Are you ready to dive into a one-of-a-kind water adventure? We were invited by the wonderful people at Walt Disney World for a special preview of their latest attraction, Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana. And, let us tell you, it’s a real game-changer. This new water adventure officially opened its doors on October 16, 2023, and it’s nothing short of magical. What’s more, you can make this journey even more unforgettable by staying with Casiola vacation homes. So, grab your Mickey ears, put on your best explorer hat, and join us as we embark on a water-filled journey through EPCOT! Here’s everything you need to know about this captivating experience, along with some insider tips to make the most of your visit. And, as a bonus, we’ll even show you how to enhance your stay with Casiola vacation homes for an unforgettable Disney vacation.
Embrace the Magic of EPCOT
EPCOT, the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, stands as a unique beacon within Walt Disney World Resort, renowned for seamlessly fusing entertainment and education. It’s a place where you can explore the world’s wonders, from the historical past to the dynamic present, and even catch a glimpse of the future. The park, with its iconic Spaceship Earth, is a symbol of innovation and learning, embodying Disney’s commitment to not only entertain but also inspire a sense of wonder and curiosity. This tradition continues with the enchanting new attraction, Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana, which harmoniously aligns with EPCOT’s core mission. It elegantly blends entertainment with education, emphasizing the importance of our relationship with the environment and our natural world. Situated in the park’s World Nature neighborhood alongside favorites like The Land and The Seas with Nemo and Friends, Journey of Water serves as a captivating journey that both enchants and educates, delivering essential lessons about water conservation and the beauty of our planet while upholding EPCOT’s commitment to engaging and enlightening its visitors.
Inside Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana
We began our journey through this remarkable attraction and were immediately captivated by the experience. Journey of Water feels like an oasis right in the heart of EPCOT. Inspired by the animated film Moana, the attraction is designed with several sections representing various aspects of the water cycle and different bodies of water, such as rain, lakes, and the ocean. Each section offers unique ways to interact with water. From playful fountains to a splash pad and streams of water that leap above you, there’s a world of watery wonder to discover. If you’re traveling with youngsters who love to run through splash pads, remember to pack a change of clothes.
Other features require you to take action to elicit responses from the water. For instance, step in a designated spot, and you’ll witness a burst of water shooting into the air. In another section, you can wave your hand through streams of running water, creating beautiful harp-like sounds, with each stream producing a different note. Symbols and signage guide you through the experience, explaining how to create these enchanting effects. But one of the most exciting aspects of this attraction is how it encourages collaboration. For a specific interactive element, the more guests participating, the higher the wave they can collectively create, making it a thrilling group experience.
What to Expect at the Attraction
As you embark on your journey through this captivating aquatic wonderland, prepare to be enchanted by the presence of beloved characters and iconic symbols from the hit movie, Moana, masterfully etched into the lush landscape. Keep your eyes peeled, and you may catch a glimpse of Moana, the intrepid heroine, along with her larger-than-life companion Maui, the comically charming Pua, and the ever-eccentric Hei Hei. These familiar faces breathe life into the attraction, creating moments of joy and nostalgia for fans of the film. But that’s not all; one of the undeniable highlights of the experience is the awe-inspiring 15-foot-tall representation of Te Fiti, a masterpiece crafted from a staggering 3,000 individual pieces of foliage. This majestic installation, nestled amidst the picturesque scenery, beckons you to draw near and immerse yourself in its natural grandeur.
Yet, what truly distinguishes Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana is its harmonious blend of beloved characters, engaging interactive learning opportunities, and the enchanting magic of Disney. Unlike some other park attractions that may rush you through, this one encourages you to embrace it at your own pace. Take your time to savor all the intricate details and discover new ways to interact with the water around you. This is an experience designed to allow you to explore and engage, providing a unique space for creativity and play, ensuring that each visit is truly your own.
How to Make the Most of Your Experience
Stepping into this enchanting attraction, you’ll quickly discover that it’s a realm of endless surprises, with every twist and turn offering a unique and memorable experience. Whether you choose to tread the dry paths, immersing yourself in the wonder of water from a slightly drier perspective, or opt for the wet paths, surrendering to the delightful splashes and sprays, you have the freedom to tailor your journey to your liking. This flexibility ensures that your adventure is uniquely yours, as you can spend as much time as your heart desires in each area, allowing the captivating world of water to work its magic on your senses.
What’s more, this aquatic paradise welcomes explorers during both the day and night, unveiling different dimensions of its beauty and intrigue. As the sun sets and the stars begin to twinkle, the attraction takes on a new life. Vibrant, colorful lighting adds an extra layer of magic to the water elements, casting a bewitching glow that’s absolutely worth experiencing during both daylight and nightfall.
During our visit, we couldn’t help but notice how guests of all ages were wholeheartedly engaged in this aquatic adventure. Toddlers reveled in the joy of splashing around in puddles, giggles echoing through the air. Families gathered around captivating signage that imparted valuable lessons about the water cycle, making learning an integral part of the fun. Meanwhile, teenagers seized the opportunity to capture picture-perfect moments against captivating photographic backdrops featuring their beloved movie characters. This attraction not only infuses an extra layer of fun into your EPCOT visit but also serves as an excellent way to cool down and refresh in the midst of your exciting park adventure. It’s a multifaceted experience, designed to cater to the wide spectrum of visitors, ensuring that everyone can make the most of this aquatic oasis.
Debut of “Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana”
The much-anticipated and fantastic water adventure known as Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana, marked its grand debut in the heart of EPCOT on the memorable date of October 16, 2023. This unveiling of Disney’s latest masterpiece brought with it a wave of excitement, as fans and visitors from all over the world eagerly flocked to witness its enchanting grand opening. However, the excitement doesn’t end with the attraction itself. To make this occasion even more unforgettable, Disney has a special treat in store for its guests. Starting on the very same day as the attraction’s opening, the beloved and fearless Moana herself will be there to greet and engage with visitors at EPCOT. She will regale you with tales of her epic journeys, share captivating stories, and, of course, offer warm hugs that embody the magic of Disney.
This extraordinary experience ingeniously merges the enchantment of Disney with the awe-inspiring wonders of water, creating a symphony of sights, sounds, and emotions that’s sure to stay with you long after your visit. Whether you’re an ardent fan of Moana and her adventures or simply looking for a delightful blend of fun and education, Journey of Water stands as an absolute must-visit attraction at EPCOT. It’s a place where entertainment and enlightenment unite, allowing you to embark on a journey that leaves you with a deep appreciation for the marvels of our natural world, wrapped in the magic of Disney. So, don’t miss out on this remarkable experience that offers an unprecedented fusion of storytelling, education, and entertainment, ensuring your visit to EPCOT is nothing short of unforgettable.
Enhance Your Stay with Casiola vacation homes
When it’s time to immerse yourself even deeper in the enchantment of Disney, we invite you to consider the unparalleled comfort and convenience of Casiola vacation homes. Our carefully curated selection of vacation rental properties serves as the perfect oasis for rest and rejuvenation after an exhilarating day at EPCOT. Imagine stepping into your very own haven, a spacious retreat that truly feels like a home away from home. You can relax in a luxurious living room, whip up your favorite meals in a fully-equipped kitchen, and enjoy peaceful nights in cozy bedrooms that promise a restful sleep. Plus, many of our properties come with the added luxury of a private pool, offering you the ultimate in relaxation and privacy. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a couple, our vacation homes cater to your every need, making your stay a delightful and memorable part of your Disney adventure.
But Casiola vacation homes offers more than just accommodations; we provide a complete experience. Our dedicated team is here to ensure that your Disney adventure is nothing short of extraordinary. From offering guidance and support to providing recommendations and assistance, we are committed to making your stay as seamless and enjoyable as possible. So, chart your course, embark on an unforgettable journey into the captivating world of water inspired by Moana at EPCOT, and know that when you choose Casiola vacation homes, your Disney adventure transforms into an experience you’ll treasure forever. It’s the perfect blend of world-class attractions and accommodations, all tailored to create magical moments and enduring memories.
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Water Slide | Lazy River | Foosball *5mi to Disney!*
Condo - Storey Lake Resort - Orlando
Luxury is right at your fingertips with this gorgeous 2 bedroom/2 bathroom vacation home! This hip hideaway sleeps 8 and is just mere minutes away from Orlando's finest attractions, putting you in the center of the action! After a fun-filled night of opulent entertainment, what could be better than waking up in a lavish haven filled with an endless array of amenities? Quartz countertops, chic cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and one bewitching backsplash will welcome you into your very own commodious kitchen. The island will inspire you to whip up a brunch to remember for your loved ones! Or, maybe you rather dine alfresco on the patio, where you’ll get to enjoy the warm sun, cool breeze, and savor each and every bite. The choice is yours… this is vacation, after all. Set for six with room to spare, the dining area breaks all the rules by letting you play with your food. Well, maybe not with your food, but certainly right after you eat! Just steps away lies a foosball table beaconing for a post-supper showdown. Care to kick back and unwind? Pay a visit to your lavish living room, completed with one capacious couch, a cozy loveseat, a midcentury modern entertainment center, and a wall-mounted flat-screen television upon a sensational accent wall. Just a little fair warning, this common space is so relaxing, you may never want to leave! Whether the nautical life calls to you or you just appreciate a crisp and cool palate, the master suite is sure to meet your needs. A king size bed, meticulous molding, deluxe dresser, and matching nightstands make this little slice of maritime heaven as calming as the sea. In addition, the attached en suite serves as your own personal spa, showcasing a double vanity and stunning glass stall shower. Next door, you will discover a bedroom that is absolutely out of this galaxy. Decorated in Dark Side charm, this chamber features double bunkbeds, character-clad wall decals, drapes, accent pieces, and more! In addition, you will find a sleeper sofa on the premises, allowing ample room for last minute guests or extended family! This home is located in the dazzling Storey Lake Resort. Amenities include; Resort-Style Swimming Pool, Lazy River, Kid Zone with Water Slide, Splash Pad, Private Sand Beach, Tiki Bar, Tennis Courts, Basketball Court, Volleyball Sand Court, Putting Green, Private Cabanas, Fitness Center, Canoe and Kayak rentals, Boardwalk area, and more! Who knew finding the perfect getaway would be so fun and so easy?- 8
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$98/night -
Stay in style with all the amenities of home in this luxuriously condo!!!
Condo - Vista Cay Resort - Orlando
With three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a gourmet kitchen all the comforts of home are at your fingertips. The living room has a sleeper sofa and lots of plush furniture for your comfort. Watch cable TV on the flat screen or kick back and enjoy a good book. The kitchen is fully stocked with all the tools and appliances you need to make great meals to serve in the dining room. The master suite features a king bed, the second bedroom has a queen bed and a third bedroom has two twin beds, perfect for kids or teens. This bright and airy unit has everything you need to enjoy a relaxing vacation in sunny Orlando! Vista Cay Resort is right next door to the Orange County Convention Center, and less than 15 minutes away from all major theme parks, including SeaWorld, Universal Studios and Walt Disney World.- 8
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$121/night -
NEW Stunning Villa! *Pool/Spa *Theater *Game Room *FREE Resort Access
Villa - Solara Resort - Orlando
Tons of style and lots of space await at this stunning 6 bedroom/5.5 bath home in the prestigious Solara Resort. The home boasts eye-catching décor, elegant furnishings and spacious living areas. But, best of all, it's located just minutes from Orlando’s best attractions such as Disney World! Solara Resort is a new gated resort community at the center of all of Orlando’s exciting attractions. Located just a short 10 min drive from Walt Disney World, this stunning resort offers everything from a luxury clubhouse to expansive the clubhouse feature not only an expansive water complex. As a guest of Solara Resort, you can enjoy free, unlimited access to all resort amenities, including: -Heated Grand Pool -FlowRider Wave/Surf Simulator (*Fee Required*) -Poolside Cabanas -Pool Bar -Fitness Center -Outdoor Fitness Lawn -Sand Volleyball Court -Soccer Field -Full-sized Basketball Court -Indoor and Outdoor Lounges -Workstations -Tween/teen Hangout Center -Children’s Playground -Ice Cream Parlor -Bar and Grill -And more! THE SPACE: The spacious living room area features a plush sectional couch, two comfortable arm chairs and a flat screen TV. The nearby sliding glass doors offer a view of your private lanai. *Upstairs, the loft area offers additional lounging space. This living area features a leather sectional, and large flat screen TV.* The striking kitchen is equipped with everything you need for breakfast, dinner and everything in between. It has granite counters, stainless appliances and tons of cabinet space. Prep meals at the large center island, which also has seating for four at barstools. For more formal meals, the contemporary dining table just off the kitchen seats eight. The four-season enclosed lanai has great entertaining space with an outdoor couch, three comfy loungers and patio table for four, all overlooking the golf course. Stay cool with the dual ceiling fans keeping those comfortable breezes blowing through. Fall asleep under the watchful eye of the city that never sleeps – the first bedroom includes a posh mural of the New York City skyline and a comfortable queen bed. This bedroom would make a great master with the en suite bathroom. Offering a more traditional feel, the second bedroom also has a queen bed and tasteful, neutral blue and brown décor. It’s a slumber party with Elsa and Anna in the Frozen-themed third bedroom, where kids will enjoy sweet dreams in the two full beds. On the other side of the galaxy, the fourth bedroom is decked out in Star Wars bedding on the two full beds, space décor and cool V-Wing Fighter wallpaper. The fifth bedroom has a king bed and oozes modern elegance with sleek navy blue and white finishes and an en suite bathroom. Pretty pinks, grays and silver adorn the sixth bedroom with queen bed. Don’t let your stay at this tropical getaway go by without making time to dine alfresco underneath the moonlit sky on your very own screen-in lanai, complete with outdoor furniture for dining and lounging. Oh – and did we mention the dip pool?! Cool off after a day of adventure at the parks in your own private pool! **You can also turn up the temperature by adding our optional pool heat package for only $35/day + tax. - We recommend adding this option to your reservation between the months of November and April.**- 14
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Lakeview *Pool *Spa *Game Room *Theater *Themed Rooms *Near Disney *Sleeps 25
House - Storey Lake Resort - Orlando
The magnificent touches continue through the front door, where the large open living space beckons you to relax and unwind with all your friends and family. You’ll also appreciate all the extra touches that make this house feel like home – free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs in every bedroom and washer and dryer. You’ll feel like a Food Network Star in the gourmet kitchen with tons of prep space on the solid surface counters and stainless appliances, including a French door fridge. Four can belly up to the kitchen bar with unique barstools and distinctive wood accent wall. For larger group meals, 10 can dine at the Mad Men-inspired dining table overlooking the patio doors out to the pool. Another pretty wood accent wall anchors the living room flat-screen TV and a large sectional couch offers plenty of seating. Another living area upstairs comes with a huge projector TV and large, plush couch for optimal movie viewing. The kids (and some of the adults!) will never want to leave the incredible game room, decorated with superhero murals. It has two video game stations, pool table and skeeball to keep everyone entertained for hours. Head out to the back patio, where the kids can splash in the sparkling pool while you melt your stress away in the hot tub. The screened-in lanai overlooks a pretty pond and has plenty of seating with lounge chairs and an outdoor dining area where you can dine al fresco at the patio table. **Optional pool and spa heat is available for $35/day + tax. - We recommend adding this option to your reservation between the months of November and April.** From the handsome plush headboard to the textured accent wall, the first bedroom defines swanky. It comes with a king bed and en suite bathroom with double sinks and walk-in tiled shower. Wood planks decorate the accent wall in the second bedroom, which has lots of extra storage in glossy built-in nightstand cabinets. The en suite bathroom pampers with double sinks, soaking tub and walk-in shower. Just off the upstairs loft, the third bedroom is a Star Wars-lovers dream with Darth Vader and Stormtrooper décor and three full beds. The fourth bedroom is made for a princess with pink accents, Disney princess posters and a twin bed and full bed. The fifth bedroom offers a full bed and twin bed, as well as Jack-and-Jill bathroom with double sinks. On the other side of the Jack-and-Jill bathroom is the sixth bedroom with king bed and stylish furnishings. The seventh and eighth bedrooms also have king beds and trendy décor, while the ninth features Mickey Mouse and has a twin bed and full bed. Two more bathrooms upstairs round out the accommodations. Storey Lake is ideal for families, just four miles from Disney and minutes to Universal, SeaWorld and other Orlando attractions. Built around a lake, the Storey Lake resort boasts tons of fun like pool with lazy river, two water slides and splash pad. You'll also have access to a sandy beach area, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and outdoor sports. Grab a bite to eat at the poolside café or check out the clubhouse with lounge, workout facility and business center.- 25
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$216/night
4 of 250 properties
