Epcot, Walt Disney World

Although I am frustrated with Disney right now I am starting to miss not planning a trip down for the holiday season. Last November was a great time to get into the spirit of the season…

Holiday SSE
Olympus E-M1 Mark II, M. Zuiko 12-40mm f/2.8, 1/2500, 24mm, f/4, ISO 200

Frontierland, Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World

Frontier Mirror
Olympus E-M1 Mark II, M. Zuiko 9-18mm f/4-5.6, 1/30s, 9mm, f/11, ISO 200

Harambe, Africa, Animal Kingdom, Walt Disney World

The Market is Closed
Olympus E-M1 Mark II, M. Zuiko 9-18mm f/4-5.6, 10s, 9mm, f/11, ISO 200

Epcot, Walt Disney World

Ah, Venice
Olympus E-M1 Mark II, M. Zuiko 9-18mm f/4-5.6, 10s, 18mm, f/8, ISO 400

Crescent Lake, Walt Disney World

I currently have a love/hate relationship with Disney. Although I have enjoyed the last few trips to my second home, I am frustrated in the direction the company has been going with the theme parks. It isn’t as special as it used to be. The little things are being forgotten in favor of what in my opinion is a grab for the money. I told myself I needed to take a break and for once in a very long time I do not have a trip planned any time soon. Still, there is a part of me that misses the experience of visiting the resorts. Here is a panoramic view of the Yacht and Beach Club resorts from the Wedding Pavilion near the Boardwalk…

Yacht & Beach Club Resorts
Olympus E-M1 Mark II, 1/30s, 40mm, f/11, ISO 200

Frontierland, Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World

I typically spend a lot of time over in Frontierland when I am in the Magic Kingdom. I mean who wouldn’t, Splash Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Liberty Belle and Tom Sawyer Island! What is there not to like?

I also think I’m drawn to that area because it is one of the few places where there are still trees. I’ve noticed the decline in the landscaping around the parks over the years. There used to be more trees. Now I feel Disney is sacrificing those elements that made the parks feel less like a concrete amusement park in order to cram in more people. One of the memories I have of my first visit in 1973 was the topiaries around the hub in front of the castle. Can you imagine Disney blocking the view today?

If you want take a peek at yesteryear, check out this video… Two Families – Magic Kingdom 1973 Restored Home Movie

If you are interested in the landscaping at Disneyland or Walt Disney World, check out this link to learn more about Bill Evans… The Cultural Landscape Foundation – Morgan “Bill” Evans

Frontier and Water
Olympus E-M1 Mark II, M. Zuiko 12-40mm f/2.8, 1/10s, 26mm, f/11, ISO 200