Photo TR: Eric's European Theme Park Journey

[live2tell75Team Alcide!]

Through a wonderful surprise turn of events this last spring at work I was able to sign up for the recent Europe 2010 TPR trip. My 10 day trip consisted of travel through 5 different European countries including the United Kingdom, Italy, Switzerland, Germany and The Neitherlands. We visited 7 beautiful theme parks, a tradional German Fair, rode over 35 new roller coasters and most importantly got to catch up with some old friends and meet some new fun-fantastic ones. The trip was an absolute blast! Thanks again to Robb & Elissa for organizing another memorable trip! Here is part one of my trip. I met up on the last day of the UK TPR tour at Thorpe Park. Had a fantastic day that included ERT on Saw: The Ride and Nemesis Inferno. Onto the photos. Enjoy!

Day 1: London
Day 2: Thorpe Park
Day 3: Gardaland
Day 4: Gardaland & Mirabilandia
Day 5: Movieland Studios & A Drive Through The Swiss Alps
Day 6 & 7: Hotel Colosseo at the Europa Resort & Europa Park
Day 7: The Wurzburg Fair
Day 7 & 8: Hotel Matamba at Phantasialand & Phantasialand
Day 9: Efteling
Day 9: Farewell Dinner & Final Trip Thoughts!

[live2tell75Team Alcide!]

After 2 fun days in London, I joined the group flight to Milan, Italy to start the official Europe tour. After a early morning of travel we arrived in Italy and headed over to the Gardaland Resort. Once arriving to our gorgeous hotel, we were treated to a fantastic reception hosted by fellow TPR member, Bruno. It was a great way to start the trip, a big thanks Bruno! After the reception we headed out to the park.

I really enjoyed our day and half at Gardaland. The theming was a lot more extensive than I had thought it would be. Other than the park's very themed mine train coaster Mammut, the coasters were pretty average. But I was surprised how smooth the corkscrew was, which was a plus. The dark rides were great. The shooting dark ride was Universal quality themed. The Pirate Adventure boat ride was a fantastic way to cool off. I think this was our group's favorite attraction in the park. The park had a great mad house. I can't get enough of these type of rides. I just wish we had more of them in the states. Fuga Da Atlantide was highly themed water flume, that was fun. Another highlight was the Flying Island. I forgot how nice these type of rides are. We got some fantastic views of the Lake Garda region. Overall I was really impressed with the park. Onto the photos! Enjoy!

[JimmyBoMr. October]

Great photos so far Eric! I can't wait to see more. You are extremely lucky to be able to attend that trip. Keep the report coming and I can't wait to see your pictures.

Jimmy "Eric always has great Trip Reports" Bo

[nursemelis374Donkeys are my way of life!]

I feel like I am reliving the trip through your report and I love it! Awesome job and I can't wait for our Real World Reunion Special!

[MrMorganThe only thing better than a naked woman is a naked donkey!]

I'm looking forward to more!

[WoogleShe turned me into a donkey! I got better...]

I really like this different take on the update. Different views. Luv it. Keep it coming!!!!

[live2tell75Team Alcide!]

Great photos so far Eric! I can't wait to see more. You are extremely lucky to be able to attend that trip. Keep the report coming and I can't wait to see your pictures.

Jimmy "Eric always has great Trip Reports" Bo

Thanks Jimmy! I really didn't think I was going to be able to do this trip, so I am truly grateful for the opportunity to attend.

I feel like I am reliving the trip through your report and I love it! Awesome job and I can't wait for our Real World Reunion Special!

Thanks Melissa - the reunion will be epic!

[nayTake pictures of my feet]

What a fun week - great TR! I've been a fan of the Houdini mad house at Six Flags and really enjoyed checking out the various mad houses in Europe. Too bad there aren't more here!

[ginzoWhy do I still have a donkey title???]

Great job of showing how nice Gardaland is, Eric.

[GeorgeTDonkeys are my way of life!]

I didn`t know that Gardaland is soooo beautiful...one of the best places I`ve seen themingwise. Too bad they chose an SLC for being their "main" coaster. Would LOVE to visit the place though...

GeorgeT