Exploring the Animal Kingdom
The Kids wanted to explore the Animal Kingdom, so that is where we went on the second day of our visit. It was on April 22, 1998 that Disney unveiled Disney�s Animal Kingdom. We were told that �Whatever you do, don't call it a zoo �they get touchy about that word around Animal Kingdom.� Animal Kingdom was completed at the cost of nearly $1 Billion. Its 500 acres are home to some 1700 animals from 250 different species. A ride on the Kilimanjaro Safari gave us a chance to see many of them as they took us through the African Savannah.

The Tree of Life
This is the Park�s perennial Icon and is truly a work of art in the best Disney tradition. At 145ft, this 14-story artificial tree has the images of more than 300 animals hand carved into its trunk. The base of the Tree of Life is home to the 3D film "It's Tough to be a Bug", which is really fun to watch because it also has real sensory experiences of �smell and feel!�

Another attraction that that we found notable in the Animal Kingdom was Kali River Rapids. It is a water ride and unfortunately, it's a bit too short. But you learn about the evils of deforestation while riding on machinery and materials that will still be trying to biodegrade in 500 years. Ironical isn�t it?

The newest Animal Kingdom attraction to grace the landscape in Asia is the incredible Expedition Everest. Opened on April 7, 2006 - the attraction features a two way track system that takes guests forward, then backward when attacked by the mythical yeti that guards the "forbidden mountain". It is a family friendly roller coaster. The ecosystem in this area simulates the dry tundra environment of Nepal, complete with muddy paths with intermittent grass.

The Dinoland section of Animal Kingdom has a fast paced and somewhat jerky ride that's not recommended for those with back/heart conditions. While it can get a bit rough, this is one of the better rides you'll find at Disney World.

Some advice.... Animal Kingdom normally closes earlier then the other Disney theme parks, therefore arriving first thing in the morning is usually recommended during peak season. Kilimanjaro Safari and Expedition Everest get long lines very quickly, so be sure to hit those first, or at least get fast passes early in the day.

Also, be warned that Animal Kingdom is, for some unknown reason, the hottest place on the face of the earth. If you can, avoid this park during the summer season. If you have to go when it's hot � Have a plan (and lots of water). The layout of Animal Kingdom is such that you're often forced to back track in order to navigate the park. A good pair of comfortable shoes will be your best friend at Animal Kingdom.

Fireworks!
Most spectacular of all Disney's parks are the parades and fireworks displayed at the Magic Kingdom in Orlando. Most notably, the current combo of the "Wishes" fireworks show, and the perennial night time favourite, Spectromagic. If these two performances don't impress you, then nothing can!

Post Script!
The entry to the park is very costly and it can be as high as USD 140 for just two parks and USD 100 for kids below 12. Add to it, the cost of meals, transport and the hotel, and you�ll be poorer by around rupees four lacs for a family of four. It is advisable to pick up a hotel and a travel deal early. And it is best to spare at least seven days if you want to see the whole of Disney World. Moreover, a 7-day pass costs just around USD 250. Americans, they say, work hard to get their families for a holiday of their lifetime. Such is the magic of the place.