When it comes to experiencing the magic of Disney, Epcot is a must-visit destination for both young and old. One of the highlights of Epcot is the "Drink Around the World" challenge, where visitors can explore the countries of the World Showcase and sample unique beverages from each nation. This immersive experience allows you to sip, savor, and celebrate the diverse flavors and cultures of the world all in one place. So, grab your passport and get ready for a journey like no other!
The concept behind Epcot's countries
Epcot's World Showcase is divided into eleven countries, each representing a different culture and offering a taste of their traditional cuisines, architecture, and customs. From the charming streets of the United Kingdom to the futuristic landscapes of Japan, Epcot's countries transport you to different corners of the globe. The concept behind these countries is to provide visitors with an authentic and immersive experience, allowing them to learn about different cultures and traditions while having fun.
Exploring the Epcot countries
As you venture into the World Showcase, you'll be greeted by the iconic Spaceship Earth, which serves as the gateway to Epcot's countries. The first country you'll encounter is Mexico, with its vibrant marketplaces and delicious margaritas. From there, you can make your way to Norway, China, Germany, Italy, the United States, Japan, Morocco, France, the United Kingdom, and Canada. Each country offers its own unique charm and attractions, making it a truly immersive experience.
Must-try drinks in each Epcot country
As you embark on your journey around the world, there are certain drinks that you simply must try in each country. In Mexico, the margaritas are a must, especially the classic lime margarita or the spicy jalapeno margarita for those who like a kick. In Norway, you can sample the refreshing Viking Coffee, a unique blend of coffee, aquavit, and Baileys Irish Cream. China offers the famous Baijiu, a strong liquor made from sorghum, while Germany is known for its beer, particularly the popular Oktoberfest brews.
Italy is a haven for wine lovers, with its extensive selection of reds, whites, and sparkling wines. In Japan, you can indulge in some sake or try the traditional Japanese whiskey. Morocco offers the vibrant and refreshing Moroccan Mint Tea, while France is famous for its champagne and wines. The United Kingdom is the place to go for a pint of Guinness or a classic gin and tonic. Finally, in Canada, you can enjoy a glass of Icewine, a sweet dessert wine made from frozen grapes.
Tips for successfully completing the Drink Around the World challenge
Embarking on the Drink Around the World challenge is an exciting adventure, but it's important to pace yourself and stay hydrated along the way. Here are some tips to help you successfully complete the challenge:
Pace yourself: With eleven countries to explore, it's important to pace yourself and not rush through each drink. Take your time to savor the flavors and enjoy the ambiance of each country.
Stay hydrated: It's easy to get caught up in the excitement and forget to drink water. Make sure to stay hydrated by alternating alcoholic beverages with water or non-alcoholic options.
Share with friends: The Drink Around the World challenge is even more fun when you share it with friends or family. Consider splitting drinks and tasting different options together.
Eat along the way: To avoid feeling too intoxicated, make sure to eat food along the way. Each country offers a variety of delicious snacks and meals that can help balance out the alcohol.
Take breaks: Epcot offers plenty of seating areas and attractions to take breaks and rest. Use these opportunities to relax and recharge before continuing your journey.
How to pace yourself and stay hydrated during the challenge
To successfully complete the Drink Around the World challenge at Epcot, it's important to pace yourself and stay hydrated throughout the day. With so many countries to explore and drinks to sample, it can be easy to get caught up in the excitement and forget to take care of yourself. Here are some tips to help you pace yourself and stay hydrated during the challenge:
Start early: Epcot opens early in the morning, so take advantage of the cooler temperatures and start your journey around the world as soon as possible. This will give you more time to pace yourself and enjoy each country.
Alternate alcoholic beverages: Instead of consuming one alcoholic beverage after another, alternate between alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. This will help prevent dehydration and keep you feeling refreshed.
Drink water between countries: After each country, make it a point to drink a glass of water. This will help cleanse your palate and keep you hydrated.
Share drinks with friends: If you're traveling with a group, consider sharing drinks with your friends. This will allow you to sample a variety of beverages without feeling overwhelmed.
Take breaks: Epcot offers plenty of seating areas and shaded spots where you can take a break and rest. Use these opportunities to relax and recharge before continuing your journey.
Remember, the Drink Around the World challenge is meant to be a fun and immersive experience. By pacing yourself and staying hydrated, you can fully enjoy the flavors and cultures of each country without feeling overwhelmed.
Food pairings for the different drinks in each country
As you make your way through Epcot's countries and sample their unique drinks, it's important to pair them with the right food to enhance your experience. Here are some food pairings for the different drinks in each country:
- In Mexico, pair the margaritas with some authentic Mexican street tacos or guacamole and chips.
- In Norway, enjoy the Viking Coffee with a plate of traditional Norwegian smoked salmon.
- In China, savor the Baijiu with some delicious dim sum or Peking duck.
- In Germany, the Oktoberfest brews go perfectly with a hearty plate of bratwurst and sauerkraut.
- In Italy, indulge in a glass of red wine with a slice of authentic Italian pizza or a plate of pasta.
- In Japan, pair the sake or Japanese whiskey with some fresh sushi or tempura.
- In Morocco, the Moroccan Mint Tea is best enjoyed with some baklava or a plate of couscous.
- In France, the champagne or wines can be paired with a cheese platter or a croissant.
- In the United Kingdom, enjoy a pint of Guinness with some fish and chips or a traditional English pub meal.
- In Canada, the Icewine pairs perfectly with a slice of maple syrup-infused dessert or a plate of Canadian poutine.
By pairing the right food with each drink, you can elevate your tasting experience and fully immerse yourself in the flavors of each country.
Hidden gems and lesser-known drinks in the Epcot countries
While the popular drinks in each Epcot country are certainly worth trying, there are also hidden gems and lesser-known drinks waiting to be discovered. These unique beverages offer a chance to explore flavors and traditions that may not be as well-known. Here are some hidden gems and lesser-known drinks in the Epcot countries:
- In Mexico, try the Horchata Margarita, a delicious blend of rice milk, cinnamon, and tequila.
- In Norway, sample the Aquavit Glacier Shot, a chilled aquavit served in an ice shot glass.
- In China, go beyond Baijiu and try the Lychee Wine, a sweet and fruity wine made from lychee fruit.
- In Germany, try the Radler, a refreshing mix of beer and lemon-lime soda, perfect for hot summer days.
- In Italy, savor the Limoncello Spritz, a refreshing cocktail made with limoncello liqueur and Prosecco.
- In Japan, explore the world of Japanese craft beer, with options like the Hitachino Nest White Ale or the Baird Beer Rising Sun Pale Ale.
- In Morocco, try the Casablanca Beer, a light and refreshing lager that pairs well with the country's flavorful cuisine.
- In France, go beyond champagne and try the Kir Royale, a cocktail made with crème de cassis and champagne.
- In the United Kingdom, discover the world of British ciders, with options like the Strongbow Dark Fruit or the Thatchers Gold.
- In Canada, try the Canadian Club Whisky, a smooth and flavorful whisky that showcases the country's distilling heritage.
These hidden gems and lesser-known drinks offer a chance to step off the beaten path and discover new flavors and traditions within each Epcot country.
What to expect during Epcot's festivals and special events
Throughout the year, Epcot hosts various festivals and special events that add an extra layer of excitement and entertainment to the Drink Around the World experience. These events showcase the cultures and cuisines of the different countries in unique and immersive ways. Here's what you can expect during Epcot's festivals and special events:
Epcot International Food & Wine Festival: Held annually in the fall, this festival offers an extensive selection of food and beverages from around the world. You can sample dishes from different countries, attend cooking demonstrations, and enjoy live entertainment.
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival: This springtime festival celebrates the beauty of nature with stunning floral displays, topiaries, and garden exhibits. You can also enjoy farm-to-table food and beverage offerings, as well as live music performances.
Epcot International Festival of the Holidays: During the holiday season, Epcot comes alive with festive decorations, holiday-themed entertainment, and special food and beverage offerings. You can experience the traditions and flavors of different countries as they celebrate the holiday season.
Epcot International Festival of the Arts: This winter festival combines visual arts, culinary arts, and performing arts for a truly immersive experience. You can enjoy art exhibits, live performances, and unique food and beverage offerings inspired by the world of art.
These festivals and special events add an extra layer of excitement and entertainment to the Drink Around the World experience at Epcot. Make sure to check the event calendar when planning your visit to see if any festivals or special events coincide with your trip.
Planning your visit to Epcot's Drink Around the World experience
Before embarking on your Drink Around the World adventure at Epcot, it's important to plan your visit to make the most of your experience. Here are some tips to help you plan your visit:
Check the event calendar: As mentioned earlier, Epcot hosts various festivals and special events throughout the year. Check the event calendar to see if any events or festivals coincide with your visit.
Research the countries: Take some time to research the different countries in Epcot's World Showcase. Learn about their cultures, cuisines, and traditions to enhance your experience.
Make a plan: With eleven countries to explore, it's a good idea to make a plan of which countries you want to visit and in what order. This will help you stay organized and ensure you don't miss any must-try drinks.
Dress comfortably: Epcot is a large park, and you'll be doing a lot of walking. Dress comfortably and wear comfortable shoes to ensure a pleasant experience.
Take advantage of FastPass+: Epcot offers FastPass+ options for certain attractions, allowing you to skip the lines and make the most of your time. Take advantage of this service to maximize your experience.
By planning your visit and being prepared, you can make the most of your Drink Around the World experience at Epcot and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Conclusion and final thoughts
The Drink Around the World experience at Epcot's World Showcase is a one-of-a-kind journey that allows you to sip, savor, and celebrate the diverse cultures and flavors of the world. From the refreshing margaritas of Mexico to the exquisite wines of Italy, each country offers a unique experience that immerses you in its traditions and customs. By pacing yourself, staying hydrated, and pairing the right food with each drink, you can make the most of this immersive experience.
Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, Epcot's Drink Around the World challenge is a must-try experience that will leave you with lasting memories. So, grab your passport, gather your friends, and embark on a journey like no other. Sip, savor, and celebrate the magic of Epcot's countries as you drink around the world!
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