigerator.
A number of views are available when booking a room at the Grand Floridian. Some look out at Seven Seas Lagoon with views of either the Polynesian or the Magic Kingdom. Others look into the resort’s marina, while some view the manicured grounds and pool.
The first picture below was taken in 1989, one year after the Grand Floridian opened. I had requested a Magic Kingdom view from the Main Building. If you look closely, you can almost make out Cinderella Castle in the distance -- however, I could see the fireworks from my balcony with no problem. The next three pictures were taken on my most recent visit where I had a view of Seven Seas Lagoon and the Polynesian Resort.
I like the rooms at the Grand Floridian. As I mentioned before, they are elegant without being stuffy. I doubt that anyone would be put off by these comfortable accommodations.
To see a video of a Club Level Dormer Room, click on the picture below.
To see a video of a Standard Dormer Room, click on the picture below.
That’s it for today. Check back tomorrow for Part Two.
Here are the answers to yesterday’s World Showcase quiz. Since this was an “open book” test, I’m sure you got them all right. However, for those of you who decided to wing it, here is the grading scale.
24 – 27: A
20 – 23: B
16 – 19: C
12 – 15: D
11 and below: F
1. Mexico
What civilization’s culture is most represented on the pyramid found in front of the Mexico Pavilion?
A. Aztec
B. Mayan
C. Toltec
D. Inca
E. None of the above
A. The 36 foot high pyramid is a composite of Mesoamerican motifs dating back to the 3rd century with an emphasis on the Aztec civilization. The serpents’ heads represent Quetzalcoatl, the god of the priesthood, learning and knowledge, and guard the structure. The stairs lead to the temple of the high priests. These men were skilled in astronomy and mathematics and were unequaled in pre-Columbian cultures.
2. Norway
There is a wooden statue of a Viking in front of the Stave Church. Who does it represent?
A. Rögnvald
B. Eric the Red
C. Olaf II
D. Leif Eriksson
E. None of the above
C. As a young royal, Olaf Haraldsson took park in Viking raids throughout Europe. During his travels, he converted to Christianity and then returned to Norway, where he subdued his rivals and proclaimed himself king in 1015. He unified the country and forcefully completed Norway’s conversion to Christianity. In 1028, angry Norwegian noblemen rallied around Knut the Great (King of Denmark and England) to force Olaf II from the throne and exile him. Two years later, Olaf II was killed in battle while attempting to regain Norway’s throne. Today “Saint Olaf” is regarded as the Patron Saint of Norway and a symbol of national independence.
3. China
What is the name of the gate guests pass beneath to enter the China Pavilion?
A. Gate of the Golden Sun
B. Gate of Long Life
C. Gate of Good Fortune
D. Gate of the Dragon
E. None of the above
A. Guests enter the China Pavilion by walking beneath Zhao Yan Men or Gate of the Golden Sun. This gate is a reproduction of one found at the Summer Palace located nine miles north of central Beijing. Construction of the Summer Palace began in 1750 and covers an area of approximately 1.8 square miles. The Summer Palace contains a lake, hills, gardens, pavilions, halls, and temples. The purpose of the Summer Palace was to provide an escape for royalty so they could rest and entertain in lavish style. Today, the Summer Palace is open to the public and is a popular tourist destination.
4. The Outpost
What make of truck is the woodie seen at Refreshment Coolpost?
A. Ford
B. Chevrolet
C. DeSoto
D. Dodge
E. None of the above
B. In the area around Refreshment Coolpost are a number of crates ready to be shipped to faraway lands, all of them labeled Coca-Cola in the destination’s native language. This area obviously has a bottling plant nearby and the Outpost acts as a distribution center. This can be deduced from various details. First, several of the crates are labeled FRAGILE, HANDLE WITH CARE, and KEEP ICE COLD. From these messages we have to assume the crates are filled with bottles of Coke. If these crates contained kola nuts, no such labeling would be necessary. In addition, an old Chevy woody is loaded up and ready to make local deliveries.
5. Germany
What company sponsors the Karamell Küche shop located at the front of the Germany Pavilion?
A. Nestle
B. Werther’s Original
C. Brach’s
D. Goofy’s Candy Kitchen
E. None of the above
B. The Karamell Küche shop is sponsored by Storck USA, makers of Werther’s Original Caramels. This candy company was founded in Werther, Westphalia, Germany in 1903 by August Storck. This store also has the distinction of being the only freestanding retail location for Werther’s in the world. A close observer might notice that a current TV commercial for Werther’s begins with an exterior shot of their shop here in Epcot.
6. Italy
What angel is depicted in the statue found in the Italy Pavilion courtyard?
A. Michael
B. Raphael
C. Uriel
D. Gabriel
E. None of the above
D. Angels were a common theme in art during the Holy Roman Empire and no depiction of Italy would be complete without a statue of one of these spiritual beings. Here we see the Archangel Gabriel. An observant eye might notice that this angel is an exact copy of the one perched atop the campanile.
7. American Adventure
Who did the Imagineers choose to join Ben Franklin and Mark Twain as the third host of the American Adventure, but was later dropped from this role?
A. Bob Hope
B. Theodore Roosevelt
C. John Muir
D. Will Rogers
E. None of the above
D. The Imagineers wanted the American Adventure to have three hosts, one for each century. The first two selections were somewhat easy to agree upon. Benjamin Franklin was chosen as a spokesperson for the 18th century and Mark Twain was selected for the 19th century. But when it came to the 20th century, the task became more formidable. A number of names were thrown into the hat, but for a variety of reasons, there was always something controversial about each selection. It was finally decided that Will Rogers would fit the bill as he didn’t carry any problematic “baggage.” However, when the Imagineers conducted focus groups with potential audiences, the vast majority of the public did not know who Will Rogers was. It was finally decided to stick with just Franklin and Twain, and Rogers was relegated to a minor role.
8. Japan
What company sponsors the department store found in the Japan Pavilion?
A. Mikimoto
B. Shinkansen
C. Mitsukoshi
D. Teppan Edo
E. None of the above
C. For more than three centuries, the Mitsukoshi Organization has striven to impart the spirit of “Hospitality with Sincerity” in every aspect of their business. Today they are a leading department store in Japan with an impeccable reputation. One of their branch stores is located in the Japan Pavilion.
9. Morocco
What facility once occupied the spot now inhabited by Tangierine Café?
A. Center of Tourism
B. Gallery of Arts & History
C. Fez House
D. Madina Arts
E. None of the above
A. In the early years of Epcot, the area now occupied by Tangierine Café, was home to “Center of Tourism.” At this spot, guests could obtain literature useful in planning a vacation to Morocco. They could even book flights on Royal Air Maroc (commonly known as RAM), the official airlines of Morocco.
10. France
The bridge leading into the France Pavilion was inspired by what Parisian overpass?
A. Pont au Change
B. Pont d'Austerlitz
C. Pont des Arts
D. Pont de la Concorde
E. None of the above
C. Guests touring World Showcase counterclockwise enter the France Pavilion via a pedestrian bridge. This overpass recalls the old Pont des Arts, the first metal bridge in Paris.
11. International Gateway
What is the name of the shop found at International Gateway?
A. Disney Traders
B. World Traveler
C. Port of Entry
D. Gateway Traders
E. None of the above
B. International Gateway features one shop, World Traveler. The exterior of this shop combines elements from the Belle Epoque (the beautiful age) of Paris with an old style European customs house that might be found at a port of entry. The interior of this shop is designed in the Art Nouveau style. The merchandise sold here consists of Disney souvenirs and some refrigerated bottled beverages to cool down with.
12. United Kingdom
Who regularly entertains in the Rose & Crown Pub?
A. Pearly Band
B. The Hat Lady
C. World Showcase Players
D. “Ye Haa” Bob Jackson
E. None of the above
B. One of the highlights of the Rose & Crown Pub is the Hat Lady. This eccentric American has made the United Kingdom and hats her passion. Her collection of headwear is extensive and each has a tale. During her performance, she will select a hat then regale the audience as to how it came to be in her possession and sing an appropriate melody. She also knows a long list of the best loved pub songs and encourages the bar patrons to sing along.
13. World Showplace Events Pavilion
When this venue opened on October 1, 1999, what was it called?
A. Millennium Central
B. Showplace of Nations
C. Epcot 2000
D. Millennium Village
E. None of the above
D. When Millennium Village opened on October 1, 1999, more than 50 countries had signed on to be part of the celebration. Some exhibits consisted of little more than a small area where cast members could chat with guests about their homeland. Other countries presented interactive exhibits where guests could play games, watch movies, or participate in some sort of cultural ceremony.
14. Canada
What is the name of the island that Moosehead Mine and the O’Canada 360 CircleVision movie are located on?
A. Salmon Island
B. Chinook Island
C. Trout Island
D. Rocky Island
E. None of the above
A. On Salmon Island guests enter Moosehead Mine. This is the preshow area for the O’Canada movie. Inside the mine you’ll find the remains of the Klondike era. Picks and shovels line the walls and old timbers hold back rock and earth.
15. Mexico
Who are the three stars featured on the “Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros” attraction?
A. Donald Duck, Juan Carlos, and Pájaro
B. Donald Duck, Juan Carlos, and Panchito
C. Donald Duck, José Carioca, and Pájaro
D. Donald Duck, José Carioca, and Panchito
E. None of the above
D. On January 2, 2007, “El Rio del Tiempo” closed to make way for an updated attraction. In its place came “Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros” opening on April 6th of the same year. This new ride is much lighter in concept and features Donald Duck, José Carioca (the parrot), and Panchito (the Mexican charro rooster) from the 1944 Disney animated film "The Three Caballeros." For the most part, the three-dimensional portions of the ride remained, only the film strips were changed.
16. Norway
What is the name of the movie seen at the end of the Maelstrom attraction?
A. The People of Norway
B. Spirit of Norway
C. Maelstrom Movie
D. Fjords of Fun
E. None of the above
B. For the Norway Pavilion, the Imagineers decided to reverse things and place the film (Spirit of Norway) at the end of the movie to better continue the modern story of Norway. Unfortunately, this didn’t work out quite as well as they had hoped. If riders disembarked just as the six minute movie was beginning, they were forced to stand around in the seaport waiting for the doors to open and the next showing to begin. This did not please people. Once the theater doors finally opened, over half of the guests dashed through the hall and skipped the movie altogether. Recently, the Imagineers decided to leave the theater doors open all the time, allowing guests to either exit the theater immediately or take a seat and enjoy the show. And since the movie doesn’t really have a storyline, you can start viewing at any time without losing continuity.
17. China
What structure in Beijing is the centerpiece of the China Pavilion based on?
A. Temple of Heaven
B. House of Good Fortune
C. Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests
D. The Royal Summer Palace
E. None of the above
C. The centerpiece of the China Pavilion is a reproduction of the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests which is part of the Temple of Heaven complex located southeast of central Beijing. The complex was built between 1406 and 1420 during the reign of the Yongle Emperor, who also oversaw the construction of the Forbidden City. The temple is constructed completely out of wood and was built without nails. It was here that the emperor would make sacrifices and pray to heaven and his ancestors at the winter solstice, asking for a good a harvest in the coming year. The circular blue roof represents the sky and heaven. Red is the color of royalty.
18. The Outpost
Disney recycles many of its paper products by sending them to what African country where they are transformed into beads?
A. Kenya
B. Senegal
C. Uganda
D. Ivory Coast
E. None of the above
C. The latest vendor to set up shop in the village takes up residence in Bead Outpost. This entrepreneur arranges for old Disney guide books and other out-of-day Disney paper products to be sent to his family in Uganda. Here, the paper is hand rolled into beautifully colored beads which have been strung into necklaces and bracelets. The finished product is extremely durable and water resistant and makes a wonderful gift for yourself or a friend. You can actually wear a bit of recycled Walt Disney World with these pieces of jewelry.
19. Germany
What company’s trains and structures are used on the garden railroad that sits next to the Germany Pavilion?
A. Lionel
B. Atlas
C. LGB
D. Bachmann
E. None of the above
C. LGB stands for Lehmann Gross Bahn (Lehmann Big Railway) after the company’s founder, Ernst Paul Lehmann Patentwerk. All locomotives, track, and accessories are built to run in rain and snow – which is why the Epcot train continues operating even during summer downpours. LGB trains are “G” gauge (scale), meaning the track’s rails are 45 mm (1.772 in) apart. During the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, LGB often has a booth in this area selling their wares, along with some specially designed Disney engines and cars.
20. Italy
The cart and donkey seen at the Italy Pavilion represents those found where?
A. Sicily
B. Sardinia
C. Tuscany
D. Aosta Valley
E. None of the above
A. Another site seen around the Italy Pavilion is the Sicilian cart and donkey. Ornately decorated carts like this one were introduced to Sicily by the ancient Greeks and reached their peak in popularity in the 1920’s when thousands could be seen traversing the island. Horses were used primarily in urban areas where roads were readily available. Donkeys were used in the country where rough terrain was often encountered. The carts were used for hauling miscellaneous light loads, such as produce, wood, wine, and people. They were also put into service at weddings and festivals.
21. American Adventure
What is the name of the a cappella group that performs at the American Adventure?
A. Voices of Freedom
B. Voices of Independence
C. Voices of America
D. Voices of Liberty
E. None of the above
D. Usually between the hours of 12 noon and 6:30pm, an a cappella group called the Voices of Liberty performs in the rotunda. This group of 8 or 9 singers usually begins their performance 15 minutes before the American Adventure show. Dressed in elaborate period costumes, they sing patriotic and inspirational songs that delight the audience. Although some numbers are sung at every performance, others are rotated throughout the day. The lead singer will encourage guests to move forward and sit directly underneath the dome, claiming the acoustics are better here. Take his or her word for it. The music does sound better in this location. This is one of the most popular acts at Epcot and is a “must see” show.
22. Japan
Tori gates are associated primarily with what religion?
A. Buddhism
B. Shintoism
C. Confucianism
D. Taoism
E. None of the above
B. Torii gates are associated with the Shinto religion and are commonly found at the entrance to Shinto shrines. However, some Buddhist temples also incorporate the torii gate into their designs. Torii gates symbolically mark the transition from the “profane” to the “sacred.” It is believed that walking or sailing beneath a torii gate purifies the individual and makes him or her worthy to enter sanctified ground.
23. Morocco
In what city did Franklin Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, and Charles de Gaulle plan European strategy during WWII?
A. Casablanca
B. Rabat
C. Marrakesh
D. Fes
E. None of the above
A. Morocco also played an interesting part in the history of WWII. From January 14 to 24, 1943, the Casablanca Conference was held in the Anfa Hotel in Casablanca. Here, Franklin Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, and Charles de Gaulle planned the European strategy of the Allies. Joseph Stalin was also invited to this conference but he declined to attend due to the ongoing fighting in Stalingrad.
24. France
What animated character chats with guests at the Les Chefs de France restaurant?
A. Belle
B. Remy
C. Marie
D. Cogsworth
E. None of the above
B. The three founding chefs of this establishment were recently joined by a fourth epicurean prodigy. Chef Remy (from the Disney-Pixar film “Ratatouille”) now helps out in the kitchen six days a week. He can often be coaxed out of the kitchen four times a day to mingle with the patrons. He is accompanied by one of the restaurant employees who helps translate his squeaky voice. And just for the record, he’s more than happy to say “cheese” when posing for a photograph.
25. United Kingdom
What is the motto of the Rose and Crown?
A. Otium Cum Dignitate (Leisure With Dignity)
B. Totus Es Exspectata (All Are Welcome)
C. Porro Ago Rex (Long Live The King)
D. Amicitia Ut Totus (Friendship To All)
E. None of the above
A. The Rose and Crown bears the Latin motto 'Otium Cum Dignitate' ('Leisure with dignity').
26. Canada
Canada ranks _______ in size among the countries of the world?
A. First
B. Second
C. Third
D. Fourth
E. None of the above
B. Canada is the second largest country in the world. It spans six time zones and offers outstanding scenery from coast to coast. The Imagineers decided to use this boundless expanse and capture the natural elements of Canada’s sprawling landscape rather than focus on architecture. Yet, the structures that were selected are unique to this vast land. I think the Imagineers did a fantastic job. There is no mistaking the identity of this northern jewel among the World Showcase nations.
27. World Showplace
What attraction was once planned for this area?
A. Comminicore
B. Innoventions
C. American Adventure
D. Imagination
E. None of the above
C. Showcase Plaza is located at the entrance of World Showcase. This is the area surrounding the two Tower Shops. Early plans for Epcot called for a modern structure to be located here that would house the American Adventure. However, the Imagineers didn’t want it to look like Disney was showing favoritism to the United States and eventually moved this attraction to its current location at the back of the park.
Over the last year, I have written a number of blogs about Epcot’s World Showcase. Today, I’m going to test what you’ve learned by reading my blogs. But don’t worry; I’m going to make it an “open book” test as all of the answers can be found within my blogs. To help make things easier for you, I have provided you with the link to each article.
What civilization’s culture is most represented on the pyramid found in front of the Mexico Pavilion?
A. Aztec
B. Mayan
C. Toltec
D. Inca
E. None of the above
2. Norway
There is a wooden statue of a Viking in front of the Stave Church. Who does it represent?
A. Rögnvald
B. Eric the Red
C. Olaf II
D. Leif Eriksson
E. None of the above
3. China
What is the name of the gate guests pass beneath to enter the China Pavilion?
A. Gate of the Golden Sun
B. Gate of Long Life
C. Gate of Good Fortune
D. Gate of the Dragon
E. None of the above
4. The Outpost
What make of truck is the woodie seen at Refreshment Coolpost?
A. Ford
B. Chevrolet
C. DeSoto
D. Dodge
E. None of the above
5. Germany
What company sponsors the Karamell Küche shop located at the front of the Germany Pavilion?
A. Nestle
B. Werther’s Original
C. Brach’s
D. Goofy’s Candy Kitchen
E. None of the above
6. Italy
What angel is depicted in the statue found in the Italy Pavilion courtyard?
A. Michael
B. Raphael
C. Uriel
D. Gabriel
E. None of the above
7. American Adventure
Who did the Imagineers choose to join Ben Franklin and Mark Twain as the third host of the American Adventure, but was later dropped from this role?
A. Bob Hope
B. Theodore Roosevelt
C. John Muir
D. Will Rogers
E. None of the above
8. Japan
What company sponsors the department store found in the Japan Pavilion?
A. Mikimoto
B. Shinkansen
C. Mitsukoshi
D. Teppan Edo
E. None of the above
9. Morocco
What facility once occupied the spot now inhabited by Tangierine Café?
A. Center of Tourism
B. Gallery of Arts & History
C. Fez House
D. Madina Arts
E. None of the above
10. France
The bridge leading into the France Pavilion was inspired by what Parisian overpass?
A. Pont au Change
B. Pont d'Austerlitz
C. Pont des Arts
D. Pont de la Concorde
E. None of the above
11. International Gateway
What is the name of the shop found at International Gateway?
A. Disney Traders
B. World Traveler
C. Port of Entry
D. Gateway Traders
E. None of the above
12. United Kingdom
Who regularly entertains in the Rose & Crown Pub?
A. Pearly Band
B. The Hat Lady
C. World Showcase Players
D. “Ye Haa” Bob Jackson
E. None of the above
13. World Showplace Events Pavilion
When this venue opened on October 1, 1999, what was it called?
A. Millennium Central
B. Showplace of Nations
C. Epcot 2000
D. Millennium Village
E. None of the above
14. Canada
What is the name of the island that Moosehead Mine and the O’Canada 360 CircleVision movie are located on?
A. Salmon Island
B. Chinook Island
C. Trout Island
D. Rocky Island
E. None of the above
15. Mexico
Who are the three stars featured on the “Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros” attraction?
A. Donald Duck, Juan Carlos, and Pájaro
B. Donald Duck, Juan Carlos, and Panchito
C. Donald Duck, José Carioca, and Pájaro
D. Donald Duck, José Carioca, and Panchito
E. None of the above
16. Norway
What is the name of the movie seen at the end of the Maelstrom attraction?
A. The People of Norway
B. Spirit of Norway
C. Maelstrom Movie
D. Fjords of Fun
E. None of the above
17. China
What structure in Beijing is the centerpiece of the China Pavilion based on?
A. Temple of Heaven
B. House of Good Fortune
C. Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests
D. The Royal Summer Palace
E. None of the above
18. The Outpost
Disney recycles many of its paper products by sending them to what African country where they are transformed into beads?
A. Kenya
B. Senegal
C. Uganda
D. Ivory Coast
E. None of the above
19. Germany
What company’s trains and structures are used on the garden railroad that sits next to the Germany Pavilion?
A. Lionel
B. Atlas
C. LGB
D. Bachmann
E. None of the above
20. Italy
The cart and donkey seen at the Italy Pavilion represents those found where?
A. Sicily
B. Sardinia
C. Tuscany
D. Aosta Valley
E. None of the above
21. American Adventure
What is the name of the a cappella group that performs at the American Adventure?
A. Voices of Freedom
B. Voices of Independence
C. Voices of America
D. Voices of Liberty
E. None of the above
22. Japan
Tori gates are associated primarily with what religion?
A. Buddhism
B. Shintoism
C. Confucianism
D. Taoism
E. None of the above
23. Morocco
In what city did Franklin Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, and Charles de Gaulle plan European strategy during WWII?
A. Casablanca
B. Rabat
C. Marrakesh
D. Fes
E. None of the above
24. France
What animated character chats with guests at the Les Chefs de France restaurant?
A. Belle
B. Remy
C. Marie
D. Cogsworth
E. None of the above
25. United Kingdom
What is the motto of the Rose and Crown?
A. Otium Cum Dignitate (Leisure With Dignity)
B. Totus Es Exspectata (All Are Welcome)
C. Porro Ago Rex (Long Live The King)
D. Amicitia Ut Totus (Friendship To All)
E. None of the above
26. Canada
Canada ranks _______ in size among the countries of the world?
A. First
B. Second
C. Third
D. Fourth
E. None of the above
27. World Showplace
What attraction was once planned for this area?
A. Communicore
B. Innoventions
C. American Adventure
D. Imagination
E. None of the above
I read “Dear Abby” every day. She often gives great advice – and sometimes, not so great. Occasionally, she’ll run a letter written by one of her readers reminding us to behave “correctly” under certain circumstances. For example, a bank teller might write in suggesting that we have all of our paperwork completed before reaching the window. And a supermarket checker might suggest not getting into the “Ten Items or Less” line unless you actually have ten items or less.
I always laugh when I read these columns because I know that the intended audience never recognizes themselves in these situations. We always believe it’s the “other” guy misbehaving, not ourselves. But despite the fact that I think these articles are basically useless at changing human behavior, I’m going to write my own version of this “advice” column in connection with visiting Disney parks. I’m hoping against hope that it might make people rethink some of their actions. Silly me.
First, and foremost, I want to cut everyone some slack. When people pass through the turnstiles, they leave their brains behind – myself included. Disney parks offer so many sights, and sounds, and smells that it overwhelms the senses. There is so much happening all around us that it’s impossible to process it all. It’s little wonder that we behave differently inside the Magic Kingdom than we do on the outside. People have a sense of wellbeing in a Disney park. We think nothing bad can happen to us inside the magical world of Disney. For example, the person who works in a big city and crosses many busy streets in their daily life without incident, will be the same person who trips over a curb on Main Street. Like I said, we leave our brains someplace else when we enter a Disney park.
So here I go with my list of suggestions aimed at “certain” guests. Not you, my faithful readers, but the “other” guy.
Bag Check:
Unfortunately, the world we live in is not as innocent as the one Walt left in 1966. Today, security guards must check all guests’ bags before they enter a park. And the key word here is “ALL.” If you have a purse, a camera bag, a Disney bag wadded up in the back of your stroller, any container that can be closed and does not fit in your pocket, you MUST let a security guard check its contents. You CANNOT go through the “No Bags” line. It’s that simple.
And if you do accidently find yourself in the “No Bags” line and the security guard asks you to proceed to Bag Check, don’t ask him or her to make an exception for you and check your bag(s). If they make an exception for you, then they have to make an exception for the next guy. This just complicates the job they’re trying to do and slows down the line for those guests who don’t have bags waiting behind you.
Photography:
In the days of real film and developing, if someone walked in front of me just as I was snapping a picture, I would be annoyed. But not so much anymore. In the age of digital photography, I just shrug and take another picture. Since most people are kind enough to wait while guests snap a photo, I have to believe those who pass in front of me were just so caught up in the moment that they never noticed me and my camera. I know I’ve unthinkingly walked in front of my share of photographs.
However… I would like to offer some suggestions to would-be photographers.
If you’re taking a picture across a busy walkway or thoroughfare, you do not have five minutes to compose the perfect shot. You have roughly 10 seconds. That’s about all the time people are willing to wait for you. You need to point and shoot.
If you’re group is posing in front of an icon, like the entrance sign to an attraction, or a fountain, or topiary, or the Partners statue, move away from the icon once the picture has been taken. The photographer should not join the group in front of the icon to discuss the merits of the photograph and try to determine if a second shot is needed. There are others waiting to take the same picture.
Cast members and recorded messages will often ask that guests refrain from using flash photography on certain attractions. Please comply. It is very annoying to those around you.
Doorways & Escalators:
There is something about doorways that compels people to stop dead in their tracks once they reach this opening. I don’t know why, but they do.
If you are exiting an attraction or shop, do NOT stop in the middle of the doorway. There are people behind you who want to exit (or enter). Please proceed to a less trafficked area to take care of whatever it is that needs taking care of.
In this same vein, do not stop at the top or bottom of an escalator. Move away! There are most probably people riding behind you and the escalator is going to deposit them into the space you’re occupying.
Counter Service Restaurants:
Disney does their best to post their menus conspicuously so folks can read them and make up their minds BEFORE getting in line. I understand that if the line is long, you might get into queue beforehand with the thought that all decisions can be made in advance of reaching the cashier. But I’m amazed at the people I encounter that haven’t even looked at the menu until they are asked by the cast member what they’d like to order. This is NOT the time to be querying your party. This should have been done earlier.
And another thing that baffles me is the matter of payment. People really seem surprised when the cashier asks for money. Please have your credit card, room charge, or cash out and ready to give to the cashier. After ordering, is not the time to be opening your purse or wallet to search for a form of payment. This should have been done while you were in line.
Confined Spaces:
More often than not, Disney parks are crowded. This means we must share our personal space with total strangers. For most people, this really isn’t a problem and at Disney it often promotes some great conversations when waiting in long lines. But I would like to offer a few reminders.
For those of you wearing a backpack, your back now extends 8 to 12 inches further than it usually does. Remember, when you’re standing in a crowded line or on the monorail, you cannot make quick twists and turns. If you do, you will whack the people standing next to you with your backpack. The same is also true for those of you with long hair. When you abruptly turn your head, your hair hits a stranger in the face.
When a group of two or more is walking along a sidewalk or narrow passageway, and they encounter another group of two or more coming toward them, BOTH parties need to form single file lines so everyone can pass easily. I have grown tired of always being the person who yields so the other party won’t be “inconvenienced.”
Wheelchairs & Strollers:
Maneuvering a wheelchair in a congested park can be a challenge. It’s difficult enough to find an opening for a small child let alone a bulky wheelchair on a crowded day. And many people perceive that the wheelchair will be moving slower than they want to walk, so they cut in front of it as to not be “inconvenienced” by its slower pace – which only makes it all the more difficult for the chair-bound person and their party to move through the crowds. So please, give the person seated in the wheelchair and their “driver” a break. Are you really in so much of a hurry that you can’t allow them to proceed in front of you?
I really, really, really feel sorry for people pushing a stroller in a crowded Disney park. Maneuvering one of these baby-carriers can be a difficult challenge when traversing from one attraction to the next. I know my heels have been bruised more than once by a distracted parent. For the most part, I’m pretty understanding. These things happen when it gets crowded. However, my patience grows thin when I’m hit by the same stroller more than once.
Complaints:
Cast members are fantastic! However, things sometimes go wrong that are completely out of their control. When things do go awry, try to assess the situation. Was it really the cast member’s fault? If it was, ask to speak to a supervisor – or go to Guest Relations. If it wasn’t the cast member’s fault, don’t take it out on them. Ask to speak to a supervisor – or go to Guest Relations.
I have a good friend who works attractions in the Magic Kingdom. She has told me that guests have cursed her, kicked her, and spit on her just because things didn’t play out the way they believed they should. I was appalled to learn this.
Diapers:
All restrooms, both men’s and women’s, have changing tables. Use them. Even if the diaper is just wet, I don’t want you changing your baby at the table or bench next to me. Especially when I’m eating. Unfortunately, this has happened to me more times than I care to remember. Yuck!
Smoking:
Believe it or not, I’m not going to come down on smokers here. I rarely encounter people smoking outside of the designated areas. I believe that designated smoking areas have become so common in the U.S. that most smokers are fully aware that they need to check the policy before lighting up. I find it’s usually visitors from countries with less stringent rules that smoke inappropriately while visiting the parks. If you do run into someone smoking, you can politely inform them of the guidelines in place at Disney. However, I think a better idea would be to let a cast member know. They have all been trained on how to approach guests in these situations.
Language:
Keep it clean. There are children everywhere (and adults too who don’t want to hear it).
Don’t talk during the attraction:
Many people have visited the parks so often that they become blasé about the attractions. All too often, I will encounter guests carrying on lengthy and loud conversations during an attraction’s preshow. For example, the Stretch Room of the Haunted Mansion, or the preshow for Ellen’s Energy Exchange, or the recording room on Rock ‘N’ Roller Coaster are often full of talkers.
Please remember, even though you can recite the dialoged word for word, the people standing next to you may be visiting for the first time and would like to hear what’s going on.
Theater Seating:
When a cast member asks that you move all the way to the end of a row (or three-quarters of the way when the show isn’t full), please comply. Do not plop yourself down in the middle of the row and force everyone else to go around you. If you don’t want to sit at the end, then don’t be the first person to rush through the entrance doors. Hold back and let a few people into the theater before you.
Cell phones:
Cell phones are a fact of life today. We’re constantly checking our email, texting, and chatting with others. And that’s fine. However, once again, there is a time and place – and rides and attractions is NOT the place. It’s annoying to others.
In addition, when you’re on a call within a restaurant, try to talk in your normal tone and volume. If you need to “speak up” in order for your listener to hear you, then those sitting around you can now hear you as well – and they don’t really care that Uncle Bob needs a colonoscopy.
Don’t feed the animals:
I know it’s tempting. I know they’re cute. But human food isn’t good for our woodland friends. I know what you’re thinking – one French fry won’t hurt them. But dozens and dozens of fries will. Feeding the animals has to stop with each of us.
Dress appropriately:
So far in this blog, all of my suggestions for appropriate behavior have been pretty cut and dried. It’s easy to take an objective look at what I’ve presented – but how people dress is far more subjective than objective. What right do I have to tell anyone what they can and cannot wear? None! However, Disney used to do just that.
When I worked at Disneyland in the ‘70’s, Disney routinely stationed plain-clothed security guards at the entrance to the park. Their purpose was to inconspicuously examine how guests were dressed and deny them entrance if they felt their outfit was too suggestive or their clothing contained offensive language or depicted drug use. Those days are long gone. Today’s mores are not what they were in the ‘70’s and we live in a far more progressive society. Trust me when I say, a good 2% - 3%% of the people visiting Disneyland and Walt Disney World today would not have been admitted to the parks back then.
I’m not a prude. Far from it. I routinely see t-shirts at the parks that crack me up. Yet, I wonder how appropriate they are at Disney as some of them boarder on risqué. Is this really the place to hint at sexual content? Can’t these statements be made someplace else?
Disney will ask people to change clothes if they encounter a guest sporting a truly offensive word or slogan, but there is little they can do when brand names hint at impropriety (like French Connection United Kingdom).
All I ask is that you remember there are children everywhere at Disney. How much skin needs to be shown and how suggestive does your t-shirt really need to be? Save the bathing suit for the waterparks and the risqué t-shirt for a tailgate party.
Is Jack the perfect Disney guest?:
Nope. I try. But I’m human too. Even I “forget” sometimes. But when I commit a transgression, I try to apologize quickly with a humble smile.
In conclusion:
I’m glad to know that none of my readers really needed to read this blog and that they would never lapse into less than perfect Disney behavior. However, if you know one of those “other” people, be sure to tell them about my article.
I promised that I would make regular trips to the Magic Kingdom to keep you informed of any new additions and updates to Storybook Circus. Well I visited a couple of days ago (April 23, 2012) and nothing new has been opened in this area. Sigh. However, I do have some additional information to share with you.
First, I snapped a couple of pictures of the new “Casey Jr. Splash ‘N’ Soak Station” currently under construction. As I mentioned in an earlier blog, this water play area will be situated on a train turntable located beside the roundhouse/restrooms. As you can see, construction is well underway.
I asked a Barnstormer cast member if she had any idea when this area would be opening. She told me that Disney is hoping for June, but as with any project, this date is subject to change.
I also asked the cast member if The Barnstormer would eventually be outfitted with FastPass. She confirmed that it would.
As you might know, anytime Disney replaces an old attraction with something new, they honor the outgoing ride with some sort of remembrance. For example, inside “The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh” attraction is a portrait of Mr. Toad handing over the deed to Owl.
Well even though “The Barnstormer” is not technically a new ride, but just a retheming of an old attraction, “The Barnstormer at Goofy's Wiseacre Farm” has been honored with a remembrance. If you look behind “The Barnstormer” sign that graces the entrance, you can see the jumbled letters that once read “Wiseacre Farm.”
Since I had nothing new to report and Storybook Circus was not crowded, I decided to use this opportunity to videotape the rethemed “The Barnstormer.” Watching this three minute video might be the shortest you’ll ever wait to experience this attraction. Enjoy.
While I was at the Magic Kingdom, I ventured over to Adventureland to check out the recently reopened Sunshine Tree Terrace – and its new/old mascot.
In 1969, the Florida Citrus Commission became one of the first sponsors to associate itself with a Magic Kingdom attraction: The Sunshine Pavilion which included the Sunshine Tree Terrace and the Enchanted Tiki Room. To help promote citrus products nationwide and a frozen beverage known as the Citrus Swirl sold at the Sunshine Tree Terrace, publicity art designer Don MacLaughlin created the Orange Bird. Although this character only appeared in “live” form at the Magic Kingdom, the Orange Bird became famous nationwide as he appeared on billboards and television ads across the country promoting citrus products. In addition, the Sherman Brothers penned a tune, “The Orange Bird Song” which was recorded by Anita Bryant.
The Florida Citrus Commission ended their sponsorship in 1986 and the Orange Bird slipped into Disney history. However, this character had a resurgence at Tokyo Disneyland in 2004 to coincide with Japan's annual Orange Day celebration held on April 14th.
But this character of yesteryear has been brought back to the Magic Kingdom -- well sort of. When the Sunshine Tree Terrace reopened last week, our little friend was added to the refreshment stand’s sign. He can also be seen perched at the back of the restaurant with a crate of oranges. According to a recent blog by Kevin Kidney, this Orange Bird is an original artifact from 1971 that had been lost for years and only recently uncovered. In addition, the Citrus Swirl (orange slush with vanilla soft-serve ice cream) has been brought back and added to the menu. To see the complete offerings of the Sunshine Tree Terrace, click here.
Two Orange Bird t-shirts and a pin can be found at the nearby shop. As the months continue, additional Orange Bird souvenirs will be offered.
That’s it for this update. Even though my regular blogs are posted on Mondays, you never know what you might find from me during the rest of the week. So check in occasionally.
Yesterday I discussed Epcot’s International Gateway. Today I’ll cover Showcase Plaza and Millennium Village.
Showcace Plaza
Showcase Plaza is located at the entrance of World Showcase. This is the area surrounding the two Tower Shops. Early plans for Epcot called for a modern structure to be located here that would house the American Adventure. However, the Imagineers didn’t want it to look like Disney was showing favoritism to the United States and eventually moved this attraction to its current location at the back of the park.
Disney makes a lot of money by the selling of souvenirs – so much so that it affects their bottom line. The Imagineers were keenly aware of this when designing Epcot. However, early plans called for a more “adult” park and the Imagineers didn’t feel plush Mickeys and Princess costumes should be seen in such grand pavilions as the Universe of Energy and Spaceship Earth. It was also decided that the shops in World Showcase would only carry merchandise manufactured in each individual nation. This concept would completely rule out the selling of Disney branded souvenirs, the big money maker, in half of the park. At the Magic Kingdom and Disneyland, a shop could be tucked into every nook and cranny, but not at Epcot. So what were they to do?
There first solution was to build one large shop in the Communicore section of Future World. (This area is now called Innoventions.) This shop would be named Centorium (now Mouse Gear) and would be Epcot’s version of the Emporium found on Main Street in the Magic Kingdom. Notice how similar the names Centorium and Emporium are. This was no accident. Disney wanted guests to make this connection. Centorium would sell the typical Disney souvenirs guests clamor for – the same items that were sold at the Emporium. But savvy marketers and designers knew that many guests would miss this shop completely, so there needed to be more locations where guests could buy Disney branded merchandise. Enter the Tower Shops.
To make sure most everyone had a chance to buy Disney souvenirs, the Imagineers placed two stores at the entrance to World Showcase. These would be known collectively as the Tower Shops and individually as Disney Traders and Port of Entry. Unless guests took one of the smaller east or west walkways leading from Future World to World Showcase, they would walk by at least one of these stores.
Disney Traders and Port of Entry were designed with a nonspecific international look. These buildings would feel at home at any port around the world where they would process people and goods entering and leaving a country. In the early years, this theme was more apparent inside the shops, but with few exceptions, Disney merchandise now hides many of the buildings’ interior details.
Disney Traders still offers an international feel with multinational vignettes displayed around the ceiling.
For the most part, Disney Traders has been given over to plush characters, especially Duffy and his international costumes. The story of Duffy can be read on posters located on the exterior of the building.
Here is the official Disney version of how Duffy came into existence.
One day, Mickey was getting ready to set sail on a long sea voyage. Minnie made Mickey a special teddy bear to take with him so he would never be lonely.
Mickey loved the bear and named him Duffy. Mickey and Duffy sailed around the world. They visited all sorts of exciting places and made lots of friends along the way.
Mickey and Duffy took pictures with their new pals and made memories that would last a lifetime.
At the end of their voyage, Mickey and Duffy sailed back home to share all their magical memories with Minnie.
To further promote Duffy, a permanent Meet-&-Greet area has been built for him across from Disney Traders.
It’s interesting to note, an identical bear to Duffy was sold at Walt Disney World shortly after Y2K. However, he did not sell well and was quickly discontinued. This same bear was also sold at the Tokyo Disney Resort during this time, but unlike the U.S., he was given the name Duffy and became a cult phenomenon with the Japanese. Wanting to capitalize on this success, the American marketers reintroduced Duffy to the U.S. parks, gave him a backstory, and aggressively promoted him. When Duffy was first reintroduced to Walt Disney World, he was to be an exclusive item and sold only at Epcot. But within a couple of weeks of his debut, he could be found at all of the parks and resorts.
Although Duffy’s popularity in the U.S. still lags significantly behind his Japanese brothers, he has proven to be successful.
The second shop in Showcase Plaza, Port of Entry, mainly sells Disney clothing and other Disney branded souvenirs. The only international theming remaining in this building is an overhead globe.
It’s no accident that the Friendship Landings are located near the Tower Shops as they would provide services to the travelers leaving and arriving from these ports.
The East Friendship Landing (near Disney Traders) provides water taxi service to the Germany Pavilion and the West Friendship Landing (near Port of Entry) provides transportation to the Morocco Pavilion. Often between 11am and noon, only one Friendship boat is available for transportation across World Showcase Lagoon. Note, the boat may skip the East or West landing during this time and only make three stops along its journey.
Between the Tower shops is a vast area designed to offer unparalleled vistas of World Showcase, including IllumiNations in the evening. However, sections of this expanse are often rented to private groups or organizations.
Near the railing of this plaza is a telescope. From it you can catch close-up views of the World Showcase nations. And the good news is, it doesn’t require a coin to operate. It’s free.
The last point of interest in Showcase Plaza is Refreshment Port. Once again, notice how the word “port” has been incorporated into the name to help guests understand they’re on a journey around the world. In addition, the architecture is very similar to the Tower Shops.
Refreshment Port is a snack bar that currently offers Chicken & Cheddar Poppers, Chicken Sandwiches, Crispy Fried Shrimp, and other goodies. To see the complete menu, click here.
To see the sights of International Gateway and Showcase Plaza, check out the video below.
World ShowPlace Events Pavilion
The last topic in my World Showcase tour is about the World ShowPlace Events Pavilion. This temporary structure, although now probably permanent, is used to host Disney events and is rented to private organizations for convention activities. It is located between the United Kingdom and Canada Pavilions.
So how did this “not-quite-up-to-Disney-standards” events pavilion come into being?
As the new millennium approached, Disney knew this would be a wonderful marketing opportunity. Since this would be a worldwide celebration, it was decided that Epcot would host most of the Disney World celebrations because of its “international” theme. To help kick things off, one of the best Walt Disney World logos ever created was designed and Mickey’s sorcerer’s hand was built above Spaceship Earth holding the number 2000.
But Disney needed more than a new logo and Mickey’s hand to entice visitors to visit Walt Disney World over their 15 month celebration. They needed a new attraction.
Ever since Epcot opened, guests have continually asked, “When are you going to add new countries to World Showcase?” So Disney decided to do just that – well, sort of. They came up with the idea of Millennium Village, a spot along the World Showcase promenade where nations not already represented at Epcot could join in the festivities and spotlight their country. To house the new nations of the Epcot community, Disney built a 60,000 foot, tent-like exhibition hall between the Canada and United Kingdom Pavilions and dubbed it Millennium Village. The hall’s construction was simple and inexpensive so that when the celebration ended, it could easily be dismantled.
When Millennium Village opened on October 1, 1999, more than 50 countries had signed on to be part of the celebration. Some exhibits consisted of little more than a small area where cast members could chat with guests about their homeland. Other countries presented interactive exhibits where guests could play games, watch movies, or participate in some sort of cultural ceremony.
A bit of controversy did arise around the Israel exhibit before the Millennium Village opened. The Arab League threatened to boycott Walt Disney World if Jerusalem was depicted as the capital of Israel. However, Disney would not allow the Arab League to see any of the advance plans. Eventually, the matter was settled at the United Nations when Disney gave its word that Jerusalem would not be mentioned in this context.
A few other events and additions came to Epcot to help celebrate the new millennium. Some of these were:
Millennium Central -- a re-themed area in front of the Fountain of Nations
IllumiNations 2000 Reflections of Earth – an updated nightly fireworks show
Tapestry of Nations – a new parade for World Showcase
The Millennium celebration ended on January 1, 2001. Overall, the Millennium Village was successful and drew daily crowds. However, I personally don’t believe it “hit a home run.” In many ways, its concept was similar to Innoventions. It contained many great exhibits, but these exhibits required time and energy if you were to get anything out of them. Most guests want to be entertained when visiting Disney World. They don’t want to “study.”
After Millennium Village closed, it was decided to keep the “temporary” pavilion and use it to hold special events at Epcot. Since the pavilion already had an adjacent kitchen, this facility would be able to feed large groups and play a major role each year at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.
This concludes my tour of World Showcase and its many pavilions and facilities. I sure hope you’ve been paying attention because in the weeks to come, there is going to be a test! Don’t worry. It will be open book.
I’m going to start this two-part blog with Epcot’s International Gateway. Most people give little thought to this spot along the World Showcase promenade. In fact, International Gateway is not technically part of the promenade. It lies on a small spur off of the main walkway between the France and United Kingdom Pavilions. And unless you’re staying at one of the Epcot deluxe resorts, you’ve probably never ventured from the main thoroughfare to see what’s here. And I understand this. There really isn’t any need for the average guest to check out this area. But like almost everything at Walt Disney World, there is a story behind this unassuming spot. I’ll begin today’s tale in Europe.
Part of the inspiration for Disneyland came from Walt’s visit to Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, Denmark. He was greatly impressed by the theming of the buildings, the manicured grounds, and the cleanliness of the facility. Seeing this park helped him realize that his visions for a theme park were possible. However, there was one aspect of Tivoli Gardens that Walt did not like. The park sat on a city block and had four entrances, one on each street. Walt wanted to control how people first entered and experienced Disneyland and this would require one entrance only.
The pictures below show two of the entrances to Tivoli Gardens.
As we know, Disneyland was laid out in a “hub & spoke” design. All of the lands radiated from the center of the park. This mandated that if there was only one entrance, all guests would experience Main Street before venturing into the other realms of the park. This worked wonderfully and Walt could “control” his guests’ first impressions.
However, Walt broke his own rule when the Disneyland monorail was extended to the Disneyland Hotel in 1961. Now guests could board the monorail at the hotel and enter Disneyland via Tomorrowland.
The idea of a monorail running through Tomorrowland was at least discussed when the Magic Kingdom in Florida was being planned. This can be seen in an early concept drawing. Whether or not a Tomorrowland Station would have been included had this idea advanced, I do not know.
Now let’s switch gears and move to Epcot in the mid 1970's.
One famous Disney legend revolves around the evolution of Epcot. In the planning stages, Future World and World Showcase were to be two separate parks -- each to require its own admission ticket. But as plans progressed, it was realized that neither park offered enough to fill a visitor’s entire day. So the Imagineers literally pushed the models of Future World and World Showcase together to create one, large park.
During the first few years of Epcot’s operation, both Future World and World Showcase opened at the same time, 9am. However, because the park is not laid out in the “hub & spoke” design like Disneyland and the Magic Kingdom, but rather two large circles, guests tended to experience everything in Future World in the morning hours. They would not even venture to World Showcase until the afternoon and evening, leaving Future World deserted after dark. So it was decided to stagger the opening times – 9am for Future World and 11am for World Showcase – with some attractions in Future World closing at 7pm. Even on the busiest days, you can still enjoy World Showcase almost crowd-free if you tour this area between 11am and noon.
I have often wondered why the Imagineers didn’t place the entrance to Epcot between the Mexico Pavilion and Test Track (then World of Motion) or between the Imagination and Canada Pavilions. If they had done this, guests would have had a choice which area to visit first and the park would have filled more evenly.
When the World Showcase promenade was being designed, the Imagineers wanted a level walkway all around the lagoon. This would aid in pedestrian traffic and make it easier for the omnibuses to navigate the 1.3 miles around the promenade. In addition, a small fleet of Friendship boats was planned to ferry guests across World Showcase Lagoon. However, the boats needed an out-of-sight dock were they could be cleaned and maintained each night. A spot was selected behind what is now the Outpost located between the China and Germany Pavilions. However, this location would require the boats pass beneath the World Showcase promenade. The only way to have a level walkway and a bridge high enough for the boats to pass beneath would be to install a draw bridge – which is what they ultimately decided to do.
Before International Gateway, a waterway already existed next to the France Pavilion. It was modestly landscaped to look like the Seine River in Paris.
This next picture was taken from an early Epcot guide map, before the addition of International Gateway. Notice there is only one bridge depicted (even though the waterway (the Seine) was omitted from the map). In the second picture, you can see the walkway between the United Kingdom and France Pavilions as it appeared in 1983, before the addition of International Gateway. This area contained only a simple sidewalk lined with benches, trees, and lampposts.
Sometime after Michael Eisner’s appointment to head the Disney Company in 1984, a vast new hotel complex was planned for the land just west of Epcot. It was to contain two non-Disney hotels (the Swan and Dolphin) to satisfy a contractual agreement with the U.S. Steel Company and three Disney owned-and-operated resorts, the Yacht, Beach, and Boardwalk. Here are the opening dates for each:
Walt Disney World Swan - January 13, 1990
Walt Disney World Dolphin - June 1, 1990
Yacht Club - November 5, 1990
Beach Club - November 19, 1990
Boardwalk - July 1, 1996
The Imagineers knew that the deluxe Contemporary, Polynesian, and Grand Floridian Resorts had monorail service to connect them to the Magic Kingdom and Epcot. The Imagineers also knew that guests of these new deluxe “Epcot” resorts would want some sort of special theme park transportation if they were to compete with the “Magic Kingdom” hotels. Their solution was twofold.
First, they would create a “backdoor” into Epcot to be called International Gateway. This would allow guests staying at this new resort area easy access into the park. And second, they would complete a waterway all the way from International Gateway to the entrance of the recently opened Disney/MGM Studios (now Disney's Hollywood Studios). Along this waterway, an expanded fleet of Friendship boats would make stops at the two theme parks, the Boardwalk, Yacht & Beach, and Swan & Dolphin resorts
The logical spot to berth the expanded fleet of Friendship boats would be at the existing dock located behind the Outpost. However, the only bridge on the west side of World Showcase (the bridge into France) was too low for the boats to pass beneath. A second bridge would need to be constructed. This left the Imagineers with two choices, build another draw bridge (expensive) or build a bridge high enough for the boats to pass beneath (less expensive). But this second choice would require a slight rise in the walkway’s elevation and the promenade would no longer be level all the way around World Showcase. As we all know, the less expensive option was selected.
The first picture below is of the existing France bridge which is too low for the Friendship boats to pass beneath. The second picture was taken in 1989 and shows the new, second bridge under construction. The third picture shows the completed bridge. The fourth picture is of the new island that was formed during construction and the elaborate viewing area created here for IllumiNations. However, don’t count on this spot being available come 9pm as it is usually rented to groups and organizations for private parties.
To help you understand the transformation this area went through, I have created a “before and after” animation. The buildings at the top right of the picture are the United Kingdom Pavilion. The buildings in the lower left are the France Pavilion. Note, the “before” photo is just a rough approximation of what this area originally looked like.
For those of you wondering about the demise of the World Showcase omnibuses, I can’t find any definitive information on the subject. According to Birnbaum’s Official Walt Disney World Guide, they ran until sometime in 1996. So the rise in elevation along the World Showcase promenade probably did not play any significant role in their being discontinued. I suspect they were retired for two reasons, safety concerns and budget cuts.
International Gateway opened on January 12, 1990, just one day before the Swan, the first of the deluxe Epcot resorts. Here is a picture of International Gateway under construction and a current-day shot of this area as seen from the France Pavilion.
Since International Gateway is located directly across “the Seine”, the architecture needed to complement that of the France Pavilion. To do this, the Imagineers combined elements from the Belle Epoque (the beautiful age) of Paris with an old style European customs house that might be found at a port of entry.
Guests arriving at International Gateway via the Friendship boats dock at a nearby landing. From here it is just a short walk to the backdoor of Epcot.
In the early years of International Gateway, a tram similar to those used in the parking lots circled Crescent Lake and stopped at the various hotels before returning to Epcot. However, this mode of transportation was eventually discontinued as it was felt the Friendship boats were adequate and the trams posed a danger to pedestrians sharing the same walkway.
For those guests who choose to walk to International Gateway from their resort, it takes about 15-20 minutes from the Swan & Dolphin and 10-15 minutes from the Boardwalk, Yacht, and Beach Resorts.
Just like at the main entrance to Epcot, admission tickets can be purchased at International Gateway from one of the two ticket booths. Lines are rarely long here. Near the ticket booths are large, seldom crowded restrooms.
Just beyond the ticket booths are bag check and then the turnstiles leading into World Showcase. The turnstile hours of operation at International Gateway are the same as those located at the main entrance.
Once inside the park, strollers, wheelchairs, and a limited number of ECV’s are available for rent. Guide maps and Times Guides are also found in this area. In addition, a small number of lockers can be rented here.
International Gateway features one shop, World Traveler. The interior of this shop is designed in the Art Nouveau style. This form of decorating uses flowing lines that incorporate plant and floral inspired motifs. Art Nouveau flourished in both America and Europe and reached its peak of popularity around the turn of the 20th century. The “international” motif of this building is further enhanced with posters promoting foreign travel. The merchandise sold here consists of Disney souvenirs and some refrigerated bottled beverages to cool down with.
International Gateway is a fantastic perk when staying at one of the deluxe Epcot resorts. In the morning, it’s wonderful not to worry about buses or parking, and enter Epcot via this hassle-free entrance. And at night after Illuminations, you can bypass the hordes of people cramming into Future World on their way to the parking lot. I like International Gateway and would eagerly recommend staying at one of the hotels that accesses Epcot’s backdoor.
I started this article discussing the addition of a second entrance into Disneyland and later a backdoor into Epcot. Here are the other parks that feature a second entrance:
Disney's California Adventure – the second entrance is located behind the Grand Californian Hotel and enters into the Golden State section of the park. At one time, a third entrance into California Adventure could be found in the Paradise Pier section of the park and catered to guests staying at the Paradise Pier Hotel across the street. However, this entrance is no longer in use.
Tokyo DisneySea – the second entrance is via the Mira Costa Hotel and is used exclusively by resort guests.
That’s it for Part One. Check back tomorrow when I will discuss Showcase Plaza and Millennium Village.
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