The ABCs of a Very Merry Christmastime Land and Sea Adventure- Q is for: Quiet Christmas Scenes Interrupted by Quite Rude People (6/2)

[Steppesister]

There's not much else going for it... except the starfish right at the end.

Peach, I admit, is pretty funny!

Her what now?

I mean, meet a guy on the beach for 10 minutes, declare your love, don't even really talk to him, and poof, we're married. Typically, that doesn't work out very well.

Your knees make popping sounds?

#foreshadowing

Although I hear that it's not quite as bad as it once was, out on the periphery.

I've heard that too, but not willing to risk it just to "check off a ride".

First time I've heard that one.

Henceforth, the It's a Big Garden shall be named such. Thus sayeth my autopen.

Did you ask for the front row?

Someone who can follow directions!

You win!

Those aren't snowmen... they're breadfruit men.

Like gingerbread men, but the tropical version!

can hear the original theme song in my head...

My job here is complete.

Speed is of the essence, ya know. Who's got time for a leisurely climb?

Well, technically I did, but the body is a different story. Especially after pounding out 25,000 steps before that.

Really! Had no idea. Just assumed it was called a space elevator.

Nope! Disney's always gotta go the extra mile in creativity.

Well... technically it shouldn't. The space elevator (or skyhook) concept has been around for a long time. At least as far back as the 60s. Since the station would have to be in a geosynchronous orbit, despite a speed of about 17,000mph, it would appear to be stationary relative to yourself.

Okay, okay, fine.

However, I don't think this attraction is taking folks to "OUTER space". Ergo, no need to skyhook.

"No, you don't have to use a skyhook to get to the ISS. The ISS is currently reached using rockets or other spacecraft that launch from Earth and are designed to reach low Earth orbit. Skyhooks, while a proposed concept, are not currently in use for space travel. "

I'd think that during launch on ANY spacecraft you'd feel something, at least some G's?

You have a knack for meeting people.

I have a knack for driving them away. I have proof.

I've hung out with you. I disagree!

Meh. You've got plenty to spare...

Not after my Africa extravaganza. LOL! Back to being my usual frugal self.

So that's what they're calling bums these days.

A fly in the ointment.
I suppose you could've asked to borrow one of your new friends' phone.

I could have, but they'd have had to send me the photo and that's asking them to remember after drinks.

You never know. I've made a few friends on the Dis... why not at Disney?

There ya go!!

I'll take one of those, please.

Sigh. They are so pretty!

 

[Steppesister]

We have been to Epcot from the beginning. There used to be a huge collection of fun, entertaining and educational things to do for our children at Epcot. Cranium Command was my absolute favorite. There were even some STEM type fun things to do when we took our grandchildren decades later. But the focus on education is gone.

Agreed! It makes me sad that the focus has shifted so drastically and has come away from Walt's original intent. My kids and I spent HOURS in the Innoventions Pavilions just dong "stuff". They LOVED it!

We were able to get a table in the lounge once, and it was interesting. I got the cocktail that had cotton candy on top of it, just for fun.
We had an appetizer, but I don't remember what it was.

That's what I originally had too- a lounge table because I didn't want to pay the whole prix fixe price for a huge lunch/dinner. In hindsight, the bar is a perfect place to plop and nibble and drink.

I've seen margaritas at San Angel Inn that cost more than this cocktail.
What is that object floating on top? It looks like a slice of ice cream sandwich.

Oh don't get me wrong! For sure there are just as expensive places- especially La Cava, but a glass of wine isn't so bad at say Tutto or Spice Road Table. ($14 a pop there)

I think the schtick was that it's a little piece of Freeze Dried Ice cream sandwich a la space travel. At least that's what they called it. I think it was in reality a piece of Walmart ice cream sandwich. LOL!

I agree that this is a one and done. The ride to the space station was the highlight. The food and drinks were inventive and fun. But I thought that space itself was rather boring.

I enjoyed the Space part too, there were some fun Easter eggs in there to hunt for. I guess I'd compare it to The Coral Reef restaurant in some ways. But the food I think was more imaginative and the immersive entry more fun. I'd go back with the intention of ONE drink and only IF there was less than a 10 minute wait. No way again for 45.

 

[pkondz]

Drastic, yet effective.

Trust me. After only one treatment, you won't feel a thing!

Peach, I admit, is pretty funny!

I mean, meet a guy on the beach for 10 minutes, declare your love, don't even really talk to him, and poof, we're married. Typically, that doesn't work out very well.

You've obviously never watched Bachelor in Paradise.

I've heard that too, but not willing to risk it just to "check off a ride".

Yeah. I can wait for center, top.

Someone who can follow directions!

You win!

What's my prize?!?!? That car????

Well, technically I did, but the body is a different story. Especially after pounding out 25,000 steps before that.

Meh. The elevator does the work for ya.

However, I don't think this attraction is taking folks to "OUTER space". Ergo, no need to skyhook.

"No, you don't have to use a skyhook to get to the ISS. The ISS is currently reached using rockets or other spacecraft that launch from Earth and are designed to reach low Earth orbit. Skyhooks, while a proposed concept, are not currently in use for space travel. "

I'd think that during launch on ANY spacecraft you'd feel something, at least some G's?

Oh, no. It's definitely in outer space (simulated, of course). That's why you see space ships and astronauts (NOT like Katie Perry).
And you ascend on a skyhook. From Disney's website:

"To begin your journey, board a special space elevator that will ascend to the stars! Along the way, viewports will give you an aerial view of EPCOT as you travel high above the planet."

I've hung out with you. I disagree!

I had a not off day that day.

I could have, but they'd have had to send me the photo and that's asking them to remember after drinks.

No, no, no. You could have asked to use their phone's flashlight while you use your phone to take the photo.

 

[luvpoohandcompany]

Cranium Command was my absolute favorite.

Mine too.

There were even some STEM type fun things to do when we took our grandchildren decades later.

My kids loved the “build your own rollercoaster “.

My kids and I spent HOURS in the Innoventions Pavilions just dong "stuff". They LOVED it!

We did too. The kids and I had so much fun in there. It was always a great space to cool off and let them spend a bit of time doing/playing rather than queuing.

 

[luvpoohandcompany]

Really enjoyed strolling through Epcot and dining in Space with you on that last update So nice of your new friends to buy you a birthday drink. From everything I’ve read about it a table at the bar/lounge area is the way to go for Space 220. Prix fixe meals do not work for me. Too much food and too pricey.

 

[Steppesister]

Trust me. After only one treatment, you won't feel a thing!

Good point!

You've obviously never watched Bachelor in Paradise.

Definitely not my thing.

I'd wager a bet that not many of those marriages end up working out long term. I don't know of course, but suspect that might be the case.

Yeah. I can wait for center, top.

Mhm....

What's my prize?!?!? That car????

In your dreams.

Oh, no. It's definitely in outer space (simulated, of course). That's why you see space ships and astronauts (NOT like Katie Perry).
And you ascend on a skyhook. From Disney's website:

"To begin your journey, board a special space elevator that will ascend to the stars! Along the way, viewports will give you an aerial view of EPCOT as you travel high above the planet."

Hmm, Disney says,

"220 miles above Earth is considered to be low Earth orbit (LEO). LEO typically encompasses altitudes from 99 to 1,200 miles (160 to 2,000 kilometers) above the Earth's surface. Deep space is far beyond LEO, typically involving distances to other planets or celestial bodies.".

I wonder if they are taking creative license with the space walks etc... ? I do love the Space 220 reference to 220 miles up.

Katy Perry made a mere 62.

No, no, no. You could have asked to use their phone's flashlight while you use your phone to take the photo.

I guess I could have, but they were using each other's and by then it was kinda a hurry-up-and-finish-up vibe.

 

[Steppesister]

My kids loved the “build your own rollercoaster “.

YES!!!

We did too. The kids and I had so much fun in there. It was always a great space to cool off and let them spend a bit of time doing/playing rather than queuing.

Getting some of the energy out with creative stuff to do was perfect.

Really enjoyed strolling through Epcot and dining in Space with you on that last update So nice of your new friends to buy you a birthday drink. From everything I’ve read about it a table at the bar/lounge area is the way to go for Space 220. Prix fixe meals do not work for me. Too much food and too pricey.

Nor for me. WAY too much food and WAY too expensive. I have (and still do on occasion) have Disney box up leftovers for brekkie, but when there's a far better, cheaper, less volume, but just as tasty option, I'm always going to do that.

 

[pkondz]

Good point!

A razor sharp one.

Definitely not my thing.

Nor mine.

I'd wager a bet that not many of those marriages end up working out long term. I don't know of course, but suspect that might be the case.

Maybe? I know some of those work out... but I suspect the majority do not.

In your dreams.

Sweet! I can dream pretty big, ya know.

Hmm, Disney says,

"220 miles above Earth is considered to be low Earth orbit (LEO). LEO typically encompasses altitudes from 99 to 1,200 miles (160 to 2,000 kilometers) above the Earth's surface. Deep space is far beyond LEO, typically involving distances to other planets or celestial bodies.".

All correct. Still space, although not deep space.

I wonder if they are taking creative license with the space walks etc... ?

Why? All space walks to date have taken place in low earth orbit.
The ISS (International Space Station) altitude ranges from 205-255 miles up.

I do love the Space 220 reference to 220 miles up.

Katy Perry made a mere 62.

 

[Steppesister]

A razor sharp one.

Nor mine.

Maybe? I know some of those work out... but I suspect the majority do not.

Sweet! I can dream pretty big, ya know.

All correct. Still space, although not deep space.

Why? All space walks to date have taken place in low earth orbit.
The ISS (International Space Station) altitude ranges from 205-255 miles up.

I don't know as much as I'd like to about space travel. But I do know I enjoyed Space 220.

 

[pkondz]

I don't know as much as I'd like to about space travel. But I do know I enjoyed Space 220.

All that matters.

 

[Steppesister]

Q is for: Quiet Christmas Scenes Interrupted by Quite Rude People​

My Space Adventure had ended with me full to the point of almost being ill. I had a happy holiday buzz on that cost me over $100 too. Do I do that often? Oh, definitely NOT! Once on a trip? Nah, maybe every 3rd trip. Giving the 220 a once-and-done thumbs up, I headed out towards World Showcase to see how she was wearing her Holiday Finery. To say the least, I found her resplendent with color and lights and accented with good cheer.

Follow me for a Holiday-time stroll around World Showcase to enjoy a few of the finer detailing I focused on: (I did not stop in all of the pavilions this trek around)

I chose to start in Mexico and spent a little bit of time in the exhibits featuring native arts and Coco. I learned a bit more about what goes into making the Papel Picado. I’m sure nowadays they are machine cut or lasered, but apparently, historically, they were hand-chiseled! I can’t even imagine the talent and time that went into each one.

​

I think they did a pretty bang-up job on the Coco displays; I’ve always been a sucker for diorama!

​

Next, I stopped in Norway and was able to take in my first of every Storyteller this Festival offered. It took some planning and hustle, but yes, I managed to catch them all and, while some were better than others, they were all entertaining or educational in some way.

Norway’s presentation is: Norway Barn Santa Fjøsnissen with Sigrid.

​

This duo is very engaging and dynamic with a wonderfully whimsical account of how she came to believe in the Barn Santa over time. A pro-tip: It’s very worth it to get there early and find a spot on the ground and sit down for the show. (Yes, it’s getting harder to get back up, but still worth it.) The shows are about 20 minutes long and sitting for that is a nice break AND gives you the best view.
Some other scenes from Norway:

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I skipped China for some reason, but did wander in Germany taking in all of its Christmas Night Market vibe. I had to chuckle at the $50 nutcracker set. I’ve seen identical sets at TJ Maxx for about $5. But, I did find a few more items on my Christmas Alphabetical Scavenger Hunt: P is for Pinecones and B is for Bells and C is for Candy Canes!

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Norway isn't the only pavilion with gnomes!

​

Italy has such a beautiful glow at night even without the garlands and other Christmas decorations. I found Olaf belting out Solo Mia; hopefully he found a friend to ride Spaceship Earth before it closed.

​

The noise grew appreciably louder as I approached America, and I realized that the Candlelight Processional was going on. I tried to jockey a spot to catch a bit of it from, but every single place I thought might work was awful. I finally found one little corner that afforded a partial view, but the people standing near me were absolutely, incredibly rude. They were carrying on very loud conversations all about the show itself (one appeared to be a former CM) and how it was produced, the behind-the-scenes stuff, etc… and was a general complete know-it-all who had zero situational awareness whatsoever and completely ruined any chance of hearing anything from the performance. I was so disappointed. I’d waited YEARS to see even a glimpse of it, and rude people, with no sense of propriety or even politeness, went and totally ruined it. It's sad to see so many people so completely selfish and not respect what’s supposed to be a bit of a quiet, contemplative show and let others who are there to enjoy it do so without their loud running commentary. I honestly don’t know if I’ll ever pay the extra to get a seat inside as I know you still have to line up hours ahead of the show time for a decent seat as I saw folks doing as early as 1:00 on the other days I was in WS during the day. Sadly, I think I was just so disappointed that I will likely never give it another shot and find other things to do while it’s going. As a side note, I think alcohol played into the crowd’s poor behavior.

********RANT OVER*********​

Moving on in disgust, I came to the Le Chaim booth which was in a small area tucked back between France and Morocco. I did get a few goodies from this booth later in the trip but tonight was a quick drive-by to get a couple more of my Alphabetical Scavenger Hunt Items: D is for Dreidel and M is for Menorah.

​

I also spent some time in the UK Pavilion just checking out the little window displays which have some incredible detailing. This is actually a really outstanding diorama with tons of history involved. But I think the designers added some fun Christmas touches to the mix. Look at all those yummy holiday goodies and cookies!

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Did you ever notice this cool cathedral scene? So much detailing!

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I also found some: H is for Holly!

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My feet were feeling the long day and I had had my fill of EPCOT for the time. One last thing on the agenda: See LwtL at night! This has become a HUGELY popular thing on a lot of people’s EPCOT list so I saved it for nearly park closing while the fireworks were going on. If you aren’t a fan of the EPCOT night shows, this is a perfect time to catch some headliners with no wait. I find it amusing that a ride through the experimental gardens has become an EPCOT “headliner”.

Let’s grab a front-row seat and take a spin, shall we?

​

Is it worth the hype? I sure think so. It’s as close as I’ll ever get to seeing the Osbourne Lights- May they rest in peace.

And with that, I headed through the dubious garden of design and onto a bus “home”. I quickly plugged in all my things that needed charging, took a tub soak, packed my bag for the next day, and got some good Disney sleep.

​

 

[missjackiemcg]

Is it worth the hype? I sure think so. It’s as close as I’ll ever get to seeing the Osbourne Lights- May they rest in peace.

Is that the only thing I quoted!? I certainly don't think so, but my nearing the end of the school year teacher brain simply cannot be sure!

I fully agree!! We love LwtL all year long, but the holiday layover is incredible, so it's a must for us, too! I'm sad you never got to experience the Osborne Lights!!! They were so AMAZING--I so wish they could have found a way to keep them somewhere else on property to be enjoyed for years and years to come. A missed opportunity, IMO.

 

[Wood Nymph]

Norway’s presentation is: Norway Barn Santa Fjøsnissen with Sigrid.

I agree that Norway's barn Santa is one of the best Storytellers. We had been excited to see it this year and made a special effort to get there on time. Unfortunately, the barn Santa didn't appear. We saw a reduced ten-minute presentation with no explanation as to why it wasn't the regular show.

I finally found one little corner that afforded a partial view, but the people standing near me were absolutely, incredibly rude. They were carrying on very loud conversations all about the show itself

I hate when that happens. My sister and I tried to watch one from outside and it was the same thing.

I honestly don’t know if I’ll ever pay the extra to get a seat inside as I know you still have to line up hours ahead of the show time for a decent seat

We had no trouble getting into the Candlelight Processional in the standby line on a night when the speaker wasn't anyone "famous". We didn't even get there early. We just walked up a few minutes before the show started.

Did you ever notice this cool cathedral scene? So much detailing!

You always find interesting things that I've never noticed before.

I find it amusing that a ride through the experimental gardens has become an EPCOT “headliner”.

It has gone from ignored to can't miss.

 

[pkondz]

My Space Adventure had ended with me full to the point of almost being ill.

<burp>

If you burp in space, are you propelled backwards from the exhausting gasses?

I had a happy holiday buzz on that cost me over $100 too. Do I do that often? Oh, definitely NOT! Once on a trip? Nah, maybe every 3rd trip.

That works out to $33/trip. Affordable.

I found her resplendent with color and lights and accented with good cheer.

nicely said. Makes me wanna go.

Mexico and spent a little bit of time in the exhibits featuring native arts and Coco.

mmm... love a good cup of coco

I’m sure nowadays they are machine cut or lasered, but apparently, historically, they were hand-chiseled! I can’t even imagine the talent and time that went into each one.

Wait... hand-chiseled? I thought it was paper? Or do they use a chisel on paper because it's more accurate than scissors?

I’ve always been a sucker for diorama!

They're to di for!

Next, I stopped in Norway and was able to take in my first of every Storyteller this Festival offered.

I'd love to see the Storytellers some day.

This duo is very engaging and dynamic

Duo? Was the Santa there too?

sit down for the show. (Yes, it’s getting harder to get back up, but still worth it.)

Tell me about it! And that floor is getting harder, too. Must be some kind of new concrete.

Nice colours!

I skipped China for some reason,

That's okay. You'll be able to go back in an hour.

but did wander in Germany taking in all of its Christmas Night Market vibe

Try the real thing, some day. (If you haven't already.... Know you're well-traveled.)

I had to chuckle at the $50 nutcracker set. I’ve seen identical sets at TJ Maxx for about $5

Just a slight markup, there.

Norway isn't the only pavilion with gnomes!

Gno way!

Italy has such a beautiful glow at night even without the garlands and other Christmas decorations.

All of Epcot, year round, is so photogenic at night.

He does look like he's singing Sole Mio!

They were carrying on very loud conversations all about the show itself (one appeared to be a former CM) and how it was produced, the behind-the-scenes stuff, etc… and was a general complete know-it-all who had zero situational awareness whatsoever and completely ruined any chance of hearing anything from the performance.

It's sad to see so many people so completely selfish and not respect what’s supposed to be a bit of a quiet, contemplative show and let others who are there to enjoy it do so without their loud running commentary.

Sadly, I think I was just so disappointed that I will likely never give it another shot

That's unfortunate. Maybe people seated are a bit more... quiet?

As a side note, I think alcohol played into the crowd’s poor behavior.

It often does, in Epcot.

********RANT OVER*********

Okay!

Moving on in disgust,

Maybe rant not quite over.

I want to eat all of that.

Did you ever notice this cool cathedral scene? So much detailing!

Nope! Where even is that??

See LwtL at night! This has become a HUGELY popular thing on a lot of people’s EPCOT list

I've heard! And it was never even on my radar.

Sure is pretty! (all the photos, too)

Is it worth the hype? I sure think so. It’s as close as I’ll ever get to seeing the Osbourne Lights- May they rest in peace.

I'm sorry I missed that, but... this will do.

I headed through the dubious garden of design

 

[luvpoohandcompany]

EPCOT at Christmastime is simply gorgeous!
Your photos are always outstanding.
People can be absolute jerks and alcohol is usually partly to blame but some are jerks sober too. Do they run an early show of the CP? Might make a difference
LwtL is fabulous and seeing your front row photos really really makes me want a December trip.