Top 5 International Theme Parks Tourists Must know About
International Theme Parks are like hidden gems in a cave. They will surprise and entertain tourists. Below I posted my Top 5 International Theme Parks that will leave you speechless!
1. Efteling (Netherlands)
When most people think about Fantasy theme parks, they think about Disney. Well, I got to break it to you that Disney is not the only place to transport to a fairy tale. You will have to transport yourself to the Netherlands to experience this wonderful place.
Efteling commits to fairy tale storybook telling. This means that you will see characters in their “original” fantasy tale form. They will look nothing like their Disney counterparts. You will mostly see them in their middle ages attire. Exactly as how they were depicted before.
The decor is absolutely gorgeous. Guests can see how dedicated this theme park is to its craft. There is a massive castle that houses a dark ride touring it’s indoors. The theming is insane and truly takes you to a different dimension. There is a fairytale forest where you can encounter tom thumb, the Hansel and Gretel candy house, and Red Riding Hood prancing around.
There’s even fantasy-themed lodging next to the park. This means all the thrills don’t have to end when leaving the attractions. The Efteling hotel offers luxurious rooms that are guaranteed a magical stay. You’ll continue to be a part of the story overnight!
2. Universal Studios Japan
People might ask, why add Universal to the list? First of all, it combines the best of what Universal offers plus MANY exclusives. You would find classics such as Harry Potter, Jurrasic Park, and Despicable Me. But what you could only find are incredible theatre shows, Elmo, and an entire land dedicated to the Nintendo World.
Yes! You read that right! There is a Super Nintendo World. And it is incredible! The themed land houses attractions such as a ride on Yoshi’s back, a fight against Bowser Jr., and a Mario Kart Grand Prix! And yes! You read that right!!! You can finally be a part of one of the world’s most beloved racing car games. The one we all played when we were all kids!
The theming is on point for Super Nintendo World. It is scary good. Once you enter the area, you are instantly in the video game. You see all the different obstacles Mario runs through, Bowser’s castle, the savage flytraps, the bricks that smash you, the classic gold coins, and Peache’s Palace. Basically, everything that makes the world of Mario the best!
I also like to take a second to acknowledge the incredible theater shows this park has. Lately, the U.S parks do not have theater shows as good as the ones here. The cast and crew worked incredibly hard to make world-class broadway-style shows that are unlike others. You would not want to miss these!
3. Europa Park (Germany)
Europa Park will give you an incredible tour around the continent. It is an ensemble of different areas representing different countries. For instance, there is a Spain neighborhood, England, France, Germany, Greece, etc. Think of it as the World Showcase at Epcot, except it focuses on Europe. There’s even a miniature golf ball structure like the one at Epcot.
The attractions here are insane. There are over 100 rides and experiences you can choose from. A very extensive catalog for just one theme park! There are a ton of rollercoasters for thrill-seekers, immersive dark rides, and kid-friendly experiences. There is something for everyone to experience!
Like Efteling, there are some fantasy factors to this park. They are immersive but focus on the authenticity of each corner of the continent. And with authentic decor comes authentic foods. You can try escargot at the French section, pizza at the Italian neighborhood, and fish and chips at the English land. There’s even a vegan/vegetarian deli that is suitable for plant-based tourists!
4. Shanghai Disneyland
Yes! I did add a Magic Kingdom to the list! But I promise this Disneyland is unlike the other Disneyland. It might even be the best Magic Kingdom-like park to date!
First of all, Shanghai Disneyland houses classic attractions like Peter Pan’s Flight, Pirates of the Caribbean, and more. But these are souped-up versions of the classic rides. For example, Pirates of the Caribbean takes you on a classic boat ride, but the effects are next level. Many times, you are facing a massive screen that takes you to the wide-open ocean. It becomes terrifyingly real! There’s even a massive sea serpent that comes after you! Even the castle is souped-up! Most people have talked about how the structure is!
This international theme park also houses exclusive rides. One highlight is the Tron Rollercoaster, one of the coolest things I have ever seen! This experience lets you mount on a light cycle and race against others, just like the video game. Tourists have said it’s an incredible experience!
5. Tokyo Disney Sea
Yet another Disney park joins the list. What makes this Disney park stand out is the incredibly unique theming. It is like no other!
The themed area is no land! It is the ocean! Each different area is an island, and each island guarantees an incredible experience. There is a Mediterranean harbor, the American Waterfront, Mermaid lagoon, Arabian coast, tropical jungle, and a gigantic volcano in the center of it all. Upon entry into this ocean and its islands, you will be in awe! It has been said that Tokyo Disney Sea has some of the best theming in any park!
Aside from the mise-en-scene, this international theme park hosts some of the best attractions. One highlight is the Journey to the Center of the Earth. It is a subterranean vehicle that drives you underneath the big volcano. It is an intense ride that will leave you shaken!
Tokyo Disney Sea also gives you some of the best Broadway shows. Like Japan’s Universal, the cast members work super hard to make some of the best theme park entertainment ever. Come visit, and you will see why so many people are looking forward to seeing this marvel of a park!
