Kids choose properties with better aquatic amenities
by Talar Ozcanian
Whether it is for spring break, the holidays or summer vacation, the first thing families do is select a good destination when planning their next vacation. Often children become the primary decision makers or influencers by encouraging their parents to choose a property that offers great entertainment and high play value experience. More recently, vacationers may not be traveling as often or as far, and may even decide to stay nearby instead. By marketing an exciting activity program or an amenity available for the children at the property, parents will most certainly be drawn towards choosing your location as a vacation destination.
The aquatic industry has evolved
tremendously and the equipment now provided in aquatic play is much more sophisticated and a safe environment is highly emphasized over previous years. Contrary to traditional aquatic facilities, the safety level offered by Splashpad areas allows parents to have a relaxed stay while children’s experiences are enhanced during these vacations.
The new aquatic industry imposes strict guidelines on how aquatic equipments are to be manufactured, installed, operated and maintained. This establishes an industry with a wide spectrum to protect users and the public. By emphasizing safety, recent designs prevent head entrapment, pinch point and toe injuries. In addition, the majority of the products are designed in line with watergrounds and the newly recognized and enforced ASTM F2461- 09 regulations. (For more information visit:
www.astm.org)
These alternative aquatic play products
increase your profits by increasing occupancy rates and in better times, can increase average room rates. A splashpad area encourages guests to spend more time on the premises and there are incremental sales to be captured, such as food, beverages, snacks and souvenirs.
These types of aquatic play products draw
visitors and provide fun, engaging and interactive entertainment for all ages. The universal appeal of a splashpad will entice your guests to extend their stay, return, and to recommend your establishment to others.
34 Resort Trades’ Management & Operations
Since aquatic products for all age groups are in great demand, therefore having something to offer young children and adults is part of the priorities. Age-appropriate play is an important design aspect for the success of your resort and family destination. In order to meet and exceed all of the needs of the different age groups, vacation spots should consider having three distinct activity Bay areas within an installation.
For instance, within the toddler bay, infants and toddlers discover the water through gentle mists and non-intimidating streams. This type of Bay encourages the little ones to engage in cognitive development, sensorial discovery, motor skills development and socialization through interaction.
The family bay allows all family members
to play together and stands as the basis when designing layouts. This type of bay is configured for all family members and offers cross generational activities allowing parents and children to interact together. Infants and pre-scholars can be introduced to larger play product experiences accompanied by their parents.
The third bay area focuses on the tweens and teens. In the teen bay, the most energetic members of the family engage in high- energy play surrounded with opportunities to challenge each other. This type of bay is characterized by interactive and surprising aquatic play elements that are manipulated by the users.
A splashpad is an
affordable and simple way to add a water attraction and boost your bottom- line. Since they are installed in zero-depth recreational areas; lifeguard supervision is not required, eliminating some of the costs associated with traditional aquatic facilities. By providing a durable product backed by the leading warranty and service within the industry, Splashpad delivers long-term value and a great ROI.
Pictures courtesy of Vortex International
www.vortex-intl.com
Beach entry leisure pools and lazy rivers combined with splashpads are great examples of aquatic products offering fun and memorable family experiences. For instance, Poolplay products offer a complete range of innovative multi-level, overhead, interactive play products and slides designed to provide exciting fun for all age groups. These solutions integrate beautifully with the architecture and multi-functional aspect of new and existing pools.
As managers, you can offer opportunities
to families by providing them with exciting experiences and creating new memories during their vacations at their ideal destination. These aquatic play products are colorful and fun ways to enhance the play experience. By keeping the toddlers happy and smiling, you are allowing the entire family to relax during their dream vacation. Investing in an aquatic play area has never been so rewarding for managers.
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Talar Ozcanian Bachelor of Arts, Major in Community, Public Affairs and Public Policy Concordia University, Montreal. Currently Marketing & Communications Agent, Vortex Aquatic Structures International. For more information call 1-877-586-7839 or visit
www.vortex-intl.com.
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