Epcot World Showcase

Disney Epcot Canada World Showcase Pavilion Review and Info

by josh on April 15, 2010

Pavilion Setting: Although they are not necessarily known for their architecture, the Canadians did an impressive job constructing their World Showcase Pavilion.  The Hotel du Canada, modeled after Ottawa’s Fairmont Chateau Laurier, is the Pavilion’s largest and most magnificently detailed building.  Although visitors are not allowed inside the Hotel, Le Cellier is located directly underneath it.  You can also walk through the gorgeous Victoria Gardens and gaze out at the Canadian Rockies complete with 30- foot waterfall.  Overall, the Canada Pavilion is surprisingly sublime.

Attraction Info: Canada features a Circle-Vision 360 film similar to “Reflections of China.” Updated in 2007 with new commentary by Martin Short, the 18-minute “O’ Canada!” is projected onto nine individual screens that surround the theatre.  The film is presented in such a way that each screen shows the view looking out in that particular direction, so you feel like you’re right in the middle of the shot.  It’s a neat technique and I would recommend taking the time to experience it.  Wait times are usually only as long as it takes for the previous show to end, but be aware that the theatre is standing room only and there is no seating.

The other attraction at Canada is the high-energy Celtic Band “Off Kilter.”  I’m not exactly sure what they’re doing in Canada, but no one seems to mind.  If you like Celtic music, or just men in kilts, then I would grab a beer and enjoy the show.

Dining Options: Although Canada does not offer a counter service, it does have one of the most popular restaurants in all of Disney World.  Le Cellier is an excellent restaurant that offers a variety of expertly prepared, high-quality meats.  Click the highlighted link for a detailed review.

Drink Around the World: Beer is the drink of choice in Canada.  You’ll find a kiosk that serves a variety of Canadian beers including Labatt and Molson.  Le Cellier offers a more interesting variety, including Maudite, Blanche de Chambly, La Fin du Monde, and more.

Character Sightings: Characters are not usually present in Canada, but check your schedule to make sure.

Shopping Opportunities: There are two main stores in Canada.  They’re conveniently connected to each other so you don’t even have to leave one in order to buy more stuff from other.  The usual suspects make an appearance – clothing, jewelry, Christmas ornaments, candy, pins, mugs, and similar items.  You’ll also find hockey jerseys and memorabilia, maple syrup, ice wine, and flannel shirts. 

Overall Ratings:

Setting: 9/10

Attractions: 7/10

Dining: 8/10

Drinking: 7/10

Shopping: 7/10

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Disney Epcot China World Showcase Pavilion Review and Info

by josh on April 15, 2010

Pavilion Setting: Visitors who enter the China Pavilion will walk through an intricately detailed triple-arched ceremonial gate and see a replica of the magnificent Temple of Heaven.  The Chinese built the original in the early 15th century under supervision of the Yongle Emperor, who was also responsible for the construction of the Forbidden City.  The “Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests” is the spectacular triple-gabled circular structure that the Chinese Pavilion is known for and it makes a great background for a picture.  Right before the drop on Tower of Tower, when I’m thinking “happy thoughts,” I usually try to picture myself on a bench in one of China’s tranquil gardens.

Attraction Info: China’s main attraction is “Reflections of China,” a film shot in Circle-Vision 360.  The film team shot Reflections with nine cameras and the footage of each is projected onto one of nine screens that are located on the walls around the theatre.  This technique makes you feel like you’re right in the middle of the action.  This 13-minute show is well worth seeing and there is rarely a wait any longer than it takes for the last show to end.  The entrance to “Reflections of China” is inside the “Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest” and you can check out a number of Chinese artifacts while you wait or sit and relax on one of the plentiful benches.  Be aware, the theatre does not have seats and is standing-room only.

In addition, China features a wonderful exhibit titled “Tomb Warriors: Guardian Spirits of Ancient China.”  This is replica of the Terracotta Army excavation in Xi’an and is well worth a look.  In addition, there is a collection of authentic Chinese tomb art from the Schloss Collection that you can’t see anywhere else in the world.

There are also two acts that perform throughout the day in the Pavilion.  Si Xian, the traditional harp-like instrument that dates back to 897 BC, is played by two skilled musicians in a harmonious musical show.  The Dragon Legend Acrobats are actually Chinese acrobat students on their first trip to the United States.  They perform a variety of gravity-defying moves and tricks that will have you cheering.  Both shows last about 20 minutes and are well worth experiencing.

Dining Options: The Lotus Blossom Café is China’s lackluster counter service.  It’s overpriced, portions are small, and the food isn’t anything special.  Nine Dragons, China’s table service, has improved in terms of food and the atmosphere is serene.  Click the highlighted links for detailed reviews.  The “Joy of Tea” stand also serves a variety of unique teas and other beverages.  I highly recommend the Peach Oolong iced tea ($4) which is as refreshing as it is cold.  You can also order the red bean and caramel ginger ice creams here.

Drink Around the World: The Lotus Blossom Café serves bottles of Tsingtao ($5.75), Yuengling Traditional Lager ($5.25) and a plum wine ($5).  Yuengling is actually brewed domestically so it’s not exactly “Chinese” in origin, so I would probably go with the Tsingtao for the sake of authenticity.  Outside in the Pavilion is the “Joy of Tea Stand.”  You’ll find a similar beer and plum wine selection as well as a variety of alcoholic ($7.50 each) and non-alcoholic ($4.50 each) cocktails.  I would recommend the Canto Loopy, which is a mixture of vodka and cantaloupe juice.

Character Sightings: Mulan makes an appearance in the China Pavilion throughout the day.  You may also get lucky and see Mushu as well.  Check your schedule for times and location.

Shopping Opportunities: The Yong Feng Shangdian Department Store is the main shopping attraction in China.  Like other World Pavilion stores, they sell a great variety of unique and mass-produced items.  Look out for Beijing Cloisonne Ware, Chinese lanterns, jade and crystal jewelry, slippers, silk goods, handbags, paper fans, and much more.

Overall Ratings:

Setting: 8/10

Attractions: 9/10

Dining: 6/10

Drinking: 7/10

Shopping: 8/10

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Disney Epcot France World Showcase Pavilion Review and Info

by josh on April 15, 2010

Pavilion Setting: The 1/10th size replica of the Eiffel Tower is the most famous monument in the France Pavilion.  The buildings are themed like those found in Paris between 1870 and 1910.  Otherwise known as “La Belle Epoque,” or “The Beautiful Time,” France features a gorgeous courtyard area with a fountain and immaculately maintained gardens.

Attraction Info: France’s main attraction is an 18-minute film titled “Impressions de France.”  Projected onto five large screens, Impressions provides a 200 degree panoramic view of France, its people, and its culture.  You’ll experience many of France most popular destinations, including the gardens at Versailles, the Eiffel Tower, and the breathtaking French Alps.  Unlike the films at China or Canada, you’ll be able to sit and relax during the air-conditioned show.  Check your schedule for the show’s start time and head over about 10 minutes early and you shouldn’t have any trouble getting in.  Impressions is an excellent break from walking around the World Showcase and I would recommend taking the time to view it.

The Serveur Amusant and his comedy/acrobatics show is also available for your viewing pleasure in the courtyard area throughout the afternoon.  This is a funny and daring show in which the performers build a tower out of chairs and tables and then juggle and do various tricks while standing at the top of their creation.  Check your schedule for when this 20 minute show starts and make a point of being in France to view it.

Dining Options: Chefs de France, Bistro de Paris, and Boulangerie Patisserie are all excellent choices.  Be sure to check out the Boulangerie for a delicious, relatively inexpensive treat.  Click the highlighted links for detailed reviews.  There is also a crepe kiosk that serves delicious crepes, ice cream, and assorted beverages

Drink Around the World: Along with Mexico and Germany, France is one of the better drinking destinations in the World Showcase.  The kiosk in the France Pavilion serves a variety of wines and champagne by the glass ($6-$12), Kronenbourg 1644 beer ($6), and the extremely popular Grey Goose Citron Lemonade Slush and Grand Mariner Orange Slush ($9 each).  Although not particularly manly drinks, both slushes taste like liquid candy and I would recommend either if you’re looking for a nice cool beverage.  The Kronenbourg 1664 isn’t a particularly good beer, but it’s inoffensive and easy to drink.

Character Sightings: Belle and Beast of Beauty and the Beast fame are stationed in France throughout the day.  Princess Aurora should also be present.  Check your schedule for times.

Shopping Opportunities: France is certainly known for its shopping so there shouldn’t be any surprise that there’s plenty to buy in their Pavilion.  Guerlain, owned by the Louis Vuitton conglomerate, is the title sponsor and many of their products are available at La Signature.  There is also another parfumerie with a variety of other fragrances for men and women.  Expect to find a wide variety of other items as well, including wine, chocolates, designer soap, clothing, miniature Eiffel Towers, and a plethora of other items.

Overall Ratings:

Setting: 7/10

Attractions: 8/10

Dining: 9/10

Drinking: 9/10

Shopping: 8/10

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Disney Epcot Germany World Showcase Pavilion Review and Info

by josh on April 15, 2010

Pavilion Setting: The Germany Pavilion is styled to look like a 16th century German town, only with architecture from several distinct periods.  You’ll immediately see the statue of Saint George slaying a dragon as well as a clock tower with a glockenspiel that chimes on the hour.  The rest of the Pavilion is made up of small shops and the Biergarten restaurant, all of which are immaculately detailed.

Attraction Info: There isn’t much to do in Germany other than shop, eat, and drink beer.  Check your schedule to see if the Oktoberfest Musikanten will be playing in the courtyard area.  This is the same wonderfully fun band that plays in the Biergarten buffet.  Otherwise, check out the working model train and village scene near Der Teddybar.

Dining Options: Biergarten is a popular World Showcase buffet that offers a variety of authentic German food as well as a delightful music show featuring traditional German folk music.  Sommerfest, Germany’s counter service, serves tasty bratwurst and the best pretzels at Disney World.  Click the highlighted links for detailed reviews.  Also check the German kiosk for a variety of light snacks and beverages.

Drink Around the World: Sommerfest sells a variety of German beers and wines.  If you enjoy wine, I would suggest the Gracheer Himmelreich Reisling Spatlese.  As far as beer is concerned, most anything from Spaten is excellent.  I prefer the Optimator, but the Franziskaner is also good.  I’d skip the Beck’s and order something a little more interesting.  Expect beer to run $7.50 for a half liter, $10 for a liter, or $12 for a souvenir-stein-full.  Wines are usually in the $6-$8 range.

Character Sightings: Snow White and friends are usually positioned in Germany throughout the day at Snow White’s Wishing Well.  Expect to see Dopey and The Prince as well.

Shopping Opportunities: Other than eating and drinking, shopping is the main attraction at the German Pavilion.  Expect a great variety of expensive hand-made goods as well as cheaper merchandise for the masses.  There are hand-painted eggs, Hummel figurines, beer steins, Steiff bears, cuckoo clocks, Swarovski jewelry, and plenty more for your browsing pleasure.  This is one of the more popular places to shop with a lot of fun and unique items, so I would recommend taking some time to check it out.

Overall Ratings:

Setting: 7/10

Attractions: 3/10

Dining: 8/10

Drinking: 8/10

Shopping: 8/10

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Disney Epcot Italy World Showcase Pavilion Review and Info

by josh on April 15, 2010

Pavilion Setting: The focal point of the Italy Pavilion is the 105-foot tall functioning replica of St Mark’s Campanile, the bell tower that looks out over the World Showcase Lagoon.  Also prominently featured is a replica of the Doge’s Palace, originally built by the Venetians in the early 14th century.  You may also recognize a replica of the Sistine Chapel’s exterior in the Il Bel Cristallo and the Neptune fountain, modeled after the beautiful Trevi fountain.  The entire Pavilion is meticulously detailed.

Attraction Info: Like Japan, the United Kingdom, and others, Italy does not feature a main attraction or ride.  Unlike the other Pavilions, there aren’t really any secondary attractions either.  Disney promises clowns, musicians, and entertainers, but they are rare and don’t necessarily fit in with the Italian theme anyway.  Look out for Sergio, the comedian/juggler – he’s really the only attraction worth seeing here.

Dining Options: Tutto Italia is Italy’s sit-down restaurant.  Tutto serves a variety of good, albeit expensive entrées.  Click the highlighted link for a detailed review.  Look out for the La Bottega kiosk as well – they serve cakes, pastries, strawberries with chocolate for dipping, and a variety of interesting alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.  Via Napoli is the new table service pizzeria, serving some of the best pizza in Disney World.  Unfortunately, there is no “pizza by the slice” quick service option.

Drink Around the World: The Italian drink cart features the extravagant Peach Bellini ($10), a variety of wines by the glass ($6-$11 or so), and a bottle of Birra Moretti beer for $6.50.  I recommend the Limoncello if you dine at Tutto Italia.

Character Sightings: Characters from Pinocchio are stationed here throughout the day.  Check your schedule for times.

Shopping Opportunities: There are a number of small shops in Italy.  Much of it is expensive and hand-made, including Venetian masks, San Lorenzo glass jewelry, and fine leather goods.  More popular and less expensive items include food, wine, chocolates, perfume, and clothing.

Overall Ratings:

Setting: 9/10

Attractions: 2/10

Dining: 6/10

Drinking: 6/10

Shopping: 7/10

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Disney Epcot Japan World Showcase Pavilion Review and Info

by josh on April 15, 2010

Pavilion Setting: The red torii gate and the 85 foot tall Goju-no-to pagoda are the two structures you’ll instantly notice as you enter the Japan Pavilion.  These and other buildings are surrounded by beautiful gardens made up of native Japanese plants, bamboo, and evergreen, maple, and monkey puzzle trees.  The large courtyard in the middle of the Pavilion makes Japan feel more open, relaxed, and less cluttered than other Pavilions.  Be sure to cross the bridge leading to the White Heron Castle and check out the koi fish below.

Attraction Info: Although adding a ride has been talked about since the Pavilion originally opened in 1982, Japan still does not have a major attraction.  Instead, there is an art gallery inside of the castle with exhibits that change periodically.  The current exhibit is “Timeless Beauty: World Heritage Sites of Japan,” which features a beautiful array of photographs taken by Kazuyoshi Miyoshi.  World Heritage Sites are chosen by an international body based on their universal value and Miyoshi has done an admirable job of capturing their natural essence.  It’s certainly worth a look.  In addition, Japan features Matsuriza, which is a group of traditional Taiko drummers.  This is an exciting show in which the drummers play the large drums in an acrobatic style.  Another interesting show is performed by Miyuki, who is the only woman to ever be taught the craft of candy artistry.  By molding soft rice dough, she’s able to create a variety of shapes, animals, and objects.  It’s mesmerizing work and probably most people’s only opportunity to see it in person.  Finally, there is a Japanese storyteller that tells classic folk stories throughout the day.  Check your schedule for show times.  Each show is about 20 minutes long and you don’t necessarily have to stay for the whole thing.

Dining Options: Arguably, Japan has the best World Showcase restaurants in the form of Tokyo Dining and Teppan Edo.  The Yakitori House is also a good stop if you’re in the mood for quick service sushi or teriyaki.  Click the highlighted links for detailed reviews.  The Kaki Gori stand also serves a snow-cone-like treat for about $3 that is a terrific cold snack.  I highly recommend one if you’re looking to cool off a bit.

Drink Around the World: The Mitsukoshi Department Store sells a variety of sakes at an informal tasting bar.  In addition, Kaki Gori serves sake ($4.50), plum wine ($4.50), and a 20-ounce Kirin beer for about $7.

Character Sightings: It’s rare to see a character in the Japan Pavilion, but check your schedule just in case.

Shopping Opportunities: The Mitsukoshi Department Store is far and away the most popular shopping location at the World Showcase.  At more than 10,000 square feet, it’s also the largest.  Mitsukoshi has something for every person and every budget.  The candy and food items are probably the most popular, but you’ll also find kimonos, Samurai swords, Bonsai trees, chopstick sets, calligraphy brushes, toys, and everything in between.  If you’re only going to visit one store at the World Showcase then this has to be it.  Plan to spend a while in here because there’s a lot to see.

Overall Ratings:

Setting: 9/10

Attractions: 8/10

Dining: 9/10

Drinking: 7/10

Shopping: 10/10

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Disney Epcot Mexico Showcase Pavilion Review and Information

by josh on April 15, 2010

Pavilion Setting: The Mexico Pavilion is styled to look like an ancient Temple in Tenochtitlan, the capital of what was once the vast Aztec Empire.  The structure is immense and the rich details are worth taking a moment to appreciate.  Unlike the other World Showcase Pavilions, most of the attractions, shops, and restaurants are located inside one air-conditioned building.  Coupled with the perpetual nighttime atmosphere, Mexico is one of the most relaxing and comfortable Pavilions to enjoy.  Pay special attention to the Temple’s interior backdrop, a spectacular Mayan Temple and smoldering volcano surrounded by a rich Yucatan jungle.

Attraction Info: Mexico features the “Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros” which is similar to “It’s A Small World” at the Magic Kingdom.  The ride vehicles slowly meander around the river surrounding the interior of the Pavilion with the Three Caballeros intermittently showing up to play songs or cause mischief.  The ride lasts about five minutes and is best experienced when there is only a short line.  If the line exceeds 15 minutes, you may want to check back later after you circle the World Showcase.  It’s a ride worth experiencing, but once should be enough and you won’t be missing much if you aren’t able to squeeze it in.

Make sure to check out the hand-carved wood artwork right inside of the Temple’s entrance.  Many visitors overlook it in their hurry to get inside, but it’s some of the most interesting and creative examples of native artistry you’ll find in the World Showcase.  Near the entrance to the Three Caballeros ride, there is a mockup of a modern Mexican home and a variety of fun activities for kids.  There is also an interactive machine here where you can act out a short scene and send a free video postcard of it to yourself and friends or family back home.  Finally, check your schedule to see when and where the traveling Mariachi band will be playing.  There’s a lot to see and do in Mexico and many visitors don’t realize how much time they’ve spent inside of the Temple because they’re enjoying themselves so much.

Dining Options: La Cantina de San Angel is the newly opened quick service location with seating that overlooks World Showcase Lagoon.  The food is fresh and high quality, though portions are on the smaller side.  La Hacienda de San Angel is the new table service restaurant.  The menu is limited, but it offers an outstanding view of IllumiNations.  I recommend an 8pm reservation so you can enjoy IllumiNations with your meal.  Finally, San Angel Inn is the restaurant inside of the pyramid that overlooks the Three Caballeros boat ride.  While it has improved immensely in recent years, it still favors style over substance.

Drink Around the World: Mexico is most people’s favorite drinking destination, both at Epcot and in the “real world.”  La Cava del Tequila, attached to the San Angel Inn, seats about 30 people and offers more than 70 tequilas ranging in price from about $8 to more than $50.  The menu includes a great number of margaritas, all of which are blended with fresh fruit and rimmed with exotic flavored salts.  Outside, Taqueria Del Lago offers a 20 ounce Dos Equis ($7.50) as well as a number of frozen margaritas ($8.99) similar to those previously served by the Cantina de San Angel.  I would recommend visiting La Cava to quench your thirst and request a to-go cup if you plan to take your drink with you.  La Cava’s margaritas are far superior to what you’ll get at the Cantina or Taqueria out on the promenade.

Character Sightings: Check your schedule to see if Donald and the other Caballeros will be making an appearance.

Shopping Opportunities: There are a variety of shops and street carts in Mexico providing visitors with plenty of unique and mass produced merchandise.  Piñatas, hand-crafted silver and jade jewelry, sombreros, and worry-dolls are all favorite items you won’t find anywhere else at Disney World.

Overall Ratings:

Setting: 9/10

Attractions: 7/10

Dining: 7/10

Drinking: 10/10

Shopping: 8/10

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Disney Epcot Morocco Showcase Pavilion Review and Information

by josh on April 15, 2010

Pavilion Setting: Morocco is represented by architecture and monuments from three famous Moroccan cities – Casablanca, Fez, and Marrakesh.  Koutoubia Minaret, the focal point of the Pavilion, is a replica of the 12th century Marrakesh prayer tower that looks out over the World Showcase.  Morocco is the only state-sponsored World Showcase Pavilion and the country played an integral part in the design and construction of the buildings, gardens, and Bab Boujeloud arch.  The King of Morocco actually sent his personal craftsmen to construct and lay tile in much of the Pavilion, making this one of the most authentic areas in Epcot.  Because of the religious significance of many of Morocco’s buildings, lights are not shined on the Pavilion during Illuminations.

Attraction Info: Morocco does not feature a ride or a film.  Fortunately, there is still plenty to see and do.  The “Treasures of Morocco” is a 45-minute walking tour of the Pavilion.  Your guide will explain the history and culture of Morocco as well as go into detail about how Morocco’s master craftsmen built the Pavilion.  It’s an excellent and informative tour to do if you have time and interest.  In addition, The Fez House is a replica of a typical Moroccan home, with beautiful tile work and authentic artifacts.  Be sure to also check out the “Gallery of Arts and History” and “Moroccan Style: The Art of Personal Adornment” museums for a variety of authentic displays of Moroccan history, technology, and accomplishment.  All three of these exhibits can be casually experienced in about 15 minutes, so I would recommend checking them out as each is exceptionally well done.  Finally, check your schedule for “MoRockin,” which features live Moroccan music and the belly dancer from Restaurant Marrakesh.   They perform for free in the Pavilion throughout the day. 

Dining Options: The Tangierine Café is one of the best values on the Disney Dining Plan and serves tasty, authentic Moroccan fare.  Restaurant Marrakesh offers freshly prepared Moroccan cuisine and entertainment including a belly dancer and live band.  Click the highlighted links for detailed reviews.  In addition, the Moorish Café and Pastry Shop serves a variety of pastries, coffees, teas, and other light snacks.

Drink Around the World: The Moroccan refreshment stand serves a variety of slushie-style drinks.  The options are similar to what you’ll find at the Mexico Pavilion and include a margarita-type drink as well as a pina colada and daiquiri.  The Tangierine Cafe also serves a beer called Casablanca, brewed by Brasseries Du Maroc in Morocco ($5.50).  Casablanca is a light-bodied American Lager that most people should enjoy, especially on hot days.

Character Sightings: Aladdin, Genie, and Jasmine can usually be found here throughout the day.

Shopping Opportunities: Morocco offers six or so small shops with a great variety of unique merchandise and gifts.  Much of it is expensive, but it’s still fun to see the many handmade items and get a better sense of Moroccan style and culture.  The Fez hat is probably the most popular item and many visitors get a kick out of wearing them around the World.  I would highly recommend taking a few minutes to check out the craftsmanship of the items, even if you don’t have intent to purchase.

Overall Ratings:

Setting: 9/10

Attractions: 7/10

Dining: 8/10

Drinking: 6/10

Shopping: 8/10

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Disney Epcot Norway World Pavilion Review and Information

by josh on April 15, 2010

Pavilion Setting: The Norway Pavilion is themed like a Viking-era village.  It features a replica of the 14th century Akershus Fortress, which the Norwegians originally built to protect Oslo from attack.  There is also a richly detailed Stave church, which houses an exhibit with authentic Viking weapons and artifacts.  It is estimated that at one time there were more than 1,000 of these medieval wooden churches scattered throughout Norway.  The rest of the buildings are themed in a variety of styles, including Setesdal, Bergen, Oslo, and Ålesund.

Attraction Info: Norway houses the only “real ride” in the World Showcase – Maelstrom.

Opened: July 5th, 1988

Extra Magic Hours: Evening

FASTPASS: Yes, but not usually necessary

Type: Dark ride

Similar To: Pirates of the Caribbean

Requirements: None

Scary Factor: Low.  There’s nothing here that should frighten anyone over the age of ten.  The ride is dark, trolls are bountiful, and there is a small backwards drop, but the ride is over before anyone should have a chance to be scared.  Still, it may startle unadventurous kids.  If your child had trouble with Pirates of the Caribbean or any other Disney ride then you may want to think twice about this one.  Maelstrom is also a good indicator of how well your child will deal with other, more thrilling rides.

When To Go: Earlier is better, but it’s not worth making a special trip out to Norway in order to ride it in the morning, so any time should be fine.  If the wait is longer than 20 minutes then grab a Fastpass and enjoy the Pavilions until your time comes up.  Or, you could visit during Extra Magic Hours and probably ride over and over without any wait.

Expect to Wait: 10-20 minutes

Length: 5 minutes

What to Expect: Maelstrom is a slightly faster Norwegian version of Pirates of the Caribbean.  It’s also more than 20 years old and hasn’t been updated or refurbished since 1988.  Nonetheless, it’s a nostalgic ride that most guests enjoy.  After the ride ends and you exit your vehicle (if you make it past the trolls), you’ll be led to a small area where a five minute film is shown.  You can choose to stay and watch it or leave before it starts.  I would recommend staying for it if you haven’t seen it because it’s about 25 years old and hilarious.  There are no jokes or comedy or anything, but I think most people will get a kick out of it.

Rating: 6/10

In addition, check your schedule to see if  Spelmanns Gledje will be performing.  This band, dressed in traditional clothing, plays traditional Norwegian folk music.

Dining Options: Akershus Banquet Hall features some of the best character interaction at Disney and Kringla Bakeri og Kafe offers some of the best tasting treats.  Click the highlighted links for detailed reviews.

Drink Around the World: Kringla Bakeri og Kafe serves Carlsberg beer ($7.50) and Akershus Banquet Hall serves Linie Aquavit Glacier Shot ($8.25) which is a mixture of Aquavit, Vodka, Sprite, and Lime.  You’ll need a reservation and pay full price for the buffet to purchase the drink at Akershus though.

Character Sightings: Although five princesses are present inside Akershus for the buffet, there are rarely characters to meet out in the Pavilion.

Shopping Opportunities: Norways’s “The Puffin’s Roost” is one of the larger shops in the World Showcase.  It offers a great variety of items, including hand-knit clothing, porcelain, troll dolls, Christmas ornaments, toys, perfume, food items, Viking helmets, and more.   Make sure to get a picture with the giant troll that watches over the store.

Overall Ratings:

Setting: 7/10

Attractions: 7/10

Dining: 10/10

Drinking: 4/10

Shopping: 7/10

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Disney Epcot United Kingdom Pavilion Review and Information

by josh on April 15, 2010

Pavilion Setting: The United Kingdom Pavilion is one of the more architecturally diverse World Showcase Pavilions.  There are a variety of styles represented in the Hampton Court Palace, Anne Hathaway’s (William Shakespeare’s wife) thatched roof cottage, two castles, and a miniature version of Hyde Park.  You’ll see replicas of the red phone booths England is so famous for as well as a variety of beautiful garden areas.  There is a lot to see while strolling along the cobble-stoned walkways and I would recommend taking a moment to appreciate it.

Attraction Info: There is no main attraction at the UK Pavilion, but there are two shows worth seeing.  The first is “The British Invasion” which is a Beatles cover band.  They’re a lot of fun to watch and play 20 minute shows throughout the day.  The second features the World Showcase Players in a variety of skits and gags.  They encourage audience participation so make sure you get up front and make your presence known.  The show lasts about 30 minutes and occurs throughout the day.  Check your schedule.

Dining Options: The United Kingdom has two excellent dining choices – the Rose and Crown Pub and Yorkshire County Fish Shop.  Click the highlighted links for detailed reviews.  Joffrey’s coffee also sells tea, coffee, snacks, and pastries.

Drink Around the World: The Rose and Crown has a pub area where you can order a wide variety of drinks without a reservation.  It’s an excellent location to relax with other adults and enjoy an alcoholic beverage, but it is small and does get crowded.  I would recommend the Welsh Dragon, made with Peach schnapps, melon liqueur, crème de menthe, orange juice, and pineapple juice.  Yorkshire Fish Shop serves pints of Bass Ale and Harp Lager for $7.50.

Character Sightings: Look for the characters from Winnie the Pooh, Alice from Alice in Wonderland, and Mary Poppins to make appearances throughout the day.

Shopping Opportunities: Shopping is the main activity in the United Kingdom Pavilion and there are a variety of stores to check out.  You’ll find clothing, football (soccer) jerseys, toys, books, tea sets, food items, perfume, jewelry, and much, much more.

Overall Ratings:

Setting: 8/10

Attractions: 6/10

Dining: 9/10

Drinking: 9/10

Shopping: 6/10

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