Anywhere but Disneyland

The X2

For many people, it is the iconic Disneyland that is the be-all-and-end-all, the Mecca of all theme parks.

However, while the all-round entertainment and magic of Disneyland still cannot be rivalled, Orange County also boasts some lesser-known theme parks which will satisfy travellers seeking higher thrills.

One of these is California's oldest theme park, Knott's Berry Farm, which is largely modelled on elements of old America.

Although most staff members are dressed as if they are from centuries past, and the many old wooden buildings look as though they have been standing for hundreds of years, Knott's diverse and exhilarating rides use 21st-century technology.

Each ride at Knott's will give enthusiasts an experience quite unlike any other they have had.

From the Sidewinder (in which the speed and twists of the coaster are added to the spinning of the occupant's vessel) to the Silver Bullet (where the dangling rider is spun in circles so fast that his or her skin vibrates), a whole new world of sensory experience awaits the traveller with nerves of steel.

One rarity that epitomises the uniqueness of the park is the wooden roller-coaster, a bone-shaking construction that looks as though it has existed as long as the faux-historic buildings that surround it.

Six Flags Magic Mountain, however - another highly recommended park - does not quite live up to the hype.

For the most part, the rides at Six Flags are variations on a theme: they offer loops and speed, in varying degrees and sizes, but all impart the same feeling to the rider.

Images of sky and track flash past the rider's eyes, but the types of sky and type of track are virtually indistinguishable from ride to ride.

Nevertheless, not only are the rides enjoyable, despite their somewhat singular group of effects, Six Flags is also home to the newly upgraded X2.

X2 is something else entirely, with no words as yet invented to describe it.

At the beginning of the ride, the occupant lies almost vertical in their seat and is slowly hauled backwards up a long incline.

As the rider reaches the apex of the incline, they are instantly and violently thrown out of the seat as much as the restraints will allow.

Nary a track is to be seen, except when it hurtles towards the rider, which frequently happens.

Adventurous types and thrill-seekers should certainly seek out both parks: Knott's for its consistency, and Six Flags for X2.