Block ‘n stroll
Sky Walk, Arenal Rainforest, Costa Rica
Suspended in and above the treetops of the Arenal Volcano National Park, the 2.5-mile Sky Walk features five hanging bridges and two observation decks. Tours snake through different levels to maximise the beauty of the tropical forests and waterfalls, while you spot the birdlife and monkeys.
There are ziplines and rafting experiences here too. skyadventures.travel
The Skydeck, Willis Tower, Chicago, USA
First opened in 1974, the views from the 103rd floor stretching across four US states have attracted an average of
1.7 million visitors per year.
When Ferris Bueller was seen climbing the barriers to look down over the city streets in the 1986 teen movie, it was called the Sears Tower.
Back then it was the tallest building in the world. In 2009 The Ledge was launched, a series of glass boxes which extend 4.3ft from the Tower, offering another way to see the Windy City. theskydeck.com
Lfeaturing scenes from children’s fairy tales such as The Three Little Pigs, Little Red Riding Hood and Cinderella. Meanwhile, my son and wife braved Haunted House Monster Party – a Lego-themed version of a haunted house as guests of
Lord Vampyre.
Staying overnight at Legoland meant we had two days on the park, so we never felt time-pressured and got the chance to do everything.
It’s not all rides, however... a stroll through the world’s most famous buildings and landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Taj Mahal and Sydney Opera House, in Miniland soon became another highlight. The attention to detail here is mind-boggling!
Our visit was during the main summer season, which meant we got the chance to explore Drench Towers, the largest water-play structure in the UK.
This had to be pre-booked due to social distancing and swimming gear is a must.
From an oversized
tipping brick which spills water to a host of slippery waterslides, there’s something for everyone.
Next door is the Duplo-themed Splash Safari where my daughter went water crazy in a menagerie of lions, giraffes and zebras.
Again pre-booking and swimming gear was required.
As you’d expect during a pandemic, social-distancing measures are in place including one-way systems. The use of face masks is encouraged and mandatory in the hotels.
Queues were at times lengthy but good-natured and well-marshalled. But if you want to maximise your ride time, purchase one of the three Reserve and Ride deals ( formerly known as Q Bot), which cuts down queuing time.
Obviously Legoland has children at its heart but the bars and restaurants including the Tournament Tavern conjured a real holiday resort feel at night.
The outdoor tables meant we could keep an eye on the children making the most of climbing frames, adventure trails and game machines while we enjoyed a beer.
A truly magnificent two days – and this time definitely worth the aching feet.
SOAKING
Drench
KNIGHT
TIME
our room
plenty for