A Stop Off at the Outpost

All around the World Showcase promenade, at intervals between some of the eleven national pavilions, can be found open green spaces. These plots of land are available for potential expansion of World Showcase. Many different countries have been designed over the years, and some future pavilions were even announced: Spain, Russia, Switzerland, Israel, Denmark. For a number of different reasons, none of these ever materialized.

The one that got closest, though, was the African Nations pavilion (in some instances referred to as Equatorial Africa). Alex Haley, author of Roots and a key consultant on the project, even appeared on the EPCOT Center Grand Opening special to promote the upcoming attraction. Alas, it was not to be. The sponsors ran into political and financial challenges, forcing them to withdraw. In the end, all that remained was the East African kopje-inspired rockwork along the water's edge (as seen in the photo above).

Today, the nations and people of eastern Africa are well represented by the village of Harambe at Disney's Animal Kingdom, while this stretch of the World Showcase promenade has become a stopover point known as The Outpost. Often mistakenly referred to as Africa, The Outpost is actually meant as a melting pot of influences from Africa to Southeast Asia and Australia. Even the sign over the main merchandising spot reads, "Village Traders - Handmade Crafts of the World."

Also part of The Outpost is this tented area, purportedly a remote distribution outlet for Coca-Cola products (the Coca-Cola Company being a primary Operating Participant at Disney Parks). While Cokes and other refreshments are certainly available at the adjacent counter-service location, the real attraction here is the details... not to mention the welcome mist on a hot Florida day.

All around are pallets, crates and cases of Coke destined for parts unknown. It's especially fascinating to see the Coca-Cola name inscribed in various languages. We may not read or speak the language in question, but there's no mistaking the brand with that familiar red and white swoop.

For some extra fun, try your hand on the bongo drums, or if you're feeling lucky, go ahead and lift the lid on one of these coolers. You just might get a little surprise.