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	<title>WDW Radio - Your Walt Disney World Information Station by Lou Mongello &#187; Soarin&#8217;</title>
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	<description>Disney podcast, Disney expert, Disney World tour, Disney news, Disney vacation planning, Disney trivia, Disney World Trivia, Disney World history, Disney games, shopping and more!</description>
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		<title>More to &#8220;The World&#8221; for the Great Outdoors Lover</title>
		<link>http://www.wdwradio.com/2013/05/more-to-the-world-for-the-great-outdoors-lover/</link>
		<comments>http://www.wdwradio.com/2013/05/more-to-the-world-for-the-great-outdoors-lover/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 15 May 2013 15:20:45 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Animal Kingdom]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Artist Point]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fort Wilderness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kali River Rapids]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Soarin']]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tri Circle D Ranch]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.wdwradio.com/?p=26336</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>by Kendall Foreman Memorial Day is traditionally considered the kick-off of the summer travel and vacation season.  For many, this means spending time enjoying the “great outdoors” by camping, hiking and or visiting national parks.  Even Walt Disney liked to gather his family together for a time of respite at Smoke Tree Ranch in the [...]</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.wdwradio.com/2013/05/more-to-the-world-for-the-great-outdoors-lover/">More to &#8220;The World&#8221; for the Great Outdoors Lover</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.wdwradio.com">WDW Radio - Your Walt Disney World Information Station by Lou Mongello</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>by Kendall Foreman</p>
<p>Memorial Day is traditionally considered the kick-off of the summer travel and vacation season.  For many, this means spending time enjoying the “great outdoors” by camping, hiking and or visiting national parks.  Even Walt Disney liked to gather his family together for a time of respite at <i>Smoke Tree Ranch</i> in the San Jacinto Mountains east of Los Angeles in Southern California.  There they took pleasure in horseback riding, swimming, lawn bowling, campfires as well as other outdoor activities.  Walt enjoyed being there so much that he purchased a cottage on the ranch property.  By all accounts, he had a great respect and appreciation for the beauty and majesty of nature, especially here in America.  His admiration for God’s creation is evidenced in many ways throughout the <i>Walt Disney World Resort</i>.  There is no question that he was purposeful in his efforts to preserve the environment as well as protect the wildlife both on and around the property.  His legacy lives on as the Disney Company endeavors to emulate and expand upon his example.  As park guests travel throughout the property, they are surrounded by lush, indigenous plant life as well as a variety of animal species.</p>
<p>As is my challenge in each post, I will share several ideas to utilize when trying to sway a <i>Walt Disney World</i> skeptic.  In this case, the objective is to reveal the many ways in which WDW can appeal to lovers of the great outdoors.</p>
<p><b>Included with Admission  </b></p>
<p>One of the best ways to enjoy the great outdoors at <i>Walt Disney World Resort </i>is to simply spend time at the parks and various resorts.  There is no additional cost to leisurely stroll the beautiful walkways that wind throughout the expansive property.  Resorts such as the <i>Animal Kingdom Lodge</i>, <i>Wilderness Lodge and</i> <i>Polynesian Resort </i>have winding paths that lead guests over bridges and streams, along sandy beaches or even past a “savannah”.  Similarly, the various theme parks—especially the <i>Animal Kingdom</i>—offer visitors the opportunity to amble alongside tropical gardens and habitats, over pathways lined with beautiful flowers, lush foliage and swaying palm trees.  A quiet walk at dusk through the exotic <i>Oasis Exhibits </i>at Disney’s <i>Animal Kingdom</i> is an experience park guests should not miss as subtle light gently illuminates this tropical paradise.</p>
<p>For those guests wanting to experience the great outdoors in more exciting ways, there are some attractions <img class="alignright size-full wp-image-19470" style="margin: 10px;" alt="soarin" src="http://www.wdwradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/soarin.jpg" width="300" height="240" />that provide just such an encounter.  One opportunity is <i>Soarin’</i> located in <i>The Land Pavilion</i> in <i>Epcot’s Future World</i>.  Imagineers designed this attraction to take passengers on a simulated flight over California landscapes via the use of a large multi-person “hang glider” and a spectacular film projected on a giant IMAX screen.  The majestic scenes include views of Yosemite National Park, Death Valley, Napa Valley and many others.  The overall experience is enhanced by the perfectly timed wind blowing in the faces of the passengers and the fragrances of oranges, pine, and ocean spray.  The combination of simulated flight movement, incredible aerial views, masterfully composed music, and more are sure to cause the breathtakingly realistic sensation of soaring over California.</p>
<p>Disney’s <i>Animal Kingdom</i> is an expansive opportunity to encounter the great outdoors as well as observe the wildlife living there.   This 500 acre theme park features seven exotic lands, a safari, jungle trek, <img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-26338" style="margin: 10px;" alt="kali" src="http://www.wdwradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/kali-199x300.jpg" width="199" height="300" />numerous thrill rides, and much more.  Consequently, thorough elaboration on this park is unrealistic in a simple post.  However, a visitor favorite worth mentioning is <i>Kali River Rapids</i>.  Situated in <i>Asia</i>, this attraction, which conveys a strong message about environmental destruction, was designed for those who enjoy the thrill of whitewater rafting while exploring the great outdoors.  Initially, rafters float on the relatively slow-moving river, which is carrying them through the misty rainforest.   Everything changes as the raft encounters the effects of illegal logging that has been taking place. The choppy, rushing water eventually forces the raft into a treacherous descent down the mountain and passengers suddenly find themselves knocked about as they wildly careen through the rapids.  Disembarking dry is highly unlikely; therefore, those wishing to avoid a thorough soaking should be sure to wear a poncho.</p>
<p>Over at the <i>Magic Kingdom</i> in <i>Frontierland</i>, an even keeled raft ride across the <i>Rivers of America </i>takes visitors to <i>Tom Sawyer Island</i>.  Replete with places to explore, children and adults will enjoy the challenge of crossing the barrel bridge, visiting <i>Fort Langhorn</i>, searching Injun’ Joe’s Cave, and much more.</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Where to Stay</b></p>
<p><b>               </b>Covering more than 750 acres, it is easy to get lost—in a good way—at the <i>Fort Wilderness Campground</i>.  Guests interested in “getting back to nature” can meander along a winding trail amidst <img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-26339" style="margin: 10px;" alt="Recreation_kayaking-640x444" src="http://www.wdwradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Recreation_kayaking-640x444-300x208.jpg" width="300" height="208" />massive cypress trees where they will be surrounded by lush vegetation and may even cross paths with a variety of wildlife.  “Roughing it” at this Resort can be done according to preference by selecting one of the following: 1) <i>Tent or Pop-up Campsite</i>; 2) <i>Full Hook-up Campsite</i>; 3) <i>Preferred</i> <i>Campsite;</i> or 4) <i>Premium Campsite.  </i>Each of these offers electrical hook-ups, cable TV, water, a charcoal grill as well as a picnic table.  Note:  The <i>Resort</i> permits a maximum party of ten guests per campsite.  If you prefer a cabin to a campsite, the <i>Wilderness Cabins</i> sleep up to six guests and offer the following amenities: housekeeping, a full bathroom, living room, fully equipped kitchen, patio and grill.  Opportunities for enjoying the great outdoors abound at this Resort property.  There are two swimming pools—<i>Meadow Swimmin’ Pool</i> and <i>Wilderness Swimmin’ Pool.</i>  In addition, there are scenic jogging trails, playgrounds, volleyball and basketball courts along with movies under the stars and the <i>Chip ‘N Dale’s Campfire Sing-a-long</i>.</p>
<p>For those who enjoy a rustic atmosphere that draws upon the feel of the great outdoors—without actually camping in it, perhaps a stay at <i>Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is a better option</i>.  This deluxe Resort and Villas replicates a magnificent Northwest American forest lodge from a bygone era.  It is tucked within a heavily wooded area complete with nature trails and two majestic pools—<i>Silver Creek Springs Pool</i> and <i>Hidden Springs Pool </i>(Villas), both of which are spectacular, authentic representations of the great outdoors.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><b>Where to Eat</b></p>
<p>I would be remiss if I did not wholeheartedly recommend to lovers of the great outdoors that they treat themselves to a meal at <i>Artist Point, </i>a restaurant<i> </i>located in<i> Disney’s Wilderness Lodge</i>.  With its <img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-26340" style="margin: 10px;" alt="artist point" src="http://www.wdwradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/artist-point-300x200.jpg" width="300" height="200" />picturesque views of the awe-inspiring wooded landscape, <i>South Creek Falls Pool</i> and <i>Fire Rock Geyser</i>, the dining room’s atmosphere is inviting and bids patrons to stay awhile.  On its walls hang grand scale paintings inspired by German immigrant and artist, Albert Bierstadt, who traveled west in the mid to late 1800s painting landscapes of the American West that would become some of the most recognizable art pieces in the world.  Not to be eclipsed by the beauty of this fine dining location, the unique, authentic menu offerings include:  <i>Smokey Portobello Soup</i>, <i>Cedar Plank-roasted King Salmon</i>, <i>Slow-roasted Buffalo Strip Streak</i>, <i>Smoked Venison Loin</i> and <i>Artist Point Berry Cobbler</i> to mention just a few.  Be assured, this restaurant is well-worth the trip to the <i>Wilderness Lodge</i>.</p>
<p>For those are looking for something less formal, certainly more relaxed, one of the best ways to enjoy the great outdoors while eating is to do the obvious, do so outside.  Several food kiosks are scattered throughout the four theme parks.  Once you have located the one that suits your preferences, make your selections and find a quiet place to rest and enjoy the scenery as you dine in the open air.  I suggest a visitor favorite, the smoked turkey leg found in <i>Frontierland</i> in the <i>Magic Kingdom</i>.  It is the perfect “picnic” food.  I recommend finding a seat along the bridge spanning the <i>Rivers of America</i> there in <i>Frontierland</i>.  Here one can watch as rafts ferry guests to Tom Sawyer Island, listen as the water laps over the giant paddle wheel of the <i>Liberty Belle Riverboat</i> and feel the gentle breeze as it rustles through the canopy of trees overhead.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><b>Something Extra</b></p>
<p><b>               </b>At additional cost, there are several activities available at the <i>Fort Wilderness Campground</i>.</p>
<ul>
<li>Two and four hour fishing excursions can be taken on <i>Bay Lake</i>.  Two boating options are available:  a 21-foot Tracker pontoon accommodates five guests or a Bass Nitro seats two.  The fee includes an experienced guide, equipment, non-alcoholic beverages and a one-year BASS membership.  There is a strict catch and release policy, which is in keeping with Disney’s intention to preserve the environment and wildlife.  This policy makes for a well-stocked lake with plenty of largemouth bass.  For those who prefer to do their fishing from the beach, equipment is available for rent at the <i>Bike Barn</i> there at the campground.</li>
<li><i>Tri-Circle-D Ranch</i> on the campground property offers individuals age 9 years and up the opportunity to horseback ride through the woods on one of several breeds at a cost of $46 per person.  Departing from <i>Pioneer Hall</i>, horse-drawn wagon rides through the campgrounds are available at a cost of $8 for adults and $5 for children 3-9 years of age.  Note:  At no additional fee, interested parties can visit the stables where Cinderella’s ponies and the <i>Main Street, USA</i> horses are boarded.</li>
<li>For those who wish to hit the target just like Robin Hood or Merida, the campgrounds offer the <i>Fort Wilderness Archery Experience</i>, which is a 90 minute program open to all guests age 9 and up.  Located at the <i>Bike Barn</i>, an instructor teaches participants how to use a compound bow; after which, patrons are free to shoot at the range.  The cost is $25 per person.</li>
<li>The campground also has winding canals that can be enjoyed by canoe.  At a cost of $8 per half hour or $12 per hour, interested individuals can rent a canoe and paddles at the <i>Bike Barn</i> and cast off on a leisurely trip through the woods.</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>My challenge in this post was to share several ways to persuade lovers of the great outdoors to take a trip to <i>Walt Disney World Resort</i> where conservationists and Imagineers have created an environmentally conscious, breathtaking travel destination that offers accommodations, adventures, activities, and great eats to satisfy even the most skeptical outdoorsy travelers.</p>
<p><em><strong>If you have experienced the great outdoors at WDW via any of the aforementioned opportunities or in some other way, please share with us in the comment section below.</strong></em></p>
<p><i>Kendall began visiting Walt Disney World in 1991 with her family and has continued to visit the resort with her husband.  As a child, she and her family filled vacations with challenges such as “How many times can we ride Splash Mountain during SpectroMagic and the fireworks?” (Answer: 7)  Now, after marrying a converted Disney skeptic, she and her husband enjoy challenges such as “How many hours can we eat nonstop at the Food &amp; Wine Festival?” (Answer: 4)</i></p>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.wdwradio.com/2013/05/more-to-the-world-for-the-great-outdoors-lover/">More to &#8220;The World&#8221; for the Great Outdoors Lover</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.wdwradio.com">WDW Radio - Your Walt Disney World Information Station by Lou Mongello</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Finding Disney: Hidden Disney Smells</title>
		<link>http://www.wdwradio.com/2013/05/finding-disney-hidden-disney-smells/</link>
		<comments>http://www.wdwradio.com/2013/05/finding-disney-hidden-disney-smells/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 May 2013 13:24:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Disney smells]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[it's a small world]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pirates of the Caribbean]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Soarin']]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.wdwradio.com/?p=26004</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>Extraordinary Magic in Everyday Life by Blake Taylor You just never know when a small sampling of Disney is going to hit you right smack in the face. You might be minding your own business, going about your day, and then—BAM! Smack! Shamwow! It finds you. We already talked about Disney sounds, and now it’s [...]</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.wdwradio.com/2013/05/finding-disney-hidden-disney-smells/">Finding Disney: Hidden Disney Smells</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.wdwradio.com">WDW Radio - Your Walt Disney World Information Station by Lou Mongello</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h1><em><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Extraordinary Magic in Everyday Life</span></strong></em></h1>
<p>by Blake Taylor</p>
<p><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-26007" style="margin: 10px;" alt="The Land" src="http://www.wdwradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/The-Land-300x200.jpg" width="300" height="200" />You just never know when a small sampling of Disney is going to hit you right smack in the face. You might be minding your own business, going about your day, and then—BAM! Smack! Shamwow! It finds you.</p>
<p>We already talked about Disney<a href="http://www.wdwradio.com/2013/04/finding-disney-hidden-disney-sounds/" target="_blank"> sounds</a>, and now it’s time to delve into a different sense, one that I think we’ll have fun with: smells.</p>
<p>Walt Disney World is full of smells, whether manufactured by Imagineers (like the aroma of chocolate chip cookies being pumped onto Main Street) or simply natural (something smelling like it smells simply because it does, like the Test Track tires). There are times when scents are noticeable enough to stop and enjoy them, but more often than not, we go about our vacation without thinking much of the smells around us. They play a part in the overall experience for sure, but their efficiency rests on seeming so part of the atmosphere that we don’t notice them. It’s not until we get home and come across something ELSE that has the same smell that we really pause, wrack our brains to figure out where we know it from, and then realize—HEY! That’s a Disney smell!</p>
<p>Sometimes it’s easy. Upon entering a local gold mine tour, the smell of the cave instantly transported me to the watery caverns of Pirates of the Caribbean. Other times, it gets a bit tricky. I walked through a nearby courtyard multiple times before being able to place its smell to the rustic ruggedness of Frontierland (it was finally a live banjo player that got me the connection).</p>
<p>And then there are those other smells. The ones that you discover and then return to repeatedly so as to get a temporary Disney fix. I frequently go out of my way to walk through a hallway that has the distinctive scent of the It’s a Small World queue, and I do the same for my school’s solarium, which smells of the inside of The Land pavilion (…yes, be jealous!). And don’t even get me started on the orange Febreeze that channels Soarin’.</p>
<p><em><strong>What about you? Do you ever come across a Disney smell?? What memory does it evoke for you?</strong></em></p>
<p>If you want to revisit Lou&#8217;s discussion of Disney smells, check out <a href="http://www.wdwradio.com/2008/07/show-75-july-13-2008/" target="_blank">WDW Radio Show #75</a>, when Lou and Tim Foster discuss the Top 10 Smells of Walt Disney World!</p>
<p>Thank you to everyone who <a href="http://www.wdwradio.com/2013/04/share-your-magical-disney-memories-animal-kingdom/" target="_blank">shared your stories</a> to celebrate Animal Kingdom’s 15<sup>th</sup> birthday! The randomly selected winner of a WDW Radio Mystery Ticket is Lindsey Davis. Congrats, Lindsey! Everyone else, stay tuned for future opportunities here on the blog to win an ever-elusive Mystery Ticket.</p>
<p><i>Blake is a college student focusing on Creative Writing and Media Studies. He enjoys making his family of six watch the parade on Main Street and then sprint to Frontierland in time to see it again. You can follow Blake&#8217;s random Disney ramblings on Twitter at @blakeonline, or at BlakeOnline.com.</i></p>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.wdwradio.com/2013/05/finding-disney-hidden-disney-smells/">Finding Disney: Hidden Disney Smells</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.wdwradio.com">WDW Radio - Your Walt Disney World Information Station by Lou Mongello</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Disney Attraction Pre-Shows That You Won&#8217;t Want To Miss</title>
		<link>http://www.wdwradio.com/2013/04/attraction-pre-shows-that-you-wont-want-to-miss/</link>
		<comments>http://www.wdwradio.com/2013/04/attraction-pre-shows-that-you-wont-want-to-miss/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 16 Apr 2013 13:21:58 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Makena Wolcott</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Haunted Mansion]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mission: Space]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[MOnsters Inc Laugh Floor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Soarin']]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[test Track]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.wdwradio.com/?p=25614</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>Before I begin, last week was another “To Tell The Truth”, this time about the Soarin’ costumes. Four of you got it right.  To Tell The Truth, the correct answer was Story Number One! According to The Hidden Magic of Walt Disney World Planner, Cast Members at the original Soarin’ in California wear aviation suits, [...]</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.wdwradio.com/2013/04/attraction-pre-shows-that-you-wont-want-to-miss/">Disney Attraction Pre-Shows That You Won&#8217;t Want To Miss</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.wdwradio.com">WDW Radio - Your Walt Disney World Information Station by Lou Mongello</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.wdwradio.com/?attachment_id=25613" rel="attachment wp-att-25613"><img class="alignleft  wp-image-25613" style="margin: 10px;" alt="fav preshows" src="http://www.wdwradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/fav-preshows.jpg" width="315" height="172" /></a>Before I begin, last week was another “To Tell The Truth”, this time about the Soarin’ costumes. Four of you got it right.  To Tell The Truth, the correct answer was <b>Story Number One</b>! According to <i>The Hidden Magic of Walt Disney World Planner</i>, Cast Members at the original Soarin’ in California wear aviation suits, while at Epcot they are flight attendants.  Why?  Because in Disneyland they’re already in California, while in Epcot you still have to fly there.  Only Disney would think of that! (And as for Story Number Four…I am QUITE the trickster, aren’t I?)</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">__________________________________________________</p>
<p>Pre-shows.  They immerse you into the storyline and set you up for an attraction unlike any other.  They can be very complex, simple, long, short, interactive or educational.  Either way, they help move the plot of the rides along and usually get you excited for the adventure on which you are about to embark.  Among other things, Disney is known for their variety of different pre-shows scattered around all four parks.  I now present to you some of my favorites, in order from my not as loved to my absolute favorite pre-show.  Enjoy!</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The Backlot Tour</span></b></p>
<p>If you listen to Lou Mongello and Tim Foster’s Top Ten segments, you might consider this a “Go With Me Here”, meaning that some people might not consider this a pre-show, but I do.  What draws people to this attraction is hopping in one of the bright red trams, voyaging to Catastrophe Canyon and seeing things you can only view from the attraction.  Because of this, I consider the show that happens before you even go NEAR the signature red vehicles a pre-show.  Beforehand, four adults are picked to be extras in a production. My parents were actually two of the four that were picked, so it made the whole experience more personal to me.  The chosen four get in rain suits – three hop on a boat while one sits next to a telephone.  Let’s just say that the three people on the boat got wet from the backsplash of missiles and bombs, but the person near the telephone got SOAKED because thousands of gallons of water get poured on them!  The point of the pre-show is to get you excited about special effects in movies, and it sure does a great job at it.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Monster’s Inc. Laugh Floor</span></b></p>
<p>HELLO HUMANS!  This pre-show is very entertaining to people of all ages.  Mike Wazokswi takes you through what happened AFTER the credits rolled for Monsters Inc.  The scare floors turned into, well laugh floors, and now the creatures make people laugh instead of cry to power Monstropolious.  Another huge change is that instead of the monsters going to you, you are walking right into their town in the form of a comedy club.  Roz cuts Mike off after he finishes telling the story and shows a series of bloopers that include Mike falling through trap doors, falling out of doors, and being hit by safes. Following that, there is a little commercial for the former CDA (Child Detection Agency), which now stands for the Comedy Detection Agency.   I love the comedy aspect and I still laugh at the bloopers to this date.  The only bad part of the pre-show is the fact that you are standing through it.  If Disney added seats, it would make the show much more enjoyable.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Mission:  SPACE</span></b></p>
<p>I love this ride.  When I first took the journey to space, I was actually terrified.  But I wasn’t scared until the pre-show began.  The way that it is worded and the seriousness of the actors made it sound like you were actually going to space, and I was terrified about what that would feel like.  Of course, the claustrophobia warnings didn’t help.  Now that I am older, I love it for the same reason that I was terrified – the realism. The way that a single spotlight shines on you when you get your position makes you feel important to the flight and crew.   It might seem like this pre-show is not as fun as the others, but I like the authenticity.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Soarin’</span></b></p>
<p>Soarin&#8217; has an amazing pre-show even before the pre-show begins.  The names of the cities you will be hang-gliding over are, well, soaring through the sky as you are organized into rows for boarding.  Once everyone is ready, the real pre-show begins.  Patrick Warburton, the voice of Kronk from <em>Emperor’s New Groove</em> and other movies with the same casts of characters, takes you through the safety rules and immerses you in the storyline for this attraction.  It might seem like a very simple pre-show, but I think I put it here on the list because of Patrick’s voice.  It’s very soothing, and I love it!</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The Old Test Track<a href="http://www.wdwradio.com/?attachment_id=25624" rel="attachment wp-att-25624"><img class="alignright  wp-image-25624" style="margin: 10px;" alt="TestTrack_01b" src="http://www.wdwradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/TestTrack_01b.jpg" width="302" height="244" /></a></span></b></p>
<p>I have not been able to ride the new Test Track, so I can’t say anything about that pre-show.  The original Test Track, however, had a preshow that not everybody seemed to love.  It was very dated and you were standing (yes, standing once again) in a room that was usually packed like a tuna can.  I understand why people didn’t like it but for some odd reason, I did-and still do.  It seems very real (just like Mission: SPACE) and uses great terminology that makes the testing course sound much more complex than it really is.  I especially loved how they presented the barrier test:  by letting Sherri pick any test she wanted.  Did she want us to die?  At least we don’t have to worry about that anymore!</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Rock N Roller Coaster</span></b></p>
<p>Walking through the queue line, the story begins just like any other Disney attraction.  G-Force Records is evident everywhere, but what really competes the plot is the pre-show.  The whole queue line makes sense once the pre-show is finished.  You are in G-Force Records because you were invited by Aerosmith, but now you are late to their concert!  You are going to need a really fast car. Maybe a limo?  This ride is also very quotable, with the most famous quote being “make that a SUPER-Stretch!”  I adore this pre-show almost as much as I love the ride itself.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration: underline;">DINOSAUR!</span></b></p>
<p>This pre-show is one of those that make you dislike the main character of the ride, which does NOT happen often.  I mean think about it, Dr. Seeker isn’t supposed to send you to the Dinosaur Era because it would be too close to the meteoroid hitting the Earth, which could risk killing you.  When Dr. Seeker is locked out of the system, he breaks in any way!  He put the riders in danger for his benefit!  Usually the characters in the pre-show are loveable, but this one could have killed you if this was a real mission.  I like this pre-show because of how different it is from the others.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Tower of Terror</span></b></p>
<p>Another very popularly quoted pre-show entertains guests inside the Tower of Terror.  A Rod Sterling look-a-like tells you the story of the Hollywood Hotel, a lightning strike and why you should be afraid to board your elevator.  What really seals the deal for this pre-show is the black and white aspect and the tiny TV in the corner of the room that displays the pre-show for all to see.  It gives you a true feel for the time period, and adds a creepy element to the whole package.  This again is a pre-show that involves you standing up, but the theming around the room and the length of time you are actually IN the pre-show makes up for it.</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.wdwradio.com/?attachment_id=25628" rel="attachment wp-att-25628"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-25628" style="margin: 10px;" alt="ellensenergy1024" src="http://www.wdwradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/ellensenergy1024-300x225.jpg" width="300" height="225" /></a>Ellen’s Energy Adventure</span></b></p>
<p>This pre-show is the funniest one in Epcot, maybe even on Disney property.  It is a little dated, as you can tell by the hairstyles and outfits that Bill Nye the Science Guy and Ellen DeGeneres wore while they were filming.  I love that there is a comedy element which is added when Ellen realizes that there is an audience and uses that to her advantage.   This pre-show is long at a little over 7 minutes, and you are standing up (not a good combination at very busy times of the year), but it is air-conditioned, so it is a good break from running around on hot days. A lot of people don’t go on Ellen’s Energy Adventure because of the daunting length of the ride (45 minutes total) but it is something that should get more love. And, before you ask, yes I do believe it needs to be updated, but leave the characters and classic parts of the script alone, like “And for those of you who are just walking in now.  You’re late. Where have you been?  I LOVE you hair.” and so on.  I am sure that Ellen wouldn’t mind redoing it!</p>
<p><b><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The Haunted Mansion</span></b></p>
<p>How could I make a “My Favorite” list for pre-shows and NOT include the Haunted Mansion?  I believe that the experience is actually scarier than the ride!  When I was 8, I absolutely HATED the Haunted Mansion just because of the pre-show but, just like with Mission: SPACE, it has grown on me and now I simply adore it.  Everything from the amazing narration to the four portraits in the stretching room is unique to the attraction and will send chills down your spine.  If I had to pick one pre-show to win an award for “Best Pre-show That Immerses You in the Story”, it would go to the Haunted Mansion, hands down.</p>
<p align="center">________________________________________________</p>
<p>Thank you for reading about my favorite pre-shows.  Now I want to hear yours!  <b>Leave a comment below telling me what your favorite pre-show is and why.  </b>Do you agree or disagree with any of my choices?  Did I forget something in my list, like the Enchanted Tiki Room or MuppetVision3-D (see what I did there)?  Let me know in the comments!  I love reading your feedback.</p>
<p>See ya REAL soon!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.wdwradio.com/2013/02/meet-the-box-people-2/makenas-signature-for-blog/" rel="attachment wp-att-24171"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-24171" alt="Makena's signature for blog" src="http://www.wdwradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Makenas-signature-for-blog.png" width="303" height="115" /></a></p>
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<p><b>Quote of the Week:</b>  “I love Mickey Mouse more than any woman I have ever known.”  ~ Walt Disney</p>
<p><i>Makena is a 14 year old high school student who spends much of her free time researching Disney. She enjoys sharing Disney facts and even plans Walt Disney World vacations (including searches for secrets and Hidden Mickeys) for friends and family.</i> <i>Makena began blogging for WDW Radio in December 2011.</i></p>
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<p>The post <a href="http://www.wdwradio.com/2013/04/attraction-pre-shows-that-you-wont-want-to-miss/">Disney Attraction Pre-Shows That You Won&#8217;t Want To Miss</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.wdwradio.com">WDW Radio - Your Walt Disney World Information Station by Lou Mongello</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Disney From a Twenty-Something: EPCOT Attractions</title>
		<link>http://www.wdwradio.com/2012/09/disney-from-a-twenty-something-epcot/</link>
		<comments>http://www.wdwradio.com/2012/09/disney-from-a-twenty-something-epcot/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 17 Sep 2012 13:11:18 +0000</pubDate>
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				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Journey Into Imagination]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mission: Space]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Soarin']]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Trivia - Epcot]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[turtle talk]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.wdwradio.com/?p=20087</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>by Caitlin Corsello Epcot is a unique park where you can hang-glide over California, dive deep into the ocean, go back in time, journey into imagination, and travel the world all in one day! That might sound exhausting, but Epcot is an exciting place where the future and past seamlessly come together as told through [...]</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.wdwradio.com/2012/09/disney-from-a-twenty-something-epcot/">Disney From a Twenty-Something: EPCOT Attractions</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.wdwradio.com">WDW Radio - Your Walt Disney World Information Station by Lou Mongello</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>by Caitlin Corsello</p>
<p>Epcot is a unique park where you can hang-glide over California, dive deep into the ocean, go back in time, journey into imagination, and travel the world all in one day! That might sound exhausting, but Epcot is an exciting place where the future and past <a href="http://www.wdwradio.com/2012/09/disney-from-a-twenty-something-epcot/img_2146/" rel="attachment wp-att-20090"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-20090" style="margin: 10px;" title="IMG_2146" src="http://www.wdwradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2146-300x199.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="199" /></a>seamlessly come together as told through technology and culture. Broken down into two main sections, Epcot features Future World in the front of the park and the World Showcase in the rear. Future World focuses on telling the story of how various technologies have helped us reach the point we exist at today. You can learn about communication, energy, agriculture and more. World Showcase takes you on a journey around the globe with eleven countries each represented with their own pavilions. Each pavilion is intricately detailed and themed and can be considered an attraction unto itself.</p>
<p>I have broken down the attractions in Epcot into three categories: thrills, classics, and must see. While I mention many attractions here, I am deliberately leaving out the countries of the World Showcase. As I mentioned, I consider them to be attractions themselves, and I will be writing about each pavilion individually in the future to do them justice.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.wdwradio.com/2012/09/disney-from-a-twenty-something-epcot/img_8363/" rel="attachment wp-att-20093"><img class="alignleft  wp-image-20093" style="margin: 10px;" title="IMG_8363" src="http://www.wdwradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_8363-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="243" height="182" /></a>So without further ado, let’s talk about the attractions at Epcot! The thrill attractions in Epcot tend to focus on two things: speed and flying (even in space!). First up is the unique experience of <strong>Soarin’</strong>. Located in Future World West in the Land Pavilion, Soarin’ was originally was built in Disney’s California Adventure and called Soarin’ Over California. Because of its popularity, it was brought to Epcot and shortened to Soarin’. This attraction takes guests on a hang-gliding adventure over the gorgeous sceneries of California. From the Golden Gate Bridge to Napa Valley, you truly feel as though you are gliding high above these beautiful places. Be sure to keep a nose out for the smells of fresh pine and oranges throughout the ride, and definitely look for a visit to Disneyland with Tinkerbell at the end!</p>
<p>Moving over to Future World East, the next thrill attraction Epcot has to offer is <strong>Mission: SPACE</strong>. This attraction offers an intense experience of a journey to Mars in a simulated space shuttle. Separated into teams of four, this attraction assigns each person on your team a role in your mission to land on Mars successfully. The launch sequence experienced is comparable to the actual force you would be feeling if you were launching into space on a shuttle for NASA. If this sounds too intense for you, don’t worry you can still experience the attraction: the ride now offers two different intensities to choose from. When approaching the ride, choose the Green Team for a milder experience or the Orange Team for the full force experience.</p>
<p>Once you’ve successfully made it to Mars and back, walk next door to <strong>Test Track</strong>. Currently closed for refurbishments and scheduled to open again this fall, Test Track is an attraction based upon the experience of vehicles enduring tests in all sorts of conditions before being deemed safe for the road. The original version took riders through tests including brakes and suspension before a barrier crash test and cruising loop around the outside of the building at speeds of 65mph. Upon reopening, Test Track is set to now include the opportunity to design your own ride vehicle before being able to experience it first hand in the testing facility. I can only imagine that the attraction is going to be even more thrilling and exciting when it finally re-opens!</p>
<p>In terms of classic attractions at Epcot, the most well known is <strong>Spaceship Earth</strong>. Housed in what many people still refer to as <a href="http://www.wdwradio.com/2012/09/disney-from-a-twenty-something-epcot/img_8260/" rel="attachment wp-att-20092"><img class="alignright  wp-image-20092" style="margin: 10px;" title="IMG_8260" src="http://www.wdwradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_8260-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="284" height="214" /></a>“the giant golf ball,” Spaceship Earth is a slow-moving ride that takes riders back in time to explore the development of communication in our civilization. Traveling all the way from cave men to modern day technologies, Spaceship Earth tells a historical story in an interesting and exciting way. Guests are now even able to utilize touch screens in their ride vehicles to answer several questions and create a short animation about their own personal future world. Throughout the ride, be sure to smell the beloved scent of “Rome burning” and keep an eye out for a few Hidden Mickeys along the way!</p>
<p>Another attraction that I consider to be a classic is <strong>Living with the Land</strong> in the Land Pavilion. This is a slow moving boat tour that takes guests through various agricultural settings and ultimately greenhouses to portray various technologies that are being utilized and developed every day. While this may sound boring to some, it is actually a fascinating attraction as you are able to see gorgeous greenhouses growing all types of interesting vegetation. If you have plans to eat in The Garden Grill (also located in the Land Pavilion), keep in mind that it’s likely something on your plate was grown right there in the greenhouses! Even if this does not sound very interesting or exciting to you, I recommend still giving the attraction a try. You never know, you may end up loving it and calling it a classic just like I do!</p>
<p>Epcot also offers a few other attractions that I consider to be must sees and two of them reside together in <strong>The Seas with Nemo &amp; Friends</strong> Pavilion. The first attraction bears the same name as the pavilion and follows Nemo and other characters from the beloved movie Finding Nemo as they explore the “big blue world” of the ocean. As you ride along in your clam vehicles attempting to find Nemo with his father Marlon and friend Dory, you will experience breathtaking views of the actual aquariums featured in the pavilion. Perhaps the most enchanting part of the ride is how Nemo and his friends are actually animated and projected onto the glass of the aquarium tanks so that it appears as though they are swimming amongst the live sea creatures behind them. Definitely a must see!</p>
<p>A few steps away from The Seas with Nemo &amp; Friends is <strong>Turtle Talk with Crush</strong>. A live animated and interactive show, guests can have direct conversations with the ever-lovable and totally cool Crush while learning about sea turtles and their habitat. Try and sit up front to be selected to engage with Crush, and don’t forget that every show is different, so feel free to visit over and over again!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.wdwradio.com/2012/09/disney-from-a-twenty-something-epcot/img_2366/" rel="attachment wp-att-20091"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-20091" style="margin: 10px;" title="IMG_2366" src="http://www.wdwradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/IMG_2366-199x300.jpg" alt="" width="199" height="300" /></a>The final must see attraction in Epcot is <strong>Journey Into Imagination With Figment</strong>. Though the attraction has changed over the years, it basically sums up Epcot for me as a child. Figment is a loveable purple dragon who has an imagination overflowing with ideas to share with guests. The attraction takes guests through the Imagination Institute on a tour through the senses; however the tour is quickly taken over by Figment who unleashes the power of imagination on your every sense. A colorful and playful attraction, I consider it a must see and you will find yourself humming the theme song long after departing.</p>
<p>That about wraps up my list for the thrill, classic, and must see attractions of Epcot! As I mentioned, I did not include any of the countries in the World Showcase as I’m looking forward to dedicating entire posts on them in the future and exploring them in further detail.<em><strong></strong></em></p>
<p><em><strong>What is your favorite attraction in Epcot? Think I left something off the list? Leave a comment below, I would love to hear from you!</strong></em></p>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.wdwradio.com/2012/09/disney-from-a-twenty-something-epcot/">Disney From a Twenty-Something: EPCOT Attractions</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.wdwradio.com">WDW Radio - Your Walt Disney World Information Station by Lou Mongello</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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