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 Go East!
It’s hard to believe we’re already here—the first Expo in 2011. Asian Attractions Expo promises to deliver it all—networking, new products, outstanding learning opportunities, jaw-dropping tours, and top-level speakers.
The city-state itself also has its own attraction- oriented appeal with its internationally known experiences, beautiful landscape, the wonder of Sentosa Island, vibrant food and fashion culture, and international business hub status.
Developments in Asia are a major focus for IAAPA, as the association opened an office in Hong Kong last year to serve members in a more direct manner. Services, products, and one-on-one contact are important in our business, and we’re answering the call from our members to deliver what they need.
 We are also excited to welcome Mario Mamon of the Philippines’ Enchanted Kingdom as our third vice chair. He’ll take over as IAAPA Chairman of the Board in 2014 as our first chairman from Asia Pacific. To learn more about him and his thoughts on Asian Attractions Expo, turn to page 14.
As you peruse this issue, you’ll see how similar (but also different) our business is in all corners of the continent. Our cover story features Ocean Park Hong Kong, which is in the middle of a huge expansion program. CEO Tom Mehrmann tells Funworld Senior Editor Jeremy Schoolfield about the vision behind this project and what it means to the 35-year-old park. Also within these pages, contributors discuss developments with top-level operators and trends in Singapore, Indonesia, and China. Enjoy what lies ahead in Asia.
Sincerely,
Bob Rippy, Chairman of the Board
Tips, Tips, Tips: Find real-world advice on growing group sales, improving your landscaping, hiring and recruiting, keeping facilities clean, and much more from IAAPA’s tip sheets. Find them at www.IAAPA.org/partnershipplus.
IAAPA Working for You:The IAAPA Government Relations team has been active keeping U.S. members up-to-date on important legislative and regulatory issues related to our industry. For updates on work visas, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations, visit www.IAAPA.org/government/grarchive or the IAAPA blog at www.IAAPA.org/blog. IAAPA Europe is also keeping regional members apprised of developments in the continent. For updates, visit www.IAAPA.org/europe.
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