What's missing from WS countries?

[LiLIrishChick63]

I would like to see them take the guy carving wood and put it in AK in Africa somewhere......and in it's place, put Russia or maybe Egypt.....

As much as I hate to say this, since I am from America.....the USA as a country has nothing.....since WDW is in Florida, I wouldn't mind if they replaced America with another country.....please don't flame!!!

i have to agree. they make America seem like we're still back in the colonial period for some reason. do people from other countries that only visit Disney in America think the rest of America is like that?

Canada is pretty boring too. but maybe it's because i live so close to it, that i know that there's a lot of other, better things they could add.

 

[LiLIrishChick63]

If you're being sarcastic then I love you. I think they need to DO AWAY with the McDonalds. It makes me sad when I see families sitting outside the bathroom scarfing down their Supersized combo meals. There's a plethora of food to be found in the WS (even burgers in america), the least you can do if trying something else.

there's McDonald's all over the world too. i like how it's only associated with America.

 

[Cdn Friends of Pooh]

Canada also could really use a Tim Horton's!

And we can't forget the ice hockey rink in which to drink your Timmy's

 

[Cdn Friends of Pooh]

You mean to say that Canadians don't dress solely in lumberjack gear and use wooden skis anymore?

Nor do we live in igloos or take dog sleds to work while dodging the polar bears on the way to the office.

To quote a famous Canadian commercial ...
"Hey, I'm not a lumberjack, or a fur trader....
I don't live in an igloo or eat blubber, or own a dogsled....
and I don't know Jimmy, Sally or Suzy from Canada,
although I'm certain they're really really nice.

I have a Prime Minister, not a president.
I speak English and French, not American.
And I pronounce it 'about', not 'a boot'.

I can proudly sew my country's flag on my backpack.
I believe in peace keeping, not policing,
diversity, not assimilation,
and that the beaver is a truly proud and noble animal.
A toque is a hat, a chesterfield is a couch,
and it is pronounced 'zed' not 'zee', 'zed'

Canada is the second largest landmass!
The first nation of hockey!
and the best part of North America

And I am Canadian!!!"

 

[carolfoy]

As for a second African country, I vote for South Africa. It's huge, beautiful, and very diverse so there are many options for a pavillion. Plus, great food and wine - always a must for a country at Epcot!

I totally agree, a table moutain replica, apartheid museum and a beach with playful penguins would go down a treat!

 

[DiszyDeanette]

I'm not sure about this, but I was under the impression that the different countries represented actually sponsor their showcases, just like a world's fair. I was reading about the original WS that was suppose to go where the TTC is, and that was how they were proposing it then. So I would imagine that countries not represented simply don't want to be, and it's not Disney closing them out. I mean... this is Disney we're talking about! If a country gave them money for a WS, they would squeeze them in no matter what!!

 

[reeeoga]

I have thought more about this thread and its topic. I have come to the conclusion that the WS needs is a "Starbucks" in every country, with 2 in China (due to its big population). WS also needs a "Starbucks" in carts every 25 to 30 feet. They also should put one in Mission Space, Test Track, Innovintions East and West, 3 in Spaceship Earth, one on each side of the Entrance to Epcot, 4 in The Land, 2 in HISTA, 7 in Ellen's Energy Adventure, and 1 near the Fountains in the center of FutureWorld. One in each car of the Monorail may also be needed. There should NOT be one in The Seas with Nemo and Friends as we don't need Jittery Fish.

I have been to Houston and have seen a Starbucks directly across the street from a Starbucks. Not just a small "nook" type store, but a free standing large store. Both of them.

 

[MyGoofy26]

I'm not sure about this, but I was under the impression that the different countries represented actually sponsor their showcases, just like a world's fair. I was reading about the original WS that was suppose to go where the TTC is, and that was how they were proposing it then. So I would imagine that countries not represented simply don't want to be, and it's not Disney closing them out. I mean... this is Disney we're talking about! If a country gave them money for a WS, they would squeeze them in no matter what!!

All true. . . but if Disney wanted to add more space, all they'd have to do is let it be known and start accepting offers from countries. I'm sure a number of countries would jump at the chance, but Disney has to be offering the space first.

 

[DiszyDeanette]

All true. . . but if Disney wanted to add more space, all they'd have to do is let it be known and start accepting offers from countries. I'm sure a number of countries would jump at the chance, but Disney has to be offering the space first.

Do we know for a fact that they are not?

 

[simzac]

I would love to be able to purchase souveniers from the other Disney parks around the world at each of their countries. JMO

 

[ChrisFL]

No, I dont believe World Showcase has sponsors from countries, but I'm not 100% certain

 

[mrzrich]

All true. . . but if Disney wanted to add more space, all they'd have to do is let it be known and start accepting offers from countries. I'm sure a number of countries would jump at the chance, but Disney has to be offering the space first.

Not neccesarily. I don' t think the pavilions at WS = an increased travel revenue for the sponsoring nations. Norway no longer sponsors their pavilion because it cost more to maintain than it made.

China's experiment in Florida tourism "Splendid China" was a big dissapointment for them. Which is a shame, because it was beautiful. I wish WDW had the forsight to purchase some of those displays and put them in the China pavilion they were awesome

 

[vonpluto]

All true. . . but if Disney wanted to add more space, all they'd have to do is let it be known and start accepting offers from countries. I'm sure a number of countries would jump at the chance, but Disney has to be offering the space first.

Carrie, this old news release is probably a good example of how the "add-a-country" process works:

"Ukrainian pavilion idea advances at Disney World's EPCOT Center
by Natalia Warren

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Jason Harper, president of the Ukrainian Project Fund recently met with George Kalogridis, executive vice-president of EPCOT Center at Walt Disney World, to further discuss plans for the proposed Ukrainian Pavilion.
As a result of the meeting, Mr. Kalogridis added Ukraine to a list that includes two other countries vying for the site between the Chinese and German pavilions. Mr. Kalogridis also gave Mr. Harper the go-ahead to discuss the pavilion project with other Walt Disney Company officials.
"He was very receptive," said Mr. Harper about Mr. Kalogridis' reaction to the idea of a Ukrainian pavilion. "He is very energetic and positive, and has a fresh perspective on what EPCOT is and what it will be," he added.
Although Mr. Harper was not at liberty to discuss details of the March 4 meeting, he did say that EPCOT will definitely have a new pavilion in the not too distant future.
The early morning meeting was arranged by Greg Emmer, former executive vice-president of EPCOT and current executive vice-president of The Magic Kingdom. In 1993 Mr. Emmer hosted then Ukrainian Ambassador to the United States Oleh Bilorus, when the idea of the Ukrainian pavilion was originally raised by the UPF.
According to Mr. Harper, Mr. Kalogridis "took the time at the meeting to become very familiar with the Ukrainian pavilion idea. He was impressed by the proposal and called it very complete."
Besides architectural sketches of Ukrainian-style buildings, a drawing for a roller coaster ride and photos of souvenirs, the proposal includes a videotape of Ukrainian dancing, provided by the Rusalka Dance Company of Winnipeg, which also has lent its name in part to the proposed sit-down restaurant, Club Rusalka.
Copyright © The Ukrainian Weekly, May 12, 1996, No. 19, Vol. LXIV "

Some other plans RumorMouse has come across over the years:

Russia - Last debut date late1994, early 1995; projected film “The Bells of Change”, projected ride based on “Ivan & the Magic Pike”

Switzerland 1989 - Swiss government approved construction of a Swiss sponsored pavilion in World Showcase, to include a 164’ replica of the Matterhorn. Final approval hinged on financal aggreements between the Swiss government and Swiss companies. (Hey, even have a rendering!)

Mt Fuji in Japan, Hong Kong themed nightime area on the waterway near China (where the Fireworks barges are stored, I always felt this one was really BlueSky, maybe even internet BS), supposed recent negotiations with Spanish interests.

Then there is the factual stuff that never happened:


Equatorial Africa (at Village Traders & refreshment Outpost between Germany & China) (Sign announcing Equatorial Africa was up in 1985)
Show #1 Heartbeat of Africa Pre Show - History of the Drum
African Village
Show #2 Africa Rediscovered (showhost Alex Haley)

"STATE OF ISRAEL PAVILION 1979 EPCOT Fact Sheet
CURRENT DESIGN CONCEPT FOR THE STATE OF ISRAEL PAVILION IS:
On the shorelines of the Israel Pavilion, the ruins of an ancient minaret serves as an information center. This blending of historical and commercial elements showcases modern Israel throughout the pavilion.
Olive and cypress trees line the entrance, and provide shade for buildings and traveler alike. Along one portion of the front, a casual outdoor eating area provides guests with a place to enjoy people watching and delicatessen type foods. Opposite from here, a unique convenience shop offers its visitors a selection of native publications, books, and films.
Beyond the pavilions entrance, the rising walkways lead travelers to a courtyard setting with shops clustered around the perimeter. The bazaar atmosphere of a marketplace in Israel permeates the interior and exterior of these shops. Tapestries, custom wood and brass items, jewelry, fashion apparel, and quality gifts provide guests with a small piece of Israel to take home as a remembrance of their experience. The facades of these buildings reflect the rich balance of the new and old.
Through an archway in the court, guests arrive at the last element of the pavilion – a covered amphitheater characterized after the theater in Caesarea. Here the famous skills of Israeli musicians will be demonstrated in performances of classical and traditional folk music. "

Then there is the Rhine River Ride in Germany, "Meet the World" in Japan (Went to TDL), Victoria Station/Dinner Show in UK, Southern Italy/Roman Ruins section of Italy.

A lot of stuff has been talked about over the years, but never happened. Why? Who knows?
Money
World tensions
Mickey doesn't care for Ukranian cuisine

Were still waiting.

 

[MyGoofy26]

Do we know for a fact that they are not?

No we don't know that. I remember reading not too long ago that Disney was looking at expanding (adding some of the more popular countries from the Millenium Pavilion) which led me to believe that they weren't open to offering the land, and they may be right now. But I was just saying that Disney has to want to open the space up - they aren't just going to jump on the first offer that comes their way just because someone is offering money. There are a lot of details to work out, contracts to negotiate and construction planning. Disney will be thinking long term profits, not just the check that whatever country is willing to write today and how the plans fit in with Disney's overall vision.

 

[MyGoofy26]

Not neccesarily. I don' t think the pavilions at WS = an increased travel revenue for the sponsoring nations. Norway no longer sponsors their pavilion because it cost more to maintain than it made.

China's experiment in Florida tourism "Splendid China" was a big dissapointment for them. Which is a shame, because it was beautiful. I wish WDW had the forsight to purchase some of those displays and put them in the China pavilion they were awesome

I'm not saying that every country would be jumping at the chance. . . but a number of them would love the opportunity. Granted this is pure speculation, but I'd imagine that they're not just looking at increased travel revenue but also looking at it from a good PR move - a chance to "sell" their country and create positive images for people who will never make it out of the states but may some day buy products, vote for politicians who make decisions that effect that country, etc.

 

[BFIrrera]

And we can't forget the ice hockey rink in which to drink your Timmy's

DRINK a Timmy's? I guess that's a coffee? UGH. Never touch the stuff. But, I would love to be able to get one of the Canadian Maple Glazed/Vanilla Cream Filled donuts they serve while I'm roaming through Epcot. On our trip(s) to Toronto, you can hardly walk a block without seeing a Tim Horton's.

It would be like having a Southern New Jersey pavillion with no Wa-Was or 24 hour diners!

 

[El Tel]

I have always felt a little miffed that (as well as the absence of cream teas) the UK doesn't have some kind of ride/attraction like other lands (unless you count the pub) - especially as tourism is fairly important to the UK.
An idea that may gain support from other DISers, is to re-build Mr Toad's Wild Ride there

 

[MPierce]

I have thought more about this thread and its topic. I have come to the conclusion that the WS needs is a "Starbucks" in every country, with 2 in China (due to its big population). WS also needs a "Starbucks" in carts every 25 to 30 feet. They also should put one in Mission Space, Test Track, Innovintions East and West, 3 in Spaceship Earth, one on each side of the Entrance to Epcot, 4 in The Land, 2 in HISTA, 7 in Ellen's Energy Adventure, and 1 near the Fountains in the center of FutureWorld. One in each car of the Monorail may also be needed. There should NOT be one in The Seas with Nemo and Friends as we don't need Jittery Fish.

I have been to Houston and have seen a Starbucks directly across the street from a Starbucks. Not just a small "nook" type store, but a free standing large store. Both of them.

We sure do love our overpriced coffee here!

 

[hoosiergirl7]

I would love to be able to purchase souveniers from the other Disney parks around the world at each of their countries. JMO

That would be really cool since all of them are located in countries that are represented at WS. I've only been to 3 of the 5 Disney Theme Parks (Disneyland Paris, Disneyland & WDW) so I did get some souvenirs from Disneyland in Paris, but not enough and so much has changed since I was tehre in 1998. It hadn't been open very long when I went and was smaller than it is now. I'd so jump on getting Disney souvenirs from the theme parks in the other countries. However, I can see why they don't - the huge Disney conglomerate is just out trying to make a buck so if they can get you to go to the other parks, they make more money.

 

[BFIrrera]

I have always felt a little miffed that (as well as the absence of cream teas) the UK doesn't have some kind of ride/attraction like other lands (unless you count the pub) - especially as tourism is fairly important to the UK.
An idea that may gain support from other DISers, is to re-build Mr Toad's Wild Ride there

There are a number of great ideas for rides that could be added here:

Mr. Toad
Alice
Mary Poppins
Great Mouse Detective
Sword in the Stone (and the rest of the Camelot story)
Bedknobs and Broomsticks (my personal favorite choice)