Discounts Pack Crowds into the Parks
During one of the worst economic seasons in decades, Orlando's theme parks have offered some amazing discounts creating a big boost to the industry almost ready for collapse. At times, Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom has sold out the park turning away anxious customers. So busy was the park, that guests had to be routed to Epcot's parking lot and then bussed back to Disney's Hollywood Studios.
One company that escorts customers through the theme parks commented that it's been busier than the last 5 years. Most lines in the park had a waiting time of at least 90 minutes. Some guests claimed that they had complimentary access to the Magic Kingdom park including some free meals. Some discounts made the difference between coming to Disney World or visiting family during the Easter weekend. Free dining plan really made the difference said one guest and their family.
Even Universal with it's current financial woes had to boost up it's operations to handle the influx of guests including the temporary opening of Fear Factor which closed due to low demand.
During the April month, Sea World had to bring aboard over 1,000 workers which is the typical amount for this season. As attendance reached an all-time high, Discovery Cove was booked completely during spring break. Aquatica claims it reached record-breaking capacity several times before 11:30am during April.
Most businesses had geared up for the Easter weekend because business usually does well regardless of economic crunches said experts. The question is whether with all the discounts, are tourist really spending?
One company that escorts customers through the theme parks commented that it's been busier than the last 5 years. Most lines in the park had a waiting time of at least 90 minutes. Some guests claimed that they had complimentary access to the Magic Kingdom park including some free meals. Some discounts made the difference between coming to Disney World or visiting family during the Easter weekend. Free dining plan really made the difference said one guest and their family.
Even Universal with it's current financial woes had to boost up it's operations to handle the influx of guests including the temporary opening of Fear Factor which closed due to low demand.
During the April month, Sea World had to bring aboard over 1,000 workers which is the typical amount for this season. As attendance reached an all-time high, Discovery Cove was booked completely during spring break. Aquatica claims it reached record-breaking capacity several times before 11:30am during April.
Most businesses had geared up for the Easter weekend because business usually does well regardless of economic crunches said experts. The question is whether with all the discounts, are tourist really spending?
posted by michael at
11:23 AM
