Attention to Detail: Masks

Masks. They're a universal part of human culture, found the world over and spanning history. They've held a variety of uses and meanings over time- sometimes artistic or ceremonial, sometimes functional or practical, always unique and distinctive to their respective cultures.

Much as you can find masks in all corners of the world, you'll find masks in all corners of Walt Disney World.

The first masks I remember encountering at Walt Disney World are the Venician masks found in Epcot's World Showcase, in the Italy pavilion.

In addition to the artisan masks in Italy's shops, masks are also featured in parts of the Kidcot children's area in this pavilion.

I started noticing masks in various places as I made my way through recent visits. Here's a sampling of masks I found in the parks...

African Outpost, Epcot's World Showcase:

China pavilion, Epcot's World Showcase:

Tusker House, Animal Kingdom:

Expedition Everest, Animal Kingdom:

Mitsukoshi, Japan pavilion, Epcot's World Showcase:

In addition to the parks, masks can be found featured at resorts across property...

Coronado Springs Resort:

Moon Mask, Animal Kingdom Lodge:

And let's not forget Mardi Gras! The masks below can be found on display (and for sale) at 

Port Orleans French Quarter:

Have you taken notice of masks in Walt Disney World? Where else have you spotted them? 

Tell us about it in the comments...

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Here's a bonus shot, featuring masks on the wall of a study. Bonus points to anyone who can guess where in the parks this shot was taken. Do you think you know? Comment with your answer!

Attention to Detail: Cast Members Only

We see them everywhere we go- "Employees Only" signs, warning us of the areas off limits to the general public. Your basic standard sign is good enough for most places... but as we know, Walt Disney World isn't most places!

How do you plus it with something as mundane as an employees only marker? You do it in Disney style- with attention to detail, and often with immersion in theme and artistry in design...

Can you guess the location of the signs below?

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

Share your guesses in the comment section!

Favorites on Friday: The Boardwalk Inn Lobby

The Boardwalk...

There's something special about a good hotel lobby.  One of my favorites is the lobby of Disney's Boardwalk Inn. Harkening back to the turn-of-the-century heyday of boardwalk culture, this is an upscale representation of coastal destinations like Coney Island and Atlantic City. The hotel, situated in the Epcot resort area just beyond World Showcase, is one of Disney's finest...

The majestic lobby of the Boardwalk Inn is one of the best places to relax, people watch, and  soak in all the attention to detail...

A replica of a wooden coaster from days gone by...

The veranda just off the lobby overlooks the boardwalk and Crescent Lake...

This miniature carousel is intricately detailed. Keep your eyes open for a few Hidden Mickeys...

Amazing detail in the light fixtures, each themed to the sea:

And last but not least, perhaps the most disturbing chair found on Walt Disney World property:

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Have you spent any time in the lobby of The Boardwalk Inn?

The Giant

In the shadow of the castle, just as you enter Fantasyland, stands Sir Mickey's- a gift shop themed to Mickey and the Beanstalk (1947), Disney's version of the Jack and the Beanstalk adventure. You can see part of the beanstalk winding its way around the sign on the left side of the castle photo below. Inside the shop you'll find t-shirts, hats, and other standard gift shop fare.

As you peruse the shelves, though, don't forget to look up. You just might find the giant, peeking
his way in...

Have you ever had the feeling you're being watched? This might explain it...

Do Pull the Rope...

Just outside the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular at Disney's Hollywood Studios, you'll find an archaeological dig site. Complete with excavating tools, wooden braces, lanterns, ropes and pulleys, it looks like you've stumbled upon an active dig.

Do you see that warning sign? Someone has crossed out the word NOT ...

By all means, DO pull the rope! You just might be rewarded with a fun little surprise.

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(Just a small bit of that Attention to Detail that makes this place like no other...)