CHENNAI : The soaring temperature has sent an increasing number of people to amusement parks this year, many more than last year, say park officials.Competitive prices and several options to literally cool themselves off are why families are opting to visit these theme parks. For the adventurous several rides are available; for children special games and attractions have been launched. With open spaces, greenery and quiet pockets to relax in, elders too find such getaways appealing despite the heat.G Malini, at VGP Universal Kingdom with her husband and three children, says, “The place is not too far from the city and we came here by car. It is an economical and fun way for us to spend the day. For less than `350 we are able to enjoy the water games and the free rides.” The Aqua Kingdom at the park is a major attraction, especially as weathermen predict even hotter days in the coming weeks.Sumathi, a teenager on the Rock n’ Roll ride at the park, says, “I’m here with my friends and so far it has been fun. I’m waiting to get on the rollercoaster and scream.” In addition to this, the park has an American Rangers action show to entertain visitors.With footfalls averaging 3,000 on weekdays and going up to 5,000 on the weekends, managements are kept on their toes as they compete to create unique attractions.The focus is on water games at all the amusement parks – MGM Dizzee World’s newest ride is a Water Coaster, which promises a ride up to 45 feet leading to a sheer drop into two feet of water, ending with a walk through a themed butterfly park, complete with a waterfall.Special combo offers of food and rides are in place for the summer. MGM Dizzee World’s package, available from April 22 to June 15 at `777 per person, allows access to all rides plus lunch. Catering to public taste, evening entertainment features local bands and celebrities from the small screen and radio stations.At Kishkinta theme park this year’s summer special is Water Wars, an interactive water games area where water guns are lined up for friendly attacks. In this splash pad the water is not so deep as to require wading. Children can play unattended while parents can relax and keep an eye on them from a distance, says Thothadri, co-director and safety consultant for the park. “This new concept has fountains, flower beds and water guns children can play with. Chinese seesaws, also water-based, and a rainbow tunnel are other major attractions,” he says. There are, of course, the usual water scooters and slides for different ages to keep visitors to the park occupied.Away from the East Coast Road rush Queensland is a popular choice for residents of the city. With the cable car being their main attraction, P Suresh, deputy general manager of marketing, says, “This year the water rides are an even bigger hit with visitors. We draw close to 4,000 people a day during the holidays.” Light music and a limbo dance show are special attractions this year, he said.Rohan, a recent visitor to the park, says, “The best way to cool off in this heat is by visiting one of these parks. Close to unlimited time in the water ensures fun for the children, and adults can let their hair down for a while and enjoy themselves.”
Comments
0 comment