When one thinks of a dream destination for children, the iconic imagery of Mickey Mouse ears and the enchanting princess castle of Disneyland often comes to mind.
However, the allure of the “happiest place on Earth” is accompanied by a hefty price tag and long waiting times, causing some visitors to question if it’s worth the effort and expense.
Recent criticisms of Disney parks have prompted parents to seek alternative destinations, including a British mother who praised a theme park in the Netherlands as a “cheaper” and appealing option.
Dissatisfaction with Disneyland:
One man took to Reddit to express his frustration with the high ticket prices and extended wait times at Disneyland.
He argued that the situation has become so “atrocious” that visiting the popular tourist spot is no longer a worthwhile endeavor.
This sentiment has been echoed by other visitors, including a father who regretted his decision to visit Disneyland Paris and felt embarrassed about the amount of money he spent.
Discovering an Alternative:
Amidst these criticisms, a British mother known as The Travel Mum (@thetravelmum) introduced an alternative theme park located in the Netherlands.
In a TikTok video that garnered the attention of over 2.3 million viewers within 24 hours, she highlighted the attractions of Efteling, emphasizing its affordability and appeal.
Efteling: The Hidden Gem:
Efteling, situated in the Netherlands, stands as a fantasy-themed park with fairytales at its core. Since its establishment in 1952, it has welcomed more than 100 million visitors.
The park’s offerings are deeply rooted in ancient myths, fairy tales, legends, fables, and folklore, making it a unique and enchanting experience for all ages.
Efteling’s Unique Attractions:
Efteling boasts a diverse array of attractions inspired by captivating stories. These include the wooden rollercoaster “Joris en de Draak,” translating to “George and the Dragon,” a magical forest, and a mysterious “cursed villa.” Every ride is intricately connected to a narrative, providing a rich and immersive experience.
Affordability and Appeal:
The Travel Mum praised Efteling for its affordability, with entry tickets starting at just £34, no long queues for entry, and a wide range of themed restaurants serving delicious and reasonably priced food.
Despite the shows being presented in Dutch, the family found them enjoyable and accessible, emphasizing that Efteling offers fantastic value.
Comments and Reactions:
Responses to The Travel Mum’s video varied, with some viewers questioning the affordability of Efteling in comparison to Disneyland.
Others defended Efteling as an affordable alternative, highlighting the cost savings on tickets, parking, food, and accommodations. Fans of Efteling and Dutch locals praised the park, recommending it to others.
Exploring More Alternatives:
While Efteling received accolades, some viewers suggested exploring other theme parks, such as Astérix Park in France or Europa Park in Germany, as enjoyable and cost-effective options for family entertainment.