Saturday, November 28, 2009

Gran is still bland

I recently went on Gran Fiesta Tour with two of my friends who had never gone on before. One had seen the original River of Time and was commenting to the other about how that first ride was - that if she were Mexican, she would have complained.

Then Fiesta Tour started. Let me tell you, her mouth was agape during the whole ride. I forgot that this ride was supposed to represent a culture - and though I give that fact a minus in the podcast - during this ride, I realized how over-the-top ridiculous every scene is. A quote from my ridemate, "I am offended for all Mexican people."

If this ride was somewhere else - like Toontown, I think it would be okay. Here, though, it's more than a ride because it's representing a place and a people. Thoughts?

Sunday, November 8, 2009

Taking Another Expedition on Everest

Ok, ok.  I'm sorry I was such an Everest hater.  Listening back, I've got to say I was way too harsh.  I recently gained a new found love for this attraction after riding it at night... and sitting in the back.  


Most of my hating on this was because of my own scardeyness and nausea.  I'm not much of a thrill ride kinda gal, but I do appreciate this attraction for its detail, theming and for being the new flagship attraction in Animal Kingdom (sorry It's Tough to be a Bug, it seems you have been replaced).  I think riding towards the front of the train car is just a little too intense for me.  While I'll still scream my head off from the back, it is definitely a milder ride from there and I can appreciate the view and the Yeti to their full extent.  The backwards portion really adds to the unique experience of this attraction, and it gives Everest that little something extra special that sets it apart from other mild thrill rides.  


I recently had the opportunity to enjoy Extra Magic Hours at Animal Kingdom during my last trip.  What a difference the night makes.  First of all, the Tree of Life is an amazing sight in the dark and Everest becomes all the more ominous when it is lit up and there is a bit of a chill in the air.  If I could only visit Animal Kingdom at night, I'd be a happy camper.  This whole park has a new life after dark.  It is a bit less bustling and confusing at night, believe it or not.  Hopefully we will be able to see more of these later hours incorporated into the park's schedule if only for attractions like Everest, Dinosaur, and yes, Primeval Whirl, too.  


Everest, I am on your side.  Sorry for doubting you. Scott, you're a nerd for all of your temple love.