Florida set for record UK arrivals

Florida hopes new attractions will help it attract a record number of UK visitors. Gary Noakes reports

NEW attractions in Florida are set to attract a record number of visitors from the UK.

Tourism officials believe a broadening of the appeal of Orlando and the surrounding area will increase international visitors to pre-September 11 levels.

This year,about 1.1 million UK tourists are expected to visit Orlando and Orange County,an increase of almost 10%. This figure is predicted to rise to 1.3 million in 2007.

Orlando/Orange County Convention and Visitors Bureau president Bill Peeper said: “That takes us back to our high-water mark of 2000.”

New for this year is the world ’s first dive roller-coaster at Busch Gardens, Tampa Bay. SheiKra will offer a 200-foot fall – the highest of any roller-coaster.

The former winter homes of Henry Ford and Thomas Edison at Fort Myers will open as attractions after restoration, as will the 1930s Hotel Victor at South Beach.

The Splash Island water park will open in Cypress Gardens this month. A major promotion called Down Town and Small Towns, which aims to show the “real ” Orlando away from the theme parks, is also on its way.

Visit Florida president Bud Nocera said: “People tell us they want to know where the locals go.” The first phase will cover 19 areas and highlight cultural attractions and traditional restaurants.