My Disney

World Showcase at EPCOT

Beyond the Futureworld diversions lies a string of country-sponsored exhibits. The highlight of the each country is the series of fine restaurants catering to that particular country's cuisine. Each region will have shops as well as recreations of some of its more popular landmarks. Bring a camera. You can even pick up passports and have them stamped at the respective countries. You won't find many thrills here but the impromptu shows that break out are often worth the trip alone. Since the countries wrap around a huge lake, you can also take boat launches that have three stops along the way.

Mexico - Entering the pyramid one finds some ancient relics and then a jovial marketplace. El Rio de Tiempo, which stands for the river of time, may very well be "El Rio de Tiempo Gastado" or the river of wasted time. While the historical narrative of the history of Mexico is poignant, the poor quality of the scenes makes It's a Small World look like a technological masterpiece. The sleepy coast through low budget props might just lull you into floating slumber. On the bright side, as the only indoor pavillion the lush night-time decor is amazing.

Norway - This is as thrilling as the countries get and the fact that there is no height requirement should tell you how daring this Maelstrom is. However, it is a refreshing boat ride through dark seas featuring wicked trolls, huge polar bears and an animated tree. Two cozy waterslides, the first one backwards, highlight the attraction followed by a five minute film on the history of Norway. Hidden Mickey Alert: At the boarding area for Maelstrom, check out the painting backdrop. Towards the upper left you will find a rowboat, one of the passengers is wearing mouse ears.

China - Not quite as lavish as the controversial Splendid China park right outside Disney, this is a sampling of China with Wonders of China, a 360 degree theatrical film presentation.

Germany - With beer a popular purchase, this German village also has an interesting buffet lunch and dinner offering in a Festhaus setting where entertaining stage shows run continuously.

Italy - Alfredo's is a great restaurant, and given the pretty universal love for pasta it is often one of the first ones booked. Don't be afraid to stray off the beaten path and try dining at the more exotic Morocco or Canada.

United States of America - Patriotic or not, this is the best audioanimatronic show on Disney property. A politically correct yet not always sugarcoated interpretation of the trials and tribulation of this young country Benjamin Franklin and Mark Twain host an emotionally uplifting experience.

Japan - While one can't enter the beautiful 5-story pagoda you can stroll through a signature garden, have a meal cooked tableside a la teppanyaki, or browse the largest country-specific store in Epcot.

Morocco - You won't find chilled monkey brains here. The restaurant fare is surprisingly tame here and cous cous is always a great grain substitute for the American mainstay of rice. With live musicians and belly dancers making the onsite restaurant as much an attraction as it is a dining experience it is a great, and usually underbooked, place to eat.

France - A miniature Eiffel Tower, 1/10th actual scale, makes France easy to spot from a distance. The 360 degree theater inside shows Impresions de France a well-made production highlighting the beautiful European landscape.

United Kingdom - You can have afternoon tea at the waterside Rose & Crown pub. The pub is especially nice if you can swing a 7:30pm dinner reservation and make sure you request outdoor seating -- there is simply no more comfortable place to view the nightly 9pm IllumiNations show that combines fireworks, lights and lasers. Of note is a replica of Anne Hathaway's house -- she the young bride of William Shakespeare and a popular tourist spot in England.

Canada - Three countries have country films, and Canada is the third. A kiosk nearby sells Beaver Tails, which are actually fruit-topped desserts.