PW-FEB20-08-News.qxp_News 02/03/2020 11:14 Page 8


Park News www.parkworld-online.com Xel-ha Park celebrates 25


Years of aquatic adventures in


the Riviera Maya G


rupo Xcaret, the leader in sustainable and socially responsible tourism in the


Mexican Caribbean, is celebrating Xel- ha’s 25 years of operation in the Riviera Maya. Xel-Ha, which means: “where the water is born” in Mayan, has long been a true paradise for nature lovers and a sanctuary for wildlife. “Our commitment to our country and


our community throughout 25 years of operation has proven that a different kind of experience is possible in the Riviera Maya, one that connects travellers to the spectacular and unique nature of our surroundings, and that will ultimately result in a better understanding of our heritage and culture,” said Miguel Quintana Pali, CEO of Grupo Xcaret. “Considered one of our most emblematic parks, we take


pride in knowing Xel-ha continues to exceed visitor’s expectations every year.” The park’s most notable attraction is a


131 feet-tall lighthouse with breath-taking views of the Caribbean Sea, from which visitors can descend on waterslides into the crystal-clear waters of a natural pool. The lighthouse, which was inaugurated in July of 2017, welcomed its 1 millionth visitor earlier this February. A further testament to the park’s


success and eco-friendly efforts, Xel-ha was the firstpark in the world to obtain


the EarthCheck Certification for its commitment to implementing sustainable practices and protecting the land and resources that make it a natural wonder. In 2014, the park earned Gold status for maintaining these efforts for five consecutive years.


Jungle Island debuts new attractions


Jungle Island, Miami, Florida, has opened a family-friendly TreeWalk Village and thematic playground, which are the latest in a series of new attractions and entertainment offerings coming soon to the eco-adventure theme park and events destination. Jungle Island’s additions are


designed to connect the 18-acre park’s tropical surroundings and wildlife with journeys reminiscent of a jungle adventure. Children and parents can climb from tree house to tree house through hammock nets and wooden bridges at the TreeWalk Village. There are five 19-foot-tall giant tree houses that guests can explore. The thematic playground serves as an extension of the TreeWalk Village and provides kids with hours of excitement, including a spider web climb, climbing ropes, rock climbing, a balance beam, a slide, and wooden bridges. “We want our guests to enjoy a real-


life jungle adventure experience in the heart of Miami,” said Curtis Crider, Jungle Island’s president and managing director. “The evolution that has transpired to date is remarkable, providing ample reasons for families to return time and again to Jungle Island. Our beloved animals will be integrated into the overall park experience.” For the truly adventurous, construction


is underway on the first phase of an Aerial Adventure Park. Once complete, the Aerial Adventure Park will span six acres overlooking the Miami Skyline


and Biscayne Bay, and feature a series of kids and adults courses, with over 50 obstacles that vary in difficulty for all skill levels. Additionally, Jungle Island will soon debut a 19,000 square foot (1,765 sq m) Flying Squirrel indoor


trampoline park, equipped with multiple interconnected trampolines, basketball hoops, dodgeball court, foam pits, Ninja course, laser maze, and café, while a VR (Virtual Reality) Zone with four VR rooms, three extreme machines, and a state-of-the-art 5D cinema will transport guests into another universe. As part of its commitment to sustainability and green educational initiatives, JungleIsland will install solar


flowers to power the VR Zone, helping to minimise its carbon footprint. “Our mission is to enhance the


unique character of Jungle Island and what people love so much about the park,” said Elie Mimoun, a partner at ESJ Capital Partners. “We look forward to delivering on our promise to introduce eco-adventure experiences that will make Miami proud and draws visitors from around the globe.” Since acquiring Jungle Island in April


2017, ESJ Capital Partners has revamped Jungle Island by adding diverse plant life throughout the park and amplifying the adventure experience with new attractions and entertainment offerings. Currently, Jungle Island is home to 450 rare animals and birds, two Escape Rooms, Adventure Bay, elevated food and beverage options, and renovated indoor and outdoor catering event spaces. The park’s privately guided VIP animal tours and hands-on encounters with some of the world’s most fascinating animals, including endangered lemurs from Madagascar, giant Aldabra tortoises, the only tame cassowary on the planet, two-toed sloths and more, continue to be fan favourites.


8 FEBRUARY 2020


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