3. Candy Around the World

Image: Disney

This challenge is great for friends and family who couldn't make the trip to Epcot.  In this one, you find a candy from each pavilion's stores.  Not only is it easy to bring this home to share (if you can wait that long), it is relatively cheap.  You can find some great caramel treats in Germany's Karamell-Küche, spicy, chili infused candy in Mexico's various stands and kiosks, some really unique flavored candy at Japan's Mitsukoshi, and lots of chocolate around France, Italy, and the UK. This is also a great challenge if you want to try something risky or out of the ordinary. Some candies come in large bags, so everyone can try a piece.  If you are unsure of what to get, ask a Cast Member and they will be able to help you pick one you will enjoy. 

4. Interviews around the world

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How many languages do you think are spoken around World Showcase? You might be surprised by the real number. There are several dialects spoken in China, and you might be able to find Cast Members who speak an indigenous language in Mexico and Canada.  Norwegian is similar to Swedish and Danish, and some Cast Members can speak all three. A fun way to find out how many languages are really spoken is to just ask around!  Pick a simple phrase like "Hello, my name is..." or "Nice to meet you," and ask Cast Members how to say it in their native language. Bring a notebook and they may be even willing to write it down for you.  Stop in every country and ask a Cast Member or two.  A good place to stop is one of the Kidcot stations, where there are always Cast Members willing to share something about their country and their language.  See how many ways you can learn to say the same phrase!

Image: Disney

If you notice a Cast Member who doesn't look too busy, you can dive deeper into this challenge and ask them about their country and how Epcot represents it. Many international Cast Members are university students, so ask them what they are studying or what they hope to do when they graduate. Of course, you never want to ask anything too personal, but you would be amazed at all the different stories you will hear from Cast Members. You don't even have to go out of your way to do it. While dining at a restaurant, ask your waiter what their favorite home-cooked meal is, or ask a cashier what they recommend you buy as you walk around a store. See how many people you can talk to and if you can learn something about a Cast Member's country that you wouldn't have learned by stopping and chatting for a few moments.