I first visited Sea World in California in 1984 so things have changed a bit since then. One of the highlights for me and probably lots of other people is the Clyde & Seymour show, I know every single corny joke but it’s always good fun and the mime showing people in is hilarious. If you’ve ever been caught you know to get in early next time!

Of course the main attraction is the Shamu show which is just fantastic, I love the fact that there is a conservation programme going on as well and it’s wonderful to see these intelligent, lovable animals and the obvious understanding with them and their trainers.

The dolphin show has changed quite a bit recently, now including tropical birds and performers as well as the dolphins. It’s great entertainment for everyone. There are areas where you can just observe the animals aswell, in a habitat which has been created to be as close the their native home as possible. You can watch the seals and feed them at certain times, they are very noisy and fun to watch, at the dolphin pool you might be lucky and have them come close enough for you to touch, more often they duck away at the last minute.

You can see penguins, polar bears, manattees, sting rays, sharks and a host of creatures you might never otherwise get to see, let alone interact with. The shark experience is very good, walking through a glass tunnel with sharks swimming overhead and all around. In every area there is a conservation and educational theme so you can learn more about the animals you see.

I also like the fact that they have a ‘Help the Heroes’ programme and show their support for servicemen and women everywhere, they show a tribute during the Shamu show which is quite moving.

The park is owned by a brewery and the Shire horses are beautIful, the tack and all the other equipment is beautifully maintained and at times you can see them tacking up the horses and taking out the drey.