coasters of europe

Although we Americans are quick to assume that we've got the best (or even the only) roller coasters around, we can't forget that this is not only an American phenomenon. I fact, there are amusement parks all cross Europe offering their own version of these thrill rides. While Disney always comes to mind, true roller coaster enthusiasts know that Disney isn't the best place to go for coasters. They offer a great experience for families, but their focus has never really been on thrill rides, and let's face it - it is expensive. For what you pay or a trip to Disneyworld, you could easily afford to go to Europe, and even ride a few coasters while you're there.

One coaster that I've got my eye on and will have to check out should we ever find ourselves in the UK is one called Grand National. It is a classic twin-track racer that was built in 1935. It is just one of the coasters at Pleasure Beach Theme Park UK in Blackpool. I don't really know what the "theme" of this park is (to be like an American park?) and it looks more like a traditional amusement park, but they do have some great looking coasters. I guess it goes to show that we Americans don't have an exclusive market when it comes to thrill rides. I can only imagine what they're coming up with over in Japan, too...