Journey of Water: Not just another review but instead, why it could be the best at EPCOT

Journey of Water is the latest addition to EPCOT and the first part of the long, under-construction area that surrounds what will be the World Celebration. Now, guests can start experiencing the new addition.

Since the first reviews began pouring in from cast member, AP, and media previews, we have heard the "ooh's and ahh's" as well as the, "whatever's." That is the nature of the beast I suppose. I mean, I can't stand Muppets 3D at Hollywood and some people love it.

I missed the AP previews and was hugely disappointed as they ended one day before my arrival last week. But I was thrilled to learn that they had converted to a soft-opening ahead of the firm later this month. I registered for a virtual queue spot and my wife and kids headed to the area to take it in.

On the first walk through I spent a lot of time dodging guests and trying to make sure my own kids were not hogging certain areas of the attraction. It was a rush through and I came away impressed but what about a second viewing?

On the next day we had the opportunity to do it again when they lifted the VQ requirement and this time we took the two kids who missed it with us. Of course, they loved the interaction and at the very core of this attraction, it is that personal attraction that most will find enjoyable.

For me, the 2nd time around was different because it was not as busy and there will be times when this pathway will not have a lot of guests cramming in to get a peak and I suspect at some point, this will be a simple walkthrough that guests will take simply because it is there and for many, it may not be something they return to.

That, at least, is what I am hoping for. I found the serenity of the attraction perfect. Soft music you don't realize is there immediately. The sounds of water at every turn. It was peaceful and in some places, there were benches you could sit on.

In a way, it reminds me of the upper areas of the Japan Pavilion in World Showcase where the waterfalls and vegetation and lack of guests make it a nice quiet place away from the loud throngs of chit-chatting people throughout the park.

Moana Journey of Water features hidden carvings in the rocks. My kids loved discovering them. There is a great view of Spaceship Earth from many points of the park that you wouldn't get in other parts of EPCOT.

Overall, Journey of Water is a journey. It's a start from how water is needed. It takes us from the rainfalls above to the streams and tributaries, the rivers, lakes and to the ocean....and it will one day be a lot quieter and when it is...that will be amazing.