DESTINATIONS
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Get the answers to your clients’ questions about what theme parks will be like once travel restarts. Natalie Marsh reports
theme park escape is always full of excitement, with thrilling rollercoasters, awe-inspiring shows and character-
packed parades. But when Covid-19 protocols are front of mind to help keep people safe, what are the rules and regulations for visitors to theme parks and attractions around the world? We’ve spoken to a host of theme parks to find out how they have adapted, so you can reassure your customers that they can still expect a fun and entertaining holiday, while knowing that their safety is the top priority.
WHAT ARE THE CAPACITY RESTRICTIONS? Theme parks are operating at a significantly reduced capacity to avoid overcrowding. Efteling in the Netherlands is aiming for a quarter of its usual capacity. Chief executive Fons Jurgens says all reservations need to be made online in advance with a time slot selected, to ensure that capacity is managed. “Efteling consists of 65 hectares of woods, footpaths and squares – the equivalent of more than 130 football pitches,” he says. “There is plenty of space for visitors to spread out and enjoy the great outdoors – particularly now with a reduced capacity.”
WHAT CAN I EXPECT UPON ENTRY? At Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, home to Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld and Warner Bros World, thermal screening cameras have been set up at the entrances to the parks to help manage the flow. “Guests are asked to diligently comply with precautionary measures by wearing a face mask at all times, observing social distancing markers, undergoing thermal screening upon entry, in addition to regularly sanitising hands and opting for contactless payments at all outlets,” says Alhasan Kaabous Alzaabi, vice-president of operations at Farah Experiences, which manages and operates Yas Theme Parks.
HOW IS SOCIAL DISTANCING MANAGED? Ensuring that guests maintain their distance from other parties has been a priority for theme parks. Dubai Parks and Resorts, which comprises five parks including Motiongate, Bollywood Parks and Legoland Dubai, has adjusted its attractions, shops and restaurants for social distancing with maximum capacities marked. Tables and seats in restaurants, counters in shops, and queuing facilities have also been arranged accordingly. Meanwhile, Spanish theme park PortAventura ²
travelweekly.co.uk 22 APRIL 2021 NEW REGULATIONS | THEME PARKS & ATTRACTIONS
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