You would really have to be there in order to understand why Disneyland is “the happiest place on Earth”.

We arrived on a sweltering afternoon, but the exuberance peaked as we walked through the front gates. It is hard not to smile. And it is impossible not to point excitedly at everything and anything that comes along your way.

Stitch Encounter promises a hilarious and interactive experience that is “different every time”. I was laughing throughout the whole segment. I don’t want to provide any spoilers. Let’s just say that cameras are cleverly placed in the hall, so it’s not just Stitch alone in his spaceship.

Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters isn’t a ride for bobo shooters. Armed with a blaster, you take aim and shoot at various interactive points throughout the ride. And Space Mountain is an electrifying roller coaster ride that transports you into outer space- there’s no knowing which direction you’re heading! It’s a Small World is perfect to hide from the heat. It’s a boat journey through the different continents with exquisite dolls and impeccably timed music. And I like how The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh was well done too- looks so simple, yet so slick and amusing.

The Golden Mickeys is a grand and elaborate musical styled after an awards show. As Mickey and Minnie give out trophies honouring their friends, we are taken on a journey back in time to relive some of Disney’s finest films and music.

The Flights of Fantasy Parade which takes place twice a day, is commissioned for Hong Kong Disneyland’s 5th anniversary. The line between adult and child vanishes as lifelike characters appear in front of you in a wholesome carnival atmosphere.

My favourite show has got to be Mickey’s PhilharMagic. Donald Duck loses Maestro Mickey Mouse’s magic hat and travels through several scenes and encounters various characters like Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, and the Little Mermaid to get it back. Pure 3D fun- and way better than how they make some of the 3D films nowadays.

And of course, no one leaves Disneyland without popping by Fantasy Gardens. Photo galore with the characters!

Sleeping Beauty’s Castle has been sprinkled with Tinker Bell’s fairy dust to transform into an enchanting backdrop for photo opportunities. Nice.

Footnote: Media people like us are given some privileges every now and then- thank you very much. My sincere appreciation to Hong Kong Disneyland for hosting us last week.

A friend of ours works there, and we called, expecting perhaps discounted tickets or something. Disney’s generosity, however, made my jaws drop. They provided FOC tickets for my group, and arranged for a guided tour. It was faster than the priority queue for the various rides and shows. Zero waiting time and front row seats every single time!

I was totally astonished and overwhelmed. Thank you.

That said, this isn’t a reciprocal blog entry. I truly enjoyed the Disney visit and will be back again.