60 Years of Dreams

Wanted to close out the year on a higher note than tomorrow's post. I just love the look of this Disneyland 60th Anniversary artwork. There's an innocence and joy found in this retro / vintage style. Who knows what next year holds? But thankfully, we know Who does!

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

Sweethearts in Napa

Thirty six years ago, we met on a blind date. Yes, it's really true! It was a three year old girl's birthday party, the daughter of some mutual friends from church. That little girl became the flower girl at our wedding (and later an internationally known surfer. No name though for her privacy.) We've seen many, many changes in our life together- kids, grandkids, career changes, joys, our share of disappointments and more. But God has always been faithful as we have sought to live life the way He designed it to be. 

If you want to know what love looks like, meet my wife. She seems to embody the description of First Corinthians 13, and she is loved by family, friends, and colleagues alike. But not more than her husband. Still beautiful inside and out after all these years!

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)

Another Happy Anniversary

Happy Anniversary! Due to this year's hectic work schedules, we're not going anywhere special. But even if it isn't Paris, Venice, Nice, London, Switzerland or Hawaii, its always good because its with YOU. I love you, Stephanie, and I am so thankful God has given you to me as my wife. 

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)

Another Disney Blunder- NPH Hosts World of Color for the 60th

Just another sign of how arrogant and out of touch Disney management is with the core of their guests. Neil Patrick Harris, the host of the 2015 Oscars- whose ratings dropped to a six year low- has been chosen to be the host for the brand new World of Color Show at California Adventure during Disneyland's 60th Anniversary.

Was he funny as all get out on the extremely well written and popular "How I Met Your Mother". Absolutely. Is he pushing the limits of good taste by his Oscar antics? Yes. Seems lately he is all about the shock value side of entertainment. 

Is NPH a big fan of Disney parks? Sure. But he's the wrong choice for the Disney brand of entertainment. Especially for this banner year. 

Where is Dick Van Dyke when you need him? At least he would bring a bunch of fun and a lot of charm to the proceedings.

Disneyland for Beginners

Planning that Spring Break or Summer vacation to Disneyland to celebrate its 60th year Anniversary? It's a great choice- as long as you do a bit of thinking and some planning ahead of time. Especially if you are a first time guest, these tips will be well worth reading and following.

I grew up by Disneyland, and I have been there at the busiest times of the year as well as the least crowded. I know all the best ways to get around the crowds, with and without Fast Pass. So, here are my recommendations: Disneyland for Beginners- Summertime Version.

Research in advance. It's an ugly truth now at the Disney parks, a must-do if you want to experience as much as possible. Use the official Disneyland Resort website to check out park operating hours, special events, and particularly the attraction refurbishment list. Disneyland looks terrific for her age! There's a reason though. Park attractions are updated and maintained on a regular basis. You've probably heard of the most famous attractions and want to make sure you see them. Depending on the timing of your visit, one or more could be down for enhancements. It's likely the earlier in the year you visit, as the park leaders want to make sure she looks her best by the time of the big Summer crowds.

Once you're settled on the timing of your visit and have done a bit of research on what is happening at the park, these are your next steps: The best and most important piece of advice I can give you is  1- Buy your tickets the night before, making sure you pick up a park map. Know where you are headed in advance. 2- Get there before the park officially opens. If you accept these ideas as necessary truths, you'll be able to visit most of the popular attractions without waiting in the line for too long. If you don't, you can still see a handful of major attractions, but you will spend a good portion of your time waiting in line for the privilege of doing so.

The most impressive attractions to experience. These are the ones that are "classic" Disneyland; the ones you've heard about:

Indiana Jones Adventure*
Peter Pan's Flight*
Pirates of the Caribbean
The Haunted Mansion
It's a Small World
Space Mountain
Big Thunder Mountain
Splash Mountain

* Choose one of these as your first adventure of the day. The one you don't choose will be worth your wait later in the day.

If you are going in mid-summer, and the crowds will be heavy, the opening time is 8:00am, but get to the front gate by about 7:15am.

Let me suggest this pattern to follow so that you see the most you can. C'mon everybody, here we go!

If you choose Indiana Jones Adventure, walk right down Main Street and take an immediate left into Adventureland. Keep walking until you reach the Indiana Jones Adventure, just around the bend from the world famous Jungle Cruise. This is Disneyland's last "E ticket" attraction and one of my favorites. If you like the movies, you'll love this.  An out of control runaway jeep ride through an ancient cursed temple. Regardless of the line length, if you go first thing in the morning, go here first. If you can, do take the time to go through the queue and do not bypass it. The Disney Imagineers created lots to see along the way, including a couple of rooms that have been booby-trapped.

Special note: if you have an infant, ask to do the "Baby Swap". One parent rides while the other waits and then reverses the procedure. This method is also in use at other attractions, particularly the Disney Mountains (roller coasters).

Once you get off Indy's adventure, you should go straight to Peter Pan's Flight in Fantasyland through the Castle, but instead can do one of a couple of things if you want to ride Indy again: 1- Go to the entrance and find the attendant. Tell them you are "single riders". You'll get to go to the front of the line but you will not be able to ride together. They will use you to fill in jeeps with empty seats. 2- Or go to the "Fastpass" Machine. Fastpass lets you put in your admission ticket, and the machine spits out a special ticket with a time stamped on it. (Make sure you take out your admission ticket and keep it with you.) When your designated time arrives, take your ticket to the Fastpass line. You'll get to walk by most of the crowd. This is important. You need one Fastpass ticket for each person. You have a one hour timeframe to return or your Fastpass is not valid. (By the way, after your return time begins, you can get another Fastpass for any other ride that offers it.)

If you do not go to Disneyland early, go ride to this ride anyway and use one of the two ideas above to make sure you get a ride on Indiana Jones Adventure.

Adventure has a name!

You may choose to ride Peter Pan's Flight instead as your first attraction. A good choice especially of you are with young kids. If so, walk straight through the Castle and look to your right for the clock tower. In Fantasyland, it's the most popular "dark ride" ever. Journey in a pirate ship over the rooftops of London to Neverland. Absolutely irresistible! Then head straight to Adventureland and ride Indiana Jones or wait until later in the day, splitting up your party using the Single Rider option.

After your first attraction, walking towards Indiana Jones, turn left and walk past Pirates of The Caribbean and the Haunted Mansion right to Critter Country and go to Splash Mountain. This long flume attraction like none other will have very long lines all day as well. You will get wet, but it is so much fun!

After riding Splash Mountain, go back the way you came in and ride The Haunted Mansion in New Orleans Square. It's not scary but suspenseful and the special effects are simple yet amazing.

From there, go back to Pirates of the Caribbean. If you walk to the Treehouse, you've gone too far. This is my favorite Disney ride and one of the park's best. The Captain Jack Sparrow robots, Audio-Animatronics in Disney speak, are very lifelike- and he makes an appearance three times in the ride. Pirates is a ride where the line moves pretty fast, so even on the very busy days, the wait should be no more than 30-40 minutes.

Let me say that at this point, the crowds will start coming in. Depending on how early you are there, you may get on more rides than this before the crowds. Also, make sure you walk around and explore the shops and restaurants as well. But rides are the most important and the main reason why Disneyland is famous!

Walk out of Pirates, make a right turn and head across the park to Big Thunder Mountain in Frontierland. This is a Disney roller coaster. It's not the biggest or scariest one ever, but it is very fun. If you can, ride it at nighttime, too. It's like a totally different ride. This is also a ride that uses Fastpass, by the way.

Probably by now, I am sure the crowds are there, so be prepared to wait in line. It's even a good choice to take an early lunch or a light snack. Wait to shop until late afternoon when the rights are thick with people. Or bite the bullet and get in line for the "1st attraction to see" that you did not choose.

Leave Big Thunder by taking a left and walk through the Frontierland fort across the park to Tomorrowland. You are headed to the famous Space Mountain. This is a roller coaster ride through outer space. It is also a Fastpass ride. It will have a very long line, so if you can get a Fastpass, it might be smart to do it. If you do, from there I would go to Buzz Lightyear AstroBlasters at the entrance to Tomorrowland. It is a video game ride where you shoot targets as you ride along a track. (It has Fastpass as well.)

If neither of these options sound good, then head toward Fantasyland past the Matterhorn Mountain all the way back to It's a Small World. This is a very sweet musical boat ride around the world. People love it or hate it (we love it!), but it has the feel and "stamp" of Walt Disney all over it.

OK- If you've done these, you have now ridden the best in the park, but there are many more little gems to be found all over.
And make sure to check out when the fireworks show is!

Here are my suggestions for other Disneyland rides worth a look:

Matterhorn Bobsleds: the first Disneyland mountain coaster, a bobsled ride through the Swiss Mountain.

Tom Sawyer Island: an outdoor island accessed by raft. Explore caves, rock formations and more. Walt Disney designed this one himself, knowing exactly how he wanted it. 

Mark Twain Riverboat: a relaxing boat ride around the river. A classic and relaxing experience that gives you a great overview of half of the park.

Jungle Cruise: In Adventureland, a silly boat ride through tropical rivers with (fake, not real like Disney's Animal Kingdom in Florida,) animals. One of the original rides from opening day in 1955. Great for little kids and full of atmosphere.

Roger Rabbit's Cartoon Spin: Think "tea cups and a dark ride hybrid" through the zany, toon-filled world of the movie. The lines are long, so use Fastpass if you can. See it soon as its on the chopping block as part of a massive Star Wars Land expansion to be announced later this year.

Disneyland Railroad: A train ride all around the park. Ride it all the way back to where you started. You can get on it at Main Street, New Orleans Square, Toontown or Tomorrowland. One of the best ways to really see it all.

For an extra dose of Walt Disney's influence, you've got to see the Enchanted Tiki Room and Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln. 

A thought to consider: Make your meals relaxing. Sit down, rest, and enjoy the world around you. Talk with your friends and family about what you've enjoyed. Savor the experience. There really is nothing quite like the original Disneyland. 

Stay for the fireworks! Stay for the parades! There's usually more than one parade and both are different. But most importantly, stay until its dark. That's when "Walt's park" takes on some of its most beautiful scenery. Half the fun of Disneyland is walking around and exploring.

Wish I could meet you there to personally give you the tour!

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

Disneyland Paris at 22: The Theme Park as Work of Art

Twenty-two years ago, The Walt Disney Company unleashed an experiment. In the world's most beautiful city, resides the theme park as a work of art. When placed inside a metropolis filled will world famous pieces of art, gorgeous buildings, and stunning gardens, the Imagineers just had to create a parc that would hold its own. And they did!

Originally named EuroDisneyland, competing with an abundance of man made wonders in the city and the continent at large meant CEO Michael Eisner had to invest big bucks if the park was to be a creative and financial success. In spite of the challenges or perhaps because of them, Disneyland Paris not only succeeds but is the most beautiful Magic Kingdom ever built. The overbuilding of the hotels surrounding it would be a noose around the park's neck, making major additions few and far between. That is a story for another time.

As the first European park from Disney and the first Disneyland styled park entirely reimagined from the ground up, the Imagineering team was handed quite a challenge but also a rare opportunity. Thankfully, the principal Imagineer in charge was Tony Baxter. His well-documented love for the first Disneyland and his appreciation and adaption of old school Imagineering, guaranteed the creation would be quite lovely, with substance as well as charm. 

In an interview from 1995 (found here), Tony recalls a conversation with Imagineer Marty Sklar about his plans for the park: "I would really like to have a chance to try for a perfect version of Disneyland." And he and his team did create it! In fact, I would say the resulting creation is the "E Ticket" park filled with "E Ticket" attractions.

The team of Imagineers Tony assembled is a "Who's Who" of Imagineering. While Tony cannot and does not take the credit for the park, his ability to draw out the best in his team cannot be overstated.

Tony himself is a fan favorite for leading the charge in building Splash Mountain, the Indiana Jones Adventure, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Journey into Imagination. Here's the rest of the main designers:

Eddie Sotto: Later instrumental in creating the groundbreaking Pooh's Hunny Hunt at Tokyo Disneyland,  Eddie accomplished a stunning Main Street U.S.A. It isn't the "Roaring 20's" styled one he fought for, (and the one Michael Eisner later regretted not building), but it stands above the others in the realm of mixing art, history, and fantasy.

Tim Delaney: His work on the Jules Verne themed Discoveryland is on par with just about everything built at Tokyo Disney Sea.  A French Mysterious Island, if you will.

Tom Morris: Prior to the new Fantasyland Forest take on Fantasyland, Tom brings the best of all previous versions to a whole new level of beauty. The castle itself is the most spectacular ever built, worth an hour or more of exploration all by itself.

Chris Tietz: No other Adventureland so perfectly accomplishes the task of feeling remote yet intimate. Opportunities to explore are everywhere! It's vast in size... and so full of potential growth for the future.

And lastly Pat Burke: Assigned to Frontierland,  Pat created a story and environment so rich, with attractions so interwoven, that words are not enough to communicate his epic accomplishment. In a park full of incredible lands, this one is my favorite.

What did I see that made me wish this park was my "home Kingdom"? 

Our first visit was in Fall of 1998, and I was mesmerized by what I saw. Our second trip occurred in Summer of 2007, and we were just as thrilled. Our third visit in 2012 was during the Christmas season. The park was cold, the trees bare, but the magic still shined as bright as the holiday lights. (See the blogpost An American in Paris for a full trip report.) 

The park does not have the lakeside location as with Florida's Magic Kingdom, but the elaborate gardens at the entrance- a European tradition- set the stage for the wonders to come. They are elaborate yet tasteful, with plenty of fountains punctuating the Parisian sky. 

Walking under the lovely (but extremely overpriced) Disneyland Hotel, the expected Main Street U.S.A. train station comes into view. It's an odd sight for those of us accustomed to the Stateside kingdoms. The station is so close to the ticket arcade, and it creates an unusual sense of space. 

The train station is elegant and understated.  The great detailing is really only to be found once you are in queue for the grand circle tour around the park. The handcrafted stained glass windows, each depicting a land in the park- windows in miniature that would be a popular but expensive souvenir- help you realize the Imagineers have gone far beyond the expected.  It's only the beginning. For a tourist rushing from attraction to attraction, the place delights. For an Imagineering fan, the place is one lush detail layered on top another.

For me, the first sight of the centerpiece castle is one that excites. It reminds me I am at Disney and not some local park filled with iron rides and little else. As a family, we couldn't walk down Main Street fast enough to begin our day. On the other hand, the castle draws you in and right to it. It's almost impossible to resist.

Le Château de la Belle au Bois Dormant, triumphantly mixes animated movie style of Sleeping Beauty artwork with European true to life sensibilities. The work of the primary artist on the film, Eyvind Earle, was the inspiration for the castle. The artist and fans of the 1959 film would be thrilled to see it come to life. 


In each Magic Kingdom styled park, there are different experiences to be found. California has its walk-thru, Florida a restaurant, and Tokyo a combination of both. At Hong Kong Disneyland, the Anaheim-like castle was once listed as an attraction to pad the numbers. Yet, it is just a building, only a landmark at the first Disney Chinese park.  However at the French chateau, there really is an attraction worth exploring. We willingly spent over an hour of our one day visit viewing its handcrafted tapestries, stone tree pillars, lovingly created stained glass windows, its balconies, terraces and incredible views of Fantasyland. (Don't miss the sleeping knight in armor.) When beams of sunlight come into the castle, it's pretty enchanting. When the skies are darker, the beauty becomes a bit foreboding.

For an even darker experience, the piece de resistance is found at the basement level Dragon's Lair. Inside the dimly lit, dank dungeon, a fully realized Audio Animatronic dragon snarls and growls, blazing fire and smoke at guests passing by. How you discover it depends on the guest. The first visit, we journeyed through the accessible outside entrances. The next time, we discovered this darkest lower chamber is also reached by a secret passageway from the wizard Merlin's laboratory (and shop) above. In a sense, the castle is the premier attraction at the park, combining story, art, exploration and unexpected surprises. This is Disney Imagineering at its best. And all accomplished before Harry Potter arrived and changed the game at Universal Orlando.

Beyond the castle, the Parisian Fantasyland is a beautiful combination of Anaheim's (though at a much larger scope and scale) with elements all uniquely its own. There are many small gardens, water features, and plenty of discoveries around every bend.


In a nod to the multi-national authors of the fairy tales represented each attraction is voiced in the language of the original writer. It's a nice touch that reminded me that we were not home. One aspect of Fantasyland was very different. Initially disappointing but ultimately charming. The exteriors of Toad Hall look the same as the California attraction, but the residence is actually a British fish and chips restaurant. If you look around, you'll find one of many little charming touches that honor the park's continent: a portrait of Mr. Toad himself sits on a wall above diners. But wait and look carefully- here Mr. Toad is envisioned by great European artists: Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and da Vinci. The painting magically transforms before your eyes every minute or so. Delightful!



Fantasyland does have its dark rides. Peter Pan's Flight, with its double capacity vehicles, draws the same large crowds here as back home. Pinocchio's Daring Journey is almost a walk on just like at Disneyland as well. Snow White also has her home here. Each little dark ride is full of all the expected detail and similar storyline. There's not much different here, honestly, but as I'll share, the placement of Peter Pan's Flight is key.

Beyond the dark rides, much is made of the Alice in Wonderland themed labyrinth and for good reason. The winding paths through manicured gardens make for a great little family excursion. We all enjoyed it, and we let the kids freely work through the maze, giving them a bit of independence. Filled with characters from the film, the attraction is more akin to the "smaller" ones that provide charm at Walt's original park- the ones that are sorely missed in Florida. The glass-topped Tea Cups are nearby. Last visit, I thought that the Queen of Hearts Banquet Hall and a re-imagined Alice ride would have made a great little sub-area.

In the opposite direction, It's A Small World is nearby, being the first one to include a United States themed area in the attraction. The facade echoes the original but with covered queue. The inside foregoes Mary Blair's art direction and style for something different but equally effective. Appreciating the differences is one major key to really enjoying this park. We found it interesting that here we were in Paris, with people speaking multiple languages all around, and together we were embarking on the Happiest Cruise that Ever Sailed. It is a small world. Nothing beats leaving your country to get a bigger taste of the world around you.


Besides the Anaheim original, the only other Storybookland Canal Boats are found here. The focus seems to be mostly on the newer Disney film classics with an odd inclusion of The Wizard of Oz. Casey Jr. Circus Train appears next door. However, this one is a real coaster, blatantly ensuring the poorly designed and themed Gadget's Go Coaster will never make its way to France all the while providing thrills for little ones. Built long before it, the train also guarantees that the Seven Dwarfs' Mine Train will not be created on French soil.

As a family with teens, (our first visit and without any children the next two), we enjoyed Fantasyland, but we did wish for more. We would have loved a Mary Poppins themed dark ride or at least an attraction that was unique to this park.  Will the Little Mermaid / Ariel's Under Sea Adventure arrive? Probably, but when is the question. I have no idea if the Audio-Animatronic show from Beauty and the Beast will ever be built, but it once was on the expansion plans. (I've got the artwork on the blog somewhere...)

We wrapped up Fantasyland for exploration of Adventureland a trip with the Pirates of the Caribbean.  The quickest route there from Fantasyland? Through the covered arcade right past Peter Pan.  Going into Adventureland this way, there's Adventure Isle with Captain Hook's Pirate Ship and Skull Rock on the other side. Thematically consistent but there was no doubt we had left one land and entered a totally different one.

Similar to the old transition between Florida's Liberty Square from Fantasyland (pre-Tangled restrooms), there is a subtle architectural blending between both lands. In fact, the transitions all through this park are so smooth yet very distinctive. Once you enter one land, it is so immersive and so convincingly secluded from all others, it is easy to forget you are in a multi-themed park. The placement of focal points amidst cleverly placed high points and foliage makes it next to impossible to see the other lands than the one you are in. This is one strength of the Imagineer's design and the benefit of learning from what has come before. This effect reinforces the storytelling, highlighting the brilliant detailing and masterful crafting of the park. But, I digress- back to Adventureland.

A map of Adventure Isle and all its landmarks.

From the plaza, Adventureland beckons with a distinctive Arabian Nights theme, a nod to the European perspective of what is considered exotic. Inside the buildings are a nice walk through attraction based on Aladdin, a bazaar, and a very quiet little cafe. Shops surround it all, offering African goods and such, with an Indiana Jones type jeep on the road... perhaps a hint of things to come. 

Coming in from the other entrance, Adventure Island is straight ahead and offers two pedestrian bridges to provide access to the grounds. There's no watercraft other than Hook's ship in dock but closer to Pirates of the Caribbean, the weathered remains of a small boat are on the sand. 

Up high on the island hilltop is The Swiss Family Tree House, its roots creating the perfect place for exploration with caves underground and the expected bridges and trails above. This incredible playground also consumed an hour or so of our time, as we had to cover every inch of it; the sights from almost every side of the island had to be captured by my camera. From one angle, the beautifully decaying fortress of Pirates of the Caribbean; from the other, views into an African themed section of the land or farther out, the jungle filled ruins of a temple being excavated by Indiana Jones.

In contrast to the high energy feel of neighboring Frontierland, the feel of this land is more quiet, subdued, mysterious. The only area that feels energetic is around the Temple of Peril coaster and that is just because you can hear the screams of the riders on this small scale coaster. This quiet flavor works well to make the next major attraction have a huge impact.


Back on shore, where fortress and village meet, the Pirates of the Caribbean is the definitive version of this classic attraction- even outpacing the Anaheim original. The build looks much like what the attraction at Shanghai Disneyland will resemble. White washed stone weathered by sand and wind and water. The queue is dark, winding, and slowly engulfs you into the attraction. It's as effective a waiting space as that in Florida's Pirates or of the same high quality as the line at the Indiana Jones Adventure, but it is more subtle. There's no bayou here as in California, so the queue is performing double duty in place of the tranquil first few minutes of the cruise in Anaheim. I don't want to spoil everything, but I will mention a few standout differences.

Most all Disney fans have heard of the dueling pirates found in the "chase" scene, but the action at the beginning of the attraction also impresses. From the smaller marine animatronics, (such as the squid found just out of view from diners at the beautiful Blue Lagoon restaurant), to the very active pirates overthrowing the fortress before riders descend into the middle of the battle, this old standby attraction is reinvented to great effect. Currently, there's no Jack Sparrow in sight, so fans of Johnny Depp and the films may be disappointed. There's another change to the original- Here in Paris, those explosives do detonate- but you'll have to see it for yourself. It was a gutsy move to re-imagine the finest of Disney attractions, but Dead Men Tell New Tales here. Again, appreciating the differences is a major key to enjoying the park.

 

Stumbling upon a pirate hideout- from the queue!

Here, Frontierland is found where Adventureland resides in the American parks. It's placement seems jarring at first, but when viewing the entrances to each land from the plaza, it makes good sense. Those fanciful Arabian domes seem much more in their proper place next to the equally fanciful castle than an American fort of the Wild West. I am not a fan of the color of the domes, however, as I find it competes with the European palace next door. After dark, it seems to be a wise color scheme. Yet, I guess the same could be said for the colors of Discoveryland. Regardless, it is nothing major and just a preference.

Many Europeans love the tales from the American West, its landscapes, its stories, its heroes. This Frontierland captures it all, embracing both the facts and the lore. There's a good chunk of American History with a bit of Disneyland history thrown in. Beyond the fort at the entrance, there's little physical resemblance to the original Disneyland version which offered its Conestoga Wagons, mule trains, and Nature's Wonderland. There seems to be more soul in Paris than what's currently found on either side of the States. It's an intangible feeling, but it is definitely there.

The Imagineers, led by Pat Burke, have produced the most compelling landscapes and stories ever created for this section of the Magic Kingdom styled parks. There's wide open spaces and a lot of land. Though much of it is available for further design and  development, it truly does feel complete. With its attractions, array of places to dine, and an environment that's so encompassing, Frontierland is the standout themed land in an entire park of them; the ultimate Frontierland, one I bet Walt Disney himself would have loved to see come to fruition.

From the hub, approaching Fort Comstock, there are a few Indian teepees in the front alongside the small stream. The area is wooded and rustic. The riverboat cruises beyond the fort and Big Thunder Mountain is clearly in sight. Between the Adventureland and Frontierland entrances from the plaza side is a cleverly hidden gallery housing restrooms along a secluded path. The designers used a variety of vegetation to gently transition from the Middle East to the Old West of the United States. Excellently done.

As with the castle, Fort Comstock is also an attraction. You can explore the entire complex, walking the upper levels and enjoying terrific views across the frontier. I shot the photograph below from the upper level. You can see Phantom Manor to the far left. The Molly Brown riverboat sails past the parks of Big Thunder.

Inside the fort, Legends of the Wild West presents famous figures from American history in full scale tableau. Everywhere you turn, the detail and historical authenticity is incredible.  

The view from the top of Fort Comstock.

Straight beyond the fort lies Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Its trains round the track on this rocky island situated right in the middle of the Rivers of the Far West. There's much kinetic energy between the trains racing and the boats traveling the river.  

In an engineering feat of excellence, the trains race under the river and the bulk of the ride occurs on the island. This aspect gives the attraction a spectacular beginning, setting the pace for the whole journey, and is only outdone by its explosive finale.

Back on shore is the town of Thunder Mesa, named as a tribute to the great Imagineer Marc Davis and his never built Western River Expedition. (In fact, this park would be a perfect fit for the never built attraction as Europeans are less politically correct than Americans when it comes to Old West stereotypes.) With the racing mine trains, the steamboat sailing by, the Disneyland Railroad trains encircling the area, and the nearby shooting gallery creating some excitement, the combination is powerful. Tossing in the scents from the excellent steakhouse and a Mexican cantina, you've got the recipe for several hours just on this side of the park.

While Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is the thrilling visual center of the town of Thunder Mesa, Phantom Manor delivers thrills of a different kind, revealing a sinister undertone to the legends of the community. Our first trip through, actor Vincent Price was still the narrator to the journey. Not so for the last two. 

One thing is certain, this is not Imagineer Marc Davis' Haunted Mansion. Humor is missing in this Wild West version, the only remnant being the portraits found in the stretching room. 

The tone is darker, much darker, the landscapes hold more skeletons, and house itself is woefully unkept. The story revolves around greed, revenge, and murder. Not your typical Disney fare. Ultimately, the attraction is just scarier and different. Its symphonic score is a gorgeous piece of music, eerie but sad, beautiful and haunting. The story of Phantom Manor advances the stories behind Thunder Mesa while still leaving enough room for guests to create their own.

Sitting on the wooden walkways next to the shops far across from Phantom Manor, it was easy for me to suspend belief and dream of truly being back in time. There's a large chunk of land devoted to this theme, and the area is visually secluded from all others, with the layers of detail in sight and sound so rich and varied, the end result is the perfect representation of the old west mythologies. We spent several hours here taking in attractions, exploring the shops, and eating at the excellent and fairly priced Cowboy Cookout Barbecue.

After two visits to the park, I still could not uncover why this version is my favorite of all Frontierlands and perhaps my favorite land in all of Disneyland Paris. I finally came to this conclusion: In California, Frontierland is a shadow of its former self in contrast to what was designed by the Imagineering team under Walt Disney. In Florida, between Country Bear Jamboree and Splash Mountain, the land is an excuse for the placement of cuddly characters. Only in France, thousands of miles removed from the actual geography represented, does this uniquely American story get the respect it deserves. Sure, it is fictionalized and somewhat fantasized, but bottom line and bluntly stated, this Frontierland feels like the real thing and not an area found in a theme park.

In 1992, I watched the opening of the EuroDisney resort on television, and dreamed and prayed I would one day get to visit. While the banter of American hosts Melanie Griffith and Don Johnson added little to what I wanted to see, the images of Discoveryland stuck in my head. (Remember, this was even before Space Mountain was built. By the way, my very detailed look at the worldwide Space Mountains is found here.) This was what drove me to pursue a trip as I am a big fan of Jules Verne; and for those who are interested, Mysterious Island is my favorite of his writings.


When I finally did see Discoveryland with my own eyes in 1998, the small screen images didn't hold a candle to the monumental work I saw! Walking through the land, I was drawn so many different directions. But I had a single goal in mind: Space Mountain. 

From start to finish, it was a winner. The building itself radiates an other-worldness with its metallic surfaces and neon. Once placed within the cannon, the scenery while awaiting launch was stunning. The ride was smooth as glass, the music drew me in as it enhanced the experience. I couldn't ride it enough, although the queue length meant only two trips this first go around as there was so much to see and shortened park hours. My Disney-jaded fourteen year old son walked off the ride with a huge smile on his face. Not so my wife. It was just a bit much for her. 

When Space Mountain: Mission Two premiered years later, I lamented the changes I perceived would be made for the new adventure. My ride in 2007 only confirmed they were in fact for the worse.

Our last trip, my wife sweetly offered to shop while I rode. When I met her at the assigned place, my response said it all- "THAT is what I came to Disneyland Paris for!" Then, with her permission, I turned around for one more ride. If I had to choose between Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, I don't know if I could.

The level of detail inside Disneyland Paris' Discoveryland has to be seen to be believed. This photo is one of many mini murals painted inside the Cafe Hyperion restaurant.

This painted mural stood near the entrance to the excellent and elegant Le Visionarium attraction. As the emotional and philosophical centerpiece of Discoveryland, the attraction paid tribute to great visionaries of the past. 

Exploring a fully developed Nautilus submarine was one of the highlights of my day. Again, its a scenic piece in a small bay and not a major attraction, but it is eye candy and worth the time to explore. I saw clear references to Tony Baxter's long lost Discovery Bay here as well. The entire land is full of eye candy and the kind of design detail I love. There's space for more to be built if the company ever gets the weak Studios park to a point it can bring in a large audience. Time for a confession: I have need ridden Star Tours here. With time always at a premium, this flight simulator is towards the bottom of my list, and no, I am not a Star Wars fan. 

Unfortunately, one of the most endearing attractions at Disneyland Paris is no longer there: Le Visionarium. This circlevision film was great fun and a wonderful introduction to French future/fantasy. However, in our second visit in 2007, this impressive little movie was replaced by the ever popular video game starring Buzz Lightyear. This was not the first of the toon invasions into the park as Toy Story's Pizza Planet restaurant was already added to Discoveryland before our first visit.

When considering the direction Disney is taking with its Tomorrowlands, Discoveryland holds a unique place as being middle ground between Anaheim's original future focused realism and Hong Kong Disneyland's character infused land. What will happen in Shanghai? So far, it looks to be a sleeker 1960s version of Walt's original incarnation. Whatever changes come, I hope  Discoveryland holds its own as the transitions continue by remaining a tribute of visionaries come to life!

Lastly, Main Street, U.S.A., the first land in the park. It is every bit as impressive if not moreso than the grander version found in Florida's Magic Kingdom. If the Paris version of the land of the future has taken on a more fantasy bent, I would venture to say the same holds true for its Main Street. There is an idealistic, very artistic, beauty of each building, each billboard, each attraction. The beautiful work of Eddie Sotto and team elevates the land to something befitting landscapes from a dream.

Walt's: An American Restaurant is the perfect example of what I am attempting to communicate. The food is not only delicious but beautifully presented, and the atmosphere is a dream for every fan of classic Disney Imagineering. Artwork from the creation of the parks in found in the restaurant's themed rooms with appropriately styled furnishings. During our second trip (and without the kids), we lunched in the Frontierland room with a window view overlooking Main Street. It was worth every bit of the $75 we spent, one highlight of many in our trip to the park.


After lunch, as with every other land, we lingered here soaking in the details. Exploring the shops one by one, we loved what we found. My favorite was Main Street Motors, a love letter of sorts to the American automobile. The Emporium and Harrington's were also stops for our destination shopping, with equal amounts of detail found in both. Although we ate at Walt's, we did stop in and peek at the Market House Deli and Casey's Corner. More great theming and layered detail.

Although Main Street is relatively short on attractions, the Liberty and Discovery Arcades are attractions all their own. In fact, we spent more time in these than we thought we would, causing a delay of our after park plans. Each arcade held a series of "mini exhibits", adding to the richness of the park. It is these small touches that bring this kingdom closest to the charm of Walt's first Disneyland while maintaining the expanded scale and scope of Florida's.

Beyond its physical beauty, Disneyland Paris offers some of the most enhanced and esquisite versions of the classic Disney attractions. The choices for dining are on par with what can be found at Epcot. From snack choices to fine dining, the park has a variety of options to fit all budgets and preferences.

Readers of Disney parks' discussion boards are familiar with the ongoing complaints concerning the park. And these hold up with good reason. This beautifully designed place is saddled with very poor maintenance- probably the worst of all the Disney theme parks. It is not that the cast members are not doing their jobs. In fact, the cast members are very kind, courteous, and knowledgable. Simply said, the business planners for the park have not given enough resources to keep the park up to its opening day standards in upkeep and cleanliness.

The lovely setting from the second floor found in Walt's was offset by what I viewed from the window. Rotting wood, peeling paint, and general disrepair of the buildings found across the street took away from the experience inside. The same held true for the higher reaches of the park's castle, parts of Adventure Isle, and slices of each of the park's themed lands. There was a noticable difference in these standards between visit one and two, much to my dismay. Things rebounded a bit by the third visit, but it is clear there is still work to be done.

Item number two: downgrading the shopping experience. What are character plushes and plastic toys doing out in the open streets of Adventureland? (Or even in the shops here at all?) This is a horrible trend, one that should be reversed immediately. Our first visit held plenty of unique, even theme park exclusive, merchandise. Not on our second or third visit. Seems this disease is spreading from Florida!

Next, delay in bringing new theme appropriate attractions. No excuse here for stagnation. It does take money to make money. Learn from Walt here and not the corporate raiders of our day. The park should have new- not reimagined- attractions between 1998 and 2007. Replacing Le Visionarium for Buzz and rotating 3D movies is not the way to go. Nor is a new children's play area at the Adventureland beach or thowing in Woody and company into Frontierland. The Studios park may need more, but it is past time for the Paris Kingdom to gain a new jewel to crow about.

Lastly, and this piece is not entirely the fault of the Walt Disney Company, but the fault of the park's management, are the guests. Far too many of the park's visitors are incredibly disrespectful of both other guests and the beautiful surroundings. I have personally witnessed outdoor urination, widespread invasion of nonguest areas, and extremely poor manners with regards to line cutting. Is this really the same European guest that is amazingly respectful of the unprotected artistic masterpieces found in the Musee d'Orsay or the Louvre? My mind says impossible, but my mind also says probable. Either way, park security does nothing, only adding to the frustration of being in a beautiful park that at times feels out of control.

Do not let the downside to this European Disneyland stop you from visiting! From a thematic and design viewpoint, this is the finest Magic Kingdom ever created, maybe even on par with the much heralded Tokyo Disney Sea. Though outside the city limits, the park fits in perfectly with the City of Lights and is certainly worth an entire day of exploration. Twenty-two years later, Disneyland Paris is still the ultimate Magic Kingdom styled park.


(Photos copyright Mark Taft.)

Beautiful Italy

In our hustle and bustle world, there is something very calming about a trip to Italy. The colors, the sights, the people, the food and wine, the slower pace of life.

Our "major" anniversary gave us a significant reason to visit Europe back in 2007. But where to begin? London and Paris were early winners, as we had visited with our children years before- and promised each other a return visit once they were grown. We saved and save for this anniversary trip...for ten years.

Where to go? Here's how we settled it: Each of us spent a week looking at our travel books, then we wrote down the name of three locations with our first choice on the top. With so many stunning and historic locations to choose from (like much of Europe), we knew we would have to miss something- even with three weeks!

Once we opened the slips of paper, the trip began to unfold. My wife chose Rothenburg, Germany. I decided Venice, Italy was my top pick. From there, the planning fell into place. What a trip it was! And we were blessed by the Lord with a glorious celebration of 25 years of marriage- and a lifetime of memories.

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)

An American in Paris: Day One

What can I say about Paris? It's been written about, sung about, photographed and filmed probably more than any other city on earth. All for very good reason, I may add. It's full of beauty and grime, delights and discouragements, a city of light and dark, amazing contradictions. I love it.

Due to a business trip, I had the opportunity to take my wife with me for a short stop in Paris, a four day anniversary celebration delayed earlier in 2012 due to the birth of two grandson, one on each side of the actual date. 

Off we went. Anyone who has gone to Europe from the States knows that you can arrive early to mid morning in your choice of destination with very little sleep. And we did! With this being our third visit to the City of Light (we are blessed), our feel for Charles de Gaulle International Airport was much better than earlier trips. In less than an hour, the Metro took us to our first destination, the New Orient Hotel just blocks from the Opera House. (Buy the unlimited Metro pass. It gives you unlimited access to the RER high speed train, the Metro, and the funicular which takes you up the steep slopes to Sacre Coeur.) Since it was too early to check in, our gracious and friendly hostess Katherine, took our bags and delivered them to our room which would be ready later that afternoon.

With fours days- only enough to begin to explore the city- we had a short list of must sees, even after previous visits. The last trips we missed going up to the gargoyle laden towers of Notre-Dame, just missing the last tour group both times. That was number one on our list, but choosing to wait until the next day to see it fresh, we headed for a little meal to get us going.

Department store windows delight at Christmas. 

I've left all these photos very large to give a real sense of the place. 

Just click on there for a very large image.

Since it was so close, a visit to famed Parisian department stores Galeries Lafayette and Au Printemps (top photo) began our day. Both were gilded to the hilt, their windows dressed with stunning Christmas displays. Visiting the massive food stalls for a drink at Galeries Lafayette was just what we needed after we stood in awe of the gorgeous stained glass dome and huge Christmas tree in the middle decked out with Swarovski crystals. Unbelievable. Tourists like us gawked, but Parisians walked by, seemingly unfazed by the grandeur around them. 

Inside Galeries Lafayette. 

The winter breezes were steady, the skies grey, and the air crisp with constant drizzle. It was cool but not cold enough to stop us. Moving on to the next door neighbor, Au Printemps, we traveled to the rooftop cafeteria to eat a simple lunch and catch a view of the city. It was surprisingly empty. Perhaps many folks have other priorities than a department store, but since we had visited the city previous time, we wanted to come here and enjoy a view we had read much about. We were not disappointed. 

Attemp at an artistic shot from the rooftop of Printemps.

Sacre-Couer is in the background.

The view was worth the modestly priced meal and overpriced soda. Buyer beware: We were thirsty for a Coke Light but it came at the price of almost five Euros, six plus dollars each. We don't normally splurge for sodas, opting for other local beverages, yet we needed the caffeine punch. It gave us just the lift we needed for a few more hours.

Mansard roofs and chimney pots everywhere you look.

Wandering the streets in Paris is a journey worth taking. Actually, it is one of our favorite ways to spend an evening or afternoon. With our Metro map in hand, we never got too lost, and it was easy to get back to our small and charming hotel at check in time. 

The Opera de Paris Garnier.  

Smaller alleys and side streets are equally beautiful for Christmas!

From daytime to nighttime.

Opting for a short nap that turned into something much longer, we rose and returned to our earlier lunch spot for a nighttime view of the city. In a word, spectacular. Afterwards, more wandering the streets exploring the tiny paths off the beaten track as well as the public squares and plazas. Everything was in Christmas glow, the smallest shop or apartment taking the time to celebrate the season.

Two not-so-young lovers in the City of Light.

Then the bug hit me: I had to see the Eiffel Tower. Had to, especially at night. Taking the Metro to the Trocadero stop, we exited the station and rounded the corner. There is was, the enduring symbol of the most elegant years of the city. 

Words are not enough! 

At 10:00pm, the Tower began to sparkle as it hit the hour. For five minutes, I stood mesmerized. My eyes got a little watery as they do when I am moved. That reaction to seeing it always surprises me. Then I noticed the Christmas market below, surrounding the fountains in front of it. We'd be returning to check that out tomorrow ! When my wife was finally able to pull me away, we stopped for that most simple of Parisian treats: a crepe filled with Nutella. (My desert island food of choice!) 

Eventually, we returned to our room happily tired and ready for the next day's adventures. Our feet tired, but our hearts happy, and this was only the beginning. More to come, and yes, Disneyland Paris.

(Photographs copyright Mark Taft.)

SamLand Spends Disneyland's 55th at the Family Museum

We all know Sam Gennawey writes a great blog. Now, you've got to read his piece on Samland about the celebration of Disneyland's 55th anniversary at the Walt Disney Family Museum. You will love the stories never heard before. Go here.