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Marineland
Thrill rides and sea life? John Holer’s Marineland in Niagara Falls, Canada, might not be the only venue that mixes animals with amusements but he’s been doing it longer than most – and it works. Gary Kyriazi discovers a winning combination in Niagara Falls, Canada.
Moscow calling!
Park and attractions professionals in Russia and Eastern Europe have a choice of two industry trade shows in the coming weeks, both taking place in Moscow. Park World previews the EAAPA and RAAPA events.
Whitewater - 30 years of the world's greatest waterparks
As the company gears up for the biggest year in its history, Park World catches up with WhiteWater president Geoff Chutter.
Theme Park Hotels – a marriage made in Disneyland?
Owen Ralph investigates the rise and rise of theme park hotels.
Floriade 2012 - theme park at heart
Around a year from now, Floriade 2012 will take place in the Netherlands. Here general manager Paul Beck and hospitality project manager Mark Wijman outline 10 reasons why the six-month-long world horticultural expo will run like a theme park.
Paulina Reyes - IAAPA Latin America
Following our interviews with IAAPA’s new chairman and outgoing European executive director, Park World catches up with the association’s executive director for Latin America, Paulina Reyes.
What are the most effective media channels to reach young guests?
Adrian Jones, Legoland Florida (opening October 2011) (pictured): In our vast experience, we’ve found that Legoland’s key demographic – families with children ages 2-12 – still receives the majority of its information through traditional channels.
I have an idea but is it feasible?
In my opinion the most important aspect in the planning and development of a leisure project is the “First Step” – the feasibility study.
Six Flags Over Paul’s House
Unlike previous trade shows, I wasn't exactly overwhelmed by the appearance of innovative new amusement rides at this winter’s IAAPA Attractions Expo.
CDA takes control at Futuroscope
The French ski resort and attractions operator Compagnie des Alpes (CDA) is to take a controlling stake in Futuroscope (pictured), while disposing of seven smaller amusement parks and attractions.
Abu Dhabi government buys Ferrari World
Aldar Properties has agreed to sell a group of assets, including the Ferrari World theme park, to the Abu Dhabi government. Also included in the AED19.2 billion ($5.2bn/€3.8bn) deal are roads, bridges, homes and land at Yas Island, as well an AED2.8bn convertible bond.
CNL announces new management for eight parks
After an extensive search, CNL Lifestyle Properties has reached agreements regarding new management for eight of its amusement parks in the United States. Five operations partners have been selected, all starting on or before February 1.
New chairman at Cedar Fair
Cedar Fair Entertainment Company has appointed C Thomas (Tom) Harvie as non-executive chairman of the board of directors, effective immediately. Harvie succeeds Dick Kinzel as the American park chain’s chairman.
Potter tour planned for UK studios
The Thinkwell Group is to help Warner Bros create a behind-the-scenes Harry Potter tour at the UK studios used to film the blockbuster movie series.
Former Six Flags executives Breeze into Virginia
Ocean Breeze Waterpark, Hampton Roads, Virginia, has been acquired by former Six Flags executives Kieran Burke and Gary Story.
Magic Kingdom expansion begins
The world’s busiest theme park is about to get a little bigger. Work has begun on the largest expansion ever at the Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World, Florida. The project will nearly double the size of the park’s Fantasyland are and provide a new home for Ariel, the Little Mermaid
Larson buys Sellner
Two American ride manufacturers have become one following the acquisition of Sellner Manufacturing by Larson International.
New sponsor for London Eye
Merlin Entertainments has agreed a three-year partnership for its flagship London Eye with the electricity provider EDF Energy.
Legoland California reveals plans for 2011
Legoland California Resort in Carlsbad will introduce three new attractions in 2011, including a Star Wars exhibit, new additions to Legoland Water Park and the Sea Life Aquarium, plus a fresh look for one of the theme park’s popular rides.
S&S clarifies coaster project in China
S&S Worldwide has issued a statement in response to a local newspaper report from Dongguan, China, confirming that the American company is responsible for the delivery of the country’s first “4th Dimension” Coaster.
John Collins OBE
Former IAAPA chairman John Collins was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List, in recognition of his services to leisure and tourism.
CNL acquires Pacific Park
Pacific Park, Santa Monica, California, has been sold to CNL Lifestyle Properties, a real estate investment trust with a portfolio of 122 properties in the United States and Canada.
Merlin enters Australia
Merlin Entertainments, the world’s second largest attraction operator, has increased its global footprint by agreeing to acquire the Sydney Attractions Group from Village Roadshow Ltd.