The Disney World version of the Hatfields and the McCoys are at it again, as EPCOT’s most controversial debate is back on.
Whether one is planning to drink around the world or simply stroll the World Showcase, there is no greater Walt Disney World debate than whether to start in Mexico or Canada. I’ve been writing about Disney parks for over 6 years and attending them for 5x that long, and there are few, if any, subjects that I’ve seen rile up guests to this level.
We here at AllEars are even split, as some of us prefer heading left to begin in Mexico, others to the right to Canada, and still others prefer something else entirely.
The Case for Starting in Mexico
There are arguably several reasons that one should begin their World Showcase journey by moving counter-clockwise and entering Mexico first.
For starters, the Mexican Pavilion is unique as it’s the only indoor World Showcase pavilion, providing the atmosphere of a balmy Mexican night no matter the time or temperature outside. In addition, unlike Canada, Mexico has a ride. Specifically, Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros (a retheme of the opening day EPCOT attraction El Rio del Tiempo), which seems like an appropriate way to start one’s journey.
Specifically for those driving around the world, a margarita or other tequila-based drink (without over-indulging, of course) is probably a better way to begin than a heavy, bloating Canadian beer.
The Case for Starting in Canada
While EPCOT’s take on the Great White North doesn’t feature a ride, there is an amusing film, plus one of the most lusciously landscaped pavilions in all of World Showcase. Plus, there’s maple popcorn, one of the best EPCOT snacks to enjoy while strolling along World Showcase Lagoon.
As for drinking around the world, well, as stated above, the beer in Canada will arguably make one feel fuller faster. However, it’s also a much lower alcohol by volume (ABV) than the margaritas in Mexico, which means it’s arguably easier to avoid over-indulging.
One further benefit of starting in Canada? It’s closer to France. Speaking of which…
The Case for Starting in France
EPCOT’s secondary International Gateway entrance — located near the France Pavilion– has been open for decades. However, it didn’t see heavy use from guests until the Skyliner opened in 2019. In the years since, the heavy use of that gondola system, along with the opening of the popular Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure attraction, has made beginning one’s EPCOT day in France a popular option.
In addition to the ability to rope drop the popular Pixar-based attraction, beginning both a trip around the World Showcase and an overall EPCOT day with a French breakfast is highly appealing to a growing number of guests.
In other words, they’ll be enjoying a crepe and a mimosa while others are arguing the merits of Donald Duck and a margarita vs Martin Short and a Unibroue beer. Stay tuned to AllEar for more on Walt Disney World’s eternal debate.
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Where do you start? Mexico? Canada? France? Let us know in the comments below!
My parents bought into DVC a long time ago and the Boardwalk is our “home” hotel so we’ve always used International gateway to get into EPCOT. I honestly didn’t know what the “real” entrance looked like until I was well into my 20’s! Our group started the drinking around the world tradition in 2008 and we go about every other year so this year will be our 9th go around, and we always start in France and end in the UK. Not sure if that’s a better strategy but it’s familiar to us at least!
Mexico in the morning, Canada in the evening. Keeps the sun out of our eyes both ways.