The 2013 Project

There is no doubt that in terms of theming, attendance and atmosphere, Disney rules the roost in every corner of the world. From the magnificence of Cars Land, the beauty of Expedition Everest and the sheer escapism of Tokyo Disney Sea, it's clear that Disney is the king.

But do you know what. Travel into Europe and we hold our very own treasure, one that has riches all of its own. From the throughput behemoth that is Europa Park, to the park with two of the best steel rollercoasters in the world at Miribilandia. We've got parks with the strangest names like Plopsaland and Tripsdrill, to parks that are so beautiful that despite the lack of rides are unmatched in Europe.

That is why for 2013, try and edge away from the Merlin machine. We get so caught up in low throughput attractions, fastrack dominating our queue lines, the loss of magic, budget cuts and short, reduced hours that we start to forget what going to theme parks is all about. That first time visit where around every corner is an attraction you never knew existed. Where discovering new rides and new experiences is the name of the game, where getting on as many rides as you can is not what dominates your day.

Even if isn't globe trotting to Bobbejaanland and instead popping to Oakwood, Blackpool, Flamingoland or even Lightwater Valley, making the attempt to visit a brand new park is so much more enriching and fulfilling then just going to Thorpe Park, Chessington and Alton Towers again.

Trust me when I say, it is worth any cost, any time commited towards the trip.