The news that many have been waiting for has finally been released.  The Frozen Ever After Attraction is set to open in EPCOT in June.  

Although this is exciting news for many, there has been a great deal of controversy surrounding the opening of this attraction.  Maelstrom was the attraction that was located in Norway from July 5th, 1988 through  October 5th, 2014 and was a fan favorite.  This water ride took you on a mythological adventure through villages, Norway’s Viking days and trolls.  It then took you past polar bears and trees before plunging you into a depiction of the North Sea.  As the ride came to an end in the harbor of a small village, you would then disembark and have had the opportunity to watch a short film highlighting other things you might experience in Norway.  

As things change, and they always do in Disney, it was time for the ride to move towards a new adventure in Norway.  With all the excitement and success of “Frozen”, it was time for Norway to get a new look.  After closing in October of 2014, construction began immediately to begin creating the “Frozen” world or Arendelle.  Since Imagineers would be using the same location and ride mechanics, the overall time to make this change would be quicker than re-building an entire new ride.  On the new “Frozen Ever After” attraction you will still ride in a boat, but now you will be on a voyage through Arendelle and getting to know the royal sisters who have helped to make Norway so popular.  There is always a possibility that we might catch a glimpse of Sven and Olaf while cruising on this exciting and entertaining boat ride.  I have to admit the first time I rode Maelstrom was on October 4th, 2014, right before its closure.  It was fun to experience the tradition of the “Maelstrom” ride, but I am hardly able to contain my excitement to see the new “Frozen Ever After” ride.  After this exhilarating ride you will then be able to meet the royal sister of Arendelle in the new Royal Somerhus greeting location.  How exciting to meet Anna and Elsa in their homeland of Norway.  

Along with the new ride and character meet-and-greet, you will still be able to experience shopping for authentic items from Norway and dining at one of my favorite locations, Akershus Royal Banquet Hall.  Here you get to meet Belle, a variety of other Princesses and feast on wonderful food from Norway.  I recommend eating here at least once, but you will need a reservation.  

Epcot has 11 countries that you can visit, but Norway is my favorite far away land to visit.  As a descendant of vikings I guess I feel at home in this country.

Let me know how I can help you visit 11 countries in one vacation.

To Infinity and Beyond Travel – Traci