Although the ideas and plans surrounding EPCOT in its formative states deal holistically in futurism, technology, and industry, the project was equally peppered with an international flair and a driving cultural theme. From the earliest concepts of Walt Disney’s EPCOT City, areas of the complex were to be dedicated to international shopping and cuisine.

Welcome to the second post in the Imagineering Awesome series on Mouse on the Mind!

Sometimes, it feels like Mickey Mouse himself is pick-pocketing you when you’re at Walt Disney World (maybe that’s the real reason why characters meet in the parks). From the many attractions that end in gift shops to the sticker shock you’re likely to have when you see the price, it might seem like there is no respite from a visit to Walt Disney World being a “SPEND, SPEND, SPEND!” type of week.

Staggering from my room in the morning on the way to the park drop I vaguely regret the excess of too many Grey Goose slushies the night before. Food is a must have and I've got a reservation at Boma, but what I'm really looking forward to is a Mimosa.

On any given day when you're a guest at the Walt Disney World Resort - whether you're at the theme parks, resorts, water parks, or restaurants - you have a chance to interact with Disney Cast Members, the people who work to make your Disney vacation extra magical.