It's always a thrill to capture really distinct locations on travel shoots, but there's really no beating those few rare experiences when you end up with an otherwise incredibly busy location almost entirely to yourself. Here's a look at Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge at Walt Disney World in Florida during an after hours shoot with absolutely no crowds in the park.
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As one of the most iconic hotels in Walt Disney World, Disney's Contemporary Resort remains a popular destination, in no small part, because it was one of the two original hotels on property when the Magic Kingdom first opened in 1971. Disney's Contemporary Resort is also noteworthy because of the monorail station and track that passes through the Grand Canyon Concourse of the hotel, as well as the gigantic mural by prominent Disney artist Mary Blair on display.
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Oga's Cantina within Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge is perhaps one of the most competitive dining reservations in all of Walt Disney World in Florida. This is simply because the space is small, well-themed, and offers unique drinks available only at this one location.
During our visit we enjoyed the Jedi Mind Trick (a blue vodka cocktail), the Fuzzy Tauntaun (noted for its lip numbing foam), and the Cliff Dweller (a non-alcoholic drink in a collectable Porg mug). We also had the Happabore Sampler (essentially a charcuterie board) to balance out the flavours. Overall, we thought everything was tasty and well prepared, but especially pricey at just over $100 for these 4 selections.
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This is one of those Walt Disney World experiences that I'd probably only recommend for the more dedicated Star Wars fan, mostly because it is difficult to justify the expense otherwise. The theming and atmosphere is lively and fun, but the space can be cramped, getting a reservation can be especially time consuming, and after all of that, once you're inside your visit is maxed out at just 45 minutes and a two drink maximum.
Still, it's difficult to deny the appeal of these exclusive experiences - much like the lightsaber building - drinks at Oga's Cantina is a memorable activity within Galaxy's Edge. Whether or not it's more than a one-time activity, however, is something I'm still questioning.
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A few visuals from the Horror Makeup Show, featuring a number of highlights from the classic Universal monsters films at Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida.
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