Spain - Port Aventura & Ferrari Land with Darren, Laura & Ase

 Spain - Port Aventura & Ferrari Land 

It was the start of our two-day thrill-seeking adventure at the infamous PortAventura theme park with rides galore to choose from. After studying the park map, we had a plan of action starting on the Grand Canyon Rapids where we rode the wild waters of the Colorado River through lush greenery, rock walls and various waterfalls that we tried our best to dodge. Seeing as we were already wet, we took our seats in a tree trunk and let the current of the Silver River take us through the sawmill down steep slopes and river bends. It was certainly adrenaline fuelled. It was then onwards to the 1-km long wooden rollercoaster Stampida. Travelling at 70km the ground begins to shake and we saw a cloud of dust blow up in the distance. After an action-packed morning we lunched in the Far West where we were keen to get some more rides under our belts. 

 Onwards to the Hurakan Condor a tall tower that stands over 100 meters high making it the most impressive ride in the park. As we rose upwards, we took in the spectacular views of the whole theme park and the Mediterranean coast. When we least expected it, we were dropped into a void. Wow! Our hearts were beating so quickly! More adrenaline rides came next as we conquered the skies on the Shambhala. We were whizzed along the tracks over five humps which made us feel like we were flying through the air. Sesamo Aventura was a magical world where Bert, Ernie and the rest of the Sesame Street gang were waiting for us. It was a real make-believe world.

On day 2 our first ride was on the Furius Baco where only the bravest passengers took on this heart stopping 850m- long ride. It was then time to get wet on the Tutuki Splash. This ride was the wettest water ride any of us had ever been on. Thankfully we dried off quickly as the sun was shining down on us. It was then time for one of the oldest rides in the park Dragon Khan that we had all been looking forward to conquering. It was certainly worth the wait with 8 loops in 69 seconds. We then went on another water ride called Angkor after having lunch which was more sedate and less wet. Onwards to the new ride for 2023 called Unchartered. It is the perfect combination of side launches, rotating platforms, inverted free falls in the most mysterious mountain which seemed to be a hit with everyone. 

We climbed aboard our very impressive looking catamaran. Our 2-hour cruise took us along the beautiful coastline of Salou. 

The captain pointed out various landmarks before anchoring up so that we could swim in the inviting water. Emma M, Mikey and Cameron really enjoyed being able to swim in the open water. 

We decided to spend the morning at the beach. Once on the golden sand we set up camp and we couldn’t wait to make a splash in the clear blue sea. It was great to watch everyone enjoying the water whether that be just paddling or full-on swimming. Cameron enjoyed looking for fish with his goggles on. 

Ferrari Land was calling! The car enthusiasts were blown away by seeing a Ferrari in real life. Our first ride was a simulation ride where we learnt how the super car evolved in shape and size over the years. This was then followed by a few laps on the Go-Karting track where our competitive side really came out. 

There was always plenty of night life along the local strip. With fantastic tribute acts, dancing, cocktails galore and even hair braiding we partied away in true JollyDays style.