Disney delight for all adults

Not even my Jimmy Choos and sophisticated image could stop me taking up the chance to indulge in a bit of childlike humour by attending the opening of the new Walt Disney Studios in Paris.

I can't remember the last time I felt a tingle of excitement running down my spine (apologies to past and present boyfriends), so the chance to relive my youth was certainly one I wasn't going to pass up. I was off to a place where you can escape the trials and tribulations of the real world for a fantasy land, and it is just next door to Disneyland Paris.

Taking 31 months to build at a cost of £375million, Walt Disney Studios employs around 5,000 people ready to cater to your every whim. Based on a working film studio, the park is split into four sections. The sheer scale of Studio 1 is overwhelming. Modelled on a Hollywood Boulevard theme, it's bright, colourful and larger than life.

Having recently visited the theme parks at Orlando, I was a little unsure as to how the studios would compare. I needn't have worried. Thrust right into the centre of the action, you are dwarfed by colossal attractions. Everything is done to the max. Think earth-shattering explosions, violent earthquakes and scorching fires and you're halfway there.

Armageddon, the special effects ride, was so realistic we could feel the heat on our faces. At one point, I literally felt I was hanging on for dear life. The white-knuckle ride Rock'n'Roller Coaster catapults you into darkness to the pulsating sounds of Aerosmith. With twists and loops only illuminated by flashing lights, any expectations you may have don't even compare.

If you've ever fancied yourself as a bit of a James Bond kind of a guy, or reckon you could give Lara Croft a run for her money, the Stunt Show Spectacular is a must. It gives budding action heroes the chance to see how film stars actually get to do all those mean feats. To get you in the mood, the hero of the show drops in via a helicopter. Then it's off on a journey filled with stunts and action sequences and where the element of surprise keeps you entertained.

The little ones will love the Art Of Disney's live interactive show. It reveals the secrets behind the Disney empire and the inspiration for its legion of colourful characters. The finale, a chance to design your own cartoon characters at a bank of animation stations. Another one to guarantee a smile is Animatique. Here, Donald Duck, teamed with ultraviolet lights and giant puppets, takes you on an enchanting 3D journey through

Disney classics.

With the park boasting four sections, there's a lot to pack in. But, although the site may seem daunting at first, it's actually small compared to its neighbour, Disneyland Paris. You could easily view the studios in half a day (with awestruck kiddies in tow, it might take a little longer).

A word of warning, though, if you want a spot of lunch, pop along to the Disney Village because the choice there is far greater.

But aside from that gripe, Walt Disney Studios is an incredible place. So, if you want to escape to a world where you're the star of the show, all that's left to say is: lights, camera and action.

? For more information, visit www.disneylandparis.com or call 0870 606 6800.

Bare essentials

Walt Disney Studios opened earlier this month, just next door to Disneyland Paris. Language: French, though English is spoken in the parks Currency: £1 = Eu1.6