New York,
24
May
2022
|
18:30 PM
Europe/Amsterdam

Thrill Seeker Alert! Booking.com Spotlights Six Destinations for an Exhilarating Theme Park Adventure

For travelers in search of an adrenaline rush, and whose idea of fun is looping round high-speed roller coasters, action-packed theme parks are the perfect adventure on vacation.

With more than half (58%) of US travelers listing thrills and excitement as a key motivation to travel* – and with Booking.com offering attractions in over 970 cities including tickets to some of the world’s most famous theme parks – a fun-fueled destination can provide an unparalleled antidote to the monotony of daily life.

Whether it’s feeling the magic at Disneyland Paris or experiencing the terrifying white-knuckle rides at Six Flags in Mexico, Booking.com has selected six of the best destinations with exhilarating theme parks, ideal for the whole family or a group of friends. Get ready to strap in for endless thrills with the world’s biggest and best rides, guaranteed to keep everyone entertained.

Disneyland Paris in Chessy, France

Celebrate the 30th anniversary of Disneyland Paris this year with an enchanting trip to the amusement park that guarantees a magical time with family or friends. The one-day Flexible Admission pass gives travelers the opportunity to hop between Disneyland and Walt Disney Studios to explore all the awesome attractions and events. Across five themed areas, Disneyland Paris features fantastic rides and parades, and visitors can make special memories meeting beloved characters. Adrenalin junkies can head to Big Thunder Mountain and Phantom Manor for a thrill, while families with younger children can ride the Lancelot Carousel or sing along on the charming water-based ride, It’s a Small World. Walt Disney Studios offers shows and attractions inspired by the works of Pixar, Marvel and Disney for film-loving fanatics wanting to immerse themself in the scenes from the big screen.

Where to stay: Travelers can channel their inner superhero at the uber cool Disney's Hotel New York® - The Art of Marvel, just a short walk away from Disneyland. Contemporary rooms are decorated with portraits of Marvel superheros, and guests might even spot one or two roaming around the hotel. Budding artists can let their creativity run free with the opportunity to design their own Marvel masterpiece at the design studio, while mega-fans can head to one of the photo stations to enjoy a unique immersive experience with their favorite action star.  State-of-the-art facilities include a swimming pool, health club and training zone and it’s just a short drive away from Golf Disneyland.

Ferrari World in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

Car enthusiasts can look no further than Ferrari World Abu Dhabi for the ride of their life with the park boasting thrilling rides, exhibits and games to get the heart racing. With over 40 record-breaking attractions, including the highest loop ride and the tallest space-frame structure, the park is perfect for anyone with a need for speed. Brave travelers can ride the Formula Rossa, one of the world’s fastest roller coasters, while younger visitors can check out the ride’s junior version for a gentler approach. For travelers keen to get behind the wheel, there’s the opportunity to drive a real Ferrari, race go-karts and even try a racing simulator to experience first hand what it takes to be a Formula 1 driver. Yas Island has fast blossomed into the capital’s adrenaline hub with Yas Waterworld and Warner Bros World on its doorstep too.

Where to stay: The magnificent W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island offers a luxurious stay uniquely located half on land and half on water. Directly overlooking the Formula 1 circuit, this five-star hotel is the ideal spot for car racing fans in Abu Dhabi. Sleek and stylish rooms with inspirational architecture, jewel-toned furnishings and floor-to-ceiling glass offer views of the marina or racetrack. Featuring two stunning rooftop pools, a traditional hammam spa, multiple dining venues and access to Yas Beach Club, there’s plenty of opportunities for guests to relax after an exhilarating day out.

Lotte World in Seoul, South Korea

Lotte World is a colossal park in the capital city of South Korea full of thrilling adventure rides spread out across the world’s largest indoor amusement park, and the accompanying outdoor Magic Island. Highlights include the Jurassic flume ride, haunted house, ice rink, balloon ride that gives a bird’s eye view of the park and the bungee jump (at the speed of 56 mph!). Famous for its spectacular parades and performances, the Garden Stage puts on daily musicals and magic shows for the crowd, while K-Pop fans can head to Lotte World Star Avenue to experience giant interactive videos with fun photo opportunities. Visitors can maximize their experience with a Lotte Tower, Lotte Aquarium and Lotte World Tour for panoramic views of the Seoul skyline and a visit to the sealife center. There’s something for everyone outside of Lotte World too; Seoul is a dynamic city where modern skyscrapers and pop culture meet Buddhist temples, palaces and bustling street markets.

Where to stay: Located next to the amusement park is Lotte Hotel World, a plush stay directly connected to the beautiful Seokchon Lake and the Lotte World Mall, the largest multiplex in Asia. Experience something special at the various banquet halls and unique character rooms decorated with Lotty and Lorry, the mascots of  Lotte World Adventure. Onsite dining options include a traditional Chinese restaurant with firstrate Guangdong cuisine, a buffet and a German brewery. With an indoor golfing range, gym, luxury swimming pool and marble sauce, there’s plenty to indulge guests.

Six Flags in Mexico City, Mexico

Featuring 48 epic rides and bringing to life comic book characters and cartoons via all manner of family-friendly attractions, a visit to Six Flags Mexico is perfect for a fun-filled vacation. Booking.com’s Admission to Six Flags provides a private transfer in an air-conditioned vehicle from Mexico City, so travelers can keep cool and travel in style. Known as one of Latin America’s best amusement parks, highlights include eight thrill-inducing roller coasters, river rapids, DC Super Heroes and laser tag; Six Flags also hosts a variety of shows including 80s rock concerts for the crowds to go wild. For the 27% of US travelers planning to go on vacation as a family this year,* there’s a designated children’s area so parents can confidently bring their little ones along for all the memories and fun. The whole family can enjoy a rich adventure in Mexico City too; discovering its important Aztec history, ancient canals, beautiful floating gardens and flourishing food scene.

Where to stay: The Hacienda Peña Pobre is a charming boutique hotel located on the south side of Mexico City just a short drive away from Six Flags. This pet-friendly hotel features a fusion of modern design and vintage decor with spacious rooms and high ceilings, and offers a quiet and peaceful stay amidst beautiful surroundings. Guests can retreat here after an adventure-fueled day, watching the sunset on their private balcony or relaxing on the pretty orange tree terrace.

Sunway Lagoon in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The Sunway Lagoon theme park in the capital city of Malaysia is home to over 90 attractions spread across 88 acres. Featuring six adventure parks including the Water Park, Amusement Park, Wildlife Park, Extreme Park and Scream Park, there’s something to thrill and excite everyone. Water lovers should check out Surf Beach and the world’s largest water ride, Vuvuzela, which takes brave riders through swift turns in a rubber raft tube before dropping them from a great height into a giant funnel. For horror movie fans, the World War Z experience enlists risk takers to try and outrun zombies in a terrifying chase across an industrial complex before getting rescued by a helicopter. It isn’t just the park that’s a feast for the senses; travelers will find steel-clad skyscrapers, leafy parks, mega-sized shopping malls and a vibrant street food scene in Kuala Lumpur.

Where to stay: With nearly a quarter (28%) of American travelers planning to stay in a resort on their next trip,* Sunway Resort is a superb stay for guests to step into. With direct access to the Sunway Lagoon Theme Park, visitors have all the excitement on their doorstep at this plush and elegant sanctuary. Adults can unwind with one of the soothing treatments offered at the Balinese-inspired spa, while a kids club as well as a designated pool playground will keep children entertained. What’s more, the hotel’s hydroponic rooftop allows guests to enjoy ‘farm to table’ food at their many onsite restaurants.

LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad, California

LEGOLAND California is home to 60 child-friendly rides, shows and attractions suitable for families with children between the ages of two and 12. Kids will love the junior driving school and the jungle cruise lined with Lego animals. Featuring a theme park, water park, Sea Life aquarium and the new Lego Movie World inspired by the hit blockbuster film, there’s so much to explore. For a unique experience, the whole family can marvel at Miniland USA, which recreates the skylines of American cities entirely out of millions of the little colored plastic blocks. The park hosts unrivaled interactive events with special performances and fireworks to celebrate the holidays including Independence Day, Halloween and Christmas, so visitors can plan their trips to coincide with the festivities. Outside of the park, the quaint city of Carlsbad is renowned for its white sandy beaches, unique lagoons and the incredible Flower Fields that sport 50 acres of colorful blooming flowers every spring.

Where to stay: The fun doesn’t stop at the theme park with a stay at LEGOLAND California Hotel and Castle Hotel, just a short drive away. Featuring a choice of themed rooms from Knights and Dragons to Royal Princess, the hotel also offers a large swimming pool with poolside cabanas, an outdoor stage and a cinema. Ideal for children, there’s a separate kids’ area with LEGO building tables and scavenger hunts. Along with nightly themed entertainment, little surprises around every corner from talking portraits to musical seats will keep guests captivated.

With a mission to make it easier for everyone to experience the world, Booking.com is sharing Getaway Deals for travelers to use when booking their next thrill-seeking trip. Discounts start at 15 percent at participating properties indicated by the “Getaway 2022” badge, and are valid for stays with check-out on or before 30 September 2022. In addition, Booking.com is giving travelers around the world the keys to unlock a new level of additional perks with the introduction of a third tier to its Genius loyalty program. Designed to make every trip a better experience, Booking.com’s loyalty program is completely free, easily accessible and membership lasts a lifetime – travelers simply need to create an account to achieve Genius status for life. As Genius members unlock new levels, they get access to larger discounts and more travel rewards that never expire. All travelers have to do is sign into their Booking.com account and look for the Genius logo to identify benefits, discounts and perks.

*Research commissioned by Booking.com and independently conducted among a sample of 48,413 respondents across 31 markets (2,000 from USA, 1,864 from Canada, 1,999 from Mexico, 2,003 from Colombia, 2,005 from Brazil, 2,002 from Argentina, 1,020 from Chile, 1,777 from Australia, 818 from New Zealand, 1,999 from Spain, 2,002 from Italy, 1,998 from France, 1,990 from UK, 2,005 from Germany, 2,003 from Netherlands, 985 from Denmark, 999 from Sweden, 910 from Croatia, 918 from Switzerland, 1,986 from Belgium, 998 from Russia, 953 from Israel, 1,999 from India, 1,990 from China, 901 from Hong Kong, 1,775 from Thailand, 1,001 from Singapore, 975 from Taiwan, 1,800 from Vietnam, 1,757 from South Korea, 1,001 from Japan). In order to participate in this survey, respondents had to be 18 years of age or older, had to have traveled at least once  for business or leisure in the past 12 months, and planning to travel in 2022 and be either the primary decision maker or involved in the decision making of their travel. The survey was taken online and took place in January 2022.