2. They offer distinct experiences

Although Disney has adjusted its offerings over the years in response to competition (opening The Seas at Epcot, for example, to take on SeaWorld Orlando), it has generally stuck to doing what it knows it can do better than anyone else: creating immersive, stunningly-themed attractions and entertainment for the whole family.

Universal always knew that it wouldn't make sense to take on Disney head-to-head, and it had created its own brand of movie-magic experience at Universal Studios Hollywood. These days, it offers a greater focus on thrills for a slightly older audience, as well as dominating areas such as adult-oriented Halloween events that Disney won't touch.

Can you imagine Halloween Horror Nights at Disney? No. Can you imagine Mickey Mouse parading down Diagon Alley on a giant, cartoon-style float? No. And that's a good thing.

For theme park fans, it's surely a better thing to have two giants offering distinct experiences than just one offering the same old thing year-after-year.

1. There's more money and creativity to go around

After the huge success of the first few Harry Potter books and movies, it was inevitable that rumors would begin to circulate that theme park operators would seek to license the characters for use in rides and shows. Realistically, only Disney and Universal had the money to do J.K. Rowling's creations justice.

Disney came close to snagging the rights for Potter, getting as far as signing a letter of intent with Rowling. But it walked away when Rowling demanded too much creative control over the project. Universal was only too happy to pick up the pieces - and the hugely impressive Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure was the result (with Diagon Alley to follow a few years later).

What if Universal wasn't around as a credible competitor to Disney? Would Rowling have been forced to been forced to compromise on her vision (an unlikely scenario)? Or would there be no Harry Potter theme park land at all (probably more likely)?

We'll never know, but I for one am grateful that both Disney and Universal are financially strong companies with brilliant creative people working for them. They may both have their ups and downs, and you may prefer one over the other. But be glad for the innovation and excitement that this rivalry has brought us over the years.