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    SeaWorld Announces Largest Expansion Ever

    By Jason Gallagher | Yahoo! Contributor Network – Wed, Nov 9, 2011
    This story comes from the Yahoo! Contributor Network, where individuals publish their unique perspectives on some of the world’s most popular websites.
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    Theme park expansion in Orlando, Fla., is getting contagious. While Disney World is in the middle of expanding Fantasyland and Universal Studios unveiled The Wizarding World of Harry Potter last year, SeaWorld in Orlando has announced an expansion that will be the largest ever in the park's history. The announcement from SeaWorld is of little surprise considering the new competition for tourist and local dollars from Legoland:Florida and the current expansions in other theme parks.

    What kind of expansion does SeaWorld have planned?

    SeaWorld is planning a few new attractions. "Turtle Trek" will feature tanks of live sea turtles and manatees. Plus, the exhibit will feature a domed-theater with 3D style computer graphics and images. The second attraction is scheduled to be completed in early 2013 and is titled "Antarctica--Empire of the Penguin." Construction of "Empire of the Penguin" will begin in early 2012 when the current "Penguin Encounter" closes to make way for the new attraction which will include a thrill ride and Antarctic theme.

    How busy is tourism in Orlando?

    In 2010 the Orlando area drew 51.5 million visitors, and the area is expected to draw 53.4 million visitors in 2011. Those kinds of statistics make Orlando one of the hottest destinations for all types of tourists from singles to families.

    What else is going on in Orlando?

    Florida lawmakers are considering a proposal to add destination resort type casinos to the South Florida area, and some hotel owners in Orlando want a casino in Central Florida to keep the competition fair. However, the theme park industry, which is heavy on family themes, is fighting bringing casinos to the Orlando area.

    How much does SeaWorld cost?

    A single-day admission ticket for SeaWorld in Orlando costs $81.99. However, the park offers a number of discounted options and packages on its website with substantial discounts and incentives. That ticket rate compares to an $85 dollar one day pass at Disney World and Universal, while Legoland costs $75 per day. However, just like SeaWorld the other theme parks in the area offer discounts on multiday tickets and annual passes.

    Will the new attractions draw more people for SeaWorld?

    Upgrades seem to be the order of the day in an increasing competitive theme park environment in the Orlando area. The massive expansion certainly cannot hurt SeaWorld and the chances of the park to draw visitors away from the other sprawling complexes. Of course, the real measure will be unveiled after the attractions open and the box office receipts are totaled up.

    Jason Gallagher is a former travel professional with a decade of experience in the industry. He remains an avid traveler and hotel fan with exposure to technology and trends in properties across the United States.

     

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