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 Bits Beyond the Berms 4/16/07 - 4/22/07
Figment! aka Jason ºoº
INTERCOT STAFF
News, Rumours & Imagineering
Dining
Vacations Beyond Disney
~It’s what us storytellers do; we restore order with imagination, we instill hope again and again~
~We keep moving forward, opening up new doors and doing new things~
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Park's Fate Is a Mystery
By JOSEPH ASCENZI
The Business Press
April 16, 2007
A co-owner of Pharaoh's Theme & Water Park is denying an online advertisement that says the park is closing.
The advertisement, which appeared last week on superauctions.com, claims the seasonal park at 1101 N. California St. in Redlands is "closing after 11 successful years of operation."
The advertisement by Huntington Beach-based Super Auctions states that an auction is scheduled for April 28 at the park next to Interstate 10, and that online bidding and telephone bidding for pre-approved deposits would be accepted.
More than 300 pieces of amusement park equipment will be put up for auction during the six-hour event, including pinball machines, lights and sound equipment, turnstiles, restaurant gear, electric and motor-driven race carts and flight simulators.
The advertisement promoted two preview/inspection sessions, including a six-hour session on April 27 and a two-hour session immediately before the start of the auction.
But developer Shahvand Aryana, co-owner of Pharaoh's along with James Braswell of Yucaipa, called the advertisement's notice of the park's imminent closing a "misprint" and said he had asked for a correction.
An auction is scheduled to be held at the theme park April 28, but said the items that will be put up for sale don't belong to Pharaoh's but have been removed from other undisclosed parks.
"I've asked our [attorney] to contact them and tell them the advertisement should be changed," Aryana said April 12. "Pharaoh's isn't going to close, and our goal is to open again sometime this year."
The online advertisement remained unchanged April 13.
Pharaoh's probably won't make its regular opening date in early June this year, and some of its most popular attractions, including laser tag and the roller coaster, have been idled permanently, Aryana said.
His long-term plans include closing the park and developing a mixed-used project there with a hotel, offices, shops and residential components and possibly a water-theme park.
"But we have a long way to go on that," Aryana said. "That is far down the road. We still have a lot of details to work out with the city on that."
Aryana's comments contradicted statements by other officials close to Pharaoh's, including Jeff Hendershot of Rancho Mirage, who said he had been hired by Pharaoh's to help put together the auction, which he said could draw as many as 300 people.
"We're selling off the front of the park," said Hendershot, who said he has partnered with Aryana on several development deals and that he's helping Aryana decide how to develop the property. "But Pharaoh's is shutting down, and it will never be Pharaoh's again."
"Once the auction is over the name Pharaoh's will be gone," said Rob Storment, president of Super Auctions.
Tom Gugliardo, who joined Pharaoh's as president in 2006, claimed the park needed $9 million worth of improvements to remain competitive, including removal of the park's midway and installation of an amphitheater. Aryana said that work has been completed.
Efforts to reach Gugliardo for comment were unsuccessful.
Rumors about Pharaoh's possible closing have been circulating among the Inland region's theme park community recently, said Rolf Paegert, general manager of Castle Park in Riverside.
"I've heard things and I've asked around but I've never been able to get any solid answers," Paegert said.
Pharaoh's and Castle Park aren't direct competitors, Paegert said.
"We're about 20 miles from each other and we're more of a family-oriented place," he said. "They have always leaned toward the teenage market. The one place where there could be some overlap is in company picnics; we both go after that market. But other than that I don't think it will have much of an impact on us.
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Club Med to Invest $500M in Worldwide Growth
By Eugene Gilligan | Senior Editor
Commercial Property News
April 16, 2007
A pioneer in all-inclusive vacation resorts, Club Med has announced a $500 million investment plan, to continue repositioning itself as an upscale, family-oriented resort. Also, the company is also adding residential components, in the form of residential villas and condominiums, at its resorts. Nicolas Boudet (pictured), senior vice president of real estate development for the Americas for Club Med, talks about what is ahead for Club Med.
CPN: You have closed five Club Meds, and opened several new ones around the world. Why did you do this, and what characteristics do these new resorts have?
Boudet: After 2001, like many resort companies, we have had to reduce and rethink what we had, and take a good hard look at our portfolio. When we began, we wanted to have many of our locations off the beaten path. But we want to move to good, accessible locations, near an airlift.
We also are finding our guests want bigger rooms. Of course, sometimes going off the beaten path can pay off. We put a resort in Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, 26 years ago, and built an airport with our partner. At the time, there was a challenging political climate in the Dominican Republic. But now, Punta Cana is a huge tourist destination.
We also built a resort in Cancun about 30 years ago, when the Mexican government was really trying to promote tourism. It's really the best site in Cancun.
CPN: What potential do you see for condominium and residential villa development for your properties?
Boudet: For developers, these projects really reduce their financial burden, and reduce their cash exposure. We've come into this late in the game. We are building condominiums at Club Med Buzios in Brazil, and so far sales are going well.
We are also building residential villas at Club Med Albion on Mauritius Island in the Indian Ocean. We will charge an access fee for the owner of the residence to use the hotel facilities. We are looking to build some residential villas on excess land that we have, or with landowners who might have land where we could build residences.
CPN: What countries are you looking in for future development opportunities?
Boudet: We're looking at Brazil, and Costa Rica on the Pacific coast. Belize is also up and coming, due to their airlift.
As far as the rest of the world, Oman is very interesting, and it's next to Dubai. We're looking at Albania. We wouldn't look at some countries before, because of political instability. Libya is coming around, and has great archeological sites, and beaches. Vietnam is growing tremendously, and looking to increase economic growth. Tourism is a good way to do that. A lot of countries are looking to put themselves on the map by increasing tourism.
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Rwanda: Kigali Gets $25 Million Amusement Park
Daniel Karibwije
East African Business Week (Kampala)
April 16, 2007
Rwanda will soon play host to the biggest amusement park in east and central Africa.
The Kigali Amusement Park (KAP) project will be worth US$25million after completion.
It is being developed by two leading Rwandan businessmen who have so far invested a combined $2million for phase 1 of the project valued at $6million.
The commercial bank of Rwanda (BRD) has bought shares in KAP worth Rwf100million ($180,000).
The Kigali City Council's stake is in the 100 hectares of land it provided in Gasabo district in Kigali worth $1.7 million where the park is undergoing construction according to Mr. Eugene Nyagahene, one of the brains behind the venture. His counter part is Mr. Thaddew Musoni.
"Phase 1 is almost complete and we hoped to launch towards the end of June 2007. Project work has stalled for two months due to some issues that need to be sorted out with Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA)," Nyagahene told Business Week at his offices in Kigali last week.
A KAP feasibility study shows that 70% of the visitors to the park will come from Rwanda, 25% from the rest of the region and 5% expatriates and tourists.
Once REMA clears the air, phase 1 of the park should be opened to the public by August 2007. The KAP team has planted 4,000 palm and fruit trees to ensure that entertainment is in the same bed with the environment.
Nyagahene came up with the idea of an amusement park after discovering that the country had no main avenue for entertainment that could satisfy all age groups.
"Rwandan kids have nothing to do on weekends other than just watching TV, few play football. Entertainment is good for children so that they can perform better in school. It will also help to heal the wounds in people's hearts."
KAP will have modern play facilities for children, a botanical garden, and four state of the art cinema halls with each hall having a capacity of 300seats, a modern casino of 500 square metres and 15 four roomed eco-tourist bungalows for overnight guests.
"As kids get busy swimming and riding on camels and horses, their parents can keep engaged at a health club, cinema or casino. We shall also have jogging routes for those interested in running within the park," explains Nyagahene.
The 100 hectare site also has a mini 'man made-lake and dam' that took 6months to design. It cost $200,000. Rain water from 11 different water sources around the park helped form the 'lake' that gives a very beautiful view in the evening attracting a cocktail of bird species. "GM Engineers in Rwanda partnered with a South African company and used SA technology to make this a reality."
In addition, the park will have a Rwanda Cultural centre. This will act as a one-top center for tourists and visitors. Here, tourists from around the world will learn about Rwanda at one sitting.
In conjunction with the Rwanda Investment and Export Promotion Agency (RIEPA), the park will also have a business and investment centre. At this point, useful business and investment information will be sourced as one juggles through the park or exits the different health clubs, cinema halls, food courts, restaurants and hotels to be built.
Different contractors are involved in the construction of this dream centre in the heart of Africa. Forever Design based in China provided the master plan for KAP. Another Chinese firm, SBL company will manufacture and install the play rides.
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Six Flags Wants Jackson to Forbid Smoking at Park
BY FRAIDY REISS
Asbury Park Press | TOMS RIVER BUREAU
April 17, 2007
JACKSON — Visitors are encouraged to lighten up at the Six Flags Great Adventure theme park. But they should not light up.
At the park's request, the Township Council has introduced an ordinance that would ban smoking at amusement parks. A public hearing on the measure is scheduled for next Tuesday.
Great Adventure already went nearly smoke-free last year, allowing guests to light up only in 15 designated areas, park President Mark Kane said. This year, park employees began strictly enforcing the no-smoking policy by ejecting any guest who is caught smoking outside those areas, he said.
Since Great Adventure and Wild Safari opened for the season April 2, some 75 smokers have been escorted off the premises, Kane said. They received no refund for their admission ticket and were not allowed to return for the rest of the day, he said.
And now Kane has asked the council to extend its smoking ordinance — which prohibits smoking on township-owned property, including parks — to include amusement parks, but to permit smoking to continue in those 15 designated areas. It is a logical expansion of the ordinance and just what Six Flags needs to pursue its "family-friendly" initiative, he said.
However, Gary Nolan, the U.S. regional director of the Smoker's Club, said Six Flags should continue ejecting guests who violate its policy and should not get the government involved.
"They (park officials) have no business demanding a law that affects anyone else," said Nolan, who described the Smoker's Club as an international property-rights group.
Currently, only Six Flags' three local attractions — Great Adventure, Wild Safari and Hurricane Harbor — fit the definition of "amusement park" as laid out in the proposed ordinance, park spokeswoman Angel Aristone said.
However, a competitor might one day open another amusement park in Jackson, said Nolan.
"They (park officials) should not have the power to regulate anyone who competes with them," Nolan said.
Council President Angelo Stallone said Six Flags needs a township ordinance to give its no-smoking policy a "legal basis."
"This would be more of a deterrent," Stallone said.
Mayor Mark A. Seda agreed, saying the ordinance would allow Six Flags to "back up" its no-smoking policy.
Under the proposed ordinance, offenders would be subject to a fine of between $100 and $250 for a first offense, up to $500 for a second offense and up to $1,000 for each subsequent violation.
Karen Blumenfeld of New Jersey GASP (Group Against Smoking Pollution) said she applauded Jackson's proposed ordinance. Even outdoors, secondhand smoke can be harmful, she said.
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Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino Unveils the Ultimate Las Vegas Entertainment Luxury Destination
New Resort & Casino Features State-of-the Art Casino Floor, Award-Winning Restaurants, Leading Entertainment Shows, Comprehensive Shopping Experience and the Most Exclusive Nightlife On The Strip
Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino Press Release
April 17, 2007
LAS VEGAS, PRNewswire-- Planet Hollywood is proud to announce the arrival of the new Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, a fully renovated entertainment and luxury destination on the former site of the Aladdin, in the heart of the legendary Las Vegas Strip. The unprecedented head-to-toe renovation is retro-chic. From the floor to ceiling Swarovski crystal chandeliers in the glamorous lobby, to the cutting edge casino floor with majestically high ceilings and architectural touches that are unrivaled in the city, the resort is positioning itself as one of the major players on the Strip.
Plans for the complete re-branding of the resort were revealed today and include a highly anticipated group of restaurants, lounges, nightclubs, live shows and retail
"Here we are, standing in the ultimate location in Las Vegas, in the center of the Las Vegas Strip to unveil Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino," said Robert Earl, co-chairman. "This project is the fulfillment of a dream, and I am very proud to say that the Planet is rising!"
The new Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino offers guests the ultimate VIP experience with 2,600 movie-themed rooms and suites, as well as the chance to immerse themselves in the elite world of celebrity and Hollywood culture. The resort boasts the latest in partners by Robert Earl, co-chairman of Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. technology with 5,000 Panasonic high definition plasma televisions in the public areas and guest rooms, including over 250 hi def plasmas on the main casino floor, an expansive gaming area with all the hottest table games, slot machines, newly opened poker room and, opening this summer, a state-of-the-art Pink's Race and Sports Book Lounge serving authentic hot dogs from LA's famous Pink's.
Award-winning restaurants are featured throughout the property offering world-class cuisine to satisfy any cravings. Opening this summer Strip House, one of New York's most acclaimed upscale steakhouses; KOI a celebrity favorite from Los Angeles; Yolos, a quirky, neon Mexican restaurant; traditional Italian fare from Alfredo of Rome; and for quick treats like sandwiches and salads on the run, Earl of Sandwich is schedule to make its Las Vegas debut. Already open on the casino floor for early morning breakfast, late night munchies and everything in-between, the new 24 hour sexy coffee shop, Planet Dailies and favorites such as P.F. Chang's China Bistro and the acclaimed Spice Market Buffet are always crowd pleasers.
Nightlife at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino is certain to keep the party going with new meeting spots including the Extra Lounge with entertainment and the most current celebrity happenings named for the entertainment news magazine that has its exclusive Las Vegas headquarters on property; Heart Bar, located in the center of the casino floor is quickly becoming the hot spot to enjoy cocktails and rendezvous with friends; and, three projects from South Beach Miami's hottest club operators including, Living Room a sexy lounge; opening soon, Prive nightclub and, later in the fall, a third, soon-to-be- announced club from the Opium Group.
Entertainment at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino offers a variety of unique standing productions as well as special events. At the 7,000 seat newly renovated Theatre for the Performing Arts or at the 1,500 seat brand new Showroom guests can enjoy headline concerts, the all new, highly anticipated The Beauty of Magic starring magician Hans Klok and featuring guest superstar Carmen Electra and an original production of Stomp Out Loud from the creators of Stomp.
Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino creates dream Las Vegas weddings in The Chapel, a romantic setting for couples to tie-the-knot and fulfill their desires for their most treasured day. For larger affairs and meetings, the resort has over 75,000 square feet of meeting space including an impressive Grand Ballroom and a full service business center.
Pampering is an important part of the entire Las Vegas experience and the Planet Hollywood Spa by Mandara has all you need to treat yourself to the ultimate in Hollywood indulgences. With specialty massages, exotic facials, body treatments to relax and invigorate the body and spirit, a fitness center and a full range of hair, nail services and make-up application, there is something for everyone at the spa. If tanning and swimming are more your style, the pool deck on the sixth floor of the resort has two over-sized pools, hot tubs, plenty of lounge chairs for relaxing and a seasonal cafe featuring al fresco dining.
Las Vegas is known for great shopping experiences and guests looking for retail therapy will not be disappointed. The retail shops located in the hotel lobby include Hollywood Obsessions for memorabilia collectors, and PH The Store offering the latest in Planet Hollywood gear and sundries. Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood with over 170 unique retailers and dining offerings is situated within the main resort complex. Soon guests and shoppers will have access to world famous Trader Vic's for dining and sipping their trade-mark cocktails; Hawaiian Tropic Zone will feature an inventive menu with a tropical flavor; the first-ever Las Vegas H&M and, already open, a four story Urban Outfitters full of funky and trendy clothing and items for the home and body.
On the Southeast corner of the property construction is underway for the Planet Hollywood Towers by Westgate, set to open in 2009. A soaring glass tower at fifty stories high, Planet Hollywood Towers by Westgate will feature 1200 luxuriously appointed vacation villas and 28 exclusive penthouse suites with 3.2 million square feet of living space, an exotic tropical pool complete with sandy beach and private cabanas, an elite 46th floor pool for the exclusive penthouse suites, a world class fitness facility, restaurants, and meeting space.
ABOUT PLANET HOLLYWOOD RESORT & CASINO
Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino is a joint venture partnership involving Robert Earl, Founder and CEO of Planet Hollywood International Inc, Bay Harbour Management LLC, and Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc and is a member of the Starwood Preferred Guest program. For more information log onto planethollywoodresort.com.
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New ride, Show to Debut Friday at Celebration City
Springfield News-Leader
April 18, 2007
Celebration City opens Friday with a new ride and a new show, the amusement park announced.
Patrons may board the thrill ride, “The Stinger,” and attend the VeggieTales Silly Song Sing-Along this year.
Park hours are from 3 to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
The park’s laser light show now offers attendees free “pyro goggles.”
Celebration City will present “Splash! Sea Lion Show” this summer featuring three live South American sea lions performing daily.
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Waterstone Resorts & Vacation Homes Brings Luxury to Panama City Beach -- Five Resort Towers Revitalize Panama City Beach, Florida Waterstone Resorts introduces the new Ocean Ritz property, which joins Calypso Resort and Towers, Twin Palms, Emerald Isle, and Ocean Villa, bringing five new beachfront resort luxury properties to Panama City, Florida. In conjunction with the new opening, Waterstone Resorts is currently offering a Family Spring Break Vacation rate with gulf front condominiums for great family vacations to Panama City Florida.
Waterstone Resorts Press Release
April 18, 2007
Panama City Beach, FL (PRWEB) -- Waterstone Resorts & Vacation Homes brings luxury condominium hotels to the community of Panama City Beach, Florida. The Ocean Ritz, now open, joins Calypso Resort and Towers, Twin Palms, Emerald Isle, and Ocean Villa, bringing five new beachfront resort luxury properties to Panama City, Florida. Each condo unit is equivalent to a four-star hotel suite with washer/dryer, full kitchen and baths, multi bedrooms, full service daily housekeeping, and a large balcony overlooking the beach.
"Panama City Beach is fast becoming a preferred destination. New restaurants and shops are opening up each week, the weather is fantastic, and there is a lot to do including visiting the beaches and Frank Brown Sports Complex across the street. In the past twelve months we have exceeded all our expectations by selling each unit and renting them out for weekend, weeklong and month long stays. They include all the services and amenities of a high-priced hotel but at a terrific low rate -- anywhere from $99 to $254 a night depending on seasonality and choice of resort tower," describes Greg Herr, Director of Marketing at Waterstone Resorts.
Panama City Beach traditionally draws guests driving from Florida, Alabama, Georgia, and New Orleans. The introduction of Waterstone Resorts and its luxury resort and towers, available for vacation and ownership, is now drawing a broader market of visitors from Atlanta, New York, Dallas, Houston, Boston, and all over Canada. They come for family vacations, romantic getaways, and solace from the winter weather up north.
Waterstone Resorts currently offers a Family Spring Break Vacation rate with gulf front condominiums from $129 based on availability. For reservations call: (800) 211-8906.
About Waterstone Resorts
Waterstone Resorts & Vacation Homes operates condominium resorts and uniquely upscale resort homes on northwest Florida's beautiful Emerald Coast. Calypso Resort & Towers, Emerald Isle, Ocean Villa and Twin Palms, in Panama City Beach, are the newest members of the collection of condominiums in Panama City Beach. Corporate offices for Waterstone Resorts & Vacation homes are located in Destin, Florida.
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Add Water Park and Lodge Will Succeed
By ANGELIQUE McKOWAN
Tribune Chronicle
April 16, 2007
CORTLAND — A lodge at Mosquito Lake State Park could be successful if accompanied by an indoor /outdoor water park, according to the results of a feasibility study released Monday.
Gateway Consultants Group Inc., Mark R. Lyberger of the Center for Sport and Recreation Development at Kent State University and Susan Miller of Orinsby & Company completed the $85,000 study.
They recommended an 80- to 100-unit full service lodge on the east side of the lake near Cortland. The natural elevation of the eastern shore; proximity to services and to a proposed Cortland City Park also planned for that site; security; the quality of the beach and sand; and accessibility via state routes and highways were some of the reasons for choosing that location.
Chema said information collected through surveys, public meetings, etc., showed that the lodge would get a lot of business from May through November. The year-round water park would ensure family activity at the lodge even during winter.
The lodge would include a full-service restaurant and conference rooms. Other possible concepts include a spa, lake cruises originating from the marina /restaurant, and bike paths leading to downtown Warren.
Chema said there would be banquet space to accommodate large groups for events such as wedding receptions, but that space would be divisible into smaller rooms that would hold 25 to 50 people for business meetings.
The estimated cost is $17 million for the lodge itself. That does not include the cost of the water park.
‘‘We believe there is a scenario that can generate the dollars necessary to build the building,’’ Chema said.
That scenario includes funds from a State of Ohio Capital Improvements Grant, federal government direct appropriation, local/government support of about $1 million, rent from the lodge, the development fee from the waterpark and a New Market Tax Credit.
Chema said the lodge would employ about 70 full-time workers year-round, with 50 to 60 seasonal employees. The waterpark also would create jobs, and Chema said he anticipates additional spin-off development.
Barring any major problems, the project could reach completion by May 2010.
Next steps include doing further analysis of the water park idea. Gateway Consultants has found a consulting firm that could do a follow-up feasibility analysis of the water park at a cost of about $10,000 to $15,000, or the group could skip the consulting firm and immediately seek a water park developer.
Finding an architect to do planning for a lodge and test basic cost assumptions; exploring the feasibility of utilizing New Market Tax Credits; further exploring the feasibility of local government and private sector support; identifying a potential lodge operator; continuing to work with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to insure their support for the project are other appropriate next steps suggested in the report.
Cortland Mayor Curt Moll said he believes the attraction would benefit the area and the economy.
‘‘Honestly, I’m enthusiastic about it,’’ he said. ‘‘I think this is a great opportunity for us and local businesses.’’
Trish Nuskievicz, environmental coordinator and flood plain administrator for the Trumbull County Planning Commission, said she likes the idea of both the lodge and water park.
‘‘I think it sounds fantastic,’’ she said. ‘‘It (a lodge) is something sadly missing from this area.’’
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JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes Hotel's Orvis Fly Fishing School Now in Session
The beautiful JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes announces its new two-day fly fishing school, ideal for beginner or novice fly anglers.
JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes Hotel Press Release
April 19, 2007
Orlando, FL (PRWEB)-- The JW Marriott Grande Lakes Orlando now offers comprehensive learning seminars and extended adventure activities with the new ORVIS Orlando Two-Day Fly Fishing School. Part of the Grande Lakes Outfitters program, the two-day school is appropriate for all skill levels and ideal for family and corporate groups visiting the Orlando resort.
The two-day school involves a hands-on approach with a balanced schedule of classroom seminars and field instruction by ORVIS-endorsed fly fishing Instructors. Seminars take place in a variety of on-site locations where students will learn casting techniques, essential knots, gear and tackle selection, proper fly selection and how to read the water. How to play, land and safely release fish will also be covered as all fishing is catch and release at the Orlando resort. Sessions are held on Wednesday through Thursday and Saturday through Sunday. The ratio of instructors to students is 1:4 or less and only the finest in ORVIS fly fishing equipment is used.
The two-day school is an extension of the programs already offered since mid-2006. Starting at $60 per person, seminars, fly fishing and eco-tour adventures are also available to guests of the Orlando golf resort and the adjacent property, The Ritz-Carlton, as well as to all outside visitors.
Priced at $430 per person, registration for guests staying at the hotel and non-hotel guests must be completed through orvis.com or by calling (800) 235-9763. For room reservations, school guests can visit the ORVIS website or call The Ritz-Carlton Orlando at (800) 576-5760/ JW Marriott Orlando at (800)-576-5750 and ask for the school rate.
Guests can book these outings through the luxury Orlando hotel concierge or directly through the adjacent property, The Ritz-Carlton, which has a golf shop certified as an ORVIS full line dealer, and offers guests the latest in ORVIS fly fishing equipment and apparel. Upon booking, the Grande Lakes Outfitters "camouflaged real tree cart" will pick up guests from the fly fishing corner and deliver them to their outdoor adventure.
Guests at both hotels can enjoy all the facilities and services at Grande Lakes Orlando, including the 18-hole championship Orlando golf course, designed by Greg Norman, the 40,000-square-foot Ritz-Carlton Spa offering a wide selection of natural treatments, baths and hydrotherapies, and advice from the world's first Citrus Consultant.
About the JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes
Architecturally stunning and unmistakably Spanish in style, the 1,000-room JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes is central Florida's premier destination. Nestled on 500 acres, this Florida golf resort and spa offers an extraordinary oasis where unparalleled recreation is balanced with sophisticated style. Boasting an incredible spa and a Greg Norman-designed golf course the resort is located near the area's top attractions. Discover the most prestigious resort in Orlando, Florida, at JW Marriott. For more information, call (800) 576-5750.
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Wild Waters Park in Cd’A Starts $4 million Expansion
By Emily Brandler
Spokane Journal of Business
April 20, 2007
Wild Waters LLC, of Coeur d’Alene, has started construction on the first phase of a planned two-phase, $4 million expansion of its water-slide park there.
The first phase of work involves building a 1,200-foot-long “Sunnyside Lazy River” at the west end of the 8-acre Wild Waters park, which is located southeast of the intersection of Interstate 90 and U.S. 95, says Stacey Lavin, a Spokane-based consultant to the water park. The attraction is to feature a 600-gallon bucket that dumps water on floaters in the river, a swinging rope from which swimmers will drop into a deep pool in the river, and a bar that serves frozen drinks to swimmers, Lavin says. It will be one of the longest float rides in the U.S., he asserts.
Construction of the project, which will cost $1.5 million, started last month, and the attraction is expected to open June 22, he says. The project also is to include installing a second pump system to serve the expanded areas of the park.
The second phase of the project is to include four new family tube rides, Lavin says. It will cost an estimated $2.5 million and is to start early next year and to be completed by Wild Waters’ 2008 season. Lavin declines for now to disclose further details.
He says Wild Waters has been planning the expansion for three years.
“The guests are driving this, because they said they wanted to experience something new, and there’s been a big demand for new family rides,” he says.
Wild Waters employs three workers full-time and 97 people seasonally, Lavin says. He declines to disclose its annual revenues, but says the expansion is expected to boost attendance at the park by 30 percent.
T.I. Construction, of Spokane, is the general contractor for the expansion project. Spokane-based J.R. Bonnett Engineering is the structural and civil engineer; WhiteWater West Industries Ltd., of Richmond, British Columbia, is the ride designer; St. Louis-based Counsilman-Hunsaker Engineering is the river-propulsion designer; Budinger Engineering & Associates Inc., of Spokane, is the soil engineer; Pool World Inc., of Spokane, is handling the chemical treatment of the water; and Los Angeles-based Nord Systems engineered the filtration system.
Wild Waters opens Memorial Day weekend and closes after Labor Day weekend. Currently, the park has 14 slides, a tube ride, a children’s play area, paddle-boat lagoons, a concession area, and a covered pavilion.
Wild Waters LLC bought the water-slide park in 2001 from a Canadian company. When the park opened 25 years ago, it was one of the first water parks in the U.S., Lavin asserts. A few years ago, the company started renting out the park in the evenings to corporate groups, and sales to those groups have doubled every year since then, he says.
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Grenada Mulls Resort in National Park
By Linda Straker | Press Writer
Associated Press
April 20, 2007
Grenada -- The upper house of this Caribbean island's Parliament was expected to approve a proposed high-end resort inside a tropical national park that is home to an endangered bird and other rare species.
Lawmakers debating the issue had not voted by Thursday evening, and officials did not say when a decision would be made. But Parliament was widely expected to amend the National Parks and Protected Areas Act to allow a protected swath of land in southwestern Grenada to be the site of a new Four Seasons hotel.Conservationists say the resort could threaten some 40 Grenada doves -- about a fifth of the birds' global population, according to U.K.-based Birdlife International -- that live inside Mount Harman National Park.
Critics accuse the government of showing disregard for the environment as it moves to revive a tourism industry devastated by hurricanes in 2004 and 2005.
"This is a dangerous trend," said the Rev. Stanford Simon, pastor of St. George's Baptist Church, "and the people should work to ensure that lands which are designated as national reserves for future generations should not be sold out for commercial purposes."
The Four Seasons Hotels Inc. says the project would leave migratory corridors undeveloped and include buffer zones around a 150-acre area that has been designated a dove sanctuary.
Company officials did not immediately respond Thursday to phone messages left at its Toronto headquarters.
Mount Harman has been identified by Birdlife International as an essential habitat for the Grenada dove and 11 other species found only on the tropical island or in the Caribbean.
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Atlantis Resort in Bahamas Expands
By JESSICA ROBERTSON
Associated Press
Apr 19, 2007
NASSAU, Bahamas - Atlantis, Paradise Island is known for its water slides and fantastical pink towers, and is consistently rated by travel magazines as one of the Caribbean's most child-friendly resorts. Now the mega-resort is catering to more grown-up tastes with a new hotel, The Cove Atlantis.
Set apart from three interconnected hotel towers, The Cove has an adult-only swimming pool, a nightclub-inspired cabana area, and sleek interiors with lighting and music that shift throughout the day to capture different moods.
"The idea here was could you have a level of privacy and sophistication and still enjoy the amenities of Atlantis," said John Conway, the Cove's general manager.
The 600-suite hotel, which opened March 28, is part of a $1 billion expansion and brings the number of rooms at Atlantis to nearly 3,000. Atlantis covers three-quarters of Paradise Island, an 800-acre island just off the capital, Nassau.
The Cove's exterior has the familiar, scallop-like decorations from the original resort, but inside it emphasizes design more than its sister properties, where the arcade-style spaces are filled with boutiques and restaurants. The suites overlooking the ocean range from $735 a night to $15,000 for the penthouse, including a private maid and butler. (Rates are lower at the Atlantis, Paradise Island.)
Amenities at The Cove include celebrity chef Bobby Flay's first Mesa Grill restaurant outside the United States. The new 32,000-square-foot spa offers manicures with a copper-hued Essie nail polish currently available only at The Cove.
Playful new additions at the resort including a swim-with-dolphins attraction and a water park called Aquaventure keep up the theme of Atlantis as a fantasy land, modeled on the legendary lost continent.
Atlantis is billing Aquaventure as one of the largest water-themed attractions in the world, at more than 20 million gallons of water over 63 acres. The park includes a mile-long river ride and a 120-foot tall tower with four water slides.
Aquaventure is an addition to the resort's original waterscape, which includes saltwater lagoons, pools and aquariums that are home to more than 50,000 marine animals.
Launched by South African developer Sol Kerzner in 1994, Atlantis employs 7,800 people, making it the largest private employer by far in the Bahamas. The government approved the plan for the expansion in 2003, agreeing to operate fire and ambulance facilities on Paradise Island and extend casino tax concessions for more than a decade.
Atlantis is the flagship resort of Kerzner International, which develops and operates casinos and hotels. It has stakes in five resorts in Mauritius, one in Mexico and manages a resort in Dubai.
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New Beach Resort Set Up Near Chennai
Chennai News Service
April 19, 2007
Chennai -- A brand new top of the line beach resort - Fortune Chariot Beach Resort - on a 40-acre site has been launched by Hotel Radha P Ltd. The Rs 38 crore resort is to be managed and maintained by Fortune of ITC Welcomgroup to ensure that the customers get world class service.
With Chennai becoming a hotspot with MNCs and IT companies setting up their facilities here, the need for recreation and places to relax and de-stress has also increased. With this in mind, Fortune Chariot Beach Resort has been established on a 40-acre site at Mamallapuram. It was launched on April 18, 2007, by P J Naik, chairman, UTI Bank Limited.
T M Venkataraman, chairman, Fortune Chariot Beach Resort said, "This new venture on 40 acres of land is an ambitious extension of the experience gained in the hospitality industry by our management. Fortune Chariot Beach Resort is located at an elevation and offers an unmatched panoramic view of the spectacular Bay of Bengal. Seventy elegantly landscaped, sea-facing rooms and cottages have everything that any connoisseur of good style and ambience may want to enjoy."
The total investment so far on this venture is Rs 38 crore. Plans are afoot to expand services to Puducherry, Thanjavur, Kanyakumari and Rameswaram.
A R Madan, managing director, Fortune Chariot Beach Resort said, "It is our dream to make this Resort one of the best not only in India but in the entire world. The arrangement with Fortune is for a period of 10 years and can be renewed with mutual consent after the period."
Ashok Ghatty, General Manager, Fortune Chariot Beach Resort, added that the facilities offered at Fortune Chariot Beach Resort include Wi - Fi Connectivity, Data Port in Rooms and Cottages, Business Centre, Banquet and Conference facility, Health Club, Spa, exclusive children's play area and swimming pool, which is by far the largest in South India. The size of the pool is 57 metres in length and 15 metres in width.
R Ravi, Director, Fortune Chariot Beach Resort said that in addition to all these amenities, residents can make use of the Beach and water sports facilities exclusively available at the resort for them. At Fortune Chariot Beach Resort business and pleasure go hand in hand.
A 5,000 sq ft, well-equipped conference hall has all the requirements to make for a successful conference/launch party.
Kapi is the multi-cuisine restaurant which offers Chinese, Indian and Continental fare. A beach side restaurant called Osai, a shack restaurant, will open shortly.
The resort offers a special summer holiday package basically to encourage domestic tourism - ranges between Rs 12,999 and Rs 18,999. (R Rangaraj)
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New Hotel Planned For Oklahoma Lake
KOTV 6
April 20, 2007
ARDMORE, Okla. -- Plans for a $20 million resort lodge at Oklahoma's largest state park are one step closer to becoming a reality. The Oklahoma Tourism Commission Thursday approved a lease with the Ardmore Tourism Authority, allowing plans to move forward for the new lodge at Lake Murray State Park in south-central Oklahoma.
Officials must now negotiate a sublease with Dallas-based SDS Development Group and Prism Hotel Management.
Groundbreaking could take place as early as six months from now, and the resort could be completed in about 18 months.
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MGM Assembles 78-acre Site For Major Resort
By RYAN NAKASHIMA
AP Business
April 19, 2007
LAS VEGAS - Casino company MGM Mirage Inc. said Thursday that it agreed to buy several pieces of land on the north end of the Las Vegas Strip for $575 million to assemble a 78-acre site for a ‘‘major integrated resort destination.''
The company said it agreed to buy a 26-acre parcel from Gordon Gaming Corp. for $444 million and eight acres from Concord Wilshire Acquisitions for $131 million.
MGM Mirage also owns the adjacent Circus Circus hotel-casino, which it said it will ‘‘expand and enhance'' as part of the development plan. Some 44 acres of the Circus Circus site, which now house a recreational vehicle park and low-rise motel, will be part of the development, it said.
‘‘This new land provides us with a much-improved position to develop our existing north Strip holdings,'' MGM Mirage chief executive Terry Lanni said in a statement.
‘‘We see this as an opportunity to not only harness the power of our portfolio, but also as a means to expand and enhance the operations of our valuable Circus Circus property for years to come,'' Lanni said.
Both transactions are expected to close in May, according to MGM Mirage, which did not announce a target date for development.
The company, the largest landholder on the Las Vegas Strip with such properties as Bellagio, Mandalay Bay and The Mirage, said it would seek out third parties to partner with to develop the site.
One potential partner is Mubadala Development Co., a company owned by the government of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, which earlier this month signed a joint venture agreement with MGM Mirage to develop non-gambling hotels.
‘‘There may very well be a possibility for working with them on this project,'' said MGM Mirage spokesman Alan Feldman. He said the site would contain a casino component.
Feldman said MGM Mirage has had discussions with potential partners dating to the planning days of CityCenter. The $7 billion mixed-use casino complex under construction on a 66-acre site further south on the Strip is expected to open in November 2009.
The land acquisitions would give MGM Mirage control of about 865 acres along the Las Vegas Strip, including a little more than three miles of Strip-front property.
MGM Mirage shares closed down $1.13, or 1.6 percent, at $71.32 on the New York Stock Exchange on Thursday after the announcement.
Deutsche Bank analyst Bill Lerner said the stock price was unrelated to the announcement, which he described as a positive.
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Orlando World Center Marriott Resort Invites You to Swim with the Dolphins Discover a once in a lifetime adventure with the Orlando World Center Marriott Resort's "Swim with the Dolphins Experience," an exhilarating Florida resort package.
Orlando World Center Marriott Resort Press Release
April 20, 2007
Orlando, FL (PRWEB) -- Discover a once in a lifetime adventure with the Orlando World Center Marriott Resort's "Swim with the Dolphins Experience," an exhilarating Florida resort package.
This unforgettable package encompasses one-night deluxe accommodations at the Orlando resort complete with a complimentary upgrade to a pool-view room, buffet breakfast in Solaris Restaurant and one-day all-inclusive admission to Discovery Cove for two. Guests also receive a pass for seven consecutive days for unlimited admission to SeaWorld® Orlando or Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay.
Admission to Discovery Cove features a reserved dolphin swim experience (must be at least six years of age to swim with the dolphins), unlimited access to the Coral Reef, Ray Lagoon, Resort Pool, Tropical River and free-flight Aviary, complimentary parking and use of snorkel gear, wet suits, towels, lockers, lunch buffet, snacks and beverages.
The one-night package at this Orlando luxury resort starts at only $714 per room, for two and is valid now through December 31. Additional package prices are available for up to five people upon request.
About the Orlando World Center Marriott Center
This 2,000-room Orlando resort is conveniently located 1.5 miles from Walt Disney World® and just minutes from other area attractions such as SeaWorld® Orlando, Universal Studios® Orlando, Discovery Cove and Wet 'N Wild®. Encounter true enchantment at a luxurious Florida golf and spa resort that includes 18 challenging holes of championship golf, a million gallons of refreshing fun in six swimming pools, and an exquisite spa experience. As the largest Marriott in the world, this impressive resort in Orlando, Florida features the utmost in comfort, convenience, and thoughtful amenities in each of the 2,000 hotel rooms and suites. It's all waiting for you at the World Center Marriott Resort, offering the convenience of an Orlando hotel and the indulgence you would expect from a superior Orlando, Florida resort. For more information or reservations, please call (888) 99-WORLD
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Gatorland Water Park Delay
Central Florida 13
April 20, 2007
Gatorland is getting ready to officially open up its newest attraction but it will not open this weekend as expected.
The attraction is delaying the opening of the Gator Gully Splash Park for at least a week as it modifies the design.
The park was originally set to open tomorrow and a sneak peak was held last night.
The water park is part of Gatorland's rebuilding efforts since an early morning electrical fire ripped through the gift shop and other buildings back in November
That fire caused about $3 million in damage.
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Sale Means Del Lago Resort Gets a Face-Lift
By RENÉE C. LEE
The Houston Chronicle
April 20, 2007
The Del Lago Golf Resort and Conference Center has a new owner in a bid to stimulate jobs and tourism in the area.
Atlanta-based French Quarter Hospitality finalized a deal this week to buy the property on Lake Conroe for about $30 million, said CEO Ronnie Ben-Zur. "We plan to make it a spectacular resort," he said.
The 174-acre site, built in the early to mid-1980s, closed on Jan. 26 after several years of declining business. The full-service hotel once was a major draw for conventions, conferences and meetings.
French Quarter has received 10-year, 100 percent tax abatements from the city of Conroe and Montgomery County. Ben-Zur says the company will spend about $100 million to buy and refurbish the facility, which is expected to employ 400-500 people and attract 200,000 visitors a year.
Construction, including six pools and seven restaurants, starts this summer, with completion expected in 2009.
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Larkspur Hospitality Purchases Two Northern California Hotels
Larkspur Hospitality announced its acquisition of The Best Western Truckee Tahoe Inn, in Truckee, California, and the Holiday Inn Express Mill Valley-Sausalito in Mill Valley, California.
Larkspur Hospitality Press Release
April 21, 2007
Larkspur, CA (PRWEB) -- Larkspur Hospitality announced today that it has acquired both The Best Western Truckee Tahoe Inn, a Truckee California hotel, and a Marin County hotel, the Holiday Inn Express Mill Valley-Sausalito in Mill Valley, California. Larkspur acquired both California hotels from affiliates of Pacific Valley Investors.
"We are very excited to acquire two hotels in wonderful communities that serve as gateways to the natural treasures of California," said Karl Hoagland, Chairman and CEO, Larkspur Hospitality. "Mill Valley is located at the foot of Mount Tamalpais and is near Muir Woods and the Golden Gate Bridge Natural Recreation area. Truckee is a growing community that is a hub for visitors to Lake Tahoe and the Sierras. We intend to renovate and improve these hotels over time to better serve upscale travelers seeking good value for their lodging accommodations in these destinations," continued Hoagland. "We also promise to offer our genuine Larkspur hospitality and will make our guests feel warm and welcome when staying with us at these new hotels."
The Best Western Truckee Tahoe Inn is located in the historic town of Truckee, putting this California hotel near Lake Taho and conveniently located within 15 miles of 11 different ski areas. The hotel offers 100 non-smoking guest rooms, all of which provide free High-Speed Internet access. The Café Court is available for casual meals and drinks, and guests are able to enjoy the free business center, fitness center, pool and outdoor spa. For meetings and small events, the hotel features 924 square feet of meeting space.
The Holiday Inn Express Mill Valley-Sausalito is a Marin County hotel, located just 10 minutes north of San Francisco. All 100 guest rooms offer free wireless High-Speed Internet and include use of the business and fitness center. This Marin County hotel also offers a year-round heated pool, a 1,200 square foot meeting room and an Executive Conference Room for very small meetings. Frantoio Ristorante, adjacent to the hotel, features delicious Tuscan-style cuisine and is the only restaurant in the United States with an in-house state of the art olive oil production facility.
About Larkspur Hospitality
Established in 1996, Larkspur Hospitality is a rapidly growing hotel company based in Larkspur, California. Larkspur owns and operates 23 hotels, including two distinct brands (Larkspur Landing and its collection of three and four star independent hotels known as The Larkspur Collection) in areas of California and the Pacific Northwest. The company also offers Kuleto's Italian Restaurant in downtown San Francisco and its own brand of Three Degrees Restaurants with locations in Portland, Oregon; Los Gatos, California and Tiburon, California. For additional information on Larkspur Hospitality and its affiliates, visit larkspurhotels.com.
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