Wednesday, October 8, 2008

Ten Reasons You Just Might Like Walt Disney World

For Holly, and anyone else who may be considering a future trip:

1. Cinderella Castle - Obviously a popular iconic figure and an instant visual cue, this structure is also beautiful and unexpectedly detailed (i.e., the five murals featuring more than 500 million pieces of Venetian glass in the castle's archway).



2. The Monorail - Almost the best ride in all of WDW. Riding the monorail between Epcot and the Ticket and Transportation Center really emphasizes the space and scope of WDW's size. It's relaxing, it's easy, and has beautiful views in every direction.



3. "Soarin' Over California" at Epcot's Future World - This deceptively simple ride lifts you (and a few dozen of your best buddies) several feet off the floor, places you in front of an enormous IMAX screen, and through scent, sound, and gentle motion, make you feel like you actually are soaring over the state of California. It's unbelievable, really.



4. The Tomorrowland Transit Authority - This ride, located in the Magic Kingdom's Tomorrowland, is often overlooked, as it is not a headliner attraction. It is relaxing, cool, quiet, and never, ever crowded. I have never seen a line here, and it's often possible to ride continuously, without getting out of your ride vehicle. It's an elevated train, basically, but more technologically complex - it uses linear induction motors and emits no pollution whatsoever. Because it's elevated you enjoy gorgeous views of Tomorrowland, and it takes you through many of the Tomorrowland attractions, specifically Space Mountain. One of my must-dos.




5. The Atrium at the Polynesian Resort - Hop off the monorail sometime and just walk around this resort. The atrium features...well, just look at the picture. Enough said.




6. The Innoventions Plaza music at Epcot's Future World - Actually, I could say that this goes for all music played throughout WDW. I really create memories through sound and, thus, I have good emotions attached to this music in particular. Since I have no photos of the music, you'll have to go to www.mouseworldradio.com to find it.

7. The boat ride from Port Orleans Riverside resort to Downtown Disney - Again, one of the best rides in the park, and it requires no theme park admission OR money! It's more or less a boat shuttle, but the captains are friendly and informative, and the ride down the Sassagoula river is pleasant and just long enough to be satisfying. There are some choice views of the Treehouse Villas (now being renovated as part of the Saratoga Springs resort) as well as views of the Saratoga Springs Resort proper. Especially satisfying at night.



8. Cleanliness/Friendliness - Once more, I have no picture that can encompass this topic, but it can't be overstated. Hard as it is to achieve on my own at home, I have such an appreciation for clean surroundings, manicured gardens, and order. I also appreciate the overwhelming percentage of both cast members and guests who seem to be on their "Christmas season" behavior all the time at WDW.

9. Dole Whips - Yum.



10. Spaceship Earth - This is the icon of Epcot. However, it is unique in its technology and its ride experience. This ride moves you, slowly, towards the top of the structure's interior while tracing the history of communication. It was recently renovated and now features Judi Dench as a narrator - I would have plumped for Julie Andrews, if we must have a female voice. Anyway, it is an enjoyable ride for all ages and a nice way to relax in air-conditioned comfort on a hot Florida day. Don't miss it!

1 comment:

Nikki said...

WDW castle is SO much bigger than Disneyland. We didn't check it out enough at WDW...we will this time!
I don't ever think of the modes of transportaion as a ride- maybe I should. We did ride the Tommorrowland Transit because it reminds Greg of Disneyland's People Mover (no longer there). They are good ways of getting up above the crowds to really see the park. We'll have to try the boats this time. I never thought of going to visit a resort I'm not staying at! We are only ever at our own to sleep at night & gone right after breakfast. I don't know how anyone can spend time in the pools, etc. when you've got so much that needs to get done at all of the parks!
Dole Whips- YUM!!! Only sold at WDW, Disneyland, and Hawaii. I don't know if you'll be able to try it Holly. :( Maybe just the pineapple juice.
Haven't tried Spaceship Earth- again, we'll do it this time.
Soarin'- awesome. Whenever we go on it I always think of all the people I'd like to see it too. It's really amazing. (I'm so glad all of my kids are big enough now to all go together on that one!)

So your 10 reasons are not exactly what I would've picked, but I like your list because it's diverse...and things I haven't tried yet. Thanks!