Howdy, friends! Welcome to a new episode of our fantastic auditory sensory journey to the heart of the magic and the story of Disneyland Paris. Um, I can’t hear you. I’ll say it again: the heart of the magic and the story of Disneyland Paris. Yeah, there we go—that’s what we like. Joy, enthusiasm, expressions of exuberant delight. Oh, um, speaking of expressions of exuberant delight, I hope you’ve mastered this one: yeeha! Because today, we chuck on our cowboy boots, tip our Stetson, and giddy up to discover Frontierland. Prepare to ride into the heart of a Western—the place where legends come to life—all with no, no, no, not ranch sauce, magical Disney sauce! Walt’s and ghosts, a train speeding through the heart of an abandoned mine, a saloon, and golden nuggets! Here, each step is a discovery, each building a chapter from the history of the American West, and each cactus, well, is a cactus. But, but a very Instagrammable cactus, besides. Did you know the cacti here have been specially acclimatized to the weather in Marne-la-Vallée? Yes, I too imagine them wearing a little poncho when it rains, but they are actually kept in a greenhouse during the winter. Oh, that sounds like my dream winter—one spent in the warm. Anyway, whether you’re right here at Disneyland Paris, under a blanket on your sofa, with your head resting on your train neighbor’s shoulder, or in the lotus position on a yoga mat, turn up your headphones and follow me on a journey like no other. Saddle up, and welcome to Disneyland Paris. Welcome to Frontierland!

Whoa, easy, Brownie, there we go. Ch, ch, ch, okay, good, good, just like that. Gentle. Yes, I came on horseback. I’m on Bree, thanks, Brownie. You can ride off into the sunset of my imagination now. The good thing about imagination is anything is possible, even riding horses. Come on, let’s get back to our quest to the American West. We’ve just stopped at the end of Main Street, U.S.A., on the left side of Central Plaza. Let’s move forward slowly. The atmosphere is beginning to transform, the vegetation is becoming denser, trees surround us, and—ah, there it is—the entrance to Frontierland. You can’t miss it; it’s written right there. Yeah, there, right there on the wooden panel above the large gates of Fort Comstock.

I would like to take this opportunity to tell you that the name Frontierland is inspired by a term thought out by 19th-century pioneers: that of the frontier, an imaginary border that separated the world they knew and the still-unexplored lands of the American West. Please don’t think I’m making wrong turns down all sorts of sidetracks—these are golden nuggets of knowledge! H, you’ll grow to appreciate them. Anyway, our tour continues. We are now passing through the gates of Fort Comstock. With its palisades and watchtowers, it stands proudly to protect the secrets and legends of the fictional town of Thunder Mesa. Yep, that’s where I’m taking you. This fort is not only an imposing structure made of sturdy wood and massive tree trunks; it’s a gateway to the past, a tribute to the pioneer spirit that shaped the American West. And for all you DIY fanatics, a rather impressive example of solid wood flooring. The constant creaking of the floorboards beneath our feet paints a picture of convoys of pioneers and adventurers arriving in search of their fortune. Inside the fort, a maze of passages invites you to explore. My advice? Take the stairs right there on your left. Uh, well, actually, let’s take them together and discover Legends of the Wild West—an immersive journey through the history of, yep, you guessed it, the Wild West. As you wander around, you’ll see scenes illustrating famous people and events from this period, and to make everything ring true, our magicians of the imagination, the Imagineers, carried out extensive research to make sure every little bit of scenery breathes history with a capital H, thanks to a good number of larger-than-life props.

So, history lessons are important, that’s for sure, but what I loved doing most in class was staring out the window. Nothing beats a good view and some serious people-watching. But I digress. Uh, where were we? Oh, the most beautiful view in all of Frontierland. Walk forward on the fort ramparts and would you look at that—a magnificent view of Thunder Mesa! To your left, on the hill, you can see the unmissable and infamous Phantom Manor. We’ll go there later. And yeah, yes, I’m scared, but I’m gradually building up the courage. Uh, in front of you, straight ahead though, yeah, there you go, there—these are the Rivers of the Far West, with flora and fauna, and in the center, sitting majestically on its island, the iconic Big Thunder Mountain. I’ll give you three seconds to snap a photo of that view, uh, then we must, uh, make haste. Hey, you’re not already out of breath, are you? Our tour has barely begun! Come on, let’s go back down. Thunder Mesa awaits. No need to look for this town on a map; it won’t be on it—at least not in the real world. But here, in the magical world of Disneyland Paris, and only Disneyland Paris, does this town exist. Thunder Mesa is the beating heart of Frontierland, a mushroom town like those sprouting up across the American West between 1850 and 1880. Mushroom? Yeah, mushroom, meaning a town or city that grows rapidly, not one that grows mushrooms. Check out the tracks on the ground left by the wheels of the carts and hooves of the horses that brought a plethora of pioneers here in search of their fortune. Let’s stop for a few moments in this large square just outside Fort Comstock, so I can brief you a little on the history and exciting legends that make this land totally unique and exciting. Did I—did I tell you it’s [Music] exciting? Right now, we’re all gathered around the campfire and toasting marshmallows. Let’s begin.

It all started with the discovery of a sparkling nugget in the neighboring mountain, Big Thunder Mountain. Why the name? So, I’m getting there! Hold your horses. The original inhabitants of the region know the secret well. This mountain is home to powerful beings; among them, the most legendary is undoubtedly the Thunderbird, which watches over and protects the mountain and its riches. Beware those who, blinded by a lust for gold, dare to disturb it. And there we have it—the Thunderbird not only gave its name to the town, Thunder Mesa, but also to the mountain itself, Big Thunder Mountain. Well, that was another sidetrack worth waiting for, wasn’t it? Uh, where was I? Oh, uh, yeah. So, one sparkling nugget probably means several sparkling nuggets, and several sparkling nuggets means a crowd of gold prospectors who arrive at full speed. It’s the gold rush, and the legend of the Thunderbird is forgotten very quickly. The Thunder Mesa Mining Company was born, and the town’s population increased at an incredible rate. The company dug, stirred, extracted, sifted, and it made people happy. Most notably, Miss Diamond Lil, a highly respected resident who, after finding a huge gold nugget, opened her establishment—the Lucky Nugget Saloon, which very quickly became the place to be in Thunder Mesa. But be careful—in this town where gold once flowed freely, not everyone had fate on their side. Such as Henry and Martha Ravenswood. Do their names ring a bell? Any idea? I’ll tell you about them later. Yes, I’m mining some suspense.

Until then, let’s jingle our spurs a little further to our left, to Miss Diamond Lil’s place—the Lucky Nugget Saloon. Here we are, in front of one of the most famous restaurants at Disneyland Paris. It has been welcoming visitors since way back when the park opened in 1992, which—uh, which is also the year of my birth. Mhm. Yep. Mhm. Anyway, as I began to explain to you before we went off on another sidetrack, legend has it that the saloon is the work of Miss Diamond Lil, who was lucky enough to find a huge gold nugget. With her surprise fortune, she treated herself to outfits befitting a Hollywood star on the red carpet, and some dream trips too. One such trip was to Paris, where, while enjoying a cabaret, she crossed paths with a certain Pierre Paradis, who became her French lover. Together, they had the brilliant idea of opening the Lucky Nugget Saloon in Thunder Mesa, bringing a touch of Parisian savoir-faire with the Lily’s Folly Show, which was performed here until 1996 and followed by many other shows. Today, the Lucky Nugget Saloon remains a must-visit for dining and immersing yourself in the atmosphere of the Wild West. As for the famous nugget that started it all, it sits proudly behind the bar, and believe me, it’s the size that turns heads. I really recommend that you go through the doors of the saloon because only inside can you appreciate the richness of its detail. Admire the stained glass windows, the period lamps, and especially the impressive mural that represents all of Frontierland located on the restaurant stage. No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no—we’re not touching the nugget! Do you want to get in trouble with the sheriff or something thunderous?

If, after leaving the Lucky Nugget Saloon, you find yourself wondering, “Now what’s for dinner?” Well, let me tell you two things: One, now is not the time; and two, just a bit further up, you’ll find an exceptional place, another star of Thunder Mesa—yes, the Golden Nugget. You’ll recognize it by its large, gleaming yellow sign and the lively sounds of the banjo. Entering this building is like stepping into another era. You’ll be welcomed into a two-story restaurant, both cozy and majestic, where the wooden interiors bring out the warm ambiance of an old-timey saloon. It’s an ideal spot to relax, recharge, and enjoy hearty American cuisine after your adventures in Frontierland. Oh, and don’t forget to check out the piano! Sometimes, if you’re lucky, you might catch a live performance of ragtime music. Just a bit of a heads-up: this place can get busy, so you might want to plan ahead if you want to snag a good table with a view of the stage.

As we continue our tour of Frontierland, you’ll notice that this area is full of rich details and nods to history. Whether you’re a fan of the Old West or just love a good story, there’s something here for everyone. Even the smallest details, like the horse hitching posts or the weathered signs on the buildings, contribute to the immersive experience that makes Disneyland Paris so special. It’s all about creating a sense of place, a world where you can lose yourself in the adventure and romance of the frontier. So, as we move along, keep your eyes peeled for these little touches that make Thunder Mesa come alive. It’s more than just a theme park; it’s a living, breathing story that you get to be a part of.

Next on our adventure is a true marvel of engineering and imagination—Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. This iconic attraction is not just a roller coaster; it’s a journey into the heart of Thunder Mesa’s mining operation. But beware, for the Thunderbird’s wrath might just shake you up as you venture deep into the cursed caverns of Big Thunder Mountain. You’ll be speeding through dark tunnels, careening around sharp bends, and diving into the depths of the mountain—all while dodging dynamite blasts and runaway mine carts. It’s a wild ride, but one that perfectly captures the thrill and danger of the Old West.

Big Thunder Mountain is an absolute must-do for thrill-seekers and history buffs alike. The attraction was designed with incredible attention to detail, from the rusty mining equipment to the weathered wood of the rickety bridges. As you board the mine train and it starts its ascent, you’ll feel the anticipation building. The track winds its way through the mountain, offering stunning views of Frontierland and the surrounding areas, but don’t get too comfortable—the Thunderbird is known to strike when least expected!

And speaking of the unexpected, after your heart-pounding ride on Big Thunder Mountain, you might want to take a breather and explore the calmer side of Frontierland. Head over to the Rivers of the Far West, where you can embark on a peaceful riverboat cruise aboard the Mark Twain or the Molly Brown. These majestic paddle steamers offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the town. As you glide along the river, take in the stunning scenery of Frontierland, including the dense forests, rugged cliffs, and wildlife that call this area home. The riverboat ride is a perfect way to relax and soak in the beauty of this part of Disneyland Paris.

But don’t relax too much, because we still have one more stop to make on our journey through Frontierland. We’re heading to the most mysterious and eerie place in all of Thunder Mesa—Phantom Manor. This haunted house attraction is a darker, more twisted take on the traditional Western ghost story. The manor looms ominously over Frontierland, its decaying façade hinting at the tragic tale that lies within. Legend has it that the house is cursed, and those who enter may never return the same. If you dare, step inside and uncover the chilling story of the Ravenswood family, whose greed and arrogance led to their downfall. Phantom Manor is not for the faint of heart, but it’s an essential part of the Frontierland experience, offering a thrilling and immersive journey into the darker side of the Old West.

And with that, our adventure through Frontierland comes to an end. We’ve journeyed through the heart of Thunder Mesa, braved the wilds of Big Thunder Mountain, relaxed on the Rivers of the Far West, and confronted the ghosts of Phantom Manor. But the magic of Disneyland Paris doesn’t stop here—there are still so many more stories to discover and adventures to be had. So, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Disney fan, Frontierland is a place where history, fantasy, and adventure come together in a truly unforgettable way.

Thank you for joining me on this journey through the American West at Disneyland Paris. I hope you’ve enjoyed our tour and that it’s brought a little bit of that Disney magic into your day, wherever you are. Until next time, happy trails, and may all your adventures be magical! Transcribed by airmagique.net. Produced by Disneyland Paris.

So, what do we have here in this backpack? A compass so we don’t go round and round in circles and repeat the same attraction over and over again. Binoculars to spot Disney Premier Access entrances and restaurant menus from afar. Um, ah, a safari hat for, uh, well, uh, for style, obviously. Okay, a water bottle—vital for staying hydrated—and a waterproof poncho because Pirates of the Caribbean, yeah, need to think about that one. Lots of handy items we have here. I’m not missing anything, am I? Right! Oh, oh yeah, of course—one more thing, the main thing: you!

Hello, friends! Welcome to a new, exciting, and absolutely thrilling episode of our journey to the heart of the magic of Disneyland Paris. Wow! Don’t worry, I haven’t really forgotten you—how could I forget you? I was just a little bit too absorbed in the preparations for our, uh, walk, well, our, uh, excursion—our trip even. Yeah, that works, because today is a backpack, cargo trousers, tough hiking boots, wide-open-eyes kind of day. Today we’re going on an adventure! Welcome to Adventureland! Ah, this music gives me goosebumps—believe me, every time you enter Adventureland, it’s impossible to escape the excitement of going on an adventure, or in search of treasure, and discovering new wonders. Depending on the path you take, you’ll find yourself in the middle of the African savanna, in the heart of a lost jungle, or in a Caribbean fortress town. It’s almost a park within a park.

In Adventureland, every step is a step into exploration, every corner hides a story, and every attraction is an invitation to let yourself be caught up in the power of imagination and embrace the unexpected. Wow, that was well said, if I do say so myself. Make sure you jot that down! Anyway, this is the place where guests are immersed in a world of fascinating stories, ancient legends, and iconic Disney adventures. And, uh, oh yeah, Indiana’s never far away. And, uh, and I, I talk too much, don’t I? Um, yeah, okay, let’s go! Our journey begins! Here we are, right in front of the entrance, accessible from Central Plaza to the left of Sleeping Beauty Castle. This is Adventureland Bazaar. Notice the sand and exotic vegetation that now surrounds you. Admire the spectacular onion-shaped domes—yes, that gives me a recipe idea—that evoke images of Arabian Nights.

This majestic fortress seems straight out of a dream, delicately blending influences from the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. Not a bad first step on our journey, right? Come on, let’s go under the archway. Just above your head, a magnificent chandelier welcomes you. And ah, do you hear that music? Ooo, I love it! We’re immediately immersed in the story. Have I already told you that I can play the darbouka drum rather well? I have many talents, you see. Yeah, anyway, um, now, doesn’t that remind you of somewhere? Doesn’t it feel like we’re in Agrabah, the fascinating city from Aladdin? Lively shops and restaurants, the bright colors of the hanging carpets, oh, the intoxicating scent of spices! All that’s left to do is meet up with Abu and give Genie a high five. Amazing! Let’s turn left towards Le Passage Enchanté d’Aladdin. Opened in 1993, this covered passage invites you to relive the key moments from a Disney classic—the story of a street rat turned prince. The passage does this by enchantingly recreating these moments with a series of 3D dioramas, or models—super detailed models, to be precise. And as a bonus to complete the immersion, there are lots of Middle Eastern decorations and objects, including pretty stained-glass windows and mosaics. A very pleasant and entertaining walking tour from which you will leave dreaming of jumping on a magic carpet while singing “A Whole New World.” Yeah, okay, uh, so the whole world isn’t ready for my talents yet, but we’re ready, aren’t we? Shall we continue our adventure?

An adventure for all our senses, including our taste buds, because now I will take you to Restaurant Agrabah Café, right there next to the entrance to the land. As soon as you enter, a small alley lined with colorful lanterns that create a warm, soft light welcomes you. Go ahead, open this imposing iron door, and you’ll find yourself in a real Agrabah arcade filled with tables and chairs, colorful shop signs, artisan carpets, a multitude of decorated lanterns, and moist fountains with vibrant mosaics complete the setting. You are now in the heart of an Arabian tale, a place full of magic, with an all-you-can-eat buffet. Yes, an all-you-can-eat buffet is magical because it transforms a “No, it’s okay, I’m full” into a “Ah, I didn’t see the dessert stand; I’m sure I can squeeze some cake in.” Believe me, Restaurant Agrabah Café is not just a delight for the eyes and imagination; it’s also an unforgettable experience for your taste buds, thanks to its delicious Middle Eastern menu. Ooh, uh, hold on there! I will have to ask you to put down that ladle of semolina; we have an expedition to continue and some thrilling attractions to ride. Yes, one that, uh, features, uh, a loop-the-loop. Yeah, that one!

Time for a change of pace, a change of atmosphere, as a new part of the world opens up to us in just a few steps with an impeccably low carbon footprint. We arrive in Africa! And no, what you see ahead is not a mirage—it is indeed a Land Rover parked in front of a small shop, La Girafe Curieuse. At first glance, you’ll notice that this shop has a distinctive clay mud façade, a traditional construction technique that ensures a pleasant coolness inside, which is a big must when you’re under the blazing sun all day long. Look a little closer, and you’ll notice a tower pierced with multiple openings. Why these holes? Well, they allow for effective natural ventilation of the entire interior. Clever, huh? At the entrance, you are greeted by the name of the store, engraved on a wooden sign framed by two African ceramic lamps bursting with color. Walk through the door, and as the interior opens up to you, you will spot two architectural styles on the ceiling, one with exposed beams, the other with wooden sticks—a little nod to traditional savanna homes.

No, no, no, no, no, I can’t get you a discount on this adorable Simba plush toy, but I can tell you how this store was born—at least its legend. We must first take a little step back in history, explorers. Um, put down your backpacks and, uh, make yourselves comfortable. Once upon a time, a nomadic merchant, zooming at full speed in his Land Rover through the savannah, sees his life literally turned upside down when he comes across a giraffe who is a little too curious. Frantically swerving to avoid hitting the animal, the man crashes into a street lamp—yes, a street lamp—right in the middle of, of nowhere. Ouch! Shaken but inspired by this rather unusual incident, the man sets his sights on some ruins nearby and decides to open his shop there. How hard did he bump his head, eh? And guess what? The giraffe has become a loyal customer, regularly popping in to say hello by sliding his long neck through a hole in the roof, and thus giving his name to the shop too. I tell a good story, huh? What do you think? The best part of all this, and as is often the case at Disneyland Paris, is that the legend mixes with reality and that you will indeed be able to see the giraffe during your visit to the store. Raise your head and say hi!

Here’s a fun little fact for you: this giraffe has a history that goes back well before the park opened. It comes from the very same mold as the giraffes in the famous Jungle Cruise attraction at Disneyland in California. And who knows, maybe we’ll go and see these American giraffes together on a future expedition. Until then, let’s, uh, get back on track with today’s. You see that bridge just past the shop? Let’s cross that. Yes, we are in the middle of the African savanna. Look around you at how the scenery has changed. I don’t know if we’re going to come across buffalo and bongos, but it seems we’re more in meerkat and warthog territory. You know who I mean—a smart, quick-witted meerkat and his best friend with, uh, excessive flatulency. Exactly! It’s Timon and Pumbaa. It wouldn’t be surprising to see them here in their natural habitat, not far from this large hut that appears in front of you now. Yep, right there on your left, under this thatched roof and behind these cob walls is Restaurant Hakuna Matata, a must-stop on any Adventureland expedition. A very chill spot with a colorful vibe. See the geometric patterns that adorn the façade—a mix of triangles, zigzags, and diamonds. It’s authentic, welcoming… oh, help! I’m hungry again. The entrance is through two massive wooden doors framed by red and green columns, with the name of the restaurant proudly engraved on a panel just above: Hakuna Matata. For those of you new to Swahili, let’s make it clear—here, we leave our worries behind, and with this representation of young Simba welcoming us, napkin around his neck, ready to eat, we know we’re in the right place. We can tuck into a hassle-free feast, uh, with or without grubs and silkworms. Since Disneyland Paris opened, this restaurant has always been the HQ of delicious exotic fast food, mixing North African, Asian, and West Indian flavors. With the triumphant arrival of The Lion King on our screens in ’94, the restaurant was transformed to celebrate the Hakuna Matata spirit of Timon and Pumbaa. It’s a place to relax while admiring painted versions of iconic characters from the film.

Come on, change of continent! We now move from the sunny savanna to the mysterious and lush jungle of India, another fascinating and fabulous facet of Adventureland. Yes, I am an alliteration specialist here. Giant trees and swaying vines beckon us to explore unknown territories and Colonel Hathi’s Outpost Restaurant. I know what you’re thinking—another restaurant? Well, yes, but rejoice! I give you a range of choices, and with the adventures that await us, believe me, it’s worth getting our fill of protein and carbohydrates in. We approach a clearing where a British colonial building sits peacefully at the water’s edge. It stands out with its red roof, white walls, and green-framed windows. An observation telescope placed high on the balcony reminds us that this place has seen adventurers pass through here before, and that’s a good thing. Colonel Hathi’s Outpost Restaurant is run by the famous leader of the Jungle Patrol, Colonel Hathi. Yeah, well done! You must have seen The Jungle Book. For those who haven’t, and those with a little, uh, well, memory bug, Colonel Hathi is a big, grey elephant who rules with an iron fist—or rather, a firm trunk—his army of, well, uh, elephants, of course. Here, his name sits proudly on the sign that welcomes us just at the entrance. Colonel Hathi’s Outpost Restaurant is the chosen haunt for explorers looking for comfort before venturing back into the humidity of the Asian jungle.

Um, what’s your, um, favorite pizza? You can say pineapple if you want, I promise not to tell any Italians. Oh my, did you hear? I think, okay, my heart is starting to race—we’re approaching the big thrill of our trip: Indiana Jones and the Temple of Peril. Imagine a team of archaeologists, guided by the legendary Indy, unearthing an ancient temple in the heart of the Indian jungle. But unfortunately for them, and, uh, us, the temple is strewn with danger. Indiana Jones, our favorite archaeology professor, launches an expedition funded by his university to explore an ancient lost city in India, armed with the only clue to its whereabouts. The treasures of the world await those who dare to climb very high! Indy and his team gradually reveal, thanks to an ingenious network of underground rails, the Temple of Peril. After a hair-raising ride in a wagon, Indy is sure the temple hides the famous treasures of the lost city and has therefore laid the track for all budding adventurers, including you, to continue his breathtaking quest.

Friends, just in front of us stands the temple, luring adventurers to brave its thrills, where speeding wagons rumble through ancient ruins. Make sure you hold on to your hat! When this roller coaster opened on the 30th of July 1993, it was the very first to have a 360° loop among all the Disney parks in the world. That makes me proud. Let’s take a second to admire our surroundings—all under the wild gaze of statues who seem ready to pounce upon us. The jungle is everywhere, blending with the stones of the temple, the massive pillars, and towers that almost touch the sky. This is much more than a setting—it’s an invitation for adventure, for a real adrenaline rush. And, well, it’s Indy, isn’t it?

Dear passengers, dear adventurers, this is your captain speaking. Please fasten your seatbelts because we are beginning our descent towards an extraordinary destination: Adventure Isle and its tropical climate and very welcoming, uh, pirate. Please stay seated until our imaginary flight comes to a complete stop, and keep your tricorn firmly fitted on your head. The entire crew wishes you a good stay. Thank you for choosing Magic Ears Airlines for your travel. Cabin crew at the doors, disarm the wooden legs! I’d make a pretty good pilot, right? Wow! Welcome to Adventure Isle, the most famous and central island in Adventureland. How? Because it’s the only one and it’s in the center. My logic and sarcasm never run out of ammo. More seriously and precisely, this isle is divided into two wild areas, lost in the middle of La Mer de l’Île Brûlée, and connected by the famous River of Pirates. On one side, you’ll see a huge tree inspired by the Indian Banyan tree, which can reach up to 25 meters in height and is called the “Disneyodendron semperflorens grandis,” which means “Gigantic Ever-blooming Disney Tree,” honest. On the other side, there’s the Pirate Galleon and, well, pirates—lots of pirates—who roam the island searching for Captain Flint’s legendary treasure, which was hidden by good old Ben Gunn. Do you spot the references and famous inspirations? Because here, there are treasure chest loads. I shall reveal more soon.

To explore this pirate’s paradise, you have the choice between four access points via four bridges: the Robinson Bridge, the South Bridge, the Floating Bridge made entirely of barrels, and a stone bridge to the north. Come on, let’s head south. There, in front of you, yeah, is the imposing Pirate Galleon, there’s the iconic Skull Rock where Hook once imprisoned Tiger Lily, and if you’re brave enough, join in Ben Gunn’s Cave—a real labyrinth full of traps and secrets. With a little luck and courage, we might get our hands on Captain Flint’s loot. Adventure Isle has everything in it to create a high level of escapism and thrills. And as I mentioned a little earlier, there were many inspirations and references for the Imagineers to draw upon, most notably from the worlds of Treasure Island and, of course, Peter Pan. Now it’s your turn to have some fun. Can you find all the references to these tales scattered throughout the island? Let’s take advantage of being here to mention the teams of horticulturists who work their magic to create this tropical paradise, despite working with a climate that’s not really cooperative. Because, yes, the vegetation usually found in these landscapes would never, never have naturally survived in the heart of Seine-et-Marne. The teams have nevertheless managed to find plants that seem exotic without really being so, such as bamboos, yuccas, and even super-strong palm trees. But the star of the show is the rhododendron, skillfully transformed here into a majestic tree for a festival of color when spring arrives. And as certain tropical plants, like banana trees, are pretty big divas, they only come out of their nursery in the summer for a sunbathe, while in winter, they give way to bamboos and prunus. It’s clever—it’s just another little detail that makes the storytelling at Disneyland Paris magical. Hats off to our gardeners! I can barely keep my one and only cactus alive.

I could talk to you about plants all day, but I don’t want to keep someone special waiting. After Indiana Jones, here’s my favorite adventurer. Okay, well, crook, but still an adventurer nonetheless. He’s a legend, a real pirate, he’s perfected the smokey eye, and just like banana trees, he’s a bit of a diva. He is Captain Jack Sparrow. To meet him, we must leave Adventure Isle and set a course for the pirate fortress. Once here, we are transported to the Caribbean of the 18th century, to the heart of an imposing Spanish fort. Its thick stone walls and solid wood beams have seen many battles and have stood the test of time. In the center of this stronghold stands a tower, a true symbol of power for this impregnable fortification that defies those who dare attack it. Yet its real strength lies in its formidable battery of cannons, aligned along the ramparts. These iron guardians are ready to fire at any moment to repel the most daring foes. Try your best not to look threatening—they may be pointed at us.

Moving on, we approach a huge ship mast and its sail on which appears the name of this iconic attraction: Pirates of the Caribbean. There are five of these attractions in Disney theme parks around the world, this one built in 1992 being the newest, and it has since had a makeover for our 25th anniversary. It stands out amongst the others in particular for a very original opening setting: Captain Jack’s restaurant, the Pirate Buccaneers’ hangout serving Caribbean fare, a warm pirate welcome, and a unique view of the attraction. It’s immersive, and it’s very tasty. But this is only the beginning of the adventure. The Imagineers have designed a journey full of surprises and emotions, for here you are in a time when pirates roamed the Caribbean Sea. Once aboard your boat, you’ll pass through a town engulfed in flames and pirate plundering. As I don’t want to capsize the suspense with spoilers, all I will say is that your journey leads to Captain Jack Sparrow and treasure. Since the attraction inspired an entire cinematographic saga—yes, did you know the attraction came before the film?—the Imagineers have integrated Captain Jack into the attraction, as well as the wider universe of Adventureland. I’ll let you unearth that one. Oh, I just can’t help myself! A pirate’s life for me! Anyway, anyway, yeah, getting back to it, so, uh, with its nods to the iconic characters of the franchise, Pirates of the Caribbean has recently been renovated and offers an even more intense adventure. What’s more, know that during your adventure you’ll come across around 120 Audio-Animatronic characters and animals, slide down two waterfalls, try to count some 30,000 gold coins stuck by hand in the treasure room, and so much more, which makes Pirates of the Caribbean one of the most popular attractions at Disneyland Paris. Oh, um, do those actually count as spoilers? Yeah, I don’t think so.

Man the decks! Hoist the rigging! And there you have it, my dear adventurers, my buccaneers, my little archaeologists. Our journey through the wild and mysterious worlds of Adventureland is coming to an end. What a pleasure to have worn out my hiking boots with you. Together, we trekked through lush jungles, braved swashbuckling seas, and explored the cursed ruins of forgotten civilizations. We crossed paths with colorful pirates and legendary heroes. I ate couscous from Agrabah Café and sweet potato fries. It was incredible! Adventureland is a true ode to the spirit of adventure that lies in all of us. It reminds us that the world is full of wonders to discover, challenges to overcome, and dreams to pursue. It invites us to push our limits, to embrace the unknown, and always and forever to believe in magic. Let Adventureland be your source of inspiration, your reminder that adventure is everywhere for those who know how to find it. Now, let’s chase that horizon, sailors! If you enjoyed this podcast, please like it or leave a comment. What other hidden gems have you discovered? I’d love for you to tell me. Thanks again for listening. I look forward to seeing you again for our next audio adventure at Disneyland Paris. Until then, keep on dreaming, friends! Transcribed by airmagique.net. Produced by Disneyland Paris.