Travel Agent - October 15, 2007 - (Page 58)

DESTINATIONS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 55 million gallons of seawater. The Shark Reef is notable because it’s more than just a standthere-and-look-through-glass exhibit. “Unlike other aquarium and zoo exhibits,” says Brian Robison, the facility’s executive director, “when visitors enter, they are transported to a sunken ship with several species of sharks gliding overhead, then enter the jungle to see firsthand such rare creatures as golden crocodiles and giant Komodo dragons.” Don’t worry! If you come face to face with an animal, there’s a thick plate of glass between you and danger. One of the best parts about these animal attractions is that they offer education along with visual stimulation. While the kids are off being mesmerized, they are also learning a thing or two about the world outside. Who says Vegas is only good for learning when to hit on a soft 17? Unadulterated Fun Then again, there is always time for plain amusement. Las Vegas covers that—and then some. For a quick shot of adrenalin, New York - New York Hotel & Casino (www.nynyhotel casino.com) has its own roller coaster, reminiscent of Coney Island’s Cyclone, with speeds reaching 67 mph amid heart-thumping twists and turns. Note to parents: Riders must be 54 inches tall to ride. The roller coaster operates Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to midnight. Tickets are $14, or an all-day pass can be purchased for $25. For a city that makes it a point not to market to children, the SpongeBob Square Pants ride at Excalibur Hotel and Casino (www.excalibur. com) could’ve fooled us. Through special digital effects, riders are transported through a maze of excitement, replete with real wind, bubbles and scent. The ride opens daily at 10 a.m. If the kids enjoy the Excalibur Hotel, why not stay for dinner? It’s not every day that you can dine in the medieval times. Excalibur offers a popular Las Vegas dinner show, Tournament of Kings, which features jousting, dancing maidens and—perhaps the best part—eating with your fingers. Show times are 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. nightly (Tuesdays are dark). Pricing varies, but we found rates around $58 per person. Book online at Excalibur’s web site or call 702-597-7600. Think that’s it? It’s not. In fact, the aforementioned attractions might only prove a prelude to Adventuredome at Circus Circus Hotel & Casino (www.circuscircus.com), which boasts 58 | TravelAgent October 15, 2007 TOP: The Manhattan Express at New York - New York hotel ABOVE LEFT: A denizen of Siegfried and Roy’s Secret Garden at the MGM Mirage ABOVE RIGHT: Tournament of Kings jousting dinner show at Excalibur Nevada’s largest indoor theme park featuring 24 rides and attractions under a pink-glass dome. In 2006, Adventuredome ranked 11th in attendance out of all North American theme parks and 19th worldwide. Adventuredome features the Canyon Blaster, a double-loop, double-corkscrew roller coaster that reaches a top speed of 55 mph; the Sling Shot, literally a thrill a minute, which, in that span, shoots daredevils up and down a 100foot tower at plus-4.0 Gs on the way up and minus-1.0 Gs coming down; a 40-foot rock wall; an 18-hole miniature golf course; and a bungee trampoline. There are also family- oriented rides such as the Circus Carousel and Drifters, a 60-foot-high Ferris wheel. Adventuredome operates Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m. to midnight and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. All-day ride passes are $24.95 for adults, $14.95 for juniors. There are also single-ride tickets available from $4 to $7. For general information, call 702-794-3939. CONNECTING YOU For more information on Las Vegas, visit www. travelagentcentral.com/lasvegas http://www.nynyhotelcasino.com http://www.nynyhotelcasino.com http://www.excalibur.com http://www.excalibur.com http://www.travelagentcentral.com/lasvegas http://www.travelagentcentral.com/lasvegas http://www.circuscircus.com

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Travel Agent - October 15, 2007 Online Now Contents From the Editor From the Publisher Contributors Europe Central & South America Special Supplement: Ski University Pacific/Asia Las Vegas Caribbean Romantic Getaway and Honeymoon Packages Jamaica’s New Minister of Tourism Talks About the Country’s Future Special Package Deals Cruises Hotels Ski Multi-Generational Travel Tours Cover Story: Luxe Life of the Stewart Clan Business Operations - Agent Profile Technology Transportation The Industry - Agenda Caribbean News PATA Travel Mart ITME Report Latest Cruise and Hotel News Travel Week In the Spotlight Editorial Index Advertising Index Classified Marketplace Trendwatch

Travel Agent - October 15, 2007

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