The ABCs of Another Steppe Into Adventure!- Last Africa Ch. + World Showcase Pt. 2

[pkondz]

I just watched that for the first time with (one of) my DD. Liked it!

 

[Terra Nova guy]

This time, however, I did indeed begin with ‘Our Neighbor to the North’ where totems reach high and the gift shops disappoint. No offense my Dear Canadian Friends, but...

No offense taken. And I agree on the gift shop. There are so many ideas and improvements I can think of for the Canada pavilion. If only I was an Imagineer....

1. What famous garden in Canada does this represent?

Although you gave permission to google, I want to give my honest answers first.
I knew the garden was in British Columbia, in the city of Victoria. I could never remember the name.
Of course google tells me it's the Butchart Gardens. If you're curious, no I have never been there. I've sadly never been to the West Coast.

2. whose cottage is this and what goes on in there? (No, that question isn’t meant to be serious, but I *am* interested in your answers. LOL! Be as creative as you care to be. )

OK, but you are warned...you said be creative...dare I give a Friday night DisDad answer?...
Putting in a spoiler, because, I don't know...I may be jumping the shark with this "creative answer"...

Spoiler: What happens in the cottage

The cottage is where Alice sneaks over form the UK pavilion every night to do the "maple syrup luge run" with the Mad Hatter. And let me tell ya, he's not the first guy to go down that rabbit hole...

3. Who knows what famous Canadian hotel this is made to represent? Googling is 100% allowed. I had to.

OK, I honestly thought it was the Hotel Frontenac in Quebec City. Shame on me. Google knows it's the Hotel Laurier in Ottawa.

What happens, Dear Reader, if someone steps over the rope to enter the theater if no cast member is there for a number of minutes?

No idea. Gets smacked with a snowshoe?

4. Name one of the Composers used in this film.

I am going to say Debussy (without google). I have listened to the film soundtrack several times on YouTube, although I have never actually seen the film in Epcot.

5. What animal sounds can you hear coming from the upper story windows in Morroco?

I'll say goats. Seems like it would fit.

6. There is a very historical document's replica found in the Morocco Pavilion Museum signed by a very famous American. Do you know what that document is or who signed it?

Nope, no clue.

7. Queen's Quiz Time:

Have you:

1. Gotten a pearl?
2. Eaten in Japan? (What did you have?)
3. Taken a picture of the koi fish?
4. Watched the Taiko Drummers?

Sadly, no to all

8. Should guests feed the wildlife at Disney?

I have to say although it is tempting, no. Otherwise they become a big nuisance.

Ummm, I have a trip coming up. October 1- October 4th. Anyone want to have a quick Meet? My plans are pretty firm with some ADRs I don't want to miss, and things I am keeping as TR surprises... but I'd love to seen any and all of you for a hug and hi!

Do I want to YES! Obsolutely! Can I? No...
Now if you want to re-fresh my bank account after my August trip and help send me down...

 

[Flossbolna]

Liesa, I just realized that you will be at WDW on Germany’s national day, October 3rd. You should visit the German pavilion at Epcot that day!

And I am adding some pictures from Disney food from Japan (the country not the pavilion) for you to enjoy and maybe cheer you up a bit!

 

[Steppesister]

J is for: Just in Time??​

We’ve arrived- the last day of our time in Africa. Looking back, it had been a challenging, exhausting, yet rewarding trip to a place as remote and primitive as we’ve ever been. With some last minute things to finish up, we’d be on our way home by evening.


Or would we?


Both of us had packed up the evening before, so when morning came, we ate a hasty breakfast (maybe it was instant grits I'd packed, or maybe it was nothing?) and then loaded the cars to head to our destinations. Unfortunately, we were already behind the 8-ball, so to speak, getting out later than we’d have liked to. Again.

The local staff had some last big plans for us, despite knowing we were on a pretty tight timeline to get to the ferry that would take us to the island the airport is on. Nothing like pushing the envelope in a place notorious for horrible traffic.

First, they had cooked up a little “awards”/appreciation ceremony for us at the office so headed off in that direction. As usual, we crawled at the pace of a 3-legged turtle all the way there. Yes, in fact, I was clock-watching. As my anxiety mounted, they presented us with some very sweet words of thankfulness for our work and a momento to take home (as if the cherished memories of our time there wasn’t enough!). They gave us a toast of grape juice (deferring to the Islamic staff members) and invited us to come back any time. Who knows what the future holds….







From there we had an appointment at the National Government Hospital (Connaught) to officially present the boxes of surgical goods, medications, and other medical supplies to the Head Surgeon and CEO. But first we had a quick tour of a private medical clinic run by that same Head Surgeon nearby the main hospital. The difference was unbelievable. The privately run one was clean, better stocked, and clearly more professionally run. And yet was still, by Western standards, Spartan.







At Connaught:



Have I mentioned Sierra Leone is hot? Have I compared it to your-mom’s-leather-car-seats-in-August-at-noon hot? We walked from that Clinic to Connaught in the burning morning sun only to be told we’d have to wait.


Tick, tock, tick tock, tick tock…


“We’re sorry, they are all busy right now.”

“Yes, we realize that, but we have many thousands of $$ of stuff to give you.”

“Please wait here in the hot sun for an hour. We’ll be right with you.”

“Oh sure! We’ll be back…. Never.”


We did wait that hour. In the hot sun. Only to receive an incredibly lukewarm, bordering on rude welcome. No, they will never get another shipment from us. They knew we were coming for weeks, and really had no legit reason to receive us with ungrateful attitudes.

You would think our hosts would be concerned about the deadline we were on. Airlines, even in Africa, wait for no one.


They were not. “Oh, we’ll get there in plenty of time; don’t worry!”

Meanwhile, I snapped a few more photos along the way. I was pretty intrigued with the old houses:






So, they took us souvenir shopping. Which admittedly was kinda fun. I wished I’d had loads more cash though. There were many things I’d wished I could have gotten. But, I did come away with a very nice carved wooden face profile, several batiks, and the crème de la crème, my carved Nativity Set. Sorry, it’s packed away, but it’s simply gorgeous in a rough, handmade way. We dickered and bargained with several sellers and that certainly brought back many memories of shopping in Crapistan.





On our walk back to the office, I saw the most shocking thing I'd possibly ever seen in my life. A young woman of some other ethnicity, possibly Romani?, was carrying a bundle draped in a sheet. Hanging out from beneath was the skin-covered, leg bone of a starving child. I knew in my mind this is a reality in many places, but it was always a concept, something distant,... remote and removed from my own reality. This was up close and in my personal space. A gross and incredibly disturbing scene that I will never forget.


Finally, FINALLY!, it was time to head to the airport. By then I was visibly and (I hate to admit it) vocally stressed out and full of anxiety. We took off in the 2 cars and made good time until this….



100%, totally stopped. We sat there in that for about 20 minutes before the drivers decided to turn around and go the long(er) way. Only to find that the side streets leading away from that were gridlocked too. I have no idea how, but they managed to navigate a way out (with no small amount of yelling, cursing, etc…) and make some headway. But our ferry departure time came and went. It was the last one that would have gotten us to the airport (island) on time to make our flight.


You know that point you get to when it’s called resignation? I was there.


I knew in my heart, there was no way by now we’d make our flight because there was no way we were going to make our ferry. At this point, I just wanted to get home. I was tired, worn out, out of clean clothes, out of patience, and out of money. Nevertheless, we continued to make our way toward the waterfront. Worst case scenario we’d get to the island, which is actually very, very large and get a "motel" room until other arrangements could be made. It wasn’t the end of the world, but it was one more annoyance that was avoidable with some better planning.


Eventually, we did arrive. Just in time to see our ferry about 1,000 yards offshore. Luckily, there are a few small companies that run motorboats that can get you to the island in ½ the time for 10 times the price. Which was negotiated for us with 100 times the hassle. It was one of several times this trip that was genuinely uncomfortable and… weird. They LOUDLY argued over the price, how many porters we’d pay, etc…. Then after the payment was made, the arguing began all over again. With even more awkwardness.



Finally, we walked down to our waiting boat and climbed in.





Surrounded by a sea of floating trash, we waited. And waited. And waited. On the ramp beside our boat we saw the guys who seemed to be in charge arguing with another guy with a clipboard and a collared shirt. Turns out it was a safety inspector who was standing there enforcing the rule that every single person on board (7 of us including the driver) had a life jacket. And on. Finally, some observable common sense. It took another 15 minutes to have someone go up to their office and get them, bring them down to us, and then finally get a sign off from the safety guy once every one had one on.





The 30 minute boat ride was, while stressful, refreshing as well. The wind in my face and occasional salty water splashes were a nice change from stifling air and rivers of sweat on me.



I also got one of my very favorite shots from the trip on the way over:



It would happen to also be one of the two occasions that a couple of my subjects were not overly happy with me. Oh well.... I had bigger things to worry about.

Like getting on a plane.

The boat came to a stop a dozen or so feet away from dry land in about 3 feet of water. There was a small commotion that I clearly did not understand. We were on one side being yelled at to, under NO circumstances, let our bags leave our grips, and on the other being surrounded by men grabbing for us to hold on to them. The next second, before I knew what was happening, the most surprising, bordering on terrifying thing happened: I was, without warning, picked up and whisked overboard by a man to be carried to shore. It wasn't malicious or rough, but was so completely surprising that I may have yelped a bit as I was hoisted over the side. As each of us found ourselves safely on dry sand, we reconnoitered and took a count of our belongings. Everything seemed to be in our possession and more haggling over porters and prices was done for getting our bags to the area of waiting taxis. George's wife didn't waste time and hoisted one of my aunt's suitcases right where she thought best; in classic W. African form it rested on her head and she gracefully carried it there to the van we chose to take us the 20 minutes to the airport.

Of course, it had to stop for gas on the way there.

With an hour to spare we made our way past the airport guardhouse and on into the security, bag check, and ticket counter. It was finally time to make our way home.

I won't lie and say that I didn't appreciate the VIP Lounge my aunt had access to Brussels. After having eaten fish, cassava, rice, and not much else for 10 days, I was ready for a bit of variety and upscale. This was certainly that. Unlimited spirits, a smorgasbord of meats, cheeses, pastries, salads, and other beverages was all there for the taking. To say I didn’t enjoy my fresh latte more than anything would be like saying I'm not excited about getting my first Disney Annual Pass in a couple of months.











Completely satiated, we boarded for our final leg with amazing memories, incredible experiences, and a few more lifelong friends.

Remember Friends...


Adventure is out there!!!!!




... One last parting shot of stuff on a head. I never did grow tired of that.

 

[Flossbolna]

What a day!!! I am so happy for you that you got to experience this!!! But I also know that I would have felt the way you did on that last day after my first hour there. I truly admire you for your persistence!

And great news on the AP! I hope you will be able to make good use of it!!!

 

[Chrystmasangel]

What a crazy trip to the airport. I don't think I will complain about traffic on the way any more. I guess when you live in an area where there is not so much hustle and bustle, things just don't seem as urgent. Everything slows down or even comes to a screeching halt. There is no sense of urgency out of anyone. Kind of surreal to think about it.

I can't believe the hospital/clinic that was receiving all those supplies from your group were so ungrateful. You would have thought they would have been very welcoming. I get that an emergency would take precedent, but to be ungrateful for so much help. I don't understand...

Is this where you got the square of silk I won from your last TR contest?

And to think...I can't even balance a basket upside down on my head. LOL This is amazing!

 

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

How stressful! I would have been sweating buckets for sure! So glad that you made it though even if it was an adventure to get there.

Thanks so much for sharing this experience with us! It takes a strong person to go into an unfamiliar environment such as that and be so giving. I really admire that about you, you daughter and the other volunteers.

 

[Steppesister]

Steppe's Quiz Around the Showcase- Pt. 2
​

We’re finally nearing the end of this pretty dead TR, almost a year later. It’s been fun for me to re-live the memories I made through the writing and the photos, but it’s time to put it to bed as I look forward to another saunter in my favorite place. Two chapters to go and, depending how crappy I can make my writing, I’ll bet I can wrap it up today. Please contain your relief.


I had last left off with having perused half of World Showcase. Since the previous visit found me going in the (correct) counter-clockwise direction, I began this day by cruising the other way. "Why?", you might ask, Dear Reader. Because sometimes, the Sirens of Mexican Food calls earlier in the day. I responsibly (?) answered with a rousing round of an empanada and a margarita. The year before's F&W offerings were crappy, so I was going to skip anything from those kiosks completely.

As we entered the Pavilion, I noticed the new permanent kiosk Choza de Margarita and thought, “Why not?”





The line was short, and in no time at all had one of these surprisingly delicious little beauties in my hand.



I knew for sure I didn’t want a marg from here as they are all pre-mixed and presumably not very delicious compared to a freshly made ones from The Ditch. So off I went in that direction. I hadn’t ridden It’s a Small Mexico in quite some time, and there was no line, so I took a quick spin on that. I still have no desire to get Rohypnol’d there so will probably never go, but it’s a cute ride nonetheless.





Onto better things… like this:







No, I'm not on PCP. I swear.

Quiz Time!

1. Have you ever had a marg from La Cava, and if so what is your favorite flavor?? I order something different every time I go, because I can't choose!

Sorry, I took a ridiculous number of photos from Mexico this time.


Okay, fine. I ended up with one.

I also ended up with another, my 3rd, little ceramic cross to add to my growing collection from this pavilion. Each is different, and they are hanging in my living room.

Next stop, NORWAY- home of my beloved Rice Cream.



(There are some lesser delicious treats as well.)

And I can still eat it beside a statue of questionable nature. Sorry, I just don’t get this one.



2. Can someone please explain this statue to me? Is she nude? Running? What is she running from? Be as creative as you'd care to be.


And other fun photo ops. I can say, I really loved the Christmas decorations here, perhaps more than in any other pavilion. Really well done!


Super hate that wire in there and it makes me want to learn photoshop.







3. Be honest, have you even spent any time looking at the displays in the Stave Church??



On a scale of 1-10, Norway gets a 6.5. Mostly because they destroyed a perfectly good ride, wrecked the Akershus’ authentic menu, and obliterated the once amazing merchandise selections replacing them with Frozen C.R.A.P. I did however, find a small selection of Christmas ornaments made of pewter and I picked one of those up in the shape of a mitten for my Shop-Around-the-Showcase souvenir.

4. I'd like to hear your opinions on the changes in the Norway Pavilion. Who remembers the super awesome Viking Ship there? My kids LOVED climbing all over that thing!

China was next, as you know, and I ended up spending quite a bit of time here… much more so than I’d normally spend, but the longer I wandered, the more photo ops I found. Enjoy the photogenic side of EPCOT’s China Pavilion:















I ended up in the room that houses (for now) a nice diorama display of Shanghai Disney and some memorabilia from there. I must admit, I enjoyed it much more than I thought I would. I think my favorite little tidbit was this Chinese Zodiac using all Disney animals. Cute and creative.



I was successful here as well with my Shop-Around-the-Showcase purchase, although, I can’t remember what it was. LOL! Sorry, just not in a place I can find it easily.

Germany was fun but is one of my lesser enjoyed places. No attraction, small, and mostly focused on shopping, which isn’t my thang; Steppe gives it a 4 on the Showcase O’Meter. I was mainly here to do the Agent P Adventure, so I ended up in here long enough to get a couple of fun shots aside from the ones you’ve already seen from Agent P.





5. Did Steppe buy anything from Karamell Kuche? Has she ever? Have you?

I was able to get my Shop-Around-the-Showcase purchase in no time, choosing an Olde World frog prince ornament. No particular reason except that I fell in love with him right away.

By the time I got to Italy, this old gal was kinda pooped. I’d eaten, as you know, a veritable crapton of food from the F&W Kiosks (see previous posts) and was losing steam fast. I don’t remember it being overly hot, but I do remember being just… done. So, I only took 2 photos after I got my little ceramic mask magnet. I have 3 now, and love to see my little growing collection.

6. The gondolas are obviously representative of Venice, but what Italian place does the Plaza area represent?

7. Now for a bonus! What is YOUR most and least favorite Pavilions in WS?? Go the extra mile and rank them!

And that, my friends, is a wrap. The end of World Showcase for 2017. I’m looking forward (a LOT!) to making another Trip Around the World in just about 2 months where outrageous amounts of Food and Wine will be consumed, more photos will be taken, and more memories made.


Next up is a quick and dirty review of The Nomad Lounge, and then after that a summary and last thoughts.

Until then…. Keep smiling,

Yours,

Steppe

 

[Steppesister]

Haha I think it depends on where I'm staying because if I enter through IG, then I'd definitely go counterclockwise but if not then I have a better shot of going clockwise...although sometimes I do the counter clockwise regardless. Your argument for tacos and margaritas is definitely THE reason to go counterclockwise though!

That makes total sense! But, as you'll see in my last update, sometimes the margs must come first. LOLOLOLOL!

1) The garden that starts with a B in British Columbia.

HAHA! Okay, good enough!

2) The night elf caretaker He is actually part of Norway but they hired him in exchange for his services. They pay him in pretzel bread and cheddar cheese soup, of course.

Well, of course! What else does the pavilion have to offer?

3) Chateau Laurier in Ottowa (totally googled)

Nice googling!

4) Crap I have not watched the film since 1996...hmm how about Chopin?

Nope. Debussy has the lion's share.

5) I have no idea! er, monkeys? Ferrets?

Believe it or not... chickens.

1. Not for myself, but bought it for my nieces
2. Japan the country or Japan the pavilion. The country, there is to many to count, but Pavilion at Tokyo Dining I got a bento box of items which includes sushi, chicken, sashimi, rice, etc. I also went to the Teppan grill, which I thought was pretty good compared to other places we have nearby (they are pretty dismal).
3. I can't stand the smell of koi so no, I try to stay away from koi.
4. Yes

I take it then, you've spent a fair amount of time in that pavilion! You've done well!!

8) Hmm I don't think so otherwise we'd have an issue won't we?

I've never seen any animal issues there at WDW.



I kill myself. I almost treated an ibis to an entire pulled pork sandwich a couple years ago at Flame Tree.

I also find it hilarious that i've already replied to these, so you now get 2 responses to the same quote. LOL! Must be nap time.

 

[Steppesister]

I don't remember but aren't they in Victoria?

Yes, they are! Butchart to be exact!

It's the old witch from Brave, she went to Canada when she fled Scotland!

OH, VERY creative answer!! I like it!!

I always thought it was the Hotel Vancouver or an amalgamation of the hotels built by the Canadian railroad.

Me too, but according to Google:

"The Canada pavilion's centerpiece was inspired by the Chateau Laurier, a historic hotel found in Ottawa." - http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/guides/epcot/epws-canada.htm

Berlioz?

He is not listed in the Playlist. Surprisingly, Buddy Baker has MANY original piece included in the film.

Yes. I ate there when they had a real sushi bar, so I've definitely had sushi. I've had Teppan several times and I've also had Pork Tonkatsu.

You've done well there! I don't remember it being a real sushi bar, which was probably before I started going regularly.

No. My mom had a Koi pond in her backyard for many years, so it wasn't all that exciting to me.

I can see how it'd lose it's appeal and draw then.

You're talking to someone who bring cats treats to Disneyland.

LOL!! Okay, well yes, but they are trying to steal people's fries and corndogs in broad daylight either!

Sure! I have a trip planned those dates! I'm just waiting until November for my 11 month window to open.

Oh wait? Did you mean in 2018?

I did, but guess what?? I'll be there in Sept., 2019 too.

 

[Steppesister]

No but you should come hang out October 24-28 at DL.

Jill in CO

I wish I could afford it! And I don't have anymore time off either.

 

[Steppesister]

Yes, I thought that might be what you were referring to. No idea how Disney got a way with that! And on such a large scale!
(Feeling slightly threatened right now.)

I have no idea either! It's pretty... just wow.

Oh, sure. Bio-luminescence is known by most folks.
What I was asking about though was this: "the use of clear acrylics and other lesser-seen materials for the artistry that is Pandora."

Well, I've not seen many other places around WDW that have accessories that look like glass but aren't.

Hmmm... interesting. While I know of it, I've never (intentionally!) introduced blur.
No. Wait. That's wrong. I will intentionally blur a background to punch the foreground subject up. Of course that's super common and depending on the lens, unavoidable.

Yes, I've done that too with the aperature/focal length. At least I think that's what it's called. Like I've said before, I really need to take a class on photog.

Until you learn to sashay? Yes. That's what I'm saying!

I will take an ice cream martini as an apology.

I'm sorry to hear that Liesa. And if I'd read this a couple weeks ago when you posted, I would've asked you about it and offered you a real hug instead of a virtual one.
I hope that things have since taken a turn for the better and you have found some comfort since posting that.

Not really. But I'm surviving and taking one day at a time. Thank you for your kind words and support.

Oh, absolutely agree with you! The only right way is by sauntering. Since sashaying is an elusive art form that few can master, it would be unfair to expect anyone other than the truly talented to be able to accomplish it.
So... let's just say that sauntering is the right way so as to avoid disappointing the masses.

Wait! Now you're grouping me with the riff-raff too? Unbelievable!

This sounds like the voice of experience talking.

I've been in there a time or two.

Gotta say... you're right.
I think I have given better gifts to DISers than is available there.
(No not bragging. More of a reflection on how bad it is there.)

Sad really. Such a poor representation of the country's wonderful goods!!!

Was there not that long ago. Didn't see enough of Butchart Gardens, and need to go back.

Really?! I haven't been since I was like 8 or so. I loved it!

I do happen to know that is where we house our national animal, the beaver. They only come out at night (we don't want to flash our beavers in broad daylight, do we?) and their sharp incisors are used to trim the grasses and nip off the weeds. We also keep a small amount of Canada Geese there. They serve a dual purpose of fertilizing the garden (if you've ever been around geese, you know how true this is) and are also used for herding the beavers. That's where the term "Goose your beaver" comes from. It's a herding term.

You. Did. Not!



When I first read that I about died laughing. You like to flirt with the edge, don't you?

Been there actually. They have a wonderful Yousuf Karsh collection in Chateau Laurier.
If you don't know who he is, he took this famous painting (among others)

"took this famous painting"?? How do you do that? Sorry, confused!

Fun story in how that came about, if you're interested.

I am!!! Can you share it?

Hmmm... sounds like a story?

So, I saunter up to the queue/ entrance to the show and find a rope there. I am completely alone, with ZERO other guests around. And I wait, and wait. And wait. And wait. Must've been 5 minutes?? Seriously, the show is barely worth that long a wait if you've already seen it before, so thought, well, maybe they just can't see me? So I stepped over and walked into the covered show foyer area. Only to be snapped at by the CM, "Next time, don't step over the ropes; they are there for a reason!".

I grumbled under my breath as I left <Then next time, do you your job>

I was not amused.

Wait! They get an 8... what does Canada get? (No I won't be offended. More curious.)

A solid 5. The show is okay, Le Cellier is pretty darn good and it is picturesque, but it could use a bit.. more and certainly some better shopping!!! Also, no worthwhile enterrtainment option. Off kilter was good and, like Mo'Rockin', there was no reason to give them the snowshoe.

Gorgeous capture!

Thank you!!

Possibly me. Not a martini fan. Depends on what else is in it I think.

Ice cream's pretty fantastic, no?

No clue! Someone French I presume... so... maybe Debussy?

YES, loads of his stuff.

Oh? Why not? Beautiful there.

I've been to Paris. Twice. Was far less than impressed with the rude people. I"m sure the countryside outside of the city is lovely and all, but so is Italy and Germany. I'll spend my $$ there, thanks.

Like this shot. You've got lots of nice shots and I won't comment on all of them, but that one stood out a bit.

I like the lines and texture in that one too.

Camel? No clue.

Nope, but chickens can be heard.

You're making this even more appealing, you know.
I just was interested in the food before.

I haven't met a man yet that hasn't taken more than a passing glance at the belly dancers.

What is that? Another coaster?

No, a coin purse. Dug it out and put it in my purse after I posted that thinking it was a shame to not be using it.

My fave. What score does it get? (Considering Morocco rates a 9 and UK is an 8)

The Showcase O'Meter says.... a 7. But this one is far too subjective. I don't LOVE the drummers, although I do stop and watch at least a little if they are performing while I'm passing. The shopping of course if top notch, but, the dining is ho hum to me. Practically EVERY major town in N. America has a hibachi place where chefs toss food around, and the CS place there was awful when I tried it last. I do hear there is a signature dining place coming and I'd be VERY interested in trying that out, and the overall feel and gardens are lovely. Just my opinion, so please take with a grain of salt.

1. nope. But I have purchased them (elsewhere, Hawaii) for the kids
2. Yep. Did Teppen Edo with Kay. Liked it. Fun show.
3. I'm sure I have.
4. Of course! Several times.

You also have taken advantage of the offerings there. YAY!!!

So... rated low. What's the score here?

My least fave. A 3?? VOL is it's only true saving grace.

Really! Interesting. Any photos?

Wow... Well.. Technically, no. Absolutely not. Nor will I where there are signs prohibiting it.

But....... I may have slipped a bit here and there to some friendly critters.

We all have.

 

[Steppesister]

I love this picture because I love round fluffy things and look, even Pandora has them!!

I love all the fun Disney-real plants they put in there, but yes, I have seen your love of round, fluffy things (Baymax) so this is right up your alley.

What amazing low light detail. Do you bring a tripod to the parks too? I usually try and lean my hand or my camera against something but it doesn't always work.

Looking forward to planning our May trip!!

I used one this trip, but like you usually find a trashcan or rail to steady. It won't work in Pandora as you really need to use the delayed shutter there.

ME TOO!!!!

A week too late my friend....

Poop!!! One of these days we'll do that cruise you've been trying to talk me into for... forever.

Hope you have a great time! Loved this movie!

Thanks! I did!! I really loved it too!

 

[Steppesister]

I just watched that for the first time with (one of) my DD. Liked it!

I like how Disney is less focused on Princess meets Prince and they live happily ever after and more on other storylines. This one was very well done with a new setting and out of the box characters. Music was great too!

No offense taken. And I agree on the gift shop. There are so many ideas and improvements I can think of for the Canada pavilion. If only I was an Imagineer....

I think we all wish that- I honestly wonder how much they pay attention to guests' suggestions and ideas. Or even feedback.

Although you gave permission to google, I want to give my honest answers first.
I knew the garden was in British Columbia, in the city of Victoria. I could never remember the name.
Of course google tells me it's the Butchart Gardens. If you're curious, no I have never been there. I've sadly never been to the West Coast.

I was curious- especially about my Canadian readers. I am surprised you've not been to the W. Coast! Just let me know if you can ever get out this way- lots to see and do! And the steak dinner offer stands!

OK, but you are warned...you said be creative...dare I give a Friday night DisDad answer?...
Putting in a spoiler, because, I don't know...I may be jumping the shark with this "creative answer"...

Yours might even rival pkondz'! Holy cow you two! (Yes, I happen to find the DISDad's banter rather hilarious myself. )

OK, I honestly thought it was the Hotel Frontenac in Quebec City. Shame on me. Google knows it's the Hotel Laurier in Ottawa.

I had no idea, but guessed even ... wronger... than you thinking it was the Something Lake Louise place. Fairmont? Banff. Had no clue. Apparently, Canada has more than a few very large, ostentatious, and boxy-looking-with-Mansard-roofing hotels.

No idea. Gets smacked with a snowshoe?

Close, very close. See story up there in the answer to pkondz. I almost got ejected.

I am going to say Debussy (without google). I have listened to the film soundtrack several times on YouTube, although I have never actually seen the film in Epcot.

Correct!! Nicely done!

I'll say goats. Seems like it would fit.

Chickens, my man. Chickens. Which curiously no one guessed.

I have to say although it is tempting, no. Otherwise they become a big nuisance.

They're not already?!

All kidding aside, while most of us have done it, most of us in the same breath would say no.

Do I want to YES! Obsolutely! Can I? No...
Now if you want to re-fresh my bank account after my August trip and help send me down...

I'm having a reallly hard time refreshing my OWN bank account these days! But, it sure would be fun!

 

[Lifelong_Dreamer]

I'd like to hear your opinions on the changes in the Norway Pavilion.

I like the Frozen attractions. However, I miss the old Norway as well. I wish they could have added in the Frozen stuff and still retained the cultural and "authentic" Norway aspects.

 

[Princess Leia]

Excuse me for my late arrival with comments. I am now back on a PC and can do quotes except they disappeared there so Take 2...

Picture Perfect Pandora

I have yet to see Pandora - your photos are incredibly beautiful!

What famous garden in Canada does this represent?

Despite the fact you've moved on I'm still going to answer Butchart Gardens as we've been there! See...real Butchart Gardens! It's a bit bigger!



...and the children are a lot smaller!





Anyone know where the original Il Porcellino is?

UK Pavilion has a fair bit to offer in terms of aesthetics and food and shopping. All in all, Steppe gives it a solid 8 on the Showcase O’Meter.

It really doesn't impress me! I think most people feel the same about their own country. There is no ride and it only represents a little part of the UK in England and fails to represent the other home nations of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. It is a bit of a bugbear when some people on the other side of the Atlantic say "So you're from Scotland, England". Nearly as bad as people accusing Canadians of being Americans!

4. Name one of the Composers used in this film.

Given others have already given Debussy and Saint-Saens I'll add in Ravel and I'm sure Offenbach (although German born) is there too!

Hannah has picked a pearl and we have eaten at Teppan Edo.

I have dabbled quite a lot in sewing historical dresses and absolutely adore their costuming. Those gowns are a LOT of work!!!

I love the photos of your dresses! I would love to wear them! What a lot of work and talent involved.

The local staff had some last big plans for us, despite knowing we were on a pretty tight timeline to get to the ferry that would take us to the island the airport is on.

This would stress me so much. I hate not being in control of such things. I'm so glad you made your flight.

 

[irene_dsc]

I'm way behind, as usual, but thank you for all the story-telling and trip-reporting! I can only imagine how stressed you were on that last day in Africa, trying to make your flight. And completely understand your lack of motivation in collecting supplies for groups that don't appreciate them.

(((hugs))) Sending more hugs for the continued stresses in your life. Glad to see you have lots of fun plans going for the future, however.

Oh, and the square in the Italy pavilion - isn't that supposed to be St. Mark's Square, in Venice?

The main thing I've done in the Japan pavilion is look at all the Pokemon stuff, lol. And this was *before* dd had nearly as much stuff. Side note - I just got back from San Diego Comic-Con, and didn't bother even looking at any of the Pokemon stuff for sale, since dd has so much already and none of it looked particularly interesting from the aisle view. Instead, I loaded her up on the giveaways related to all the more obscure anime she has discovered in the last couple of years...

 

[Captain_Oblivious]

I'm back, now wading in to catch up!

(A word regarding the Contest. Life has taken an unexpected and very unpleasant turn and I am simply unable, due to circumstances, to continue to pour forth the effort needed to continue the contest. Thank you all for playing along. I hope it was fun! I am going to throw in some questions to spur discussion and give you a challenge as I can, though. Feel free to play along if you care to; no pressure and prizes maybe be part of it as I have time and inclination.)

Hang in there, Liesa. I hope things improve for you.

The only right way to do it, of course, is by sauntering around it in a counter-clockwise fashion. It’s just how it’s done well.

Well, I guess I screwed that up, then.

This time, however, I did indeed begin with ‘Our Neighbor to the North’ where totems reach high and the gift shops disappoint. No offense my Dear Canadian Friends, but...

But they have Beaver Butt soap! What else could you possibly need??

Quiz time: 1. What famous garden in Canada does this represent? And for a bonus… 2. whose cottage is this and what goes on in there? (No, that question isn’t meant to be serious, but I *am* interested in your answers. LOL! Be as creative as you care to be. )

1. No idea. The, uh....Canada Gardens?

2. I'm pretty sure that's where Hansel and Gretel were supposed to be boiled into a stew. Anybody checked the menu at Le Cellier lately?

3. Who knows what famous Canadian hotel this is made to represent? Googling is 100% allowed. I had to.

I don't remember the name of it, but it's the one in Quebec City (Old City).

“Could someone please, for the love of God, de-activate his Twitter account. Please?”

4. Name one of the Composers used in this film.

I can't think of any French composers. Fail on my part.

5. What animal sounds can you hear coming from the upper story windows in Morroco?

I didn't even know this was a thing. Monkeys?

6. There is a very historical document's replica found in the Morocco Pavilion Museum signed by a very famous American. Do you know what that document is or who signed it?

I'm guessing something to do with Tripoli.

ProTip: It's awesome to take your menfolk there because you can easily ditch them to go do solo stuff and they'll never even notice you're gone.

7. Queen's Quiz Time:

Have you:

1. Gotten a pearl?
2. Eaten in Japan? (What did you have?)
3. Taken a picture of the koi fish?
4. Watched the Taiko Drummers?

1. Nope.
2. Nope.
3. Yes.
4. Yes.

Lastly, in this update, we'll pop into America- Land of the Even-Worse-Gift-Shop-than-Canada's-NorthWorst Mockantile.

Ok, I knew our tastes were completely different. But this was a gold mine for recently-hired-full-time U.S. Geography teacher.

8. Should guests feed the wildlife at Disney?

I've visited too many National Parks. No! Leave the animals wild!

P.S. About to queue up Coco and watch it with the girl for the first time. Excited!!!

Great movie! Hope you had the tissues handy.

The local staff had some last big plans for us, despite knowing we were on a pretty tight timeline to get to the ferry that would take us to the island the airport is on. Nothing like pushing the envelope in a place notorious for horrible traffic.

Oh, sure. What could go wrong?

We did wait that hour. In the hot sun. Only to receive an incredibly lukewarm, bordering on rude welcome. No, they will never get another shipment from us. They knew we were coming for weeks, and really had no legit reason to receive us with ungrateful attitudes.

Ugh. Come on, people. This isn't hard.

On our walk back to the office, I saw the most shocking thing I'd possibly ever seen in my life. A young woman of some other ethnicity, possibly Romani?, was carrying a bundle draped in a sheet. Hanging out from beneath was the skin-covered, leg bone of a starving child. I knew in my mind this is a reality in many places, but it was always a concept, something distant,... remote and removed from my own reality. This was up close and in my personal space. A gross and incredibly disturbing scene that I will never forget.

I don't even know how to respond to this.

But our ferry departure time came and went. It was the last one that would have gotten us to the airport (island) on time to make our flight.

You know that point you get to when it’s called resignation? I was there.

I'm a parent, so yes, I know that point.

The boat came to a stop a dozen or so feet away from dry land in about 3 feet of water. There was a small commotion that I clearly did not understand. We were on one side being yelled at to, under NO circumstances, let our bags leave our grips, and on the other being surrounded by men grabbing for us to hold on to them. The next second, before I knew what was happening, the most surprising, bordering on terrifying thing happened: I was, without warning, picked up and whisked overboard by a man to be carried to shore. It wasn't malicious or rough, but was so completely surprising that I may have yelped a bit as I was hoisted over the side.

Yikes. This is some adventure you were having!

I won't lie and say that I didn't appreciate the VIP Lounge my aunt had access to Brussels.

Oh man, this must have looked like heaven.

Adventure is out there!!!!!

Thank you for your service to Africa, and for sharing it! Truly a world apart.

No, I'm not on PCP. I swear.

Uh huh.

1. Have you ever had a marg from La Cava, and if so what is your favorite flavor?? I order something different every time I go, because I can't choose!

Nope. I'm a lightweight drinker. One beer in an evening, and I'm good.

2. Can someone please explain this statue to me? Is she nude? Running? What is she running from? Be as creative as you'd care to be.

Like the rest of us, if she has to hear "Let It Go" one more time...

3. Be honest, have you even spent any time looking at the displays in the Stave Church??

Yes! Although not on the most recent trip.

On a scale of 1-10, Norway gets a 6.5. Mostly because they destroyed a perfectly good ride, wrecked the Akershus’ authentic menu, and obliterated the once amazing merchandise selections replacing them with Frozen C.R.A.P.

I was a little sad to see all the Frozen crap in there.

4. I'd like to hear your opinions on the changes in the Norway Pavilion. Who remembers the super awesome Viking Ship there? My kids LOVED climbing all over that thing!

I think I remember the viking ship?

Anyway, I'm ambivalent on the changes. I couldn't recognize anything on the menu in the restaurant and probably never would have eaten there. And I had no love for the Maelstrom. The ride made absolutely no sense whatsoever. Given the name, I was expecting a thrill ride, and instead there were some vikings and trolls for some reason and then a painting of an oil rig.

5. Did Steppe buy anything from Karamell Kuche? Has she ever? Have you?

I was tempted, given the smell. But, no.

6. The gondolas are obviously representative of Venice, but what Italian place does the Plaza area represent?

I thought the plaza was Venice as well. At least the tower is.

7. Now for a bonus! What is YOUR most and least favorite Pavilions in WS?? Go the extra mile and rank them!

1. Germany - I love the detail here and it has the best Perry mission.
2. U.K.
3. Canada
4. China
5. Morocco
6. Mexico
7. France
8. Norway
9. Italy
10. Japan

I don't know how to rank the U.S., since it's my own country.

 

[pkondz]

Looking back, it had been a challenging, exhausting, yet rewarding trip to a place as remote and primitive as we’ve ever been.

And thank you for sharing it with us. You certainly had some very high highs, and very low lows.

we’d be on our way home by evening.


Or would we?

dun dun dunnnnnn...

getting out later than we’d have liked to. Again.

Of course. There are no clocks in Africa. Time doesn't mean the same thing there, does it?

Nothing like pushing the envelope in a place notorious for horrible traffic.

What could possibly go wrong?

Yes, in fact, I was clock-watching.

I bet!

they presented us with some very sweet words of thankfulness for our work and a momento to take home

Aww... nice of them!

They gave us a toast of grape juice (deferring to the Islamic staff members)

I thought about that. So... you have some who will not drink alcohol and some who will. Why not offer both libations and let the guests chose?
If the answer is because the Islamic people would be offended.... I'm sorry, but, too bad.
I prefer to use a live and let live policy. You don't want to drink? That's fine, don't. You want to? Fine, go ahead. I'll do my thing, you do yours.

Now... if the custom is to not drink in the country... or everyone is Islamic, then I will gladly refrain.

Hmm.... let's put it this way. If I go to someone's house and they are Islamic, then I'm not going to bring or expect alcohol.
But if they come to my house, then I will serve wine to my other guests.
But if they are the only guests coming, then I won't serve it to anyone, including myself.

Who knows what the future holds….

Thoughts on that? Planning or thinking of going back?

Don't normally comment on this, but I really like that top you're wearing.

And yet was still, by Western standards, Spartan.

Spartan is okay... as long as you've got that "clean" component to go with it. Which you didn't always see in other places.

Have I mentioned Sierra Leone is hot? Have I compared it to your-mom’s-leather-car-seats-in-August-at-noon hot?

Holy hot, Batman!

“We’re sorry, they are all busy right now.”

“Yes, we realize that, but we have many thousands of $$ of stuff to give you.”

“Please wait here in the hot sun for an hour. We’ll be right with you.”

“Oh sure! We’ll be back…. Never.”


We did wait that hour. In the hot sun. Only to receive an incredibly lukewarm, bordering on rude welcome.

Wow... Just...... wow. Talk about un-appreciative. Do they get tons of supplies from people all the time or something? Wow.

No, they will never get another shipment from us.

No kidding. I'm sure you can find people who actually need it and are grateful.

They were not. “Oh, we’ll get there in plenty of time; don’t worry!”

Famous last words.

I like the shutters.
Then again, maybe they came later as a result of broken windows and no glass available/affordable.

So, they took us souvenir shopping. Which admittedly was kinda fun.

Yay!

I wished I’d had loads more cash though.

Something to keep in mind on your next trip.

several batiks

I had to Google what that was. Interesting.

my carved Nativity Set. Sorry, it’s packed away, but it’s simply gorgeous in a rough, handmade way.

Shoot. I'd have loved to have seen it.

On our walk back to the office, I saw the most shocking thing I'd possibly ever seen in my life. A young woman of some other ethnicity, possibly Romani?, was carrying a bundle draped in a sheet. Hanging out from beneath was the skin-covered, leg bone of a starving child. I knew in my mind this is a reality in many places, but it was always a concept, something distant,... remote and removed from my own reality. This was up close and in my personal space. A gross and incredibly disturbing scene that I will never forget.

Reality can be harsh at times. Shocking, but... real.

By then I was visibly and (I hate to admit it) vocally stressed out and full of anxiety.

Oh, geez. I really feel for you. Can't imagine your stress level.

100%, totally stopped. We sat there in that for about 20 minutes before the drivers decided to turn around and go the long(er) way. Only to find that the side streets leading away from that were gridlocked too. I have no idea how, but they managed to navigate a way out (with no small amount of yelling, cursing, etc…) and make some headway. But our ferry departure time came and went. It was the last one that would have gotten us to the airport (island) on time to make our flight.

Oh, man....

You know that point you get to when it’s called resignation? I was there.

I feel so bad for you just reading this.

At this point, I just wanted to get home. I was tired, worn out, out of clean clothes, out of patience, and out of money.

<sigh> I can only offer again. You poor thing.

Eventually, we did arrive. Just in time to see our ferry about 1,000 yards offshore.

Ouch. You must've deflated even more... or were you already at rock bottom and you just couldn't go any lower?

It was one of several times this trip that was genuinely uncomfortable and… weird. They LOUDLY argued over the price, how many porters we’d pay, etc…. Then after the payment was made, the arguing began all over again. With even more awkwardness.

So.... I gather that this is the norm, so why were you uncomfortable?
And why did the arguing start all over again after payment was made?

You may be down, but you did manage to muster a smile and a thumb's up for the camera.

Surrounded by a sea of floating trash

Ew. Then again... there's that reality thing again.

Reminds me of something I saw just the other day:

"There's plenty of fish in the sea. But there's plenty of trash, too."

Turns out it was a safety inspector who was standing there enforcing the rule that every single person on board (7 of us including the driver) had a life jacket. And on. Finally, some observable common sense. It took another 15 minutes to have someone go up to their office and get them, bring them down to us, and then finally get a sign off from the safety guy once every one had one on.

So everyone, including those gentlemen in the above photo wore one? Was the above photo taken before this? i.e. Did you have a lifejacket to start?

The 30 minute boat ride was, while stressful, refreshing as well.

Why was it stressful? Or are you talking about everything leading up to the boat ride?

The wind in my face and occasional salty water splashes were a nice change from stifling air and rivers of sweat on me.

I bet!

I also got one of my very favorite shots from the trip on the way over:

Love those colours!

It would happen to also be one of the two occasions that a couple of my subjects were not overly happy with me.

Oh? Who? The people on that boat? How do you know they were not happy with you?

The boat came to a stop a dozen or so feet away from dry land in about 3 feet of water.

Why?

I was, without warning, picked up and whisked overboard by a man to be carried to shore. It wasn't malicious or rough, but was so completely surprising that I may have yelped a bit as I was hoisted over the side.

Holy crap! Did you think you were being kidnapped???

George's wife didn't waste time and hoisted one of my aunt's suitcases right where she thought best; in classic W. African form it rested on her head and she gracefully carried it there to the van

Okay... that must've been pretty cool to see.

Of course, it had to stop for gas on the way there.

Of course!

And yet... I thought about this too. If he gasses up without a fare, he's losing time when he could have a fare. So by quickly getting to the place where a fare is likely, i.e. the dock, he gets his passengers and can fill up without fear of being late and having someone else take them.

I won't lie and say that I didn't appreciate the VIP Lounge my aunt had access to Brussels.

I can well imagine.

To say I didn’t enjoy my fresh latte more than anything would be like saying I'm not excited about getting my first Disney Annual Pass in a couple of months.

After all this time with either no coffee or not great coffee.... that must've felt like you were drinking a little slice of heaven.

Dang, that's impressive!

 

[pkondz]

We’re finally nearing the end of this pretty dead TR, almost a year later.

Only a year? Rookie!

I look forward to another saunter in my favorite place.

Of course. If that's the best one can do, one should look forward to it.

Two chapters to go and, depending how crappy I can make my writing, I’ll bet I can wrap it up today. Please contain your relief.

Your writing is always entertaining and never "crappy"... well, with the exception of this, perhaps:

Since the previous visit found me going in the (correct) counter-clockwise direction, I began this day by cruising the other way. "Why?", you might ask,

Oh! This is another day. I thought it was a continuation of the last update... I was thinking "Wait! She left off in America, how'd she get back to Mexico?"

The line was short, and in no time at all had one of these surprisingly delicious little beauties in my hand.

I had an empenada for the first time recently. Didn't look anything like that. Yours looks better.

I still have no desire to get Rohypnol’d there so will probably never go, but it’s a cute ride nonetheless.

Was sooooooo confused there!
"Wait... she doesn't want to go on the ride because she'll get Rohypnol'd, but she went anyway?"

Took me a minute... but I got it eventually!

I kinda have no desire to go there too.

Onto better things… like this:

Ah yes.... What was your nickname again? Liesa tequila?

Yep. Definitely Liesa tequila.

No, I'm not on PCP. I swear.

1. Have you ever had a marg from La Cava, and if so what is your favorite flavor??

I have, but don't remember which one. Think I've had... two?

Sorry, I took a ridiculous number of photos from Mexico this time.


Okay, fine. I ended up with one.

Now that's ridiculous!

I also ended up with another, my 3rd, little ceramic cross to add to my growing collection from this pavilion. Each is different, and they are hanging in my living room.

Next stop, NORWAY- home of my beloved Rice Cream.

Ah yes. I do recall that. Still not one of my favourite things. I don't mind it, but.... I just find it Okay.

(There are some lesser delicious treats as well.)

Blech! Coconut.
Definitely lesser.

mmmmm... those troll horns look good, though. Yum!

And I can still eat it beside a statue of questionable nature. Sorry, I just don’t get this one.

I wonder if she's not supposed to represent Freya? The Goddess of Love? Just guessing, though.

2. Can someone please explain this statue to me? Is she nude? Running? What is she running from? Be as creative as you'd care to be.

There's a very logical yet sad explanation.
She got Rohypnol'd while riding It's a Small Mexican World. Luckily she came to and escaped, but not before she'd had her clothes removed. She's running from that, of course.
It'd be nice if someone helped that poor girl. Maybe threw her a towel or something.

Super hate that wire in there and it makes me want to learn photoshop.

I'm at work, otherwise I'd do it for you. It would take a lot of work, though... maybe.... 5-10 seconds?

3. Be honest, have you even spent any time looking at the displays in the Stave Church??

I have!

On a scale of 1-10, Norway gets a 6.5. Mostly because they destroyed a perfectly good ride, wrecked the Akershus’ authentic menu, and obliterated the once amazing merchandise selections replacing them with Frozen C.R.A.P.

Sheesh! The way you describe it, I thought it would score a negative three.

4. I'd like to hear your opinions on the changes in the Norway Pavilion. Who remembers the super awesome Viking Ship there? My kids LOVED climbing all over that thing!

I don't remember the Viking Ship, but I do remember the old ride of course. I liked the old menu, but get that it wouldn't appeal to the majority of the clientele. At least not at the time, maybe it would now, since there are more choices available elsewhere? I too find the over-emphasis on Frozen merch a bit excessive. I don't mind the new ride though, but certainly won't stand in line... at all... for it. FP, little to no line or it gets skipped.

China was next, as you know, and I ended up spending quite a bit of time here… much more so than I’d normally spend, but the longer I wandered, the more photo ops I found.

I did the same thing! And I love the photos you took.

I ended up in the room that houses (for now) a nice diorama display of Shanghai Disney and some memorabilia from there.

That I didn't see.

I think my favorite little tidbit was this Chinese Zodiac using all Disney animals. Cute and creative.

I like that! Funny and clever.

Germany was fun but is one of my lesser enjoyed places. No attraction, small, and mostly focused on shopping, which isn’t my thang; Steppe gives it a 4 on the Showcase O’Meter.

Too bad. It reminds me of one of my favourite places so I enjoy it quite a bit.

5. Did Steppe buy anything from Karamell Kuche? Has she ever? Have you?

I'm gonna go with no. no. and... yes I have. Yummy!

I was able to get my Shop-Around-the-Showcase purchase in no time, choosing an Olde World frog prince ornament. No particular reason except that I fell in love with him right away.

Fell in love with it? Because he's kinda ugly in a cute way?

6. The gondolas are obviously representative of Venice, but what Italian place does the Plaza area represent?

Well.... I was pretty sure that the plaza was representative of Venice too. The Doges palace recreation on the east side of the plaza, the bell tower of San Marco, the two columns out front of St Mark (represented by the lion) the patron saint of Venice and St. Theodore (killing the dragon) who was the previous patron saint of Venice.

7. Now for a bonus! What is YOUR most and least favorite Pavilions in WS?? Go the extra mile and rank them!

Okay! Here we go. Might be swayed a bit in other directions, depending on my mood, but...

Japan 9
Germany (due to nostalgia factor) 8
France 6
UK 5
Italy 5
China 4
Mexico 4
Norway 4
Canada 4
Morocco 3
US 2

And that, my friends, is a wrap. The end of World Showcase for 2017. I’m looking forward (a LOT!) to making another Trip Around the World in just about 2 months where outrageous amounts of Food and Wine will be consumed, more photos will be taken, and more memories made.

Can't wait to hear all about it!