We've been spoilt

Yesterday we went to Legoland for the first time in about 10 years and we were very disappointed. The first ride we went on the girl sounded so bored, a lot of the rides needed another member of staff to reduce the wait times, the wait times were inaccurate, a lot of the place was tatty and the toilets were a bit manky (I think toilets are a good indicator). Even the children were saying 'it's not like this in Florida'. And don't even get me started on the food! [msnmad]

I know what you mean! We went to Chessington at the weekend, and they just don't know how 'to do it' as they do in Florida - the whole place looked tatty, the food we had was disgusting (fish and chips), and the ride attendents (when they weren't too busy talking among themselves) were surly to the point of being rude. Considering they closed for much of the winter, it seems they don't use the time to maintain the park.

Thats why we go to Florida the standards are better ,We do not conplain enough and if we do we get the sulks .
I think that there must be more checks in Florida from the authorities
We went to Cleveleys on Monday bank holiday and they have made a new from all along the from and it is great nice new seats and tables ,Our comment was hope they are not vandalised we live in hope .
The only reason Blackpool did this they were getting the casinos now it has been turned down by MR BROWN any way at least we got someting out of it and it is lovely ,You can walk for a long way[msnsmile2] which we like to .
MAUREEN
www.onlinefloridavillas.com/villas/1683.aspx

I think part of the problem with the theme parks in England is the largest ones ie, Chessington, Alton Towers, Thorpe Park and Legoland are all owned by one company. As there is no longer any competition it leaves the poor customer ripe to be ripped off the the hilt. We have stopped visiting UK parks as we have found them overpriced, often dirty and the staff could not care less.

The things we do well in England are Stately Homes ,tea shops, beautiful villages and great countryside with riverside walks. What we need is the weather to enjoy them.

I love my time in the UK doing all those things but I also really appreciate how lucky I am to go over to Florida and enjoy all that they do so well over there. Yoy cannot compapare our theme parks or our weather. I also appreciate the fabulous wildlife and clean beaches which Florida offers.

I recommend UK for short breaks and Florida for the longer ones. Ideal!!!! [clap]

I didn't realise that, Jill about them being owned by one company. I certainly agree that we do stately homes well. We have been National Trust members for a few years now and the children love it. The houses are beautifully kept, renovated well and the staff are very knowledgable. Last year we went to Castle Drogo and they did woodcarving. We now have a wooden man, centipede (with gorgeous markings) and guinea pig in the garden!

we just dont do any theme parks here only go when in florida!!:D

In this country the Merlin Group own: Alton Towers; Thorpe Park; Legoland; Chessington World of Adventure; London Eye; Sealife; Sealife Sancturies; Madam Tussauds; Warwick Castle and The London Dungeon. They have also just purchased the London Aquarium. As a conusmer I do not think this gives me much choice!

Hi
Same here, a few years ago we went to Blackpool pleasure beach not long after returning from Orlando.
The toilets said it all, they were filthy.
I did complain and received some vouchers, but not much has changed.
If Disney can do it then anyone can do it, its not difficult...........
Ellie

Just a footnote on all the above comments which I fully agree with. Personally, we do enjoy going to Alton Towers for the rides and gives us a 'fix' until our next Florida vacation.

However, paying the full prices they ask is not on for what is, clearly a substandard park to the USA parks. We only go to AT when we get free vouchers from papers etc and then it is bearable. I wouldn't pay the full price here in UK when I know the wonderful parks are waiting for me in Orlando and I can combine nature, beaches, thrill rides and private villa altogether. Roll on October!!

Stuart.